I’m debating which one would be better for home defense. What do you all use or recommend?
Here’s a quick breakdown of the pros and cons:
Rifle Pros: High capacity (magazines), faster reloads compared to shotguns, good power, and can go through body armor. Moderate recoil with .223/5.56.
Rifle Cons: Larger than a handgun, needs two hands to use effectively, very loud, and prone to over-penetration.
Shotgun Pros: Known for stopping power, ammo flexibility (different loads), and devastating at close range. Soft body armor likely won’t stop it.
Shotgun Cons: Bulky, heavy, low ammo capacity, slow reloads, and has a lot of recoil. Also incredibly loud and harder to handle in tight spaces.
Handgun Pros: Compact, light, and can be operated one-handed if needed. Easy to reload quickly, and less recoil. Great for smaller spaces.
Handgun Cons: Less stopping power compared to long guns, and body armor can stop most handgun rounds. Accuracy in high-stress situations might also be tricky.
Regardless of what you choose, get a sling for long guns and a good light on any weapon. And if you can, invest in a suppressor to save your ears in an emergency.
@BenjaminWilson
This is solid advice. Definitely upvoting.
@BenjaminWilson
Rifles and shotguns are easier to aim, especially under stress. At 3 a.m. when you’re groggy and scared, accuracy matters a lot. This was a great write-up overall.
@BenjaminWilson
.223/5.56 actually penetrates less than you’d think, but yeah, it’s way louder than a shotgun.
@BenjaminWilson
Never thought about needing a suppressor, but you’re totally right about how loud it can get. My wife thought she heard something on the roof one night, and I barely managed to get slippers on, let alone ear protection!
@BenjaminWilson
This is the kind of info people need when they ask about this. Well done.
It really depends on your situation.
For rural homes, a rifle or shotgun might be better since there’s less risk of hitting a neighbor. In urban areas, a handgun with lower velocity rounds might make more sense to reduce over-penetration.
If you’re smaller or less physically strong, a shotgun or rifle might be harder to handle during a scuffle. In close quarters, a handgun is easier to retain and use effectively.
Ultimately, it’s about your comfort level, home layout, and what you’re trained with. No one-size-fits-all answer here.
Yes.
What’s your situation? Carrying a kid? Handgun. No experience? AR-15. Over-penetration concerns? AR-15. Comfortable with firearms? Maybe a shotgun.
Rifles are generally the best for indoor defense. That’s why setups like the MK18 exist.
I keep an AR and a Glock 17 ready. If there’s a bump in the night, I’m grabbing the Glock. It’s easier to handle when I’m half asleep and trying to clear rooms. Training is key no matter what you choose.
@Nuri
Do you think a handgun is easier to use than a rifle?
Harley said:
@Nuri
Do you think a handgun is easier to use than a rifle?
Not necessarily easier to use overall, but it’s smaller and more practical for home defense. Personal preference, really.
Rifles, handguns, and shotguns all have pros and cons. For close quarters, handguns are easy to maneuver, while shotguns give you stopping power. Rifles are great for accuracy but can over-penetrate. It really depends on your needs and home layout.
Rifles are the way to go. Specifically, AR-15s.
Val said:
Rifles are the way to go. Specifically, AR-15s.
Shotguns are more versatile and stronger. No debate.
Val said:
Rifles are the way to go. Specifically, AR-15s.
Shotguns are more versatile and stronger. No debate.
Shotguns are cool, but limited capacity and higher reload times make them less practical if you’re dealing with multiple attackers.
Think about your home’s layout. Thick steel doors or creating strategic barriers can buy you time. I’d go with a rifle or pistol carbine over a shotgun to avoid blowing massive holes in your house.
I’ve had a Mossberg 500 for over 13 years. It’s great for home defense, and the sound of racking it alone will send most intruders running. Just be mindful of what’s behind your target.