When it comes to protecting your home and loved ones, having the right tools at your disposal is crucial. Among the various options available, shotguns are often considered one of the most effective firearms for home defense. Their ease of use, stopping power and versatility make them a top choice for many homeowners. Let’s delve into the best shotguns for home defense, examining what features to look for and showcasing some of the top models on the market.

Why Choose a Shotgun for Home Defense?

Shotguns are a popular choice for home defense due to their versatility, stopping power and ease of use. They are incredibly effective at stopping threats, particularly when chambered in 12 gauge. The spread of pellets from buckshot increases the likelihood of hitting an intruder, even under stressful conditions. This makes shotguns more forgiving than rifles or handguns, where pinpoint accuracy is required.

Homeowners can tailor a shotgun load to their specific needs as shotguns can fire a variety of ammunition types, from buckshot to slugs. With this versatility, a shotgun can be used effectively at both close and medium ranges. As well, shotguns are generally more affordable than handguns or rifles. This makes them an accessible option for many people seeking to enhance their home defense setup.

Pump-action shotguns in particular are straightforward to operate and less likely to jam compared to semi-automatic firearms. The pump-action shotgun cycles reliably with any ammo regardless of power level. Semi-autos might choke on an underpowered load or weak grip. And the sound produced by chambering a round in a pump shotgun says, “I mean business.”

However, it’s important to note that shotguns have their limitations. They are not as easy to maneuver in tight spaces as handguns, and their length can make them cumbersome inside a home.

Home-Defense Shotgun Key Features

There are several key features to consider when selecting a shotgun for home defense. 

Gauge Size:

The most common gauges for home defense are 12 and 20 gauge. The 12 gauge is more powerful and widely available, while the 20 gauge offers less recoil, making it easier to handle, especially for smaller or less experienced shooters.

However, a shotgun of 12, 20 or .410 gauge, even when loaded with a light target load, has the ability to punch through modern multi- or single-family homes and endanger others. It’s important to keep in mind the potential for over-penetration.

Barrel Length:

For home defense, a shorter barrel is preferable. An 18.5-inch barrel is common, as it allows for better maneuverability in tight spaces without sacrificing too much accuracy.

Magazine Capacity:

A higher magazine capacity means you can engage multiple threats without needing to reload as frequently. Look for shotguns with a capacity of at least 5+1 rounds. Some models offer magazine extensions to increase capacity.

Ergonomics and Ease of Use:

Ensure the shotgun is comfortable to hold and easy to operate. Features like an adjustable stock, pistol grip and ambidextrous controls can make a significant difference in handling and performance.

Reliability and Durability:

A home-defense shotgun must be reliable and able to withstand harsh conditions. Models with steel receivers, like the Remington 870, are known for their durability. Aluminum receivers, found in shotguns like the Mossberg 500, offer a lighter weight without sacrificing strength.

Sights:

Simple bead sights are common, but rifle sights or ghost ring sights can improve accuracy. Avoid complex optics, which can add unnecessary complexity and potential failure points.

Customization:

Some shotguns, like the Mossberg 500 FLEX, offer modular designs allowing for easy customization with accessories like lights, lasers and different stocks. This can enhance the shotgun’s versatility and effectiveness in a home-defense scenario.

Safety Features:

Consider the location and type of safety mechanism. The tang safety on the Mossberg 500, for example, is accessible for both left- and right-handed shooters, which can be an important consideration in high-stress situations.

A gun should be part of your home-defense plan. Remember, the best home-defense shotgun is the one you’re comfortable with and can operate effectively. There is no definitive answer.  Regular training and incorporating effective shotgun drills into your routine will ensure you are prepared to use your home defense shotgun safely and effectively when it matters most. Practice reloading under pressure, as shotguns only hold six or eight loads, and you may need more. 

As with any firearm used for self-defense, you are responsible for every projectile out of your shotgun. Proper training ensures you can handle it confidently and safely when it matters most.

Best Shotguns for Home Defense

Choosing the right shotgun for home defense is crucial. Each model has its unique features and benefits that cater to different needs and preferences. Below are some of the top-rated shotguns renowned for their reliability, ease of use, and effectiveness in protecting your home. Whether you prefer the rugged dependability of a pump-action or the quick follow-up shots of a semi-automatic, these shotguns have proven themselves as excellent choices for home defense.

Remington 870

The Remington 870 is a standard model, pump-action shotgun. It’s notable for its durability and performance. And Remington firearms are very easy to use. The controls on their home-defense shotguns are always the same. The 870 has a steel receiver and is built to military-grade specifications.

Remington 870 has rifle sights on the barrel, so you aim the same way: Point it downrange, establish your sight picture, put it on target and squeeze the trigger. The Remington also has dual action arms, meaning arms on both sides of the action to ensure positive action when pumping the gun. The magazine tube holds five rounds, and you can easily add an extension.

Model 870 Hardwood Home Defense Specs:

Capacity: 5+1
Weight: 7.5 pounds
Barrel length: 18.5 inches
Length of pull: 14 inches

Mossberg 500

The Mossberg 500 is also a standard model, pump-action shotgun. This home-defense shotgun has an aluminum receiver. So it’s a lighter gun, but as Kevin’s story in the video exhibits, still very durable.

Unlike the Remington, the Mossberg 500 has the safety on the tang. This works well for left- and right-handed shooters. But to get an extended magazine on the Mossberg 500, the magazine tube needs to be changed.

Model 500 FLEX All-Purpose Specs:

Capacity: 5+1
Weight: 7.5 pounds
Barrel length: 28 inches
Length of pull: 14.25 inches

Benelli M4

The Benelli M4 is a semi-automatic shotgun renowned for its reliability and advanced engineering. This home-defense shotgun uses an inertia-driven system, which ensures smooth cycling of rounds without the need for gas operation. It’s designed for both military and civilian use, making it a robust choice for home protection. The M4 features a pistol grip for better control and an adjustable stock to accommodate various shooter sizes.

The Benelli M4 comes equipped with ghost ring sights, providing quick target acquisition and improved accuracy. Its modular design allows for the addition of various tactical accessories, such as lights and optics. The M4’s durable construction and user-friendly controls make it an excellent choice for those seeking a high-performance home-defense shotgun.

Benelli M4 Tactical Specs:

Capacity: 5+1
Weight: 8.4 pounds
Barrel length: 18.5 inches
Length of pull: Adjustable

Winchester SXP Defender

The Winchester SXP Defender is a pump-action shotgun designed specifically for home defense. It features a durable, synthetic stock and forearm, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of defensive use. The SXP Defender is known for its fast, reliable action, thanks to its rotary bolt and inertia-assisted pump, which allows for quick follow-up shots.

This shotgun comes with a front bead sight, which is simple yet effective for close-range engagements. The SXP Defender also includes a fixed cylinder choke, optimizing it for the use of buckshot or slugs. Its lightweight design and ease of operation make it a popular choice for those looking to protect their home.

SXP Defender Specs:

Capacity: 5+1
Weight: 6.5 pounds
Barrel length: 18 inches
Length of pull: 13.75 inches

Kel-Tec KSG

The Kel-Tec KSG is a unique, bullpup-style shotgun that offers high capacity and compact size, making it ideal for home defense. This pump-action shotgun features dual magazine tubes, allowing for a total capacity of up to 14+1 rounds, depending on shell length. The KSG’s compact design makes it highly maneuverable in tight spaces, while its bullpup configuration keeps the overall length minimal without sacrificing barrel length.

The KSG is equipped with Picatinny rails on the top and bottom, providing ample space for mounting optics, lights and other accessories. It also features a built-in forward and rear sling loop for added versatility. The KSG’s innovative design and high capacity make it a formidable option for those seeking an advanced home-defense shotgun.

KSG Specs:

Capacity: 14+1
Weight: 6.9 pounds
Barrel length: 18.5 inches
Overall length: 26.1 inches

Choosing the Best Shotgun for Home Defense

Deciding on the right shotgun for home defense should involve careful consideration of your specific needs and circumstances. From the reliable Mossberg 500 to the high-performance Benelli M4, there are excellent options available to suit various preferences and budgets. Prioritize reliability and ease of use when making your choice. Protecting your home and loved ones is a responsibility that demands the best tools, and with the right shotgun, you’ll be well-equipped to handle any threat that comes your way.

 

This article is a compilation of previous blog posts authored by Scott W. Wagner and Kevin Michalowski.