Home Defence Shotgun

[Colt 45]

This is for the people who use a shotgun for home defense, or anyone else who would like to respond of course:

I have never bought shotgun shells. The ones I have were given to me over the years, and the "newest" ones I have are at least 30 years old. So, I've decided to buy a new box for home defense. My question is, what do you recommend (12 gauge)?

Max

[Jizzle]

get a butt sleeve and put 3 OO and 3 slugs in it just in case you need to take it outside.

put #7 in your gun. Many believe this to be the best set up for home defense. 7 won't over penetrate walls and spreads much quicker to get a good pattern at shorter ranges while still being large enough to cut your assailant in half.

[Colt 45]

Thanks Jizzle!

Max

[AGust82]

Over penetration is definately a dangerous issue when using a shotgun in the house. If you have kids or other family in the house I would agree with Jizzle on the #7 shot. If you are like me and the only other person in your house will be behind you with her own gun, use slugs or 00 or even 000 buckshot. Shoot the hiding bastards right through the wall.
Also, if you are going to commit this gun to home defense duty, get a short barrel. It'll be much easier to wield in hallways.

[Colt 45]

There are no children in my house but I do have a wife and a dog. They both sleep with me.

The shotgun that I have is a short, 12 gauge side-by-side like what was used on stagecoaches while riding "shotgun".

Max

[jlsalc]

I agree with Jizzle about the ammo and AGust82 about the barrel size. I do prefer a pump for with an extended tube, but the side by side will do the job. Just hope for one assailant. lol.. Have a safe weekend.

[Colt 45]

I'm hoping for no assailants at all, or at least not to have to use a defensive weapon. I suppose a pump shotgun would be better, but I figure that being that close in if I can't repel in 2 shotgun blasts (or less) my goose is pretty much cooked anyhow.

Max

I agree with Jizzle about the ammo and AGust82 about the barrel size. I do prefer a pump for with an extended tube, but the side by side will do the job. Just hope for one assailant. lol.. Have a safe weekend.

[Jizzle]

2 shots is more than enough. If you are able to shorten the barrel fine. if not fine.. the +7 will spread out decent in a short distance. The 00 buck or 0 buck won't, Not to mention, how do you know where they are behind the walls? remember one of the most important laws of shooting, identify your target and what's beyond it.

[Colt 45]

Jizzle, the barrel length on my shotgun is 20 inches. Do you think it should be shorter than that?

Max

[Jizzle]

As far as how much 2 inches makes in a spread pattern or #7 shot I have no idea. I wouldn't worry much about it though.

[blkdragon1212]

I know this thread is old, but I could not resist. I am one of those people who believe in a shotgun for home defense. My favorite is a double barrel with 20 inch tubes. Compact, easy to manuver. I like a 12GA., but a 20GA. will work just fine.

My favorite load is high base 7 1/2 shot. I like a double, side X side, being a bird hunter I can reload quick and in a hurry. Target areas, face, groin, and knees in that order.

This is my recommendation for people who live in homes in close proximity to the neighbors. I also suggest this type of firearm to anyone who lives in an apartment building. Thin sheet rock is all that keeps your neighbor out of your living space. Once they get outside, a place I see no immediate need to follow, I can go to my rifle or side arm. Just my two cents.....

[Bman505]

Good two cents!!