What’s a good gun for home defense and fun at the range?

I’m thinking about getting my first gun. I live in Texas and have been around guns a lot, so I’m pretty comfortable with them. Now that I’m 21, I want something good for home defense but also fun to take to the range. This one seems to check all the boxes for me, and the price seems great compared to others. Plus, I really like how it looks.

If you’re set on using a pistol for home defense, I’d suggest the regular M&P 2.0. Also, maybe look into the SW FPC carbine frame. Having a shoulder brace for better stability can really help, especially when your adrenaline is pumping during a tense situation.

M&Ps are great guns. That said, spending nearly $1,000 on a 2.0 seems steep. The upgraded trigger and metal frame are nice, though. If that’s in your budget, go for it, but don’t forget to save money for ammo.

@Jaden
Do you have any ammo recommendations? I’m also in Texas and just got this gun at a charity auction. I’ve been using Federal Champion 115 for range practice so far.

@Jaden
I don’t think this is the metal frame version. Looks like it’s just cerakoted grey.

Brogan said:
@Jaden
I don’t think this is the metal frame version. Looks like it’s just cerakoted grey.

Actually, this is the metal frame version.

The M&P series is solid, and this model is no exception. It’s a great choice if you want a full-size gun for both home defense and the range. The 5-inch barrel gives you better accuracy, and the Performance Center trigger feels amazing. Plus, the Competitor model just looks fantastic.

@Bailey
That’s exactly why I’m leaning toward a full-size model. Compact guns just aren’t as enjoyable to shoot, in my experience. I think I’m going to go for it.

Zane said:
@Bailey
That’s exactly why I’m leaning toward a full-size model. Compact guns just aren’t as enjoyable to shoot, in my experience. I think I’m going to go for it.

Good choice! Don’t forget to pick up some extra magazines and plenty of ammo. A light, like the X300 or TLR, is a good addition for home defense too. If you’re thinking about concealed carry, you might want a separate gun for that.

@Bailey
How much ammo would you recommend buying?

Blair said:
@Bailey
How much ammo would you recommend buying?

A lot! At least 1,000 rounds to start. Many people don’t fully trust a gun until they’ve put 500+ rounds through it. If you shoot often or enter competitions, you’ll go through ammo fast. Look for deals and stock up!

Blair said:
@Bailey
How much ammo would you recommend buying?

You can never have too much ammo.

Zane said:
@Bailey
That’s exactly why I’m leaning toward a full-size model. Compact guns just aren’t as enjoyable to shoot, in my experience. I think I’m going to go for it.

If you’re just looking for home defense, you could save money by getting a basic M&P. But if you want something fun, the Competitor is a great choice.

Check out Gunbroker. I’ve seen the non-ported version of this gun sell there for around $600. I got a lightly used 4.25" M&P 2.0 metal for $760 after fees, and it’s my favorite pistol.

Fraser said:
Check out Gunbroker. I’ve seen the non-ported version of this gun sell there for around $600. I got a lightly used 4.25" M&P 2.0 metal for $760 after fees, and it’s my favorite pistol.

Buying used guns is a smart move. As soon as you fire your first mag, it’s technically a used gun anyway. Just make sure you know what wear and tear looks like.

@Jaden
Totally agree. If it’s a rifle, build it yourself. If it’s a pistol, buy it used. Most worn parts are cheap to replace. Just be careful with Gunbroker fees—they add up quick.

The metal frame is nice, but I don’t think it’s worth the extra cost. I’d save the $400 and spend it on a few cases of 9mm ammo.

Vail said:
The metal frame is nice, but I don’t think it’s worth the extra cost. I’d save the $400 and spend it on a few cases of 9mm ammo.

But it does look cooler, haha. I agree the aluminum frame isn’t a huge upgrade, but sometimes you just buy something because you like the look.

@Clayton
That’s exactly why I was drawn to it at first. Then I researched it and realized it’s actually a solid gun, not just nice to look at.

Zane said:
@Clayton
That’s exactly why I was drawn to it at first. Then I researched it and realized it’s actually a solid gun, not just nice to look at.

It’s a great gun for sure. If you’ve got the budget for it and you love how it looks, go for it. Just keep in mind it might be too big for concealed carry.