Choosing the right firearm for your home-defense plan is a critical decision for homeowners who want to protect their families and property. Among the various options available, the debate between using a rifle or a shotgun for home defense is still prominent. Let’s explore the factors to consider when selecting a home defense firearm, comparing the advantages and disadvantages of rifles and shotguns to help you make an informed decision.

Differences Between Shotguns and Rifles

Shotguns and rifles have some fundamental differences that it will be useful to understand when selecting a home-defense firearm. Each type of firearm has unique characteristics that can influence its effectiveness in various defensive scenarios.

Shotguns

Versatile in their options for ammunition, shotguns commonly utilize buckshot, birdshot or slugs. Buckshot is preferred for home defense due to its stopping power and reduced risk of over-penetration, while birdshot lacks sufficient stopping power and is not recommended for defense. Slugs, which are solid projectiles, offer greater range and penetration but may pose a risk of over-penetration in a home environment.

Shotguns are renowned for their immense stopping power at close range and can quickly neutralize a threat with a well-placed shot of buckshot, making them highly effective in close-quarters situations. When fired, shotguns propel multiple pellets that spread out. This spread increases the likelihood of hitting a target at close range but may decrease accuracy at longer distances.

Shotguns, especially 12-gauge models, have significant recoil, which can be challenging for some shooters. For individuals who find the recoil of a 12-gauge too severe, the 20-gauge shotgun offers a good balance of power and reduced recoil, making it a viable option.

The shorter barrel lengths of shotguns make them easier to maneuver in tight spaces such as hallways and rooms. However, their overall length and weight can still be cumbersome for some users.

Rifles

Typically chambered in various calibers, ranging from small .22 caliber rounds to larger cartridges like .308, rifles are often recommended for home defense due to their balance of power and reduced risk of over-penetration. Compared to shotguns, rifles generally have higher penetration power, which can be beneficial for stopping threats but also increases the risk of over-penetration, potentially endangering others in the home or nearby.

With their accuracy and range, rifles excel at allowing for precise shots at longer distances, making them suitable for larger homes or properties where threats may not always be close by. Rifles, especially those chambered in smaller calibers or pistol calibers, tend to have less recoil than shotguns, making them easier to handle and allowing for quicker follow-up shots.

Although rifles can be more challenging to maneuver in tight spaces compared to shotguns, shorter-barreled rifles (SBR) and carbine models are designed to be more compact and easier to handle in close quarters.

How to Choose a Home-Defense Long Gun

Long guns are generally broken down into two categories: rifles and shotguns. Rifles tend to follow a narrower path of specificity as opposed to shotguns, primarily due to which cartridges are suitable for home-defense purposes. Choosing between a rifle and a shotgun for home defense involves considering several factors. To effectively protect your loved ones, you should examine stopping power, accuracy, maneuverability, penetration and recoil. Keeping these things in mind, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your specific needs and home environment, ensuring you are prepared for any situation that may arise.

Stopping Power

Stopping power is a crucial factor for a defensive gun. Shotguns, particularly 12- and 20-gauge models, have been trusted by homeowners for their formidable stopping power. Twelve- and 20-gauge pump shotguns have stood guard over millions of American homes over the last century for the same reasons they remain so popular today​. Shotguns deliver powerful blasts that can neutralize threats effectively at close range.

Accuracy and Range

Accuracy and range are essential in home-defense scenarios, especially in larger homes or properties. While shotguns are highly effective at close range, their spread can become a disadvantage at longer distances. On the other hand, rifles provide superior accuracy and range, making them suitable for larger spaces. The 20-gauge slug is slightly thinner than the round of 12-gauge buckshot, though it packs more than enough power for defensive use​.

Maneuverability

In the confined spaces of a home, maneuverability is vital. Rifles, especially shorter-barreled carbines, are praised for their ease of handling. A lever-action rifle is trim and easily maneuvered, even with just one hand​. This makes them suitable for navigating tight hallways and rooms.

Penetration and Over-Penetration

Penetration and the risk of over-penetration are significant concerns in home defense. Shotguns, particularly those loaded with buckshot, are less likely to penetrate walls and endanger occupants in other rooms. The 20 gauge is easier to use quickly. Conversely, rifles, especially those chambered in higher calibers, pose a higher risk of over-penetration.

Recoil and Handling

Recoil can affect the shooter’s ability to control the firearm and make follow-up shots. Rifles offer reduced recoil compared to shotguns, making them easier to handle. Recoil is significantly reduced with pistol-caliber carbines (PCC) when compared to those chambered in rifle cartridges, making overall controllability for target acquisition, accuracy and multiple shots on multiple targets much easier to accomplish.

Shotgun vs. Rifle for Home Defense

Both types of firearms have unique characteristics, advantages, and drawbacks that make them suitable for different defensive scenarios.

Rifle for Home Defense

Pros

  • Greater accuracy and longer range
  • Reduced recoil, especially in PCCs
  • Easier to maneuver in tight spaces

Cons

  • Higher risk of over-penetration
  • Flash and blast from rifle cartridges can be disorienting in enclosed spaces. 

Shotgun for Home Defense

Pros

  • Powerful stopping power at close range
  • Reduced risk of over-penetration compared to rifles
  • Effective in quickly neutralizing threats

Cons

  • More significant recoil, although reduced in 20-gauge models
  • Limited range and accuracy at longer distances

Making the Right Choice for Home Defense: Shotgun or Rifle

Both rifles and shotguns have their merits and drawbacks when it comes to home defense. Shotguns offer powerful stopping power and reduced risk of over-penetration, making them ideal for close-quarters defense. Rifles provide superior accuracy, longer range and easier handling, particularly in pistol-caliber configurations. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs, home environment and comfort level with the firearm. Proper training and practice are crucial for effectively using any home defense firearm.

 

This article is a compilation of previous articles authored by Scott W. Wagner, George Harris and Bob Campbell.