A few days ago, someone tried to kick in my front door. I checked my cameras, and it was a guy in a black hoodie, about six feet tall, slim build, and maybe in his late 20s or early 30s. He didn’t get in because the door has two locks and a reinforced strike plate, but now I’ve noticed him walking around the neighborhood at night, wearing the same hoodie. I’ve called the cops, and they’re patrolling, but the guy is still around.
What’s worrying me is that he tried this at 10 PM, not late at night when no one is home, but while we were awake and walking around the house. This makes me think he’s either on drugs or has serious mental health problems, which could make him really dangerous. I have a 5-year-old, and I’m not taking any chances.
I don’t know anything about guns and I’m not super comfortable having one, but I’ll do whatever it takes to protect my family. What would you do in my shoes? What’s the best way to prepare if he tries again, especially if he’s not stopped by something like pepper spray?
You need a gun, no question. If someone is trying to break into your house while you’re home, you can’t rely on a bat or pepper spray—it might not stop them, and they could use it against you. A gun gives you the best chance to protect your family.
There’s a saying: ‘If someone breaks in during the day, they want your stuff. If they break in at night, they want you.’ Don’t take the risk. Get a gun, take a class, and practice at the range.
@Tobin
Great advice. I’d add that if you’re new to this, start with a pistol. Something in 9mm is a good choice for home defense. If you’re worried about safety with kids in the house, get a quick-access safe like a V-line with a mechanical lock (no batteries needed). That way, you can keep it loaded and ready but out of reach for your child.
Most importantly, practice with it and use hollow-point ammunition—it’s safer because it won’t over-penetrate walls as much as full metal jacket ammo.
If someone wants to get in, they’ll find a way. You can make it harder, but you can’t make it impossible. Add sirens, motion lights, and cameras to scare him off. But honestly, you should also get a firearm. Police might not get there in time, and your priority has to be protecting your family.
@Vesper
I’ve reinforced my house as much as possible, but if someone is really determined, they’ll eventually get through. The key is buying time. I’ve got a safe room for the family and a firearm ready if law enforcement doesn’t show up fast enough. If they make it into my house, I won’t just wait and hope they leave—I’ll do what I have to do to keep my family safe. That’s what Castle Doctrine is for.
If you’re serious about protecting your family, a firearm is your best option. It doesn’t mean you’ll use it, but it’s better to have it and not need it than the other way around. Take the time to learn how to handle it safely, and keep it secured in a way that your child can’t access it. Hollow-point ammo is also important because it’s less likely to go through walls.
@Dani
Would a shotgun be a better idea since I’m not familiar with guns? I’ve heard 20 gauge shotguns are easier to handle and less likely to go through walls. Would birdshot be enough for close range, or is that too weak?
@Linden
Birdshot isn’t enough for self-defense. You’d want buckshot, even with a 20 gauge. Shotguns can be effective, but they still require practice. If you’re more comfortable with a shotgun, go for it, but make sure you spend time learning how to use it properly. Practice is key no matter what you choose.
You’ve already done a good job reinforcing your doors. That’s a great start. You can also look into laminated film for your windows to make them harder to break. Adding motion lights and loud sirens can make your home less appealing to someone looking for an easy target.
If you’re open to it, getting a dog can also be a good deterrent. Even a smaller dog that barks a lot can scare someone off. It’s another layer of security to keep your family safe.
Linden said: @Jovi
A dog could be helpful, but this guy seems reckless and not in his right mind. I’m worried he wouldn’t be scared off even by a barking dog.
A big dog barking can still be intimidating, even to someone irrational. Plus, it gives you a warning so you can prepare. Have you been able to get clearer footage of the guy from your cameras?
I know guns might not be your first choice, but in this situation, they’re your best option. You don’t need anything fancy. A basic 9mm pistol is enough. Take a safety class, and practice at a range. If you’re worried about the safety of your kid, get a quick-access safe. There are good options out there.
Can he see into your house? If he knows when you’re awake, asleep, or not home, you’re giving him information. First thing I’d do is make sure he can’t see inside—close the curtains or add privacy film to the windows. If he doesn’t know what’s going on inside, it makes it harder for him to plan.
I’d go with a pump-action shotgun for home defense. The sound of racking it alone can scare people off. If you don’t have a gun yet, maybe consider getting a dog. A barking dog can be a great deterrent. The goal is to make your home look like too much trouble for someone to mess with.