Top 5 Firearms for Home Defense in 2025: Expert Picks and Buyer’s Guide

Online   Jun 07, 2025

Top 5 Firearms for Home Defense in 2025: Expert Picks and Buyer’s Guide

 

When it comes to protecting your home and loved ones, having the right firearm can make all the difference. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned gun owner looking to upgrade your setup, choosing a home defense weapon requires thoughtful consideration.

At LC Sporting Goods, we’ve put together our top picks for home defense firearms in 2025, backed by reliability, ease of use, and overall effectiveness. Let’s break down what to look for and our recommended options — all available in-store or online.

Before diving into our list, it’s important to know what makes a great home defense firearm:

• Reliability: Your firearm must function flawlessly under stress.

• Ease of Use: Simplicity matters, especially in high-pressure situations.

• Stopping Power: Caliber and ammunition should be effective but manageable.

• Size & Storage: Compact enough for secure storage but easy to deploy.

 

1. Mossberg 590 Tactical (12-Gauge Shotgun)

 

Action: Pump
 

Why We Like It:

• Legendary reliability

• Devastating close-range stopping power

• Picatinny rail for optics/light mounts

Best For: Homeowners wanting raw stopping power and intimidation factor.

Recommended Add-On: Streamlight TL-Racker for integrated light and pump handle.

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2. Glock 19 Gen 5 (9mm Handgun)

 

Action: Semi-Auto
 

Why We Like It:

• Compact yet accurate

• Easy to handle for most shooters

• Widely available magazines and accessories

Best For: All-around home and concealed carry defense.

Recommended Add-On: SureFire X300 Ultra for low-light engagements.

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3. Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield Plus (9mm Micro-Compact)

 

Action: Semi-Auto
 

Why We Like It:

• Slim and lightweight

• 13+1 capacity in a compact size

• Excellent trigger upgrade from older models

Best For: Apartment dwellers or those with smaller hands.

Recommended Add-On: Viridian laser sight for fast target acquisition.

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4. Ruger AR-556 (5.56 NATO Rifle)

 

Action: Semi-Auto
 

Why We Like It:

• Tactical performance in a home-defense context

• Low recoil for fast follow-up shots

• Customizable with optics and grips

Best For: Rural homeowners or those trained with rifle platforms.

Recommended Add-On: Red dot optic like the Holosun HS510C.

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5. Sig Sauer P320 Compact (9mm Handgun)

 

Action: Semi-Auto
 

Why We Like It:

• Modular fire control system

• Excellent ergonomics and balance

• Law enforcement trusted

Best For: Those wanting a versatile, proven platform.

Recommended Add-On: Romeo1 Pro optic for red-dot ready shooting.

 

We can provide all the models above and offer exclusive bundle discounts on:

• Firearm + Light/Laser combos

• Gun safes and lockboxes

• Ammunition packs with purchase