I’ve been thinking about buying a gun to protect my home, but I’m not sure if it’s the right choice. I’m not a gun enthusiast, but I’ve shot guns before and found it enjoyable. Still, I’m hesitant to own one.
Some questions I have:
What kind of gun would you suggest for a beginner?
For those who own guns: What advice would you give to someone thinking about getting one for home defense?
For those against guns: Why shouldn’t I get one to protect my family?
I live in a big city where home invasions happen a lot, and I want to make sure my family is safe. What do you all think?
If you’re going to buy one, pick something you’re comfortable using. For a handgun, make sure it fits your hand and that you can handle the recoil. And don’t forget to practice so you’re confident with it.
Ask yourself this: Are you ready to use lethal force if someone breaks into your home? If the answer is yes, go for a shotgun. But if you have kids, make sure it’s secured properly.
A shotgun is a solid option for home defense. With something like buckshot, it’s less likely to go through walls and hurt your family. Plus, the sound of a pump-action shotgun being racked is enough to scare off most intruders. I’d recommend a Mossberg—it’s reliable, affordable, and easy to use. Just make sure you train with it and keep it somewhere accessible.
Start with a safety course or something like a CCW class to learn the basics and the laws around home defense. Make sure your family understands gun safety too. If you’re on a budget, check out local gun shops for affordable options. For home defense, a shotgun like the Mossberg Maverick 88 is a great choice—it’s cheap and effective.
@Fintan
I wasn’t thinking about a BB gun for training, but that makes sense. I’m not interested in carrying concealed, just something for home defense. My budget is under $500.
Adi said: @Fintan
I wasn’t thinking about a BB gun for training, but that makes sense. I’m not interested in carrying concealed, just something for home defense. My budget is under $500.
The BB gun suggestion is more for teaching your family gun safety, not for home defense.
Adi said: @Fintan
I wasn’t thinking about a BB gun for training, but that makes sense. I’m not interested in carrying concealed, just something for home defense. My budget is under $500.
Exactly. A BB gun is a safe way for kids to learn about firearms. For your budget, a Mossberg Maverick 88 shotgun is a solid option. It’s cheap and does the job for home defense. You don’t need to spend a lot to protect your family.
Consider a guard dog or an alarm system instead of a gun. Most burglars just want to grab something and leave. Wielding a gun could escalate things and give them a reason to harm you.
I’d go for a shotgun like a Mossberg 500. It’s simple, reliable, and the sound of racking it can scare off intruders. Alarm systems can work too, but they can be expensive and might not stop determined burglars. A shotgun is a one-time purchase and will last you a lifetime if you take care of it.
Drew said: @Kavi
What do you mean by ‘weird dangers’ with handguns?
Handguns are more likely to be stolen or misused. They’re also smaller, which makes them easier for kids to find if not stored properly. Shotguns are less likely to be stolen and don’t have those risks if stored correctly.
If you get a shotgun, don’t use 00 or 000 buckshot in a home with thin walls. Those can go through multiple walls and hurt someone. Go with smaller pellets like #10 or #12 shot for safety.
Look into a Remington 870 or Mossberg 500/590. Get a home defense model with a stock—not a pistol-grip-only version. Take a safety course and practice at the range to get familiar with it.