Thinking about buying a handgun for home defense… any tips?

I’m looking to get a handgun for home defense. I want something that’s portable and easy to store safely but still accessible if needed. Safety and proper training are super important to me.

I’ve shot a gun before—a .22 caliber at a range years ago when I was 16. Now I’m 25, and honestly, I don’t have much experience with firearms. But with burglaries going up in my neighborhood, I’m starting to feel like I need to be prepared to protect my family.

I’m on a tight budget (Social Security Disability and some savings). I’d like to stay in the $300-$500 range for a gun. I’m willing to put aside some money for training, like a few visits to the shooting range or a basic course. In total, I’d rather not go over $750. Any advice on what to buy or how to make this work? Are there handguns in my budget that would be reliable? Or should I consider something else like a shotgun?

Also, what’s the bare minimum training I’d need to be confident in using it? Any recommendations for a first-time gun owner in California?

I’d suggest looking into used guns in your area. Have you considered a Glock? They’re reliable but might be out of your budget new.

Sky said:
I’d suggest looking into used guns in your area. Have you considered a Glock? They’re reliable but might be out of your budget new.

Is there really no way to get a good handgun for $300-$500?

@Darwin
Glock 19 is great, but even used, it’s closer to $500-$600.

@Darwin
Maybe check out the Glock 26. It’s compact and might fit your needs, but it’s still a bit pricey.

@Darwin
Look into a Glock 43x. I’ve seen some go for around $450, but it might be harder to find in California.

Brier said:
@Darwin
Look into a Glock 43x. I’ve seen some go for around $450, but it might be harder to find in California.

The 43x isn’t on the roster in California. If you find one, it’ll be over $1,200.

If you’re in California, things get a lot trickier. Check out the FAQs on this forum, and maybe look at a local California-specific gun forum.

Teo said:
If you’re in California, things get a lot trickier. Check out the FAQs on this forum, and maybe look at a local California-specific gun forum.

Wait… there’s a whole forum just for California gun owners? That’s kind of hilarious but also sad.

@Darwin
Yeah, most states have their own forums since gun laws vary so much.

@Darwin
Once you see how California laws differ, you might change your perspective—and maybe even your voting habits.

@Darwin
Every state has its own rules. Having a separate forum helps people navigate those laws. But honestly, your attitude isn’t great for someone asking for help.

Just get a Hi-Point, lol.

Tobin said:
Just get a Hi-Point, lol.

Hey, don’t knock a Hi-Point. If all else fails, you could throw it at an intruder. It’s basically a brick!

Sky said:

Tobin said:
Just get a Hi-Point, lol.

Hey, don’t knock a Hi-Point. If all else fails, you could throw it at an intruder. It’s basically a brick!

Honestly, just leave it unloaded and throw the bullets yourself. Same effect!

Tobin said:
Just get a Hi-Point, lol.

A Hi-Point? He might as well use a frying pan!

Lennon said:

Tobin said:
Just get a Hi-Point, lol.

A Hi-Point? He might as well use a frying pan!

Or one of those carnival water pistols, just for laughs.

Tobin said:

Lennon said:
Tobin said:
Just get a Hi-Point, lol.

A Hi-Point? He might as well use a frying pan!

Or one of those carnival water pistols, just for laughs.

A garden hose might actually be more useful.

You might want to look into a Mossberg Maverick 88 shotgun. They’re reliable, affordable (around $300), and effective for home defense. For handguns, something like a Glock 19 or a CZ75 could work, but they’re closer to $600. If your budget is tight, a shotgun is a better choice for now. And practice is key—whatever you choose, make sure you train with it.

Don’t go for a handgun unless you’re committed to regular practice. A pump-action shotgun is simpler and very effective.