Top Handguns for Home Protection: Defend Your Domain

Since the dawn of firearm use, guns have been used to protect the homes of those who could afford them.

As far back as the 14th Century, heavy iron-forged handgonnes were common in medieval castles, an ideal point defense weapon in the stone and masonry passages and myriad entry points, or in firing from a terrace above.

Fast forward to the Colonial era, by which time handguns were much more obtainable, such firearms were still a ready staple for those interested in protecting family members.

Founding Fathers such as George Washington and Thomas Jefferson both left numerous pistols in their estates, which they both habitually carried while traveling and kept ready in their bed chambers and studies while at home. As time went on, the trend continued.

Using surveys from gun retailers and data from federal regulators, the National Shooting Sports Foundation found that the main reason cited by new gun owners taking the plunge in recent years was concerns for personal protection and that handguns were the primary choice for home defense, outpacing the second-most bought firearm, pump-action shotguns, by a 2-to-1 margin when it comes to keeping guns for home protection.

It seems that protecting the modern home from threat is still a job most commonly filled by handguns.

What? No shotguns?

While scatterguns can be a solid home defense option, and there’s no doubt they deliver the most devastating amount of power per round, they’re tough to navigate in tight quarters, have limited capacity, and are slow to fire, especially in the case of pump-action shotguns.

Shotguns also require two hands to operate, meaning you are committed to the weapon.

Handguns are compact, easy to carry, and fire (even with one hand), and can be fired rapidly in the case of a moving target.

Handguns are also small enough to be stored basically anywhere, meaning you can distribute firearms throughout your home, decentralizing your arms.

If you’re committed to a shotgun for home defense check out our guide to tactical shotguns to level up your knowledge.

What should you look for in your future home defense gun? Here’s our basics.

1. Appropriate Caliber & Stopping Power

In serious modern ballistics testing developed since 1986, the FBI has set a standard for reliable self-protection that a handgun bullet must penetrate an average of 12-to-18 inches through ballistics gelatin and typical barriers offer effective stopping power.

Too shallow or too deep, and the bullet is less than acceptable.

On the commercial side of the ammo world, extensive third-party testing has shown high-performance loads in selected modern calibers ranging from .22WMR and .380ACP to 9mm Luger, .38 Special, .357 Magnum, .40 S&W, 10mm Auto and .45ACP to meet the FBI’s “sweet spot” when used in common handguns.

More dated “one-stop shot” data compiled from law enforcement use of force statistics shows that rounds beginning with .38 Special +P moving through .45ACP and into .44Mag as having good results in over 3/4 of cases.

But in general, we recommend a 9mm pistol for home defense. Why? The 9mm is:

1. Easy to find
2. Less expensive than other centerfire pistol calibers
3. Relatively small, which means higher mag capacities and lower recoil
4. Used by police forces across the globe, including the FBI

In addition, we recommend running hollow-point bullets for home defense. Full Metal Jacket rounds are great for practice and plinking, but since they don’t expand can over-penetrate a target — possibly passing through a target without impacting a vital organ and stopping an assailant. Hollow points, on the other hand, expand to create a larger wound channel, which increases the likelihood of contacting vital organs, which means stopping a threat in fewer rounds while avoiding overpenetration.

2. Practicality

With handguns, there are literally hundreds of models in production by dozens of manufacturers. Many of these, however, are impractical for home defense.

Avoid Rimfires

The “no” list includes rimfires, which can be very ammo-sensitive and prone to malfunctions, as well as the other side of the spectrum, oversized large-caliber hunting models, which are generally overkill.

No Pocket Pistols

Likewise, very small “pocket” style guns such as snub-nosed revolvers and pistols engineered for discreet concealed carry are less than ideal home defense guns as they tend to suffer from muzzle flip and produce a sometimes significant muzzle blast– a big detractor in a dark hallway– due to the nature of their shot barrels.

While easy to conceal, they typically have a low magazine capacity and lack the ability to mount accessories. Their small grips also make it difficult to get a proper two handed grip, making user errors — like inadvertently tapping the mag release — much more common.

Sure, you *could* use a pocket pistol for home defense, but that usually works against the gun’s intended purpose and engineered traits, putting the user at a disadvantage right from the start.

3. Go for a Mid or Full-Sized Frame

Along with 9mm, we recommend a mid- or full-sized handgun. These are less recoil-sensitive, generally offer a larger magazine capacity than a similar compact pistol, and typically provide room for accessories such as weapon-mounted lights.

Most full- or mid-sized pistols have a sight radius of 5 to 6 inches or longer, lending to decent accuracy and a better ability to gain a fast sight picture.

For those who elect to use a suppressor– which has tactical advantages going past sound moderation — autoloaders are the only way to go.

Most home defense handguns today come with accessory rails, making them ready to use with weapon-mounted lights or lasers right out of the box.

4. Modern Design

While many legacy models on the second-hand market will (sort of) fit this bill, for instance, your grandpa’s 80-year-old custom Colt Police Positive, a better choice is to run a modern firearm from a reputable manufacturer in good repair and with few modifications made to it.

Beyond reliability, modern handguns will offer modern features like swappable palm swells, adjustable trigger pull, or integrated safties that’ll help you dial in the fit and allow for more accurate shooting and safer use.

5. Preferably Semi-Auto

When it comes to a home defense handgun, semi-auto pistols are ideal. They bring a decent magazine capacity, with standard models offering 17 or more rounds at the ready, a factor that can prove decisive in the event of a home invasion by multiple subjects.

Likewise, they offer a much faster reload than a revolver, which is beneficial in an extended engagement.

Going back to stopping power for a second, it’s clear that a single round of .44 Magnum ammunition packs more punch than a 9mm round. However, when you take the total number of rounds available, a semi-auto 9mm actually packs more net stopping power than a .44 Mag revolver.

While a 9mm round is not individually more powerful than a .44 Magnum, the higher capacity available with a 9mm pistol can easily surpass the power of a six-shot .44 Mag revolver.

As an example:

Sig Sauer V-Crown JHP 115-grain hollow point 9mm ammo reaches a muzzle velocity of 1,185 feet per second, resulting in approximately 359 ft.-lbs. of energy. On the other hand, Sig Sauer offers .44 Magnum rounds that deliver up to 966 ft.-lbs. of energy.

However, a .44 Magnum revolver can only fire a maximum of six shots, totalling about 5796ft.-lbs of energy. In contrast, a typical full-sized 9mm pistol can hold sixteen or more rounds, enabling it to deliver just over 6000ft. lbs. of energy.

Moreover, the high-capacity 9mm pistol provides better potential for engaging multiple targets or dealing with multiple attackers, and the 9mm is much more controllable shot to shot.

6. Reasonably Priced

Remember that guns used in self-defense shootings can disappear into police evidence rooms for months, possibly even years, afterward and may never re-emerge.

With that being said, leave the heirlooms and $5K race guns in the gun safe in favor of a dedicated, affordable home protection platform.

1. Most Classic: Beretta 92X

The granddaddy of double-stack/double-action 9mm combat handgun, the Beretta Model 92 has been around since 1975 in one form or another and was the standard sidearm of the U.S. military for 35 years across “Two Gulf Wars.”

Today, the 92X models are at least the third or fourth generation of these guns and have kept ahead of the curve. This proven design, with a standard 17+1 magazine capacity, is solid piece of mind.

Plus, the gun has kept up with the Joneses, so to speak, evolving from the original full-size design to now be offered in Centurion and Compact variants if you’re interested in taking a 92 along for your carry piece.

As we detailed in our piece on the history of Beretta 9mm pistols, the 92 really changed the game for both Beretta and the handgun market, so if you want a 9mm that has both proven performance and historical relevance, the 92 is a modern classic not to be overlooked. Beretta also recently rolled out a new Performance Carry option if you’re in the market for a 92 but really want optics support in a more compact package.

For more details check out our deep dive into the Model  92.

2. Glock Alternative Pick: CZ P10 F

When this Czech Republic-based firearm maker evolved from their flagship CZ 75 into the realm of polymer-framed pistols, the P10 series surfaced and was quickly able to give Glock some heartburn.

While the P10 C is a close competitor to the Glock 19, the 19+1 shot P10 F, a full-sized model, runs a great race against the Glock 17 and does it with a slightly greater mag capacity, if that’s the criteria that matters most to you. Plus, the CZ line has one of the best feeling triggers on the striker-fired pistol market today, so you can avoid thinking about things like aftermarket triggers with the CZ..

The CZ P-10 F was another pistol that genuinely surprised me once I could get my hands on one and test-fired it. The grip’s texture was odd at first because it differs from most polymer-framed guns, but the more I shot it, the more I liked it. It has sort of a raised dot pattern that gives it its semi-aggressive texture. The P-10 F is chambered in 9mm and has a 19+1 capacity (21+1 with extended bases).

The gun is outfitted with steel suppressor height sights, and is tactically designed for one-handed manipulation of the slide on a belt or shoe (just make sure you train accordingly). The barrel is threaded, and with a suppressor on the end of this gun, there is little to no felt recoil, making the CZ a great option if you want to run a can and subs in your home defence setup.

Depending on the suppressor, if it adds too much weight to the end of the gun, you might see your front sight dip in recoil as the slide moves forward to chamber the next round. Again, training will help you maintain the best performance with your piece — suppressor or no.

The stock trigger is set at a 4.5 lb pull and is one of the best factory triggers I’ve felt. The reset is crisp, and the trigger feels like the perfect mix of flat and curved. For the price and value, this gun is one I enjoy plinking with on the range, but it would also be right at home in a bedside safe.

3. Also Great: FN 509

The 17+1 shot 9mm FN 509 was developed to compete for military pistol contracts and, while a younger design than some of its competitors, don’t let that faze you as this gun is fully evolved, building on the lessons learned from the company’s previous FNS series, which in itself was well-liked.

For those into compensating, the new 509 CC (Compensated Carry) will give you even more control on offer, but one of our favorite variants on the 509 platform is the 53 LS Edge, which we dove deep into with our hands-on review.

The FN 509 LS Edge is an evolution of the original FN 509 series, but it stands out with its superior ergonomics, enhanced accuracy, and excellent accessory support. Using the same striker-fired, 9mm semi-automatic platform as other 509 variants, the LS Edge features a 5-inch hammer-forged barrel, which opens up exceptional accuracy.

Beyond the longer barrel, the FN 509 LS Edge includes an optics-ready slide that uses a plate system, allowing for easy installation of various red dot sights without the need for additional milling or custom work. Additionally, the slide has front and rear serrations for improved handling and manipulation, and really lightens the slide, reducing the slide mass and softening recoil, making the big pistol surprisingly approachable.

The pistol also includes a flat-faced trigger that minimizes overtravel, feels great at the range, and provides a crisp, clean break. I love the consistent, smooth trigger pull, which helps further enhance accuracy and reduces reach to the trigger itself, so your friends with smaller hands will find the LS Edge fits well despite its larger footprint. Plus, the frame is equipped with interchangeable backstraps, enabling users to customize the grip according to their preferences.

4. Best Glock: Glock 19X

The international heavyweight champion when it comes to polymer-framed striker fired pistols– which describes the company’s entire catalog– Glock delivered their G19X pistol to market in 2018,  promising a “do all” handgun, blending a full-sized G17 frame with a mid-sized G19s slide and the company’s Generation 5 features.

Shipping with both 17-round flush and 19-round extended mags, it also accepts the company’s affordable and reliable 33-round stick mag.

Coupled with a WML and night sights, it would be hard to find a more well rounded example of a home defense handgun.

For those on the fence between a G19 and the larger G17, we broke down he differences in our comparison of the two.

If you want more on the G19x we have a hands-on review that goes deep on the hybrid masterpiece.

5. Premium Option: HK VP9

While Heckler & Koch catered to the caviar and 20-year old single-malt market with their P7 series handguns for a generation, which were uber reliable but also uber expensive, the German gun maker hit it out of the park with the much more affordable and recently introduced VP9 pistols.

These polymer-framed 17+1 shot full-sized pistols have only been on the market for a couple years but have already bagged large international military and police contracts against stiff competition.

One reason many love the VP9? It’s reliability. The gun eats anything you put through it, with our test VP9 having performed year after year in competition shooting.

The VP9 is also incredibly customizable, with multiple backstraps and grip panels helping new shooters really get the grip right for their hands.

We showcased the VP9’s durability after 6,000 rounds in our hands-on review.

6. Budget Semi Auto: Ruger Security 9

Ruger’s P80/90 series guns from the VHS-era were popular mid-shelf handguns that basically can’t be killed. Going with a polymer frame and replacing the SR9 line that came after, today’s Ruger Security 9 is as no-frills as it gets for a decent home defense handgun.

The 15+1 9mm ammo capacity is lots of pow for the price – and the pistols are available in a vanilla adjustable sight model for about $350 while one with steel tritium sights only run about $500. Tough to find better in this price range.

7. Most Variety: S&W M&P M2.0

Smith & Wesson’s M&P line of polymer-framed striker-fired pistols, now in its second generation, are every bit as reliable and, in some circles even more popular than, Glocks, especially with their low bore axis and 18-degree grip angle which translates to a more natural point of aim.

The full-sized M&P M2.0, particularly in the Spec series, runs a 5-inch barrel, 3-dot Tritium night sights, and 17-shot flush-fit magazines. For those wanting optics, there are models for those as well.

S&W has also done a great job of building on the Shield’s popularity with new kits and a 10mm varient, so the Shield line has a little on offer for everyone.

The Shield has received a fair amount of criticism for its hinged trigger safety, and while my fingers are round enough to activiate the safety without incident, some people prefer the Glock’s blade to the Shield’s feel, but if you want a deep dive into the Shield take a look at our M&P 2.0 review.

8. Most Modular: Sig P320 XFull

The literal staple for a modular combat handgun– just ask the Army– Sig Sauer’s P320 series pistols use a serialized fire control unit that can be swapped around different grip modules in minutes by the end-user.

The entry-level P320 XFull comes standard with XRay3 day/night sights and a rear sight plate for red dot optics. Coupled with a 17-round magazine capacity and 21-round extendos readily available, the 320 is ready to go.

9.1911 Option: SA 1911 Operator Series

To replace their WWII-era .45ACP Government Issues in the late 1980s, the Marine Corps contracted with Springfield Armory for a series of upgraded M1911s. Likewise, for generations, police tactical teams to include the FBI HRT unit, also went with modded Springers for their entry guns.

Using lessons learned from both of these lines, Springfield today sells their 1911 Loaded and TRP Operator pistols, which include accessory rails, stainless steel match-grade barrels and low-profile combat 3-dot Tritium night sights. Make no mistake, this is not the “Two World Wars” .45.

10. Best Trigger: Walther PDP

When it comes to reliable pistol makers, Walther should be on your list. Their Performance Duty Pistol (PDP) gives you a flexible platform that is steeped in their experience creating dependable firearms.

A home defense pistol is the one that, should a break in or home invasion come about, will be used in an incredibly stressful situation — which means you need maximum control. The PDP’s full-size grip gives you as much real estate as you could possibly want for a good grip, but their unique tetrahedron Performance Duty Texture really grabs ahold of your palms and helps ensure you can maintain control at all times.

It’s so abrasive it can make for an uncomfortable IWB carry, but that’s a non-issue of we’re keeping the converation focused on home defense.

The Walther is also remarkably reliable — I’d put the PDP up against a Glock in the dependability department any day of the week.

Take a look at our long-term PDP review. Thousands of rounds without a hiccup. Impressive stuff — and one to look at if the Glocks and Springfields of the world aren’t your cup if tea.

Seen by many gun owners today as a dated, almost quaint, throwback to yesteryear, akin to stagecoaches and telegraph machines, revolvers are nonetheless still viable for home defense.

To be clear, more pistols are produced on average than revolvers– in 2019, over 3 million semi-autos were cranked out by U.S. manufacturers compared to only about 580,000 wheel guns– but they are far from extinct.

They have a number of benefits in a home defense scenario to include a simple manual of arms with no slides, decockers, or manual safeties to manipulate.

This simplicity carries over to immediate action drills as, while revolvers can still malfunction, they are less likely to jam as they do not have to feed cartridges and extract spent shell casings as semi-autos do during the firing cycle.

In a close-quarter gunfight, which is very likely in home defense, hammer-fired revolvers are better able to deliver a contact-range shot, while semi-autos in the same scenario can be pushed out of battery and made unable to fire if pressed against a subject.

11. Revolver Pick: Colt King Cobra Revolver

After a two-decade hiatus, Colt reentered the revolver biz with their new .38SPL Cobra line in 2017 and last year stepped up their game with the .357 Magnum-capable King Cobra.

With a heavy-duty frame and 3-inch barrel, this mid-sized stainless-steel snake gun is perhaps more relevant than ever.

12. Best Double-Duty Revolver: Kimber K6S Revolver

While Kimber was best known for being a big wheel in the 1911 game, they turned heads a few years back with their slim-cylinder K6S 6-shot revolvers.

When it comes to a full-sized model for home defense, one of their lightweight DASA (double-action/single action) 4-inch Combat models in a quick-access lock box by the bed can guarantee a good night’s sleep.

13. Budget Revolver Pick: Ruger GP100 Revolver

Replacing their “Six” line of double-action revolvers in the 1980s, Ruger’s GP100 series guns are, with the possible exception of the S&W K-frame, the most common full-sized wheel guns in the country– and for good reason.

With a beefy one-piece frame built for steady use with Magnum rounds, Ruger makes something like 20 different models of this beloved revolver today, and thousands of gun owners nationwide rely on it for home defense every day.

14. Also Great: S&W K Frame

As basic a format of revolver as you can imagine, the standard K-framed Smith & Wesson six-shooter has been around in dozens of models and generations since the 1900s.

Today, when it comes to new-made versions in current production, the all-stainless Models 66 and 686 in 4-inch format, stoked with a half-dozen .357 Magnums, are ready for that literal bump in the night.

1. Grzegorz Żabiński et al, A late medieval or early modern light gun barrel, May 18, 2018
2. Mt. Vernon Collection, Flintlock Pistol
3. Montecello.org, Firearms
4. Montecello.org, Thomas Jefferson’s bed chamber where he displayed pistols
5. NSSF, Survey Reveals Broad Domestic Appeal for Firearm Purchases in 2020, July 21, 2020
6. The Best Self Defense Ammo – Ballistic Testing, April 25, 2019
7. Chuck Hawks, Handgun Cartridge Power Chart
8. Annual Firearms Manufacturing Report
9. Kevin Creighton, Home Defense: Pistols vs. Shotguns vs. Rifles, January 20, 2020