A shotgun is one of the most effective home defense tools you can own. At indoor distances it hits hard, it is simple to operate, and a good pump or semi-auto costs less than many handguns. It also has real trade-offs in recoil, size and capacity. Here is how to choose the right one and set it up.
Pump-action or semi-automatic?
A pump-action shotgun cycles every shell by hand, so it runs reliably with almost any ammunition, from light target loads to heavy slugs. It is affordable, rugged and easy to maintain. The Mossberg 500 and 590, the Maverick 88 and the Winchester SXP are popular choices. The trade-off is that you must work the action fully every time; short-stroking a pump under stress is a common mistake, so practice.
A semi-automatic shotgun uses gas or recoil to load the next shell. It kicks less, fires faster follow-up shots and is easier for smaller or less experienced shooters to run. Semi-autos cost more and can be fussier about light loads, so test your defense ammo in yours.
12 gauge or 20 gauge?
12 gauge shotguns are the most common choice, with the widest selection of guns and defensive loads. 20 gauge shotguns kick noticeably less and are still very effective at home-defense distances, which makes them a smart pick for smaller-framed shooters or anyone sensitive to recoil. .410 shotguns are the lightest but carry much less payload, so most experts recommend a 20 or 12 gauge for defense.
Barrel length and size
Most home defense shotguns have 18.5- to 20-inch barrels, which keeps the gun maneuverable in hallways. Federal law sets the minimum shotgun barrel length at 18 inches; anything shorter is regulated under the NFA. A shorter stock (length of pull) can also make a shotgun easier to shoulder and control, especially for smaller shooters.
Choose the right ammunition
For defense, buckshot is the standard. 00 buckshot is the most common load, and #4 buckshot is a popular alternative. Reduced-recoil buckshot is easier to control and still effective indoors. Birdshot is made for birds and clay targets; it often does not penetrate deep enough to reliably stop a threat, so most trainers advise against it for defense. Slugs penetrate the most and are usually more than you need inside a home.
Shot does not spray across a room. At typical indoor distances the pattern is only a few inches wide, so you still have to aim. Pattern your shotgun with your chosen load at 5, 10 and 15 yards to see how it performs. Shop 12 gauge shells, 20 gauge shells and all shotgun shells.
Add a light and a sling
You must identify what you are shooting at, so a weapon light is the most important accessory for a defensive shotgun. A sling lets you keep the gun with you while your hands are busy, and a side-saddle shell holder keeps extra rounds on the gun.
Storage and safety
A home defense gun should be quick for you to reach and impossible for children or unauthorized people to access. A quick-access safe or locking rack is worth the cost. Many states have safe-storage laws, especially where children live, so know yours.
Practice and know the law
Take a defensive shotgun class if you can, and practice loading, unloading and clearing malfunctions until they are automatic. Self-defense laws vary by state, including when you may use deadly force, so learn the rules where you live.
Buying a home defense shotgun online
Browse all shotguns, or shop by brand: Mossberg, Beretta, Winchester and Browning. Shotguns ship to the FFL dealer you choose; read What Is an FFL Transfer? to see how it works. You must be 18 or older to buy a shotgun. Shotgun shells ship to your door in most states; see Can I Ship Ammo to My State?.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Federal, state and local laws change and vary by location; check the current laws where you live before you buy, ship or carry.
