When it comes to protecting your home and loved ones, nothing brings peace of mind like being prepared. At Suburban Protector, we specialize in training responsible gun owners in Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, and the greater Palm Beach County area on safe and effective firearm use. One of the most common questions we get is:
“What’s the best gun for home defense?”
The answer? It depends — but let’s walk through the basics to help you make an informed decision that fits your unique needs, experience level, and living situation.
🔑 Key Considerations Before Choosing a Home Defense Gun
Before rushing out to buy a firearm, ask yourself these critical questions:
✅ Who will be using the firearm?
- Is it just for you, or will a spouse or other household members also need to operate it?
- Are they trained or willing to get trained?
✅ Where do you live?
- Do you live in a single-family home in suburban Boynton Beach or an apartment in Boca Raton?
- Wall penetration and neighbor safety are key concerns in tighter spaces.
✅ Do you have children in the home?
- If yes, safe storage is non-negotiable.
- Consider biometric safes or quick-access lockboxes.
✅ How comfortable are you with firearms?
- First-time gun owner? Choose simplicity and reliability.
- Experienced shooter? You might prefer more advanced platforms or accessories.
🔫 Top Home Defense Firearm Options
1. 12-Gauge Pump Shotgun
- Popular Models: Mossberg 500, Remington 870
- Pros:
- Devastating stopping power
- Intimidating sound of chambering a round
- Easy to operate under stress
- Cons:
- Heavy recoil
- Length may be difficult to maneuver indoors
- Overpenetration can still occur with certain shells
Pro Tip: Consider reduced recoil or low-penetration defense rounds like #4 buckshot.
2. Handguns (Pistols)
- Popular Models: Glock 19, Smith & Wesson M&P Shield, SIG Sauer P320
- Pros:
- Compact and easy to store in a bedside safe
- Easier to maneuver in tight hallways or rooms
- Allows for use of a flashlight and one-handed operation
- Cons:
- Requires solid grip and training to shoot accurately under pressure
- Less stopping power than a shotgun or rifle
We recommend a pistol with a mounted light for identifying threats in low light.
3. AR-15 Platform Rifle
- Popular Models: Smith & Wesson M&P15, Ruger AR-556
- Pros:
- Low recoil and high accuracy
- High capacity for multiple threats
- Great customization with lights, optics, and slings
- Cons:
- Potential for overpenetration depending on the ammunition
- Politically controversial and not ideal for every homeowner
Use home defense-specific rounds like frangible or soft-point ammo to reduce risk of overpenetration.
🧠 Training Trumps Gear
No matter what gun you choose, remember: the most important tool in home defense is your training. At Suburban Protector, we offer:
- Beginner firearm training in Boynton Beach
- Tactical pistol and rifle classes
- Home defense planning consultations
- EmpowHER™ firearm training for women
- Church and family safety workshops
We help South Florida residents become confident, capable, and responsible defenders of their homes.
✅ Final Tips on Home Defense Firearms
- Practice regularly at the range
- Use a safe or quick-access storage system
- Get familiar with the legal use of force in Florida
- Create a home defense plan and rehearse it with your family
🔒 Ready to Get Trained?
If you’re in Boynton Beach, Delray, West Palm Beach, or anywhere in Palm Beach County, we invite you to train with us at Suburban Protector. Our instructors are NRA-certified, USCCA-aligned, and focus on civilian-friendly, real-world defense tactics.
🛡️ Book your first class or sign up for a free home defense consultation today.
📍 Serving South Florida since 2020.