In a world of uncertainty, keeping your home and family safe is more important than ever.
Owning a home defense firearm will prepare you for the worst-case scenario and give you peace of mind.
However, finding the right one for you can be challenging because of all the options, types, and models on the market.
I have put together a list of the top 9 home defense guns for 2023, focusing on accuracy, usability, and stopping power.
Let us delve into and explore the 9 Best Home Defense Guns that 2023 offers.
Table of Contents
Best Home Defense Guns – Pistols
#1. Glock G19 GEN 5 9mm Pistol
- Caliber: 9mm
- Barrel Length: 4.02”
- Overall Length: 7.28”
- Weight: 23.63 oz.
- Capacity: 15 Rounds
The Glock G19 GEN 5 9mm Pistol is an excellent option for shooters who want a reliable weapon to handle any situation.
One of the best things about owning a Glock is its long track record of reliability, ensuring it can fire when you need it the most.
It has an excellent 15-round capacity, comes with three magazines, and is chambered in 9mm, which has many benefits.
9mm is one of the most popular rounds for personal and home defense, with a wide variety of loads and features to match the situation.
Its 7.28” overall length is perfect for fitting in a nightstand or a holster for concealed carry.
The G19 has a 4.02” Glock Marksman Barrel designed with a modified rifling and crown to provide enhanced accuracy and consistent shot groups.
With a reversible magazine catch and slide release, it is an excellent option for left or right handed shooters.
If you want a pistol that is perfect for the field or home defense, the Glock G19 GEN 5 9mm Pistol is a simple choice.
It is available from Palmetto State Armory. Here’s where to buy it: www.PalmettoStateArmory.com
#2. SIG Sauer P320 Nitron Compact .45 ACP Pistol W/ Night Sights
- Caliber: .45 ACP
- Barrel Length: 3.9”
- Overall Length: 7.2”
- Weight: 25.8 oz.
- Capacity: 9 Rounds
The SIG Sauer P320 Nitron Compact .45 ACP Pistol W/ Night Sights is the preferred handgun for those who want a powerful compact weapon.
It has everything you would expect from a P320, but it has a few modifications to make it perfect for home defense.
It only weighs 25.8 ounces and is 7.2” long, making it easy to handle and store.
This model comes with Siglite night sights ensuring that you have a clear sight picture in low-light scenarios, and it has an accessory rail to add a laser or flashlight for a customized loadout.
It is striker-fired, which provides more consistent shots with a crisp trigger.
The P320 is chambered in .45 ACP and has a 9-round capacity providing plenty of power to take down any target.
While a .45 ACP pistol has more recoil than a 9mm, it has less penetration, which makes it less likely that rounds will go through your walls, preventing you from hitting a loved one or neighbor.
The SIG Sauer P320 Nitron Compact .45 ACP Pistol W/ Night Sights will become your go-to .45 ACP home defense pistol with its superior performance and power.
It is available from Palmetto State Armory. Here’s where to buy it: www.PalmettoStateArmory.com
#3. S&W Pistol MP22 Compact .22LR W/Threaded Barrel
- Caliber: .22 LR
- Barrel Length: 3.6”
- Overall Length: 6.67”
- Weight: 31.6 oz.
- Capacity: 10 Rounds
Many would argue that a .22LR pistol lacks power for home defense, but I beg to differ.
The S&W Pistol MP22 Compact .22LR W/Threaded Barrel is perfect for shooters who want a low-recoil, high-precision home defense pistol.
It is compact, lightweight, and has a 10-round capacity, making it an excellent choice for home defense.
In an enclosed space like a bedroom, the noise from firing your weapon will deafen you.
However, the MP22 comes with a threaded 3.6” barrel that allows you to attach a silencer that saves your hearing and provides better situational awareness.
It also has an ambidextrous safety and has a reversible magazine release, making it perfect for left or right handed shooters.
Also, it comes with two magazines and a Picatinny accessory rail to add your favorite attachment.
If you want a low-recoil pistol with enough power to take down intruders while maintaining situational awareness, the S&W Pistol MP22 Compact .22LR W/Threaded Barrel is an excellent choice.
It is available from Palmetto State Armory. Here’s where to buy it: www.PalmettoStateArmory.com
Best Home Defense Guns – Shotguns
#1. Remington Model 870 Express Synthetic Tactical 12 GA Pump Shotgun
- Caliber: 12 Gauge
- Barrel Length: 18.5”
- Overall Length: 38.5”
- Weight: 7.5 lbs
- Capacity: 5 Shells
The Remington Model 870 Express Synthetic Tactical 12 GA Pump Shotgun is one of the best-selling pump action shotguns on the market.
It has the durability and feel of the legendary Model 870, but it has a few modern features that make it an excellent choice for home defense.
With durability in mind, it comes with a weather-resistant synthetic stock, and they milled the receiver from steel to ensure longevity.
Another benefit of the synthetic stock is the reduced weight of 7.5 pounds, making it easy to handle and maneuver.
It also has an 18.5” barrel with a bead sight for a simplistic point and shoot weapon that can handle intruders or wildlife.
With its pump action, the Model 870 can be counted on to fire when you need it the most without jamming, and the twin action bars ensure smooth operation.
With this model, you can load either 2.75” or 3” shells with a max capacity of five shells.
If you want a shotgun that you can rely on, the Remington Model 870 Express Synthetic Tactical 12 GA Pump Shotgun is a top pick.
It is available from Palmetto State Armory. Here’s where to buy it: www.PalmettoStateArmory.com
#2. JTS M12AK 12 GA 18” Semi-Auto Shotgun
- Caliber: 12 Gauge
- Barrel Length: 18.7”
- Overall Length: 39.37”
- Weight: 9.64 lbs
- Capacity: 5 Shells
If you want a unique blend of features on a semi-automatic shotgun, the JTS M12AK 12 GA 18” Semi-Auto Shotgun is an excellent choice.
It blends the features of your standard shotgun with the look and feel of an AK-47.
For shooters who want the ease of a semi-auto, the M12AK gives you two magazines of five rounds that provide plenty of ammunition and an easy magazine swap instead of hand-loading your shells.
It comes with an AK-style pistol grip and stock for enhanced control and comfort.
It can handle 2.75” and 3” shells and comes with an adjustable 4-position gas system to make adjustments based on your load.
The 18.7” chrome lined barrel is built for precision and durability, and the Picatinny rail up top allows you to add a red dot or another optic for faster target acquisition.
If you want to swap out the choke, it is compatible with Remington chokes, and it also takes aftermarket Saiga and SGM Tactical magazines to enhance your capacity.
If you want the convenience and versatility of a semi-auto shotgun, the JTS M12AK 12 GA 18” Semi-Auto Shotgun will be your go-to weapon.
It is available from Palmetto State Armory. Here’s where to buy it: www.PalmettoStateArmory.com
#3. IWI TAVOR TS12 18.5” 12 Gauge Shotgun 3” Semi-Automatic, Short Stroke Gas Piston
- Caliber: 12 Gauge
- Barrel Length: 18.5”
- Overall Length: 28.34”
- Weight: 8 lbs
- Capacity: 12 – 15 Shells
The IWI TAVOR TS12 18.5” 12 Gauge Shotgun is a beast of a shotgun with advanced features that any gun owner would love to have.
There are two features that I really like about this shotgun, the capacity and the overall length.
It comes with three tubular magazines that can load up to five shells each, and once one magazine is empty, it automatically swaps the magazine for up to 15 shells of continuous shooting.
With a bullpup design, the TS12 surprisingly comes with a full-size 18.5” chrome lined barrel with a compact 28.34” overall length.
Its compact size allows you to easily maneuver in tight spaces, and the eight-pound design makes it easy to handle.
It is also easily customized with a full-length Picatinny rail up top, M-Lok compatible rails, four sling attachment points, and it accepts Beretta and Benelli chokes.
The downside to this shotgun is that it is three to four times more expensive than more budget-friendly shotguns, but the included features make this weapon a value.
If you want a shotgun that has it all, the IWI TAVOR TS12 18.5” 12 Gauge Shotgun is an excellent pick.
It is available from Palmetto State Armory. Here’s where to buy it: www.PalmettoStateArmory.com
Best Home Defense Guns – Rifles
#1. PSA GEN3 PA10 18” Mid-Length .308 WIN 1/10 Stainless Steel 15” Lightweight M-LOK STR 2-Stage Rifle
- Caliber: .308 Win
- Barrel Length: 18”
- Overall Length: Not Specified
- Weight: 8 lbs
- Capacity: 20 Rounds
Palmetto State Armory’s GEN3 PA10 18” Mid-Length .308 WIN 1/10 Stainless Steel 15” Lightweight M-LOK STR 2-Stage Rifle is a solid choice for homeowners who want a powerful rifle built to last.
There is so much about this weapon that will make me feel at home with PSA’s Gen3 features.
It is chambered in .308 Win providing you with plenty of power to take down any target, and it comes with a 20-round PMAG magazine, allowing you to continuously engage your target.
PSA built this rifle with an adjustable 6-position Mapul STR stock, anti-slip handguards, and a PSA overmolded A2 grip to provide enhanced control and comfort.
The Gen3 PA10 has several features to give you a smooth and precise shot group, including a two-stage fire control group, a Toolcraft PA10 bolt carrier group, and a dimpled 18” 416R stainless steel barrel.
It also has a Picatinny rail to add optics and M-Lok mounting points throughout the handguard to customize your loadout.
The PSA GEN3 PA10 18” Mid-Length .308 WIN 1/10 Stainless Steel 15” Lightweight M-LOK STR 2-Stage Rifle is a beast of a rifle that I know will quickly become your favorite weapon on the range or at home.
It is available from Palmetto State Armory. Here’s where to buy it: www.PalmettoStateArmory.com
#2. PSA 16” Mid-Length 5.56 NATO 1/7 Nitride 13.5” Lightweight M-Lok MOE EPT Rifle w/MBUS Sight Set
- Caliber: 5.56 NATO
- Barrel Length: 16”
- Overall Length: 32”
- Weight: Not Specified
- Capacity: 30 Rounds
Homeowners who are looking for a versatile weapon that is built with military-grade specs will love the PSA 16” Mid-Length 5.56 NATO 1/7 Nitride 13.5” Lightweight M-Lok MOE EPT Rifle w/MBUS Sight Set.
One of the best things about this weapon is its high-quality feel with its forged 7075 T6 aluminum upper and lower receivers and hardcoat anodized finish.
PSA provides enhanced comfort and control by equipping this rifle with an adjustable 6-position Magpul MOE Carbine Stock and a Magpul grip.
You have enhanced precision with its 16” Chrome Moly Vanadium Steel barrel, full-auto profile bolt carrier group, and a PSA AR-15 Enhanced Polished Trigger that provides a crisp trigger pull.
It is equipped with a Picatinny rail up top for a red dot sight or scope, and it comes equipped with Magpul MBUS front and rear backup sights that provide a clear sight picture.
It also comes with a 30-round capacity making it perfect for home defense or the range.
The PSA 16” Mid-Length 5.56 NATO 1/7 NITRIDE 13.5” Lightweight M-Lok MOE EPT Rifle w/MBUS Sight Set is a simple choice for homeowners that want a powerful rifle with a large capacity.
It is available from Palmetto State Armory. Here’s where to buy it: www.PalmettoStateArmory.com
#3. Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 Sport Rifle .22LR
- Caliber: .22 LR
- Barrel Length: 16.5”
- Overall Length: 30.7”
- Weight: 4.84 lbs.
- Capacity: 25 Rounds
The Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 Sport Rifle .22LR is an affordable home defense rifle that can get the job done.
With a 25-round magazine, the M&P 15-22 Sport Rifle has plenty of ammunition to take down any target.
One of the best things about this weapon is the overall value you get from the low-priced ammunition and the cost of the rifle.
You can get .22 LR ammunition for around 8 cents a round, which allows you to get plenty of target practice without breaking the bank.
For enhanced durability and longevity, it has a 16.5” carbon steel barrel and a polymer frame, which reduces its overall weight for an easy to use rifle.
With M-Lok rails, you can add any accessory you want for a custom loadout, and it has a Picatinny rail to add optics, or you can use the included Magpul MBUS folding sights.
If you want an affordable rifle that can get the job done, the Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 Sport Rifle .22LR is an excellent option.
It is available from Palmetto State Armory. Here’s where to buy it: www.PalmettoStateArmory.com
What Is the Best Home Defense Gun for You?
Choosing the best home defense gun for you depends on several factors, including personal preference, skill level, and the layout of your home.
Handgun
- Compact Size: Handguns can fit anywhere from a purse to a nightstand.
- Easy to Use: Handguns are lightweight and easy to handle.
- Concealability: Can easily be concealed with a holster.
- Less Penetration: Rounds have less velocity, making them less likely to go through a wall.
Shotgun
- Versatility: Shells come in various loads, from slugs to birdshot, allowing you to adjust your desired spread and power.
- Effectiveness: Shotguns require less precision because of their wider spread making them perfect for close-quarters combat.
- Less Penetration: They have less penetration than rifles, making them less likely to go through a wall and hit a loved one.
Rifle
- Accuracy: Provides better accuracy compared to handguns and shotguns, which would be beneficial in a larger home or property.
- Penetration: Rifle rounds can easily penetrate walls, making them perfect for rural areas or if intruders take cover.
- Accessories: Rifles have plenty of space and options to customize your loadout.
- Capacity: With a large capacity, you have less reloading and more time on target.
The below video by former Navy SEAL Shawn Ryan (from the Shawn Ryan Show on Youtube) does a very thorough job of showing the pros and cons of using each, check it out:
Final Verdict
At the end of the day, the weapon you choose should be something that you are comfortable using.
A pistol or shotgun would be excellent options for smaller homes, while a rifle is better for large properties or rural areas.
I would suggest going to a range that offers rental weapons to test the various calibers and weapon types to see what matches your comfort and skill level.
References
Why A Shotgun Is Best for Home Defense
Pistol vs. Rifle vs. Shotgun: What’s The Difference?
See Also
9 Best Rifles For Home Defense
10 Best Non-Lethal Self Defense Weapons
9 Best Handguns For Bear Defense
He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 2004 and has served over 18 years as a communications maintenance technician with three deployments to the Middle East.
He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in English and Creative Writing from Southern New Hampshire University and a bachelor’s degree in Information System Security with a concentration in Digital Forensics from American Military University.
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