The Best Firearms for Home Defense main image
Scroll Down To Continue
Junglecat, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Best Firearms for Home Defense

When it comes to ensuring the safety and security of your home and loved ones, choosing the right firearm for home defense is a critical decision. With a plethora of options available, from shotguns to handguns, finding the best fit for your unique needs can feel overwhelming. This guide will explore the most effective firearms designed for home defense, highlighting their features, advantages, and considerations.

A well-chosen firearm not only provides peace of mind but can also be a vital tool in protecting your family during a crisis. Factors such as ease of use, stopping power, and reliability play a significant role in selecting the ideal firearm. Moreover, understanding local laws and regulations is essential, as it ensures you remain compliant while arming yourself for defense.

In this article, we will examine the best options for home defense firearms, focusing on a range of choices suitable for both seasoned gun owners and those new to firearms. We'll keep in mind standard use, and allow you to decide if you want to customize these kabooms further. Whether you’re looking for something compact for quick access or a powerful option for maximum stopping power, we’ll help you navigate the landscape of home defense firearms to make an informed decision that best suits your needs.

Colt Python

Colt Python
  • Average Price: $1,000 - $1,500
  • Caliber: .357 Magnum
  • Bullet Types: Full Metal Jacket (FMJ), Hollow Point (HP), Wadcutters
  • Number of Rounds: 6 (standard cylinder capacity)

The Colt Python is often celebrated as one of the finest revolvers ever crafted, making it a standout choice for home defense. With an average price between $1,000 and $1,500, it might feel like a splurge, but this classic firearm delivers unmatched performance and precision.

The versatility of using Full Metal Jacket, Hollow Point, or Wadcutters makes it a flexible option for various situations. With a standard capacity of 6 rounds, it may not have the magazine capacity of a semi-automatic, but the sheer reliability and iconic status of the Colt Python make it a timeless addition to any defense strategy.

Coati077, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Remington 870

Remington 870
  • Average Price: $300 - $400
  • Caliber: 12-gauge
  • Bullet Types: Buckshot, Slugs
  • Number of Rounds: 4 to 8 (depending on the magazine capacity)

The Remington 870 is a stalwart choice for home defense, blending reliability and stopping power in a user-friendly package. With its 12-gauge caliber, this shotgun can deliver a formidable punch, making intruders think twice about their life choices.

The versatility of using buckshot for close encounters or slugs for longer-range engagements adds to its appeal.

Ease of use is another strong point; the pump-action mechanism is intuitive, even for novice shooters. While it may not be the lightest option, the solid construction ensures durability. However, remember that shotguns can be loud, so ear protection is a must — unless you want to hear the sweet sound of silence after use!

lledslinger/Remington Wingmaster 870/CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED/Flickr

Glock 19

Glock 19
  • Average Price: $500 - $600
  • Caliber: 9mm
  • Bullet Types: Full Metal Jacket (FMJ), Hollow Point
  • Number of Rounds: 15 (standard magazine)

The Glock 19 is a fan favorite among home defense enthusiasts, and for good reason. This compact handgun packs a punch with its 9mm caliber, delivering a perfect balance of recoil management and stopping power. The 15-round capacity ensures you won’t run out of firepower when it matters most.

One of its standout features is reliability; Glocks are known for their ability to function flawlessly, even in less-than-ideal conditions. The Glock 19 is user-friendly, making it a solid choice for both seasoned shooters and novices alike.

With its lightweight design and slim profile, it’s easily concealable for those who prefer to keep it close at hand. Just remember: practice makes perfect, so spend some time at the range — your future self will thank you!

Martin1998cz, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Remington 870 Tactical

Remington 870 Tactical
  • Average Price: $400 - $500
  • Caliber: 12-gauge
  • Bullet Types: Buckshot, Slugs
  • Number of Rounds: 6 (standard magazine capacity)

The Remington 870 Tactical is a classic choice for those seeking a reliable home defense shotgun. With an average price of $400 to $500, it combines affordability with proven performance.

This 12-gauge powerhouse delivers formidable stopping power, making it an excellent option for deterring intruders. Capable of firing both buckshot and slugs, it adapts easily to various defense scenarios. With a standard magazine capacity of 6 rounds, it provides a solid amount of firepower, while the pump-action design ensures you’ll never have to worry about jams.

Picanox, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Smith & Wesson Model 686

Smith & Wesson Model 686
  • Average Price: $700 - $900
  • Caliber: .357 Magnum / .38 Special
  • Bullet Types: Full Metal Jacket (FMJ), Hollow Point
  • Number of Rounds: 6

The Smith & Wesson Model 686 is a classic revolver that combines timeless style with modern reliability, making it a fantastic option for home defense. Chambered in .357 Magnum, this wheelgun packs a serious punch while also allowing the use of .38 Special rounds for reduced recoil — ideal for quick follow-up shots.

With a six-round capacity, it may not have the firepower of a semi-automatic, but its simplicity and reliability are hard to beat.

One of the key advantages of the Model 686 is its ease of use. The revolver’s double-action trigger allows for quick, accurate shots without the need for complex mechanics. Plus, its stainless steel construction means it’s built to last, resisting wear and tear over time.

Junglecat, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Sig Sauer P320

Sig Sauer P320
  • Average Price: $550 - $700
  • Caliber: 9mm
  • Bullet Types: Full Metal Jacket (FMJ), Hollow Point (HP)
  • Number of Rounds: 15 (standard magazine capacity)

The Sig Sauer P320 is a top-tier contender in the world of handguns, known for its modular design and outstanding reliability. With an average price ranging from $550 to $700, it’s a solid investment for home defense.

Chambered in 9mm, this pistol strikes a balance between manageable recoil and effective stopping power, making it accessible for shooters of all experience levels. The option to use both Full Metal Jacket and Hollow Point ammunition allows for flexibility based on your needs.

TexasWarhawk, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Mossberg 500

Mossberg 500
  • Average Price: $400 - $600
  • Caliber: 12-gauge
  • Bullet Types: Buckshot, Slugs
  • Number of Rounds: 5 to 8 (depending on the configuration)

The Mossberg 500 tactical shotgun is a legendary choice for home defense, renowned for its rugged reliability and versatility. This 12-gauge powerhouse delivers a robust performance, ensuring maximum stopping power against threats. The option to use either buckshot for close-quarters engagement or slugs for longer distances makes it a well-rounded option for any homeowner.

One of the Mossberg 500's key features is its ambidextrous safety, allowing left-handed shooters to operate it with ease — no awkward maneuvers here! The shotgun's lightweight design and smooth pump-action make it user-friendly, even for those less experienced with firearms. However, it’s important to practice regularly to become proficient with its operation and understand its recoil dynamics.

SONY at Russian Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 2.5, via Wikimedia Commons

Springfield Hellcat

Springfield Hellcat
  • Average Price: $400 - $550
  • Caliber: 9mm
  • Bullet Types: Full Metal Jacket (FMJ), Hollow Point (HP)
  • Number of Rounds: 11 + 1 (standard magazine capacity)

The Springfield Hellcat is a compact powerhouse that’s perfect for home defense without compromising on firepower. With an average price between $400 and $550, it offers great value in a highly concealable package.

Chambered in 9mm, the Hellcat strikes a balance between manageable recoil and effective stopping power, making it user-friendly for both seasoned and novice shooters. Its ability to accommodate both Full Metal Jacket and Hollow Point ammunition ensures you can tailor your defense strategy.

Somers-all-the-time, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Ruger PC Carbine

Ruger PC Carbine
  • Average Price: $500 - $600
  • Caliber: 9mm
  • Bullet Types: Full Metal Jacket (FMJ), Hollow Point (HP)
  • Number of Rounds: 10 (standard magazine capacity)

The Ruger PC Carbine is a versatile option for those looking to combine the benefits of a rifle and a pistol in their home defense arsenal. With an average price ranging from $500 to $600, it strikes an excellent balance between affordability and functionality.

Chambered in 9mm, this carbine is designed for easy handling and reduced recoil, making it a great choice for shooters of all skill levels. It supports both Full Metal Jacket and Hollow Point ammunition, allowing for a flexible approach to defense. With a standard magazine capacity of 10 rounds, the Ruger PC Carbine provides reliable firepower.

Picanox, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Glock 17

Glock 17
  • Average Price: $500 - $600
  • Caliber: 9mm
  • Bullet Types: Full Metal Jacket (FMJ), Hollow Point (HP)
  • Number of Rounds: 17 (standard magazine capacity)

The Glock 17 is a legendary choice for home defense, known for its reliability and ease of use. With an average price ranging from $500 to $600, it offers great value for both new and experienced shooters alike.

Chambered in 9mm, the Glock 17 strikes an excellent balance between manageable recoil and effective stopping power, making it an ideal option for quick follow-up shots. It supports both Full Metal Jacket and Hollow Point ammunition, allowing for versatile defensive strategies. With a standard magazine capacity of 17 rounds, you’ll have plenty of firepower on hand.

Ken Lunde, http://lundestudio.com, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Walther PDP

Walther PDP
  • Average Price: $500 - $700
  • Caliber: 9mm
  • Bullet Types: Full Metal Jacket (FMJ), Hollow Point (HP)
  • Number of Rounds: 15 (standard magazine capacity)

The Walther PDP is an impressive contender in the realm of home defense handguns, boasting a sleek design and cutting-edge features. With an average price between $500 and $700, it delivers high performance without breaking the bank.

Chambered in 9mm, the PDP combines manageable recoil with effective stopping power, making it suitable for both seasoned shooters and novices alike. The option to use both Full Metal Jacket and Hollow Point ammunition enhances its versatility for various defense scenarios. With a standard magazine capacity of 15 rounds, you’ll have ample firepower ready at a moment's notice.

Fdik, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

CZ P-10 C

CZ P-10 C
  • Average Price: $450 - $600
  • Caliber: 9mm
  • Bullet Types: Full Metal Jacket (FMJ), Hollow Point (HP)
  • Number of Rounds: 15 (standard magazine capacity)

The CZ P-10 C is a fantastic choice for home defense, bringing together reliability and performance in a compact design. With an average price ranging from $450 to $600, it offers excellent value for those seeking a dependable firearm.

Chambered in 9mm, this handgun provides a good balance of manageable recoil and stopping power, making it ideal for a wide range of shooters. Its compatibility with both Full Metal Jacket and Hollow Point ammunition allows for tailored defense strategies.

Featuring a standard magazine capacity of 15 rounds, the P-10 C ensures you won’t run out of firepower too quickly.

PopularOutcast, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

HK VP9

HK VP9
  • Average Price: $700 - $850
  • Caliber: 9mm
  • Bullet Types: Full Metal Jacket (FMJ), Hollow Point (HP)
  • Number of Rounds: 17 (standard magazine capacity)

The HK VP9 is a standout option for home defense, renowned for its precision engineering and ergonomic design. With an average price between $700 and $850, it’s an investment in reliability and performance.

Chambered in 9mm, the VP9 strikes a balance between manageable recoil and formidable stopping power, making it accessible for shooters of various skill levels. It accommodates both Full Metal Jacket and Hollow Point ammunition, giving you flexibility in your choice of loads. With a generous standard magazine capacity of 17 rounds, you'll have plenty of firepower at your fingertips.

Dmoore5556, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

CZ Scorpion

CZ Scorpion
  • Average Price: $800 - $1,000
  • Caliber: 9mm
  • Bullet Types: Full Metal Jacket (FMJ), Hollow Point
  • Number of Rounds: 20 to 30 (depending on the magazine)

The CZ Scorpion is a standout pistol caliber carbine that combines versatility with a sleek design, making it an excellent choice for home defense. Chambered in 9mm, it offers manageable recoil and impressive accuracy, allowing for quick follow-up shots — a must when defending your turf.

With magazine capacities ranging from 20 to 30 rounds, you’ll have ample firepower at your fingertips. One of its greatest advantages is ease of use; the Scorpion features an ergonomic grip and intuitive controls that make it accessible for shooters of all skill levels. Its compact size enhances maneuverability in tight spaces, perfect for navigating around furniture during an emergency.

While the Scorpion shines in performance, remember to consider local laws regarding pistol caliber carbines — your home defense arsenal should be as compliant as it is effective!

Land68, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Smith & Wesson M&P .40

Smith & Wesson M&P .40
  • Average Price: $450 - $600
  • Caliber: .40 S&W
  • Bullet Types: Full Metal Jacket (FMJ), Hollow Point (HP)
  • Number of Rounds: 15 (standard magazine capacity)

The Smith & Wesson M&P .40 is a reliable and robust choice for home defense, designed to meet the needs of law enforcement and civilian shooters alike. With an average price ranging from $450 to $600, it offers a solid value for a dependable firearm.

Chambered in .40 S&W, this handgun delivers a heavier bullet with effective stopping power, making it a formidable option for self-defense. The M&P .40 can utilize both Full Metal Jacket and Hollow Point ammunition, allowing for versatility based on your needs. With a standard magazine capacity of 15 rounds, you won’t be left wanting in a high-stakes situation.

Parsecboy, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons