Shotgun Or Handgun: Which Is Best For Home Defense
If you are looking for a weapon for home defense, then you have probably settled upon either a shotgun or a handgun. There are many different types of shotguns (pump action, 12-gauge, 20-gauge, breach action), and there are also lots of different types of handguns (revolvers, semi-automatics). However, before you begin looking at the different styles, you need to determine if you want a shotgun or handgun. Here are some things to consider to help you make the choice.
Do You Have Room For A Large Gun And Ammo Safe?
You will want to keep your weapon locked up at home. Even if you don't have young kids in your apartment or house, it's not responsible gun ownership to leave it lying around, out in the open. Any guests you have can stumble upon it. The super of your building, repairmen, anyone! So, limit access to your weapon by getting a safe. A shotgun will require a larger safe than a handgun, so if you don't have room for it, then you might want to get a handgun. A small handgun safe can be placed on top of your dresser. A shotgun safe will have to stand up and fit in your closet or the corner of your room.
However, if you are really set on getting a shotgun, there are workarounds. You could get a hard plastic case that has a fitting for a combination lock. This can be slid under your bed, or kept on a shelf in your closet.
Ammo Considerations
If you are a trained marksmen (maybe you were in the military, or in law enforcement), then you will be comfortable with a handgun. However, there are some things to consider before you purchase a .45 or .357. First, these guns require more accuracy and aim then a shotgun. When you shoot a shotgun, the shell (the bullet used in shotguns) is filled with many tiny little bits of metal (shot) and spreads out. For someone who is not comfortable hitting a target, a shotgun will offer more security.
The other downside to a handgun is that the bullets can pass through walls more easily than shotgun ammo (unless you choose to use slugs). This can be an important factor if you live in an apartment building and don't want to risk the bullets passing through walls, or if you live in a home with many other people. You could choose the smallest size shot for your shotgun (birdseed), and lessen risk the of the bullets smashing through multiple layers of drywall and hurting an innocent person.
Once you choose a type of gun, contact a company like Shawano Shooters Supplies to learn more about your gun ammo options.
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