What’s the best home defense if guns aren’t an option?

I’ve been thinking about what to use for home defense since a firearm isn’t on the table for my wife. There’s a lot behind her decision, and I respect it, so pushing for a gun isn’t going to happen.

But now I’m looking for something better than the old baseball bat under the bed. I’m a bigger guy and can handle myself, but I’d rather have something that makes an intruder think twice before coming any further. What do you all suggest?

What’s the goal? You could try pepper spray, but you’ll end up inhaling it too. Bear spray is an option, but the same issue applies. If the intruder has a gun, things could escalate fast.

You might want to think about fortifying your home instead—better doors and windows, an alarm with a cellular backup, and maybe even creating barriers inside to slow someone down.

@Ashwin
Totally agree with this—solid advice.

@Ashwin
What can renters do if they can’t make big changes to the house?

@Ashwin
Look into a security door with a grate design—it’s not permanent but still tough to break through.

@Ashwin
Get a camera with a speaker so you don’t even have to open the door to talk to someone. While reinforcing your home, think about escape plans too. For upstairs rooms, rope ladders can be a lifesaver in emergencies like fires or break-ins. If you’re upgrading doors, don’t forget to strengthen the frames too. Interior doors are usually flimsy, so consider replacing a few with more secure options. It’s not a bad idea to create a kind of panic room either. But seriously, have a conversation with your wife about a firearm. If not that, how about a crossbow?

@Cairo
There’s a big risk in owning a gun. Statistically, you’re more likely to accidentally harm someone in the family than stop an intruder. I think sticking to non-lethal options is a smart move.

Nico said:
@Cairo
There’s a big risk in owning a gun. Statistically, you’re more likely to accidentally harm someone in the family than stop an intruder. I think sticking to non-lethal options is a smart move.

I get what you’re saying, but this thread is about options. People should weigh their risks and choose what works for them. Here’s a resource on self-defense discussions if anyone wants more info.

@Cairo
Totally fair. I just like these discussions because they leave a record for others researching later. And yeah, guns can save lives, but the risks of having them in the house can’t be ignored either.

Check out Byrna. It’s a CO2-powered launcher that shoots pepper balls and kinetic rounds. Non-lethal but effective.

Cade said:
Check out Byrna. It’s a CO2-powered launcher that shoots pepper balls and kinetic rounds. Non-lethal but effective.

I’m worried about something like that escalating a situation. What if the intruder thinks it’s a real gun and pulls an actual weapon?

@Briar
That’s always a risk when you resist. But sometimes, resisting is the only option. If a firearm isn’t possible, you still need something to defend yourself.

How about a halberd or a pike? Old-school but effective.

Adi said:
How about a halberd or a pike? Old-school but effective.

If I had a castle, sure. But in my tiny hallway? Not so much.

Zhen said:

Adi said:
How about a halberd or a pike? Old-school but effective.

If I had a castle, sure. But in my tiny hallway? Not so much.

Fair point, but it’s always fun to imagine.

A big dog is a great deterrent.

A Ruger Mini-14 for ‘hunting’. It’s not an AR, but it’s solid.

Big bore air rifles. A .357 caliber slug moving at 1000 fps will make anyone think twice.

Pepper spray gel and a strong flashlight. You blind them and then disable them without putting yourself in danger.

Lane said:
Pepper spray gel and a strong flashlight. You blind them and then disable them without putting yourself in danger.

My house is small. Won’t the spray affect everyone inside?