What shotgun works best for home defense?

[Alan]

I’m in the market for a shotgun for home defense and I’d love to hear your thoughts. I’m debating between a 12-gauge and 20-gauge. Sure, 12ga packs a punch, but I’ve read that 20ga is easier to control in tight spaces. What do you all think?

I’m also curious about barrel length and stock options. Is a shorter barrel better for maneuverability? Any features that are must-haves?

What models do you guys swear by? I’m looking for something reliable, nothing too fancy.

Lastly, how crucial is training? I’ve shot before but never really done any serious practice. What kind of drills or routines should I be doing to prepare myself? Thanks in advance for any tips!

 

[Dieselden454]

Mossburg 590 nightstick with #4 Buckshot or Mossberg Maverick 88 in 20ga with same buckshot!

 

[rfd]

Hard to beat a pump like the M88 - what a Fantastic value!

The Beretta 1301 is a great semi-auto 12ga.

No matter what the gauge, learn the push-pull technique to help lots to mitigate recoil.

For the most part, think about some of the peripheral things that will happen inside a dwelling when firearms are employed .....

 

[RustySpanner]

For home defense I'd go with a Mossberg 590 12ga with the 18" barrel. Thing's bulletproof and you can find ammo anywhere. If the 12ga kicks too hard maybe try the Maverick 88 in 20ga. Short barrel's gonna be way better in hallways and stuff. Throw a light on there so you can see what you're shooting at.

 

[Barry D. Thomas Sr.]

I have a mossberg 88, 12 ga and use 12 Ga "shortys" #4 buck with the action block. Figure they are plenty for limited range in the house.

 

[Sudsy]

I might get some heat for this, but the Keltec KS7 is seriously badarse !
Unlike the mares leg shotguns, like the Mossberg, the KS7 is surprisingly accurate, it also feeds well, and the best part is that it ejects the shells downward, making it ambidextrous, which is nice when you don't know which way you'll be facing out of a doorway
The negative is that it kicks like a mule, order the slip on recoil pad before shooting it.

This was 7 shots, buckshot and slugs one then one then one, walking in and pumping from 25 to 20 yards