When defending your own home, the stakes are high. Home defense frequently occurs in close range, where seconds count, and your mission is to keep your loved ones out of harm’s way. Finding the right firearm makes all the difference, but with all the options available, it can become daunting. Below are seven good candidates for home defense, from small pistol options to full-power shotguns, and why each one is worth considering.
7. Gen 5 Glock 19 MOS – The Uplifting All-Rounder
The Glock 19 MOS has gained a top-notch reputation among law enforcement officers and civilian shooters alike. Chambered in 9mm, it finds that optimal balance of size, capacity, and feel. Its 15-round magazine delivers sufficient firepower for all but the most extreme circumstances, yet the pistol is still compact enough and easy to manage.
The MOS configuration makes it easy to mount a red dot sight, and this can be a big plus in reduced light conditions. For somebody who wishes to have one gun for home defense and daily carry, the Glock 19 MOS cannot be beat.
6. Marlin 1894 – The Lever-Action Classic
Lever guns might not be the initial preference for contemporary home defense, but the Marlin 1894 in .357 Magnum/.38 Special can be quite effective. Easy to use, pointing well naturally, and legal in most places, this rifle has a 9+1 capacity and a cold hammer-forged barrel that makes it tough and durable. Its optics-ready receiver awaits, and aftermarket rails enable the installation of lights or red dot sights. It looks classic yet holds a modern practicality—a shocking powerhouse in familiar garb.
5. Ruger PC Carbine – Rifle Control with Pistol Ammo
The Ruger PC Carbine combines rifle control with the comfort of pistol ammunition. Chambered in 9mm, the 17-round magazine, 16-inch threaded barrel, and Glock mag compatibility all come standard. The take-down design makes storage easy, while adjustable ghost ring sights and modularity enable optics, lights, or other attachments to be quickly installed. For those who desire rifle-like handling without moving away from proven ammo, the PC Carbine is the practical solution.
4. Mossberg 590A1 – The Rugged Workhorse
The Mossberg 590A1 has gained legendary status among military and police users because it is a 12-gauge pump-action shotgun that can stand up to heavy use, with its parkerized finish, synthetic stock, and 8+1 capacity. Its 20-inch barrel and cylinder bore choke perform well with tactical loads, and XS ghost ring sights provide for quick and accurate aiming. M-LOK slots on the forend for convenient mounting of lights, and ambidextrous safety for both left- and right-handed shooters.
3. Beretta A300 Ultima Patrol – Semi-Automatic Speed
If a semi-auto is your choice, the Beretta A300 Ultima Patrol offers speed and smooth operation. It’s also 12 gauge, with a 19.1-inch barrel, 7+1 capacity, and a gas-operated system for controlling recoil. Ghost ring sights and a Picatinny rail simplify optics mounting, while enlarged controls, M-LOK slots, and a flared loading gate allow for rapid, intuitive manipulation in high-stress environments.
2. Taurus Raging Hunter – A New Generation Revolver
Revolvers remain popular due to their ease and dependability, and the Taurus Raging Hunter .357 Magnum/.38 Special introduces contemporary improvements to the traditional model. With a seven-shot capacity, a barrel port to minimize muzzle flip, and a factory rail for optics—a rarity for a revolver—it strikes a balance between performance and manageability. Weighing in at slightly more than three pounds, it controls recoil adequately without sacrificing portability, making it an excellent option for wheelgunners.
1. Springfield Echelon – Full-Size Defense Pistol
At the top is the Springfield Echelon, a full-size 9mm pistol built specifically for self-defense. It has a 4.5-inch hammer-forged barrel, interchangeable grip inserts, and an optics pre-cut slide. Low-light targets can be quickly acquired with the tritium front sight and U-Dot rear sight. It is shipped with 17- and 20-round magazines, a threaded barrel option for suppressor use, and an accessory rail to mount a tactical light. Manipulation is effortless under stress with deep slide serrations.
Selecting the right firearm is half the battle. Training, safe storage, and familiarity with local laws are equally important. Practice with your selected firearm regularly increases confidence and allows you to handle it safely. A solid gun safe and secure storage for ammunition protects your dwelling, and compliance with state regulations on licensing and storage is paramount.
In the end, the “best” home-defense firearm is one you can shoot with assurance. With proper choice, thorough training, and wise storage, you’ll be ready to defend your home and family when it matters most.
