Home defense recommendations

Looking for recommendations for a gun for home defense (and appropriate safety equipment for that gun). I’m a relative novice with guns, and we have a toddler. TIA.

Practice is key. Spend time behind the firearm and train for home defense scenarios. Also, research penetration concerns—5.56 is a good option as it typically doesn’t over-penetrate, but it’s loud and requires proper planning for its use. Whatever firearm you choose, ensure it has a quality mounted light for target identification.

Glock 17.

Visit a range and try different firearms. My recommendation is the CZ P10C. If you’re more comfortable with a shotgun from prior skeet shooting experience, that could work too. A safe or locking case is essential, especially with a toddler.

@Blaise
Thanks for the info. I definitely have more experience with shotguns. I’ll look into your recommendation.

Emerson said:
@Blaise
Thanks for the info. I definitely have more experience with shotguns. I’ll look into your recommendation.

If you’re already experienced with shotguns, that might be the way to go.

Emerson said:
@Blaise
Thanks for the info. I definitely have more experience with shotguns. I’ll look into your recommendation.

Long guns like shotguns can be harder to store, but quick-access safes can solve that. Also consider what other household members are comfortable using.

Consider an AR-15 for home defense. Reasons include:

  1. Ease of use: Rifles are easier to handle and more reliable than handguns or shotguns for novices.
  2. Speed: Faster target acquisition and follow-up shots.
  3. Firepower: Higher capacity and reduced chance of malfunction.
  4. Versatility: Options like 9mm carbines can reduce over-penetration concerns.

I recommend a pistol-caliber carbine (PCC) in 9mm. It combines the advantages of rifles and handguns—better recoil control, easier target acquisition, and higher capacity. Downsides include larger size and storage needs, but these are minor compared to its benefits for home defense.

For simplicity, I suggest a revolver or shotgun. Revolvers are reliable and easy to use, while shotguns with #4 buckshot are effective and reduce over-penetration risks. Consider frangible ammo to minimize drywall penetration in homes with thin walls.

Depending on your walls, a .22 LR or a 12-gauge shotgun with #4 buckshot could work. For safety, consider trigger locks or a quick-access safe, especially with a toddler in the house.

For non-lethal options, consider pepper gel spray. Not every situation requires lethal force, and this can offer protection without escalating the situation unnecessarily.

We tested 5.56 rounds on typical suburban construction. At close ranges and straight angles, rounds can penetrate walls, but angled shots reduce this risk significantly. For homes with thin walls, subsonic .45 ACP or #4 buckshot is a better choice. Regardless of your firearm, practice extensively and invest in appropriate storage solutions.