Home Defense Suggestions

I’m looking for a firearm for home defense. I’ve narrowed it down to either a Mossberg 590 shotgun or a Ruger Mini-14 rifle. Given the 10-round magazine limit in my area, my thinking is the shotgun might be better since it can hold 8+1 rounds and has greater stopping power. Am I on the right track?

Between the Mini-14 Ranch and a properly set-up combat shotgun, I’d go with the shotgun. Regardless of what you pick, make sure to train with it.

Vale said:
Between the Mini-14 Ranch and a properly set-up combat shotgun, I’d go with the shotgun. Regardless of what you pick, make sure to train with it.

Agreed, especially for shotguns. They have a steep learning curve compared to what many people think. Practice reloading and managing recoil under stress—those are critical skills.

Vale said:
Between the Mini-14 Ranch and a properly set-up combat shotgun, I’d go with the shotgun. Regardless of what you pick, make sure to train with it.

While I see the appeal of a shotgun, a mag-fed autoloading rifle like the Mini-14 has significant advantages, such as faster reloads and follow-up shots. It really depends on the user and their training.

I think the Mini-14 would be a better choice. It’s lighter on recoil, easier to handle, and semi-automatic for quicker follow-ups. The shotgun is great too, but its recoil and reloading process can be challenging in a stressful situation. Train with whatever you choose!

A lot of this depends on your specific situation—house layout, proximity to neighbors, family members in the home, etc. With more context, you’ll get better advice. For example, in tighter spaces, shorter firearms might be preferable.

I prefer pistols for home defense because they’re compact and maneuverable. Shotguns and rifles can be long and awkward in close quarters. That said, if you’re set on a shotgun or rifle, train extensively with it so you’re confident in its use.

Shotgun loaded with 00 buckshot is a solid choice for home defense. Just keep in mind that #4 buck might be better if you’re in a suburban or apartment setting to reduce over-penetration risk.

I use a Mossberg 930HD for home defense. It’s a semi-auto shotgun, which addresses some of the limitations of pump actions, like slower follow-ups. If you’re worried about capacity, you could look into accessories like side saddles for additional shells.

Don’t forget that you can still legally own larger magazines for the Mini-14 if they were purchased before the ban. Also, consider a pistol-caliber carbine for home defense if you’re concerned about over-penetration through walls.

Thanks for the input! I live in a suburban area, and any potential engagement would likely be at 4-10 yards. I’m leaning toward the shotgun for its stopping power, but the Mini-14’s ease of reloading has me considering it as well.

@Oakley
For those ranges, either firearm could work, but keep in mind the Mini-14’s recoil is much lighter, making it easier for faster follow-up shots.

I’d personally take the Mini-14 over the Mossberg 590, but my real preference would be a lever-action .357. It offers a good balance of stopping power and control.

Mini-14 all the way. Also, if magazine restrictions are a concern, there are couplers that let you carry two 10-round magazines together for quick swaps.

Update: I ended up going with a Mossberg 590 in 20 gauge and inherited a Beretta 92FS for backup. I’ve already taken the Beretta to the range and plan to find a shotgun-friendly range for practice soon. Thanks for all the advice!