What shotgun works best for home defense?

[Alan]

I've been considering a shotgun for home defense and could use some insights from those who've been there. I'm debating between a 12-gauge and 20-gauge. The 12-gauge has that serious stopping power, but I hear the 20-gauge has less recoil, which might be better for in the house. What do you think?

When it comes to barrel length and stock setup, what's the best way to go? I'm looking for something that's straightforward and dependable — any specific models or brands you'd recommend?

On another note, how crucial is training? I've shot shotguns casually, but I want to feel ready if the time comes. What kind of practice would you suggest?

 

[Beachblues]

I've been considering a shotgun for home defense and could use some insights from those who've been there. I'm debating between a 12-gauge and 20-gauge. The 12-gauge has that serious stopping power, but I hear the 20-gauge has less recoil, which might be better for in the house. What do you think?

When it comes to barrel length and stock setup, what's the best way to go? I'm looking for something that's straightforward and dependable — any specific models or brands you'd recommend?

On another note, how crucial is training? I've shot shotguns casually, but I want to feel ready if the time comes. What kind of practice would you suggest?

20 guage is plenty of firepower but barrel length and choke definitely come into play. A long barrel is tough going around corners and you are not going to get a whole lot of shot pattern spread at close indoor distances. That is why most "defensive shotguns" have 18 to 20 inch improved cylinder barrels with higher capacity magazines. Range time at close distances is recommended.

 

[Alan]

How close is close distances? as I have found too many shotgun targets that just don't get destroyed when using them.

 

[Marturo A. (Marturo)]

I'll take an Ithaca 12ga with #4 buck for serious social intercourse.
https://truegunvalue.com/shotgun/ithaca-gun-company/37-ds-police-special/price-historical-value-1227

 

[Beachblues]

What is the longest and shortest shot you would need to shoot to defend your family inside your home? That would be some distances to practice from.

 

[Alan]

Welp, I think a pistol grip mossberg would help reduce the size of the shotgun, but hole smokes your wrist is going to be sore if not held correctly. Just went to buddys home range, that we only shoot small stuff....ouchie!

 

[Marturo A. (Marturo)]

I think a pistol grip mossberg would help reduce the size of the shotgun,

Nope nope nope, pistol gripped Shoties SUCK!
I was at an IPSIC Comp and one phase was Shotgun against Iron men that were life sized.
Beat the Benelli with my slam fire Ithaca, then another Ithaca. He had Bibs & a straw hat
his manor was slow & way too calm.

His Ithaca had a 28" bbl mine had an 18" bbl. I found out it was his only shotgun & he knew how to use it.
Sucker beat me. Oh well live & learn.

There was a guy who ran the course with a Pistol gripped Shotgun, it was not pretty.
Later I heard he took the pistol grip off & tossed it in the pond.

With an 18" bbl & full stock, you shoulder your weapon focus on the front bead & fire.
You can practice more, get your shoulder used to recoil & build muscle memory.
If the places you hunt are too tight, then get a Colt 1911, only Pistols are no good after Dark.

 

[URIT]

What is your home defense plan?

How quickly do you need to gain access to your shotgun? Do you have alternatives to the shotgun if time doesn't permit? Do you have a way to secure the shotgun?

Do you plan to do a home search or wait in a safe place for the police to arrive and let the pros conduct the search?

Do your live with others? Do you have kids in the house, and how do they figure in your home defense plan?