After all the recent shootings around the country, our customers have been asking, what firearms should I have in my home for self defense? I know this question has been answered several times by many experts. Well I don't claim to be an expert, but since this is my blog, I'll give readers my opinions. First of all, what ever weapon or weapons you currently have, practice and become proficient with these. This goes for every adult in your home that may have to use them to defend themselves. Our number 1 seller seems to be the handgun. We get several women in the shop looking for their first handgun. Most gravitate towards a semi auto and discover they can't comfortably operate the slide. I said MOST not ALL. Struggling to load a round into the chamber is nonsense. We ask them to look and hold a double action revolver. I know, fewer rounds and slower to reload, but, point, and pull the trigger. Again, practice and be proficient. The same applies to men. If you can't comfortably and efficiently operate a semi auto, why try and use one to protect yourself? Number 2 seller has to be a shotgun. What action? What Gauge? How long of a barrel? What size shot? I say try them all and see what fits. Hold it, load it, shoot it. How does it fit? Can you comfortably shoulder it? Can you load it? Can you work the action? Can you efficiently shoot and hit what you're aiming at? For me its an 8 shot semi auto 12 gauge with a 22" barrel with a combination of 00 buck and #4 shot. For Tina its an 8 shot 20 gauge semi auto with the same 22" barrel and shot. For others its what works for them. Number 3 seller is the rifle. Remember we're talking self defense in the home. Not my first choice for in the house, thin walls, family members, that sort of thing. But if TSHTF I would recommend something along the lines of an AR15 or AK47. Easy to manage recoil, easy to operate, and holds plenty of affordable ammo. Bottom line is this; Find a gun shop you trust that will spend an appropriate amount of time with you to find the weapons that will fit your needs. Then practice and become proficient with them. Your life may depend on it.
