Marston said:
A pistol has some practical benefits:
That’s why you use a sling. When someone breaks in, calling the cops isn’t the first priority. Securing yourself and family is, and calling should be someone else’s job.
@Rafe
He didn’t mention a spouse, and calling 911 is important since those are the ‘friends’ with guns.
Rule #1 of a gunfight: bring a gun, and bring all your friends with guns too!
Go with what you’re most comfortable using. I keep a .38 revolver ready because I know it well and it’s easy to store. A 9mm pistol is a great choice if you’re trained. The AR-15 is also great for home defense, with the right ammo to reduce over-penetration.
Just get a shotgun.
Don’t overcomplicate it.
Ignore the gear obsessives – pistols are the most common choice in self-defense for a reason. They’re the most likely to be ready when you need them.
Don’t worry so much about the wall penetration – worry about stopping the person in front of you. If you’ve got a layout that works with a long gun, that could be an option, though most houses aren’t designed for easy use with one. Consider a shotgun if it’s a fit for you.
Handguns are convenient but remember that most police departments carry long guns too for a reason. A handgun is great when you’re out, but at home, you could easily store a rifle or shotgun.
If you’re concerned about penetration, check out options like #4 shot for shotguns instead of buckshot.
Have you thought about a pistol-caliber carbine with a red dot and hollow points? Easier to aim than a handgun, quicker follow-up shots than a shotgun, and less noise. For me, it’s a perfect choice for apartment living, and it’s user-friendly for my partner.
Honestly, think about a shotgun.
Rifles every time. A pistol is only for situations where you can’t carry a rifle.
If you have the choice, go for a semi-auto rifle. Ever see tactical teams or special forces use pistols for close-quarters unless they have no other choice? Rifles are just easier to keep on target. If you’re worried about over-penetration, don’t be – if you’re accurate, that’s the best way to reduce risk.
Sure, keep a pistol around for emergencies, but think about staging your rifle for quick access.
Rifles are better for getting solid hits under stress, faster follow-ups, and more power to stop a threat. However, they are more cumbersome to use in tight spaces, and you’ll need both hands to use them effectively.
Maybe consider a braced 10.5" variant in a larger caliber if 5.56 feels too light for you.
5.56 rounds are made to tumble, which helps reduce over-penetration, but they’ll still exit a typical house structure.
Andi said:
5.56 rounds are made to tumble, which helps reduce over-penetration, but they’ll still exit a typical house structure.
5.56 is designed to tumble and not over penetrate.
Not exactly true. 5.56 can still go through a lot of barriers.
@Niko
I didn’t say it wouldn’t go through – just that it’s designed to reduce penetration.
Andi said:
@Niko
I didn’t say it wouldn’t go through – just that it’s designed to reduce penetration.
So it contradicts your statement by still penetrating,
Yes, green tips will definitely keep going 
Why not go with a shotgun? 00 Buckshot is effective at close range, and won’t penetrate as much as 9mm.
Ben said:
Why not go with a shotgun? 00 Buckshot is effective at close range, and won’t penetrate as much as 9mm.
00 Buck can actually go through drywall just as much as 9mm and has a wider spread, so it’s not the best for home defense.
Pump-action shotgun with birdshot for close quarters. Birdshot acts almost like a slug up close before spreading out.
Patrice said:
Pump-action shotgun with birdshot for close quarters. Birdshot acts almost like a slug up close before spreading out.
Exactly! I’ve got a 12-gauge with #4 shot in the short mag and slugs in the long mag.