For home defense, what matters most is the security of everyone inside. For many, that equates to working in close quarters—hallways, rooms, and stairs—over long distances. Having the right gun can be a game-changer, but with so many out there, making a selection can be daunting. To try and narrow it down, here’s a glance at seven solid options that range from pistols to shotguns, each with something unique to offer in the way of home defense.
7. Gen 5 Glock 19 MOS – The All-Around Reliable One
The Glock 19 MOS has gained its reputation as being one of the most reliable handguns out there. It’s 9mm-chambered, and it finds a perfect balance of size, capacity, and friendliness. Its built-in 15-round magazine has more than enough punch, but it’s small enough to hold easily. With the MOS system, adding a red dot sight is straightforward—a big plus when split-second aiming matters. If you’re looking for one gun that works for both home defense and daily carry, this pistol is tough to top.
6. Marlin 1894 – The Lever-Action With Bite
Lever-action rifles aren’t what come to mind for home defense for most people, but the Marlin 1894 shows they are still relevant. Chambered in .357 Magnum or .38 Special, it’s quick, naturally pointing, and well-accepted under state laws. Its 9+1 capacity and hammer-forged barrel ensure it can be rugged and reliable. Contemporary upgrades breathe new life into it, as well. The receiver is optics-compatible, and accessory rails allow you to attach a red dot or light. It might appear old school, but in use, it’s far from antiquated.
5. Ruger PC Carbine – Rifle Control With Pistol Ammo
If you enjoy the rifle control but want to shoot pistol ammunition, the Ruger PC Carbine is the best of both worlds. The semi-automatic 9mm rifle has a 17-round magazine, a threaded 16-inch barrel, and accepts Glock magazines.
It’s also convenient—the take-down mechanism simplifies storage and transportation. Modular design and adjustable ghost ring sights allow you to easily customize with optics, lighting, or even magazine wells for various platforms.
4. Mossberg 590A1 – Made for Hard Use
The Mossberg 590A1 has been a popular choice among military and law enforcement for a long time, and for several reasons. Its pump-action 12-gauge is tough and reliable, with a parkerized finish, synthetic stock, and an 8+1 capacity. The 20-inch barrel with cylinder bore choke is efficient for tactical loads, while the XS ghost ring sights enable quick and precise targeting. With M-LOK slots on the forend, mounting a light is easy. The ambidextrous safety also makes it easy for both left- and right-handed shooters.
3. Beretta A300 Ultima Patrol – Semi-Auto Speed
For fans of the speed of follow-up shooting with a semi-automatic shotgun, the Beretta A300 Ultima Patrol gets the job done. With a 12-gauge chamber, it sports a 19.1-inch barrel, 7+1 capacity, and gas-operated action that tames recoil. There is a built-in Picatinny rail to easily mount optics, and adjustable ghost ring sights allow you to stay on target. The large controls, M-LOK slots, and flared loading port indicate this shotgun was designed for defense and is thus intuitive and quick to operate under stressful situations.
2. Taurus Raging Hunter – A New Revolver Redesign
Revolvers continue to be a favorite among many due to their unparalleled reliability, and the Taurus Raging Hunter provides the traditional wheelgun with a contemporary twist. It’s chambered in .357 Magnum/.38 Special carries seven rounds and features a ported barrel to limit muzzle flip. Coming in at slightly more than three pounds, it’s heavy enough to manage recoil without being awkward. A factory-installed optics rail allows you to add a red dot, making it a legitimate home-defense contender.
1. Springfield Echelon – Built-for-Purpose Defense
Coming in first is the Springfield Echelon, a full-frame 9mm gun designed with protection in mind. It features a 4.5-inch hammer-forged barrel, grip insert interchangeability, and a pre-cut slide for optics. Low-light sighting is facilitated by its tritium/luminescent front sight and tactical U-Dot rear sight. It ships standard with both 20- and 17-round magazines, and there is a threaded-barrel variant that can be used with suppressors. There is an accessory rail for lights and deep slide serrations for comfortable handling, and it’s a pistol capable of performing when it counts the most.
Outside of the Gun: Training, Storage, and Responsibility
Having the appropriate firearm is only half the picture—training is what gets it working. Practicing with your preferred gun and ammunition regularly helps develop the confidence you will need should you ever need to employ it. Safe storage is also vital. A good gun safe will safeguard your gun from being stolen and prevent it from falling into the wrong hands. Separate storage of ammunition is also the law in most states, so it is essential to be aware of your local regulations.
At the end of the day, the best gun for home defense is the one you’re comfortable, competent, and confident with. Combine that with proper training, safe storage, and responsible ownership, and you’ll be ready to protect the people who matter most.
