What guns would be ideal for self defense?

If one was searching for a gun only to be used in case it is needed in self-defense, which guns would be good choices?

Hey Kevin,

Owning a gun for self defense is not for everyone. You must first make the decision on whether or not you will use it if necessary. You will NOT use it to try to maim or injure someone. That is for the movies only. If you cannot use it to kill a person who intends to potentially kill you, then you will need some other form of defense. You will NOT shoot below the waist, or in the leg, or in the hand to stop the threat. It sounds nice, but it is not realistic.

There are many choices out there for good guns for self defense. You did not say if this would be used in your home or some other situation. For home use, a shotgun makes a great choice, but many people are adverse to keeping a loaded shotgun next to their bed. In that case, a handgun is the next best choice.
There are many caliber options available. Since you don’t sound like you have much shooting experience, I would tend to recommend something like a 9mm or a .38special for starters. (Ignore the ignorant person that said that a 9mm is not lethal). To be honest, ANY current handgun caliber is LETHAL....but the problem is that you need something powerful enough to stop the threat. A bee sting can be lethal too, although it might take a week or two before it kills. The 9mm and the .38Special are calibers that are light enough to be handled by most people, yet powerful enough to have what we refer to as “Stopping Power”.

The next thing will be to try to determine what type of gun you prefer. The revolvers are very reliable, but many people favor the higher capacity (and more modern appeal) of the semi auto. There are many, many choices even after we have tried to narrow this down like we have. What I would tell you is this: If for home protection (in other words, you have no intention of getting a permit to carry it around with you), I would buy the largest, heaviest handgun that you are comfortable with in one of those calibers. A small gun will be more difficult to shoot, and a light gun will be more difficult to shoot. Look at both revolvers and semi autos and try to decide between one or the other of the two, then look at some different guns. What you are going to have to do is to go to a gun store, and ask to hold a few to see what they feel like to you. One of the important things is whether the gun fits your hand, and if you have access to the trigger, safety, etc.

Here is a short list of a few guns to consider. This is not comprehensive, and if you stay with a good brand other than what I have listed you will still probably be fine. It is important that you find something that you will not be reluctant to shoot for training. If you buy the biggest, baddest handgun out there, and will not shoot it because you don’t like the recoil, you will have a difficult time using it when you need it (which fortunately will probably never occur).

Revolvers:

Smith & Wesson model 60 or model 686. Ruger model SP101 or model GP100 (all four of these are chambered in 357Magnum, but will also shoot the .38Special Cartridge).

Semi Autos: Springfield XD series, Smith & Wesson M&P series, Glock 17 or 19, Ruger SR9, Beretta M9 or 92FS.

If you decide on a shotgun, the best bet is a short barreled 12 ga or 20 ga. Remington 870 or Mossberg 500 or 590 make great choices. (Note, when I say short barreled, I mean 18 to 20 inch. The longer barreled guns work fine, but are intended for other things and may be difficult to maneuver inside a home).

Good luck!! Remember to take some training with any gun that you purchase. The training will go a log ways toward setting you off on the right foot to get started.

Guns For Self Defense

Guns For Self Defense

Have you ever had to use your gun for self defense?

I have a revolver which holds 7 rounds. Should I purchase a semi-automatic that holds more rounds to be safer?

If you don't think 7 rounds is enough, you need to practice more.

Guns For Self Defense
Self Defense Pistol System

Guns For Self Defense

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