What shotgun works best for home defense?

[Alan]

I've been considering a shotgun for home defense and could use some insights from anyone who's been there. I'm stuck between the 12-gauge and 20-gauge options. I get that the 12-gauge packs a punch, but I've heard the 20-gauge could be better for indoor use thanks to its lighter recoil. Anyone have thoughts on that?

When it comes to barrel length and stock setup, what should I focus on for home defense? I don't want anything too fancy—just something straightforward that I can count on.

Also, what brands or models do you recommend? I'm after reliability above all.

Lastly, how crucial is training? I've shot shotguns casually, but I want to be prepared. What kind of practice would you suggest?

 

[Edmehlig]

I would get a 20 gauge or even a 410 for Home Defense. My first choice would be a pump with just a pistol grip instead of the normal stock. The reason is in all likelihood the range will of your target will be very close. Plus holding by the pistol grip you can hold it close to you body and will be easier to point around a corner. With a shotgun you dont have to be precise in your aiming. Just point and shoot. Another reason for a pump shotgun the sound it makes is very distinct and most will probably run away at the sound??

 

[flash60601]

I would beg to differ with you, @Edmehlig, on the need for aiming with care. I don't think anyone has brought to market any "heat-seeking" shotgun rounds yet. Point and shoot is better even in coffee-table to door shooting, and still the shooter remains eternally responsible for whatever projectile goes where.

I heartily agree with you on the pistol-grip-only pump-gun. just a little shorter than the average hallway is wide for excellent handling and no possibility of getting stuck between the walls.

And @Alan, practice shooting the thing from the hip, because time will not be on your side if push comes to shove. And like Ed says, short distances.

 

[Edmehlig]

I agree about aiming but a shotgun has a wider pattern than a pistol or rifle which is what i was alludingto. Pls I would use bird shot. This way if you mss the likely hood of shooting someone in the next room should be less likely. I totally agree with shooting and getting familiar with the shotgun

 

[410-er]

SXS

 

[bronko22000]

In my honest opinion - a loaded one. Doesn't matter what gauge .410 to 10 ga. Ain't nothing more scary for an intruder than the sound of a pump action shotgun cycling!

 

[Terry Swinney]

I personally own more than one and would recommend you try a couple out before you commit to using one at home. Make sure you can maneuver it in "tight spaces" like around corners or in small spaces such as the Bathroom (you would not necessarily carry it in there with you but you may have to retreat to that location). I prefer the "short barrel shotguns" like Mossberg 590 TAC w/birdshead grip or the Maverick 88 cruiser w/pistol grip both in 12 GA or the 20 GA Mossberg 590 with birdshead grip. No matter what you choose, Unload it, UNLOAD IT UNLOAD IT and practice using it in your house or wherever you are going to use it to see if it fits what you expect of the gun of choice. If you can't buy them all see if a buddy has one to try to see itf it works for you first. Once you are comfortable with your choice then buy one, stock up on AMMO and PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE in a safe environment using live rounds to see what the noise level is like so you are not startled by it going off in your house. BE SAFE AND USE YOUR HEAD BEFORE USING IT.