Searching for the best rifles for home defense? Sorting through reviews will take days, given the sheer number of options. But, to give you a good starting point, we made a list of reliable pieces to pack for total protection.
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10 Best Rifles for Home Defense for 24/7 Security and Protection
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Ruger 10/22 Takedown
If you're the type of shooter to use one gun for everything, try the Ruger 10/22 Takedown. This rifle ranks among the most versatile, ergonomic pieces on the market. You can use this in various situations. Use this rifle for intense home invasions to casual weekend hunting sessions.
The high-quality components on the Ruger 10/22 set it apart from other takedown rifles.
Even shooters with weak wrists can disassemble the barrel with ease. Push the barrel down, twist it to the side, and slide it off.
The only downside with the Ruger 10/22 is its weak stopping power. But, note that the lack of firepower also stunts the weapon's recoil. Thus making it more accessible to inexperienced shooters.
HK MR556 | Hechler &Koch MR556
H&K markets the MR556A1 as the mass-produced version of the HK416. This semi-automatic rifle shares the exact features of the HK416. HK416 is the same rifle that police and military personnel use.
Shooters hail the MR556A1 for its reliability. It requires little maintenance and can withstand harsh unforgiving environments. You could take this rifle to war if you needed to.
Now, the MR556's steep price tag of $3,000 might turn off some users—especially first-time gun owners. Plus, H&K proprietary parts do not come cheap.
But, if you have a budget and want to invest in a high-quality, reliable all-around rifle, the MR556 might suit you.
Daniel Defense DDM4V1
With a price tag ranging from $1,300 to $1,700, you expect the DDM4V1 to look sexier. Instead, it sports the standard AR-15 aesthetic. Also, it has little to no special features or add-ons. Competitor brands offer flashier alternatives for the same price.
But, shooters do not get this AR-15 for loaded add-ons but rather for reliability.
The DDM4V1 suits pragmatic individuals who want a reliable standard rifle during emergencies. Nothing more and nothing less.
DPMS Sportical AR-15
The DPMS Sportical AR-15 ranks among the best AR-15 rifles for new gun owners. It has a lightweight frame, reliable mechanism, and decent accuracy. Plus, you can get a brand-new model for under $800.
Another reason to get the DPMS Sportical AR-15 is its components. It features simple and straightforward components.
So, even inexperienced shooters will have no trouble firing a few rounds on this rifle. Beginners can fire this rifle for fun or self-defense.
HK SP5
The HK SP5 outclasses most semi-automatics rifles on the market. It has:
- Discreet suppressors
- Smooth recoil impulse
- Reliable roller delayed blowback operating systems
All these features combined create a light, manageable AR-15.
But, note that authentic German-quality rifles come with a steep price tag. In fact, most gun shops sell the HK SP5 for at least $2,700. So, use this piece for various applications apart from the home defense to get a quick ROI.
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Ruger AR 556 MPR
Ruger shaved a couple of pounds off the AR-556 MPR to make it a lighter, more versatile all-around rifle. Even young shooters with small frames can carry this around on hunting trips.
Some veterans might complain that the AR-556 MPR has a thin barrel.
Thick barrels are less susceptible to overheating. But shooters in an urban setting would never fire their ar-15 to cause overheating. Likewise, most would never fire their AR-15 fast enough to cause overheating.
Henry AR-7
Any old-school shooter would recommend the Henry AR-7 for .22 LR survival rifles. It's an excellent semi-automatic rifle for hunting, survival, and home defense situations.
Some feel like the media overhyped the Henry AR-7. After all, its appearance in the original James Bond movies skyrocketed its popularity. But considering its reliability, accuracy, and price point, it goes beyond the negative stereotypes.
Moreover, Henry retained the original design even after several decades. This proves the piece's functionality.
ArmaLite M15 M15TAC14
Mainstream media framed ArmaLites as the ideal survival weapon. In fact, you have probably seen at least one or two zombie movies featuring these tactical home defense rifles.
Are they all hype? Of course not. It all boils down to what type of ArmaLite you get and if it suits your shooting needs and preferences.
If you want a quality ArmaLite, try the M-15 M15TAC14. It offers top-notch precision, and you can easily breeze through 100+ rounds without malfunctioning.
Remington 700 CDL
The Remington 700 CDL stands atop all Remington 700s. Shooters all across the globe praise it for its overall reliability, versatility, and accuracy.
This bolt-action centerfire rifle boasts a massive shooting distance stretching 1,000 yards. So stop intruders in their tracks before they even come near your porch.
WASR 10
American gun owners avoid the AK-47 for its steep price tag and lack of accessibility.
Strict gun regulation laws prevent manufacturers from importing most AR models.
Luckily, the WASR 10 is an exception. As a result, it stands among the best legal home defense rifles when it comes to imported assault rifles.
Here's an infographic guide that you can use. Feel free to download, save and share it with your loved ones:
The WASR 10 is a widely used AK-47 available in most states for around $500 to $900. But be careful when using this rifle because it comes with all the high-power features you would expect from a Romanian AK-47.
Do not limit yourself to stopping power. Several factors contribute to the overall quality of the best home defense rifles. First, it's fun to have a hard-hitting piece with enough firepower to take down burly intruders, but not at the expense of reliability and accuracy.
Also, avoid complicated weapons. Instead, go with a rifle that you can lock, aim, and shoot based on muscle memory alone. Intricate, hard-to-use rifles leave one prone to mishaps during high-stress emergencies.
Loading ...Do you own any of the best rifles for home defense mentioned on this list? Post your thoughts about them in the comments section below!
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I would prefer a 12 ga. auto Shotgun or pump
My AR15A and my M14 is great home defense
I have heard a lot of coments on why someone needs a rifle with a large capacity magazine. If you are being invaded in your home with 2 or 4 perps, you need a high capacity weapol. This is never mentioned anywhere, at least not that I have seen. I like the 22 cal. Remington speed master with hollow points. Good accuracy and not too long to manuver around.
A rifle in close quarters may not be to your advantage. A breakdown or rifle that has a hinge on it would be the best way to go .Now a pistol with a laser or light could help offset lighting problems while getting a shot at a target. You have to consider a noise factor of shooting indoors. Too large of a blast could leave you unable to hear an intruders movements.