What’s the best home defense gun for someone who’s new to shooting?

I’m trying to figure out what kind of gun would be best for home defense. I’ve never owned a gun and don’t have much experience shooting. I’m open to learning but want something that won’t go through walls or risk harming someone innocent.

Start with a training class. It will help you get a solid understanding of firearms and make a more informed decision.

Try out several options—find a range that rents guns and shoot 50-100 rounds with the ones you’re considering. It’s important to know how they feel, the recoil, and if they suit you.

When my wife wanted a concealed carry gun, we rented a few options at the range, and she chose what felt best for her—a PDP compact. I ended up with a CZ Scorpion (though not sure if that’s legal in California).

Practice regularly, even if it’s not daily. It’s important to stay proficient—your life or someone else’s might depend on it.

@Zariah
Totally agree, this is the way to do it.

You might want to ask on this forum’s firearm-specific threads for advice.

In general, though, don’t rely on a gun you haven’t practiced with extensively. Training is key.

Orion said:
You might want to ask on this forum’s firearm-specific threads for advice.

In general, though, don’t rely on a gun you haven’t practiced with extensively. Training is key.

California’s gun laws are pretty unique. I’d recommend finding a California-specific gun group on this forum to make sure you’re looking at options that are legal here.

Orion said:
You might want to ask on this forum’s firearm-specific threads for advice.

In general, though, don’t rely on a gun you haven’t practiced with extensively. Training is key.

This is great advice. California’s laws can make things tricky, so look into forums that specialize in guns for this state. And only get a firearm if you’re willing to practice with it regularly. It’s not a one-time purchase; it’s a commitment.

Any decent home defense round will go through walls and could harm someone on the other side. Be cautious about this when choosing ammo.

I live in New York and used a 9mm carbine for years before switching to an AR-15.

YouTube has a ton of videos on the best guns for home defense. They cover things like how to handle living with others in the house. For tight spaces, a shotgun’s spread isn’t as wide as people think. Rifles can be more accurate than pistols but awkward in small rooms.

Ammo choice is just as important as the gun itself. For example, I use a Taurus G2C, which is reliable and cost me about $250. You don’t need fancy setups; just pick something functional and practice regularly.

This might be controversial, but I think pistol-caliber carbines (PCCs) are ideal for home defense. They’re compact and easier to maneuver indoors. Special forces have used similar setups like the MP5 for years because they work well in close quarters.

PCC advantages:

  • Short barrel for better handling indoors
  • Less muzzle flash compared to rifles
  • More stable than pistols

If a PCC feels like too much, go for a simple pistol like a Glock 19 or Sig P320. Whatever you get, make sure to train with it and invest in a quick-access safe.

@Quincy
Who’s out here recommending Glock 18s? That’s wild!

Tate said:
@Quincy
Who’s out here recommending Glock 18s? That’s wild!

Oops, that was a typo—meant Glock 17. Fixed it.

@Quincy
Why not pump-action shotguns? I thought they were a good beginner option.

Nyx said:
@Quincy
Why not pump-action shotguns? I thought they were a good beginner option.

Pump shotguns can be tricky under stress. Racking the slide takes focus and can throw you off aim. Plus, there’s a risk of not cycling it fully, which can cause jams. Semi-auto shotguns are much easier for home defense.

@Quincy
Thanks for explaining! That makes a lot of sense.

It really depends on your setup—do you live in a house or an apartment? Do you have kids or roommates? Are your neighbors close by? All of this affects what gun is best.

  • Mossberg Maverick 88: Affordable shotgun. Use #2 buckshot for less wall penetration.
  • Glock 19: Great bedside gun, but it can penetrate walls. Better for a house than an apartment.
  • AR-15: The ultimate home defense option, even in California. A stripped-down S&W Sport II is a solid start.

Check out California’s castle doctrine laws. We actually have strong legal protections for defending ourselves and our property.