Expand your knowledge about the best handguns for home defense and why these firearms will get the job done.
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Personal and Concealed Carry Handguns
Before we get to what I like to call the “meat and potatoes,” let’s get a few important things out of the way. First, you need to make sure you choose a caliber in a gun you’re actually going to shoot.
If you don’t actually shoot your gun of choice, and you need to defend yourself with it, you might get startled. You need to make sure you’re ready and know exactly what’s going to happen.
Second, some projectiles can actually over-penetrate through more than one wall. Bigger, slower calibers tend to be the way to go if you have people sleeping in another room. You can always carry frangible ammo for added protection against penetration.
It’s a misconception that hollow point rounds won’t over travel through walls because they expand. They only expand when they pass through something wet, and drywall is not wet.
If you miss your target, it can travel through several walls before it stops. If you have a child on the other side, I don’t need to tell you how dangerous that can be.
This article has two parts. The first part is mine, and the second is by the original author, Patrick Johnson.
You should be able to tell where I stop and he starts because it is clear we have two different approaches. I’ll tell you when it happens so it doesn’t confuse you.
1. Ruger SP101
Ruger SP101 – Hogue Monogrip Photo by The Armed Texan Blog
The SP101 is a great revolver for home defense that works with a few different calibers. You can’t go wrong with this handgun when you talk about its shooting capabilities.
My pick for this gun is the .357 Magnum cartridge because of its ultimate stopping ability. Other cartridges that work well with this gun are the .327 Mag and .38 SP ammo.
It holds five rounds and is definitely a hard-hitting firearm. The SP101 has both internal and external hammers, which makes it suitable for concealed carry purposes.
These revolvers weigh 25 ounces (some are heavier, based on barrel length) and are easy to maneuver around your house when needed. MSRP isn’t too bad at $719 and is likely a bit cheaper than those in stores.
You get a solid revolver with an excellent reputation backed by one of the best companies in the business.
Show off your pride for the 2nd Amendment with our FREE shirt, grab it here.
2. FNX 45
FNX 45 Photo by Gun Carrier
If you’re looking for a handgun with a large capacity magazine and is also chambered in .45 ACP, look no further than the FNX 45. This is one of the most reliable semi-auto pistols available today.
With its fully ambidextrous controls, 15 round mags (also available with 10 for you poor saps in Commie-fornia), and hard-hitting ammunition (hollow point preferred), it’s sure to get the job done. It even has a MIL-STD accessory rail for flashlights or rail-mounted lasers for easier target acquisition.
The FNX 45 ain’t exactly cheap with an MSRP of $824, but you may be able to get it cheaper than that in the shop. Plus, the gun comes with a few different back-strap options, so you can make sure it’s comfortable in your hand.
That, combined with the DA/SA trigger and safety/decocker, make it an excellent addition to this list. You can get your hands on this model here.
3. Kel-Tec PMR-30
The Kel-Tec PMR-30 Photo by The National Interest
Wondering if there are 22 caliber handguns for home defense? Before you groan about there being anything made by Kel-Tec on this short list, especially one chambered in .22, hear me out.
First, it’s actually chambered in .22 magnum and the magazine has a 30-round ammunition capacity. I’m not saying this is for everybody. This is the perfect home defense gun for someone with weak wrists or is extremely recoil-sensitive.
We need to remember that not all of us are big, burly men. Some of us are older and unable to handle the recoil of a big self-defense cartridge.
Plus, this way, you have 30 chances of hitting your target. And, with the nominal amount of recoil it produces, the one defending the house is able to get back to target much quicker.
It’s got a safety, fiber optic sights, an accessory rail, and has a very accurate barrel all for the MSRP of $455. As an added benefit, .22 Mag has decent ballistics for what it is.
4. S&W Governor
Smith & Wesson Governor Photo by The Kommando Blog
Like the Taurus Judge (which is also on this list), this handy little revolver shoots Colt .45 calibers and .410 shotshells. It gets a one up on the Judge, however, in that it holds six shots.
Add to that another cartridge to the mix with the .45 ACP ammunition. It requires moon clips to do so, but the simple fact it can hold John Browning’s famous self-defense cartridge makes it noteworthy.
The MSRP of $870, and the ability to shoot three different cartridges ranging from shotgun shells and .45 Colt to the .45 ACP makes the S&W Governor perfect for someone capable of handling an actual hand-cannon. It is a highly versatile self-defense weapon with excellent stopping power.
The rest of this article, starting with the Desert Eagle is by Patrick Johnson.
5. Desert Eagle
Now I already know what you’re thinking: “Too big, too stupid, too jam prone, not accurate. I want to defend my home, not start a remodel with a one-shot demolition!” I get it, but as a Desert Eagle fan and owner (50 caliber AE.) I’ve grown to love the beast and have found it to be plenty accurate while delivering an extremely powerful round when you shoot.
The noise and recoil from the Desert Eagle make for a weapon with plenty of stopping power. Anyone will stop whatever they’re doing and run away. Not to mention, this is one scary self-defense gun.
If you live alone in the country and you’ve had ample practice with a big bore gun like this, it’s feasible. For those who are apartment dwellers and living in close proximity to others, this just won’t be a viable option.
Most crimes in these categories normally take place in low light. The perpetrators usually have an idea of the layout of the target building.
RELATED: Top 11 Handguns In 9mm For Less Than $750
6. Glock 19
In terms of simplicity, calibers selection, frame size, and the ability to customize to one’s content, you really cannot beat a Glock. It’s the best handgun for home defense beginner and for a lot of reasons.
I picked the Glock 19 as a go-to handgun because of frame size. If you are in a household with multiple occupants, say a husband and wife, you’ll probably want a gun that both folks are comfortable holding on to.
I felt the 19 was a nice in-between for most people. It’s not as large as some of the full frames but not as small as the subcompacts, and therefore, more comfortable in a wider range of hands.
With a 15-round 9mm capacity, highly accurate barrel, and spare magazines readily available, the G19 is a great defense handgun with every accessory you can imagine at your disposal.
It is a time-tested design that provides a level of simplicity that is hard to match. There’s no wonder why it is one of the best-selling semi-automatic pistols today.
Easy operation in a high-stress situation can provide a lifesaving difference. With no manual safety, the Glock gives one the ability to point and shoot without fussing around with safeties and levers.
Recoil control also comes easy with the Glock 19. Also, the small form factor makes it a great option for concealed carry.
The simplicity can also be a downfall if those who are unfamiliar with firearms stumble upon your home defense weapon and inadvertently pull the trigger. I hope we are properly securing our firearms depending upon the occupants of our homes, at any given time.
7. Taurus Judge – Public Defender
The Taurus Judge has the unique ability to fire a few distinctly different types of ammunition. These are the 45 Colt ACP, the .410 birdshot, buckshot, and slugs.
What Is Birdshot? It is the smallest type of pellets inside shotgun shells, which tend to scatter outward when fired. It is similar to the buckshot, although it’s significantly bigger than the birdshot.
What’s so great about that you might ask? Most rounds we are discussing here today will have some level of penetration through walls and hard surfaces. If you use the buckshot or birdshot, it limits the chance of over-penetration. This is an awesome feature for people who live in tight quarters like apartments.
Having different ammunition options, dare I say less lethal options (for other home occupants), is interesting. You can have different cartridges loaded in different orders while utilizing the 5-round capacity guns.
With the Judge, you get trusty and simplistic revolver performance and a manual safety system, along with a built-in Taurus Security System (TSS) that can completely disable the firearm and can only be engaged and disengaged with the key provided at purchase.
Rubberized grips and fiber optic sight come standard, rare for many revolvers. The Taurus Judge is a great home defense option when you’re looking at revolvers.
If you have kids and visitors who are unfamiliar with firearms frequenting the residence, the TSS system can help you rest assured no one will accidentally discharge the firearm.
(Editor’s Note: Proper firearms safety must be used at all times, and no safety should ever be trusted.)
8. Smith & Wesson M&P Shield
For this list, one of the things I had to keep in mind was some folks are just going to have one pistol! It’s a shocker, right? Most of us can never imagine having only one gun, because hey, variety is the spice of life!
Anyway, the Shield is a great gun in general. It is compact but has everything you will hope to find on a standard frame pistol.
This handgun has a great set of sights, manual safety (some like it, some don’t, for home defense I think, it is positive), and the ability to attach a light or laser. It’s also an easy gun to control using an extended mag.
If you need and want guns, but you do not have the cash to get yourself one pistol for home defense and another pistol for carrying, this semi-automatic handgun should be one of the options you explore first. I have shot the 9mm version and must say it was a pleasure to shoot. (My fiancé uses the M&P Shield and she loves it!)
9. SIG Sauer Tac Ops 1911 with Threaded Barrel
A full size 1911 is a great option for a home defense gun. The weight of the all steel frame and slide provides a nice dampening effect on the recoil of any round, making it easy for anyone to shoot with accuracy.
This SIG Sauer is particularly nice because of a few added features: the addition of a rail for light and laser attachment, and the threaded barrel that comes along from the factory. The Tac Ops is loaded with 8 rounds of .45 ACP, which when compared to some of the polymer pistols isn’t a whole lot but is still capable of getting the job done.
The all steel build makes this .45 ACP handgun manageable for a lot of people. The threaded barrel from the factory is ready for a suppressor. Night sights and a light/laser rail allow you to equip for home defense situations.
10. H&K USP Full Size Tactical 9mm with a Suppressor
I’ve used the H&K USP Full Size Tactical 9mm for years, and I have to say it is one of the finest pistols, if not the finest I’ve ever used. The USP tactical comes with a threaded barrel, which makes the process of jumping into the suppressor game a little easier to start with.
The full-size frame provides a secure grip, but the mag release will be a bit confusing for some at first. However, after a few dry runs, it will seem easier than previous unload and reload manipulations you are accustomed to (tip: use your index finger to drop the mag).
The Best Home Defense handguns need to be reliable, easy to use, and easy to manipulate in high-stress situations. The most important thing, though, is you’re comfortable using it and are willing to train with it at the range on at least a monthly basis.
Another thing to keep in mind is there are more than just handguns available to you for home defense. If you want to know which guns Josh says are the best for home defense, click on that link.
Check out the amazing Desert Eagle in this video from Miculek.com – The Leaders in Gun Control:
We all have our own versions of what a great gun is for both personal carry use and home defense. What you choose may be different from me, and that’s okay.
This is meant to be a guide to get you started on choosing a great gun. Please note some of these guns are great for carrying concealed or open. And multi-purpose guns, at least in my opinion, are great.
Which of these handguns will make a good home defense firearm for you? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below!
UP NEXT
- Become A Competent Shooter For The Price Of A Penny
- Your Home Invasion Defense Plan | Gun Carrier
- Best Home Defense Guns | When The Cops Are Minutes Away
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on April 3, 2018, and has been updated for quality and relevancy.
This article was written by a moron… who in their right mind would use a desert eagle for home defense? Scare method? That is just stupid! And a 1911 for home defense? Talk about limited ammo… 7 rounds compared to 13 of a glock 21 or 31? Whomever wrote this article is obviously a newb and needs to stick to playing paintball.
i like my 8 rd sig 9mm ! i also keep eight loaded mags which of course are drop free. saiga a 12 with three drums handy and a sbr 9 mm. and they all like to sleep with me! lol! what am i afraid of? not much!
I wholeheartedly agree that this list was written by a wealthy liberal!
I never understand why “experts” always pop up after ANY gun related article to desparage the writer! Grow up people! At least this writer is a 2A proponent, not some liberal a*sh*le trying to tell you to “just call 9-11 and hide”. This writer is trying. What are you doing besides running your mouth with your brain only minimally engaged?
Pro Second Amendment people MUST STICK TOGETHER!
Hell yes we have to stick together I believe in the second amendment I have a 44magnum that I gaurd my home and loveones I think all you cry babies and panty waste need to shut the hell up I will kill before ill be killed thats just the way I am if you don’t like it kiss my ass I think who ever wrote the article did a great job if you try breaking in my home ill meet you at the door with more than one of several very big guns thats just my opinion on this article goodbye and always protect yourself.
Thank you koiphish. After reading the article, my first thought was moron! In the milliseconds when you have the chance to defend yourself, any automatic is the wrong choice. Any double or single action revolver is the right choice. Your hands will be wet or you will half asleep or running in the other direction from your attacker. Figuring out how to affect the safety or cock the load the first round is not going to happen. ANY double action revolver can be fired with wet hands that are shaking. Shoot through a door or wall? You are kidding right? What if it is a drunk friend pulling a stupid practical joke? Have you ever even fired a gun, or are you one of those cowards that will just start shooting while wetting his pants at the same time…. Is George Zimmerman your real name… Moron.
I lost more brain cells per sentence reading this reply than when I read the article. And that’s saying something.
You dont keep your semi auto without a round in the chamber, or on safety. Those days are long gone meathead. Cover penetration is important, as is capacity. Your love of the “cowboy way” could very well get you killed. Single action revolver? Really? Its easier to find the slide on an automatic than a hammer when your in a bind. Pretty much everything you said is wrong, according to anyone and everyone that is anyone. A double action revolver is a fine choice, but not for ANY of the reasons you stated.
If you can’t hit them with one round, who should not own a gun. It is NEVER the fault of the gun.. An apple at 75 feet means you CAN shoot.If you are one of those people who miss the target at 25 feet with a Kimber….better learn to run faster.
Studies have shown during the stress of gun fights that police officers only hit their target with 18% of their shots fired. This really gives you something to think about. Put in your practice time with whatever your shooting.
I’ve heard that 18 percent is even with officers going to the range once a month. So, stressful situations do affect shooters regardless of experience.
When someone is shooting at you first shots are rarely kill or disable shots except by extremely good professional body guards the rest of us are just trying to get to cover and stay alive.
Have you considered closing the front door? Seems like your neighborhood is full of violent maniacs. Or Perhaps getting a better-paying job, so you could move out of the dangerous place you are now.
@ Phil, while I do agree with your comments, your comments DO NOT apply to everyone,#1- after serving in Korea and VN I have had some experience with guns of different types,#2 my wife has experience with both hand guns and rifles, so on some week ends we do practice on our own farm. She has her own type of guns and I have mine (since we do not have any kids that live with us or visits us, only adults) we keep them loaded and ready with in reach at any time. IMHO, I have always believed that it comes down to an individual type of thing,some have it ( to remain clear headed and to be able to think before you act) and some do not. Also knowing the type of gun or guns to use and that best suits that person and their hand and that they are also very comfortable using, counts for 85-90%. The other 10 – 15% comes in knowing your surrounding and what you can or can not do. That being said, i am not on here to brag or to even try and tell some one else what to do, that is (strictly) some thing that each and every person or person’s have to decide for themselves at the time of the event and only they can decide that, especially since they are the person on the scene.
I have put time in on, and avidly love, the Desert Eagle, but it is a terrible defense weapon. The author has lost all credibility.
Maybe leave the advice to professionals. You’re out of your lane buddy.
Patrick, you clearly don’t know what you’re talking about. Try a Ruger GP100 .357 magnum and forget about semi autos for defense.
I have 4 guns within easy reach of my bed. One is a 12 gauge shotgun with an 18 inch barrel with a pistol grip and no stock. I also have a 19 11 under my pillow. I have a CZ Rami on my nightstand and a small Kel Tech 9mm. So I’m ready for anything.
Not paranoid much I see.
Noise at door ,which one do you pickup first than so on? Just curious.
Maybe you should move to a better neighborhood? Just saying….
If I hear someone breaking in,and I would as I’m a light sleeper, I would jack a round in the chamber. If they didn’t run out after hearing that, I would shoot them in a heartbeat.
Desert Eagle? Indoors and in the dark? Are you insane? So what do you do after it takes 30+ seconds to recover your own hearing and night vision after firing a round? Unsubscribe me from this nonsense site…
I have a Tauris Judge. I have a 45 inline and when I cock the hammer, the cylinder turns clockwise or counter clockwise. So I have a 410 on both sides of the 45 and a 410 next inline. I think I could be the winner at close range.
First, Desert Eagles are neither jam prone nor inaccurate with the right ammunition. If you exist on cheap Russian steel case ammo ( which I use a lot of for certain guns like my wife’s Beretta and my Glock) then just remember you cannot use this with a DE. But get some quality ammo and a DE will handle most any situation in short order.
Do I keep one next to my bed or as an EDC? No I use my Glock and my wife her B92. But for a walk in the night (which we do a lot) in rough country, a DE is a good way to go.
the best home defense that i have found most comfortable for me and my wife is my s&w mp9 auto,slim and with a nasty bite,and for my wife, she loves her ruger lcr9mm revolver,smooth and kickin’…that sucker is with her more than i am…she doesn’t go any where without”HER LITTLE FRIEND!”…p.s. i also have a Canick tp9 and may i say this military badboy sits hard on it’s mark…aim small ,hit small and this boy delivers with no problems…you can use any type ammo,clean american or dirty russian,doesn’t matter,fires everytime 100%…for the money(just under $400) i’d bet my life on it…look into it
kel-tec p32 for edc (yeah, I know. but better a light pistol than none at all during summer/shorts). Glock 19 G4 for cooler days. And Taurus 605 for my wife. It’s inexpensive, allows her to fire .38 +p. and 357.
I like my shorty 12 gauge with a pistol grip for home defense.
All these weapons are Great for Home Defense in my opinion! My only problem is only having one, or two in a set location in the house! I have several in various areas of my home, you never know when, or where you will be when someone tries to enter your Home with ill intent! It is a good feeling knowing there is a weapon at the ready nearby (always within reach)! Just my opinion, we all have one and I do not expect everyone to agree with me!
BTW, the Ruger SP 101 in .327 Fed Mag holds SIX rounds NOT five. That extra round in this potent load could prove crucial.
Folks,
Looking to purchase my very first handgun and want something for home defense as well as conceal carry. Any recommendations? Appreciate any feedback or advice. Peace.
Damn, I didn’t realize are so many “experts” out there. When opinions are offered, you can accept or reject them. That’s fine, but what’s with all of the character as assassinations? You sound like a bunch of Progressives @ a Hillary rally.
FNS 40c/S&W 686 57/38/Walther PPSm2/Ruger SP101/Shield 45
“Damn, I didn’t realize are so many “experts” out there…” JpR, if you wish to start a larger argument, try… “The best caliber for (insert use here) is, (insert cal. here).” Now that thread will last until the end of time.
lighten up there jinglecags: lol: no argument from this end….nice avatar…lol
Hillary doesn’t need a gun as compensation for a small penor, though. Unlike some of the sissies wanking in this discussion. Just a thought.
My experience with a home handgun is that whatever you get you have to train with it. You have to learn how to load and unload,clean, and of course shoot it and practice at a range or somewhere you can shoot at a target. If you are thinking of a female (mom,wife,sister etc.) I would suggest a small revolver…22 caliber.22mag.or a .38 caliber. If you shoot whatever you have often then you may be comfortable with whatever caliber you have. A revolver when (loaded) when you pick it up and pull the trigger it’s going to go bang. (you don’t have to remember much) With a semi-auto you have to wonder is there a live round in the chamber,is it double action so all I have to do is pull the trigger..or do I need to jack the slide to load it..is the safety off (if it has one)..is the magazine fulled inserted so that it will function. That’s alot for a person to remember in a serious situation that arises. With the revolver (for anyone who hasn’t ever shot a pistol,or practised much) the revolver is the way to go. The smaller the caliber the less recoil..and inside a home chances are once fired the round from the pistol can penetrate a wall(depending on type of wall) and if someone is sleeping or in another room that bullet could injure a family member r friend. Plus the sound will be magnified inside the home..and the flash from the pistol will be readily seen at night.
On the M&P Shield, the author stated that it accepts a light or a laser; but I don’t see a rail or removable grips. If this is not an error, how would they attach and who makes them?
They fit the trigger guard
My Smith 36 works fine . Control and accuracy are very important when other people are in the house . Firing off 15 rounds can hit more than the home invader .
Anything at hand is what you use, if you are more than 5 seconds away from your hand gun you may not survive a home invasion !!!
https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/47a6c979d78b729f25281cc4776d6945b28867470145c114f0741decfde136ff.jpg ():-) https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/15709d3aeb8541827b313b211c48168e6b7f656202fc995d40eb6f0c612b34a6.png
Maybe just lock the door next time? Or get a bigger Chihuhua.
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The worst article I’ve ever read. And why the hell would you need a suppressor for home defense..
Want a home defense weapon? Get a shotgun.
This is the 1st time I’ve ever read one of these forums and I gotta say wow what a jerk hiding behind your little smartphone and it doesn’t sound like u no shit about shit.! I’m am pretty non confrontational guy. Ut this is really irritating to me to see how tough people get when they’re hiding behind there iPhone and they are not face-to-face. Me personally I am in love with my Smith and Wesson chief special 9 mm and my glock 17
does it even matter if it’s locked in a safe or unloaded if either is the case then what good will it do you.
I keep a loaded weapon in every room of my house! I have no kids to worry about and the wife knows how to use them all!https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/5be5ad2226872e305454164ad7a25639ebfac307a22eb1b30fedf2b25a82c4a1.jpg
I agree with your comments, and she is just as good a shot as most men and what is even better ? She has the guts and the nerve not to back down and she is the type that could and would shoot you . I tell her that she is just like C-3 or C-4, she may be small, but she sure as heck carries one heck of a punch when she wants to.
Well, I would never give my wife a reason to shoot me! And neither would you VN VET!
USN 69-76
https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/0299d62eef653b8135e661619b7c4a9493339aa7c19386036dbba7d89e543e67.jpg
Thank you very much for you and your wife’s service for your country. You both make a very lovely couple and I just want to wish you both only the best that life has to offer and I would just like to thank you so much for your comments. We have this understanding between the both of us, to keep a cool head, but we also try and make sure we know where each other is at all times especially after dark or if we are suddenly awaken up during the night. We first try to decide what is taking place so we know more about how to handle things instead of just jumping up, half a sleep and start shooting. I would just like to thank all servicemen, women (both past and present) and their families for their service for their country and to wish everyone everywhere a very nice week end where ever you may be.
Thank you very much for you and your wife’s service for your country.
GOD BLESS YOU BOTH & EVERY ACTIVE or PAST VET. WITHOUT YOU ALL WE WOULD NOT HAVE THE FREEDOMS WE DO TODAY.
That is an unwise strategy. If you have a home intruder you are potentially arming them.
Unwise? Says who? You? Mr. 1 comment and (0) votes! I know what works for me, so you should concentrate on what works for you! https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/1d698cfb4506c1e1305dea1cc2f80ee83187a1702ce8491a57ab99f9cf140ff5.png
So I guess you think the sun sets on your back side? It is not for you to say what is wise for me! I am the one who decides what is wise for myself and my particular situation. And the likelihood of some knucklehead coming into my house and finding a weapon before I have one in my hand is far less likely! So you worry about your place, and I will worry about mine! save your bloody novel and take 50 cents and call someone who gives a crap! https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/903df9ee12fd01cf73b7b4a77824c9fecfa90f061169f7531756049ba838e579.jpg
You post your opinion on a public forum you are going to get a public response whether you like it or not. I think I have thoroughly explained why your strategy is unwise which was my goal. Not to change you, because you can’t change the opinion of someone who doesn’t have real tactical experience and values likes and comments as a means of defining credibility.
My response is less for you and more for people who are interested in learning more about home defense. I rather they not learn from your technique and instead pursue credible tactical instruction from qualified people.
Whether you ask for my opinion or not, I am directing it toward other people in an attempt to counter your illadvised technique. I do this for their safety and their sake, not yours. If you don’t like hearing opposing views, don’t broadcast your lack of experience in public forums.
You need to remember that it is better to remain silent and be thought a fool, then to OPEN YOU BIG MOUTH AND REMOVE ALL DOUBT! SONNY BOY! I’LL PUT MY 9400 COMMENTS AND 25,846 UP VOTES ON PUBLIC FORUMS AGAINST YOURS ANY TIME, MR. KNOW IT ALL! https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/725e815fb47390fed49dad6af4526ea1f1f8833b7183369d0716352cd1029577.jpg
First off, I won’t go anywhere. Second, I am a know it all compared to you. Anyone with tactical knowledge or experience can tell you don’t know what you’re talking about and I do.
YOU ARE SO FULL OF YOURSELF, AND SO FOS! I WILL WASTE NO MORE TIME ON YOU MR. TACTICAL EXPERT! https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/82bff7607118381c2954bda3bec8cb19d5295b62764e1f424e98c40457832fc3.jpg
You don’t have any tactical knowledge. You can’t display even one simple piece of knowledge that says you do. You are a poser and you are just mad because I proved it.
It is knuckleheads like you, who without any idea of what my tactical situation is, who sit there and pontificate about all you knowledge, when you know squat about it, that is dangerous! You proved nothing, except how full of yourself and your so called superior tactical knowledge, that you think everyone should cower at you feet! PPPPPPP-OFF! https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/acf3474b98578cfb75c3ad4c8769e4621a5d18ff15da70cc724018f640213416.jpg
But he sounds really loud, in the bathroom.
What I am full of is the desire to help people from being lead astray by bad advice.
SO WHAT ARE YOU, MR. TACTICAL GENIUS? DO YOU HOLD MANDATORY CLASSES TO CITIZENS SIO THEY CAN EXERCISE THEIR CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHT BECAUSE YOU ARE A RETIRE LEO., SUCKING UP SOME GOVERNMENT SLOP? LIKE MOST EX COPS, YOU LOVE TO CASH IN ON YOUR SOOOO CALLLLED EXPERIENCE! YOU MUST BE A BREAST SUCKING DEMOCRAP!!!!!https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/6f414e6fec1ba6e13dc8f38f2262fa9d3b817195a0129c1cd017b5942890a23a.jpg
Hahahaha! Ten year military combat vet who can tell I’m talking to a poser. I didn’t pat myself on the back. I explained that I have a lot of experience to share and that you should seek out real instruction. You are such a sweetie pie.
Yeah! You and John Kerry! It is easy to tout all your experience on line, with no body to check it. I have plenty of Military and Police experience, (21 years) but I don’t go around bragging about it, or trying to brow beat people into believing that I am the only one who is right! I just told people what I choose to do, they can take it or leave it, but you just can’t take the fact that I will not cow tow to your “SUPERIOR SO CALLED KNOWLEDGE!”” Now if you had said: “WELL FOLKS, THAT IS NOT WHAT I WOULD RECOMMEND, I WOULD HAVE SAID: “TO EACH HIS OWN!” BUT FOR YOU TO JUMP IN MY FACE AND TELL ME THAT I AM WRONG IN HOW I CHOOSE TO DEFEND MY HOME JUST SHOWS HOW ARROGANT YOU ARE!”” HOW DARE YOU? And just FYI, there would be more danger from a kitchen knife, then there would be from a sudden intruder finding one of my weapons BEFORE I GET TO ONE OF MINE! https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/08106d0c61797953b1689d7df96cf9c33946184175e8167b191db47acc1fb3b0.jpg BTW, YOU SHOULD LOOK UP WORDS BEFORE YOU USE THEM, BECAUSE YOU, BY USING “UNWISE” CALLED ME A FOOL! (foolish) so you started this p–ing contest, without any knowledge of my particular situation! https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/6c19b868f81220813904115d50e72a6680655ce4424d27e0fbc41f169f168948.jpg
Stolen Valor. You are a fraud. No military experience and no police experience. Stolen Valor!!!!
https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/0e24088d02ad728751f7a76fe48b98ebb213a0a9ea26adc0a2fd7757dd55b974.png Gee! You are really reaching! Stolen valor? You are such a pusillanimous scum bag! My serial number goes back to when they started with a “D” before they went to the SS#! Boy! And your pitiful sticks and stones won’t break my bones! You are proving more and more that you are just a: “LEGEND IN YOUR OWN MIND!” what is next? Threats? “HONEY BOO BOO?”
If your service number started with a D, that means you would have been Navy between 1969 and 1971. Next you are going to claim you were a SEAL. But not if your SN had a D in front of it.
So you floated around some water, didn’t use a weapon and probably never went to Vietnam.
But I don’t actually beleive you served. Not with your hysterics.
I really do not care what you believe! You ran out of logic, so now your make stuff up! But you actually got something right! I enlisted Dec. 28th 1969….company 5007 Great lakes, Illinois. I fired expert on the M-1 Garand, the .45 pistol and the M-1 carbine. (among others) And yes, I was smart enough not to be a ground pounding grunt and get my butt shot at all the time, but we pulled their butts out of the fire a FEW TIMES! Do you know what an RC-135 is? Do you know what a P-3 Orion is? Do you know what a LO_FAR_GRAM IS? Do you know what “RADUGA” means in Russian? I would tell you more, but then I would have to……well, you get it! The ships or guys served on included the Pueblo, the Belmont and the liberty……..thankfully, they decommissioned them all! CTR6….Sonny! https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/83f3b86a3c5f8d624fe331f5723454f927b386872c19cfc60e8aacecd8bcc1fa.jpg
So you are smarter than all the “ground pounding grunts”.
So whatever you think of me is one thing but to insult the 50k+ “ground pounding grunts” speaks volumes of your character. I’ve never met a Service member who talks like that. So again, I maintain that you are lying about your service.
I guess you failed to notice the 4 Marines in the first row who with 4 man teams dropped in to places we were not supposed to BE OR go! HEY FOOL! i WENT WHERE THEY SENT ME……AND SO DID YOU, MORON
GIVE IT UP BOY!~
You are a liar. You didn’t go anywhere. I volunteered after 9/11. I went exactly where I asked to go. You wouldn’t know that mindset. Having your respect is meaningless to me. But as you consider yourself ‘smarter’ than the Marines and Soldiers who asked to be the war fighters, you issue a huge disrespect to our fallen. That’s why I say you never served. You speak in a way that would dishonor the combat veterans of “your” era. I bet you wonder around wearing little Vietnam ribbons and ask for Veteran discounts at Applebee’s too. Too bad you couldn’t tell them about how much smarter you were than the guys who went into real combat.
You spend each rebuttal in all caps or name calling. You can’t contain your emotions on this. It’s says a lot about your intelligence as well.
Stolen Valor.
I’m guessing that if you had any military service at all, you washed out. And washing out of the Navy is like being declined a COSTCO Card.
FYI, I worked security at the WTC, Boy while you were still wet behind the ears!
I am really amazed how obsessed you are! You realize you have been having your temper tantrum for “”FOUR DAYS NOW?”” You did not even take Sunday off!
I think you https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/4487ab0f29680989ab15dbcf0d638a2ff449ee5791962e9ee7cf4c09961029a8.jpg need to get a life boy!
More lies more lies. You might have worked the cock at WTC but that’s it.
Yawn! ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ!
Actually he did Loss Prevention at Walmart, so be careful or he will figure out a way to increase his Font Size.
TL:DR. But I don’t believe your military claims. You never served and I don’t believe you have ever been affiliated with law enforcement. Nope!
And you are not an emotional time bomb, not even close to being one of those ranting weirdos with a lot of guns and rage.
I invite you to read up on what is known as the three ego states as they refer to gun safety.
I invite you to mind your own dam business. I determine what the rules of gun safety in my house….NOT YOU, OR THE GOVERNMENT! AND YOU CAN STUFF YOUR EGO STATES! FOR YOU TO CONTINUE THIS COMBATIVE YAMMERING FOR AS LONG AS YOU HAVE TO MANY WOULD SHOW JUST WHO HAS THE BIG “””EGO””” PROBLEM! https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/65b44c03ca8d1ef78934009935feaaabe4ff8a578f31582d7598e44d50366889.jpg
Hahahaha you are precious. https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/b692695b72206b774d3b539e441e89603432e4d715a5bda5add4d1f11f355513.jpg
The ego states are discussed in arms training so I guess this says how much you have .
OH REALLY! MUST HAVE MISSED THAT IN NAM! https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/0e24088d02ad728751f7a76fe48b98ebb213a0a9ea26adc0a2fd7757dd55b974.png
I don’t mean to change the subject but, no one has mentioned how a gun fits the owner. I’m no expert but to me if you can’t shoot it accurately it doesn’t matter what calaber or how many rounds it carries.
You better shut up or he’s likely to demonstrate why he’s got no friends, living ones anyway.
Wow, that must be a world record. (by the way, your CAPS lock is stuck)
Most criminals that break into a home while ppl are there …already have a weapon.
Diane, we can’t question him! He is the “EXPERT!” HE KNOWS YOUR HOUSE BETTER THAN YOU DO!
Unless of course, they are there to steal yours.
Sometime the weapon is an axe, knife, or bat… but like John Wayne I think Texas & Colorado have it right by saying you can defend your castle. I’d rather die saving my family than see them killed or worse.
You assume that they are not armed when they enter your home.. A STUPID ASSUMPTION!!!
This seems true, unless you are into furniture with hidden cavities, or keeping a 22 in the veggie drawer of the fridge. If are going to stash weapons you must imagine all possibilities. I chuckle that i have a classic gun in my top desk drawer that is a inoperable replica, and several fantasy swords (not sharpened) hung on walls. Don’t hide it where a thief will look for valuables, even if it’s your only gun. I grew up near Chicago (oh, CHICAGO’S A GUN FREE ZONE so it’s Sooooo safe?) right, and when you’re in a building and you see a fist hole in the drywall, don’t dismiss it! It may be a quick stash to the gun that will end you.
@ Clayton, if you can act serious enough, tough enough,brave enough and it does not hurt to even act a little crazy( like you do not care one way or the other does not hurt sometimes) you would be surprised just how many times that you may be able to bluff your way out of things with an empty gun . That is something that only you yourself can decide, if you ARE or if you are NOT brave enough to pull it off at the time it happens, also I am not advising you on what to do or not to do only you can decide that, if and when it ever happens. But you always have a 50/ 50 chance of it working and under certain circumstance when push comes to shove, what do you really have to lose, especially if you know ( one of those certain circumstances) 100% for sure that they are either going to shoot you or kill you and as a last resort would not agree that you owe to your self or your family to at lease try ? Worked for me once.
The best weapon in a home defense situation is: “any weapon you can lay your hands on that will neutralize the invader!”
I don’t care if it is a .22 short or a bloody cricket bat! I will admit that the sound of racking a 12 gauge pump does have a demoralizing effect on most people! https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/05eb79cf6323e72707250ecf6660f8fb9f505622c4384f0592ed301859b3e848.jpg
I have E D Carried for over 40 years. My gun of choice was and is a custom Colt 1911 and I mean Custom. I have two daughters, taught them about guns very young. No problems, accidents, bragging, flashing nothing like that. They are well grown, have their own families, are avid gun enthusiasts and sports women who are carrying on the family legacy as well as EDC Baby Glocks in .40.
That last pic was not as labeled. That was a USP Compact, without a suppressor or even a threaded barrel. Besides the error, i agree with the comments about the USP. My first weapon purchase was a retired USP in 40 from Ohio Ord at the NRA Convention in StL a few years ago. It is a fantastic gun and remains at my bedside. I added a Hogue grip sleeve and that really helps settle the gun in my large hands. I also added a green lazer and light combo, and had it modified to implement a safety, since i was keeping it in my house near ammo. I also have a Ruger SR9C. It isnt ass fun to shoot, but it is more acccurate. The HK tends to drift left as the barrel heats up
I’d feel a whole lot “safer” if 7-out-of-10 people in the U.S. who “could legally conceal carry” actually did conceal carry. Fewer than 1-in-10 Americans age 21 & over in good health, with no misdemeanor DV or felony convictions actually conceal carry despite the fact that they are allowed to (in most U.S. jurisdictions). That means that armed criminals who wantonly ignore our nation’s gun laws essentially have “free reign” to wreak havoc unchecked in many parts of our country.
.22 WMR is a heck of an underrated round that I use on our farm a lot. It lays open varmints in a way that no .22 LR does. I don’t know much about Kel-Tec reliability, but I’d take 30 rounds of .22 Magnum up against most humans not wearing armor. Some really hot rounds are available with 2000+ fps velocity and good bullets.
Since just about everyone in this discussion is scared to death of being murdered in their own home, may I suggest they contact a good realtor and look for a safer place to live?
must be a broker
Glock 17 L is the best!
I love the fact that kept reminding readers that this short list isn’t saying these guns are for everyone, but rather that “if you are like this, think of a gun like this” I’d even recommend shooting a friends gun at the range to see if you can handle it correctly. He covered everything from Desert Eagle to a 30 round 22 because we are not all the same. As I learned in Boy Scout camp, there is no “best” gun that fits everyone, it’s whatever you get comfortable with and PRACTICE.
Nice brief article…. but, it all goes back to the old adage, ‘any one that you are comfortable, accurate and confident with’ is the best for you. The idea that there is one out there that is ‘the best’ is still simply as much a pipe dream today as it has been in the past.
S&W Governor vs Taurus Judge. Thought that both could handle 45 ACP with moon clips? I like standard 6 round instead of Taurus standard 5 round. However, don’t forget the Taurus RAGING JUDGE M513 REVOLVER .454 CASULL, .45 COLT, .410 GA – 6 SHOTS. Note that the Judge Magnum will handle 3″ 410 shells.
I have the conceal carry version with the Glock 26
I must say the desert eagle doesn’t seem like a great choice. The glock seems like a much better option.
My choice for home security is a 357 Smith & Wesson revolver with a 6-inch barrel . The first two shells are bird shot loads I figure that if someone makes it to the bedroom it’s going to be late at night while we are asleep and waking up from a dead sleep you are going to be halfway disoriented so all I have to do is point at the door the bird shot loads will fill the entire door. Those are followed up with four wadcutters.
All the bickering doesn’t improve anyone’s choice of what to use for home defense, or the strategy they use. As several commented “It comes down to what you are most comfortable with.” One of my relatives preferred a 38 revolver, within easy reach, and he practiced at the range at least twice a month. He also taught his wife and daughters what to do if anyone broke into their home, day or night. Fortunately, they never had that happen where they lived; but, they were prepared. So, IMO, it boils down to be prepared, and select the weapon that fits you best.
After reading an argument that could be turned into a mini-series. I’m happy to read a sensible post. The weapon for home defense is a weapon that you are familiar with, reasonably proficient with and accessible. It helps to have the correct mindset and a plan. Years ago my wife wanted me to get her gun for when she was home alone. I asked her if she was at the top of the stairs and an intruder was coming towards her what she would do. She replied she’d shoot him the leg, I told her there should only be one story in a situation like that and she obviously had the wrong mindset and no plan. In conclusion, carry what you are comfortable and proficient with, but just as important understand what you are capable of. If you hesitate you usually lose.
One i need it
It doesn’t have enough stopping power.
I’m a beginner looking for some expert advice and the one I’m taking is the the one where you smart ones say find what you’re comfortable with to handle and know it inside out.
Looks like I’m going to be trying out slot of weapons to find my comfort one . I thank you all for your knowledge and experiences.
I use a 357 Magnum revolver with bird shot and hollow points
Since firing a gun is a physical activity, it makes sense that shooting range therapy would help improve your physical fitness and ability. Shooting a gun requires a lot of physical coordination and strength.
Amazing the amount of nasty comments by people who probably have ZERO experience in writing articles BASED on their writing capabilities!! No to mention the name calling which is totally childish and just invalidates anything you do say. If you can’t critically and constructively comment without name calling then you have just proved your just another waste of human effort on behalf of your parents. If anyone of you so-called know-it-all’s know better than the author then by all means POST AN ARTICLE!! Otherwise read, comment in an educated manner, and move on. If you can’t do that keep your comments to yourselves!! No one needs to know what a true hillbilly or trailer park trash you really are by your ignorant comments. Like the Chinese say: “Best to be thought a fool than to open one’s mouth and remove all doubt!!”
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