When it comes to defending your home, opinions differ on the best tool for the job, but shotguns have long stood as a preferred choice. Why? Because they’re unmatched in their combination of stopping power and ease of use once properly trained.
The Mossberg 590S, Remington 870 Tactical, Benelli M4, Berretta A300 Ultima Patrol, and Beretta 1301 Tactical each offer unique benefits, catering to both experienced and beginner gun owners. we will explore these models, review the pros and cons off each, and explain why they remain top picks for home defense. Ready to find the perfect shotgun for your peace of mind? Off safe.
Table of Contents
Selecting the Best Shotgun for Home Defense
The Mossberg 590S is one of the best shotguns for home defense and is widely known for its durability and reliability. It’s built tough so it can take a beating and is a great choice for those who want longevity in their defensive firearm. This pump action shotgun has lots of features to give you confidence and control and is a favorite among experienced shooters.
For beginners the Remington 870 Tactical is a great entry level shotgun. Known for being easy to use and affordable it’s perfect for first time owners. It’s simple to operate and has a huge aftermarket so you can customize and upgrade to your liking. With over 11 million sold it’s popularity is a testament to its ease of use and effectiveness.
The Benelli M4 and Beretta 1301 Tactical are the top choices for those who want advanced features and rapid fire. The Benelli M4 with its proven military performance is a semi auto shotgun that’s the most reliable semi auto shotgun. The Beretta 1301 Tactical is fast and affordable with an ergonomic design and advanced operating systems to make it easy to handle and perform in home defense. The Beretta A300 Ultima Patrol is the new kid on the block offering many of the same features as the 1301 but with a reduced price tag. I personally choose the Beretta A300 Ultima Patrol.
Pros and Cons of Popular Home Defense Shotguns
Shotguns are a favored choice for home defense due to their versatility and effectiveness. The main advantage is their stopping power, which can end a fight in one shot.
| Shotgun | Pros | Cons | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Benelli M4 | – Reliable semi-auto action – Durable construction – Used by military/law enforcement – Adjustable stock | – Expensive – Heavy – Limited aftermarket support | $1,999 – $2,399 |
| Remington 870 Tactical | – Extremely reliable pump action – Affordable – Huge aftermarket support – Versatile for hunting/defense | – Heavier than some competitors – Basic models lack features – Quality concerns with newer production | $400 – $700 |
| Beretta 1301 Tactical | – Fast cycling semi-auto – Lightweight – Oversized controls – Reliable with various loads | – More expensive than pump actions – Limited capacity in base model – Recoil can be snappy | $1,200 – $1,500 |
| Beretta A300 Ultima Patrol | – Inertia-driven semi-auto system – Affordable for a semi-auto – Low recoil – Easy to clean | – Less aftermarket support – Not as proven as other models – Limited tactical features | $900 – $1,100 |
| Mossberg 590S | – Accepts mini shells – Ambidextrous safety – Dual extractors – Affordable | – Heavier than 500 series – Action not as smooth as some competitors – Limited barrel options | $500 – $700 |
Shotgun Ammunition for Home Defense
Choosing the right ammo is just as important as choosing the right shotgun.
For home defense buckshot is recommended because of its stopping power. A standard 00 buck sends 8 pellets weighing ~60 grains each downrange. Birdshot is generally useless for self defense. Its pellets are too small to inflict real damage and might not even go through a Carhartt jacket.
Tactical shotguns can also use slugs for more precise shots at longer ranges. The stopping power of a 12 gauge slug is terrifying at close range (just make sure the area behind your target is clear).
00 Buckshot on the left and Birdshot (quail) on the right
The FBI did ballistic gel testing and here are the results:
- Number 4 buckshot Number 4 buckshot is a great choice for home defense. It has significant striking power without over-penetration which is key to minimizing risk to innocent bystanders1.
- Double 00 buckshot, Double 00 buckshot is powerful but showed significant over-penetration in gel tests even with clothing barriers. Not ideal for home defense1.
- Birdshot, Birdshot although popular may not have enough penetration to stop a determined attacker especially at distances beyond very close range.
- Rifled slugs, Rifled slugs are brutal but over-penetrate (31 inches in gel)
Choosing the right shell typw can make a huge difference in a home defense situation. Each type—buckshot, birdshot, or slugs—has its own strengths, and picking the one that suits you best can impact how effectively you respond to a threat.
Buckshot, for example, offers a good mix of spread and stopping power, which makes it a solid choice for most people in defensive situations. Slugs, on the other hand, pack a lot of punch and offer precision but need a steady hand and a bit of experience to handle well.
Think about your own comfort level and what you feel confident using. Whether you’re just starting out or have more experience, choosing the right load type for your needs helps you get the most out of your shotgun for home defense.
Legal Considerations for Home Defense Shotguns
Knowing when you can and cannot use your shotgun in a home invasion event is also an important consideration. Fortunately, most states understand if someone is breaking into your house you can engage them with deadly force. To learn more, you can check out Understanding Stand Your Ground Laws: What Every Citizen Should Know.
These laws can vary significantly from one jurisdiction to another, affecting what constitutes lawful use of force. Knowing these specifics helps confirm actions taken in defense of one’s home are legally justified.
- Secure storage of firearms to prevent unauthorized access (How a Gun Safe Can Keep You Out of Jail)
- Regular maintenance and proper handling to ensure functionality.
- Continuous education on changing laws and safe practices.
Maintaining compliance with legal requirements involves more than just understanding the laws. Responsible gun ownership requires secure storage solutions, like gun safes, to prevent unauthorized access. Regular maintenance and handling practices are also essential to ensure the shotgun remains functional and safe to use. Staying informed about any changes in laws and safe practices is a continuous responsibility, ensuring the home environment remains both secure and legally compliant.
Best Attachment for Home Defense Shotguns
Shotguns, like ARs, have many aftermarket upgrades available. Some upgrades are a joke like a bayonet but others have merit. I reviewed what the firearms instructors recommend along with consensus from online forums. These upgrades should be considered when purchasing your shotgun.
Magazine Tube Extension
- Nordic Components shotgun extension tubes – these are the most reputable although they only are compatible with select shotguns
Weapons Light
- Mount: Streamlight 69901 Magazine Tube Mount
- Light: Streamlight 69260 TLR-1 HL 1000-Lumen (17,000+ reviews with 4.8 stars)
Shell Holder
- Detachable / tear-away shell holder – this shell holder allows you to slap on 5 shells without having to drill into your receiver
- Side saddle shell holder – not ideal when trying to lay your shotgun on its side or store it in a case
Upgraded Sights
- Iron: HIVIZ Snap On Sight
- Reflex: HOLOSUN HS510C
I don’t recommend a sling since you won’t be using it in a home intruder situation.
Training and Preparedness
If you’re thinking about using a shotgun for home defense, it’s key to regularly train and prepare. Practicing often builds muscle memory, so you’re more comfortable and less likely to make mistakes when it matters most.
I may be preaching to the choir but a shotgun is not like an AR-15. You can’t slap a new mag in and have 30 rounds ready to go. Instead, you need to carefully take each shell and make sure it is facing the right direction before pushing it past the shell lifter and into the magazine tube.
If you are never going to go to the range and train then you should probably get something like a Flux Raider Pistol Caliber Carbine (PCC) since reloading is gong to be much more familiar.
Well executed home defense is about more than just owning a shotgun; it requires a solid plan. This includes not only physical readiness but also staying mentally prepared for the unexpected. By making your shotgun part of a comprehensive home security setup and sticking to a regular training routine, you can increase your confidence and create a safer environment for you and your family.
Comparing Shotgun Types for Home Defense
When choosing between a semi-automatic and a pump-action shotgun for home defense, it really comes down to what feels right for you, as both have their own advantages. Semi-autos are great for firing multiple shots quickly—something that can be valuable in high-stress situations where you might need to make quick follow-up shots. Pump-action shotguns, on the other hand, are known for their reliability. The manual action helps reduce the risk of mechanical issues, which can be reassuring if you prioritize dependability. Not to mention the sound of pumping the action is a big deterrent for thieves.
Another factor to consider is capacity and how each shotgun operates. Semi-automatics are generally faster due to their self-loading feature, which can be a plus if you’re facing multiple threats. However, they do require a bit more upkeep to make sure the piston or inertia system is in good working condition.
Pump-action shotguns tend to be simpler to maintain. One tactical drawback is the increased time to reload when compared to semi-auto shotguns.
Final Words
Identifying the best shotgun for home defense requires balancing reliability, ease of use, and effectiveness. With options like the Mossberg 590S for durability and the beginner-friendly Remington 870 Tactical, choices are vast and cater to diverse needs. Understanding ammunition and legal considerations is also crucial, ensuring responsible gun ownership.
Equipping shotguns with essential tactical gear and ongoing training can enhance overall safety and preparedness. Whether opting for a semi-auto or pump-action model, strategic planning maximizes defense capabilities. Homeowners can feel more secure and protected by choosing wisely and staying informed.
FAQ
Best home defense shotgun for women
A: The Mossberg 500 is often recommended for women due to its light weight and manageable recoil. Its versatility and ease of use make it a suitable choice for home defense.
Mossberg home defense shotgun
A: The Mossberg 590A1 stands out for its durability and reliability. It is a top choice for those looking for a robust shotgun for home defense needs.
Home defense shotguns for seniors
A: Seniors might prefer the Remington 870 Tactical for its ease of use and affordability. Its lightweight construction and smooth operation make it ideal for older users.
Best semi auto shotgun home defense
A: The Beretta 1301 Tactical is highly regarded for its semi-auto speed and reliability. Its rapid-fire capability makes it a strong contender for home defense.
Best shotgun for home defense 2024
A: For 2024, the Benelli M4 remains a leading model due to its military-proven performance and efficient ARGO system, catering to those seeking advanced features.
Best tactical shotgun semi automatic
A: The Benelli M4 is a standout tactical semi-automatic shotgun, offering reliability with its ARGO system and fast operation for quick response in defense scenarios.
Best 20 gauge shotguns for home defense
A: The Remington 870 is available in a 20 gauge model, offering manageable recoil and ease of handling, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter option.
Best shotgun for home defense and sporting clays
A: The Mossberg 500 offers versatility for both home defense and sporting clays due to its adjustable components and reliable performance in varied environments.
Which shotgun gauge is best for home defense?
A: The 12-gauge shotgun is generally recommended for home defense due to its power and versatility, making it effective for stopping threats at close range.
What is the best shotgun shot for home defense?
A: 00 Buckshot is preferred for home defense because of its stopping power and ability to spread effectively over short distances, ensuring target engagement.
What is the best barrel length for a home defense shotgun?
A: A barrel length between 18 and 20 inches is optimal for home defense, offering maneuverability within confined spaces while still providing effective range.
Are shotguns good for home self-defense?
A: Shotguns are highly effective for home self-defense due to their power and the ability to deliver a wide spread, increasing hit probability with less precision needed.
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