Having a Plan to Protect Yourself, Your Property, and Your Family is Meaningless if You Don’t Have the Proper Tools

Home security is something that every family in the country should have a plan for. While the society we live in is relatively safe, it’s not impossible that you one day have to defend your home from intruders.

But, having a plan to protect yourself, your property, and your family is meaningless if you don’t have the proper tools. Home security systems and strong locks aren’t always guaranteed to keep criminals out. If the unthinkable happens, you’re going to need the proper firearm.

But, many people aren’t sure which type of firearm to choose. Let’s take a closer look at the five best guns for defending your home.

1. 12-Gauge Shotguns

Shotguns are the classic home defense weapon. It’s hard to find something more terrifying than the sound of a shotgun being cocked if you could potentially be on the other end of it.

In some cases, the sound the gun makes when chambering the shells may be all that you need to scare off intruders. However, shotguns have far more use than their intimidation factor when it comes to home defense.

One of the most common types of shotguns used to defend one’s home is a 12-gauge, which is able to fire buckshot with immense force. Give the devastating amount of power that shotguns pack, they are a solid choice when it comes to protecting your loved ones and your property.

However, there are some things to be wary of when using a shotgun for home defense. The previously mentioned power behind each shot can produce some serious recoil. People who aren’t prepared for the gun’s kickback can injure themselves or drop it after firing.

You should also understand how the bulk of the weapon can make it difficult to maneuver, especially throughout the tight spaces of your home. It wouldn’t be unwise to practice moving around with your shotgun (unloaded, of course) in your home to get a feel for its maneuverability.

2. Pistols

Like shotguns, pistols are a very common firearm used for home defense. A pistol’s accessibility and ease of use make it a very enticing option for those who are looking for a way to protect themselves.

One of the most appealing aspects of pistols is that you can wield them in one hand, leaving your other hand free for a flashlight, phone, etc. Its small size also means that it is lightweight and easy to keep close to your body.

During conflicts, the last thing you want is the potential for your gun to be wrestled away from you.

You’ll also have an easier time concealing it if you do not wish to draw attention to yourself while holding a weapon. Semi-automatic pistols are the most reliable, as they offer a solid balance of power, control, and usability.

When looking for pistols, be wary of those that market themselves as the “pocket” variety. These pistols are much smaller than normal, and the short barrel makes them extremelyinaccurate from anywhere except very close range.

3. Tactical Rifles

For those who have extensive land or larger homes, tactical rifles are an ideal option. These high-powered guns are far different than your average hunting rifle. They offer customizable attachments, little recoil, and plenty of force behind each shot.

They also have the potential to hold far more rounds than shotguns or handguns, allowing you to stay focused without having to worry about immediately reloading.

Despite the higher power options you can choose from, it may be ideal to choose a lower powered rifle so that recoil never becomes an issue.

In a home defense situation, you won’t always have the time to concentrate on each pull of the trigger. This makes low-recoil options a good alternative to a stronger rifle. It will also make sure you don’t experience overpenetration when firing.
This type of firearm is best used from a vantage point due to its accuracy and range. Any sort of higher ground (second floor, stairway, etc.) is best so that you can survey the area without having to engage your intruder in close quarters.

4. Dual-Action Revolvers

When people think of revolvers, they typically picture the long-barrelled handguns from old Western movies. While these firearms are reliable due to their power and accuracy, they are not at all ideal for home defense.

Single-action revolvers must be manually cocked before each shot, costing you valuable time and requiring a cool head during moments of conflict. They also have notoriouslyshort range for a handgun.

Dual-action revolvers are the type that you’ll want to use during home defense. These are semi-automatic and hold up to six rounds, meaning you can cock the gun once and fire six shots afterward.

Revolvers are renowned for their power, which can be a deciding factor during home defense. Close-range weapons that fire rounds with low caliber will leave you open to retaliation from the intruder.

Like pistols, you can wield revolvers in one hand, making them the greatest option for one-handed weapons with high power.

Being prepared for home defense is crucial. But, the preparation doesn’t stop at having a plan and a working gun. Take the time to shoot your chosen home defense weapons at the range so that you can get a feel for them. That way, it’ll all come naturally in the heat of the moment.