The Firearms Forum banner

Not sure which pistol to buy for home defense/conceal carry.

8K views 37 replies 20 participants last post by  Wotan 
#1 ·
I'd like to buy a pistol for home defense and conceal carry, but I'm not sure which one to buy or what caliber; although I am leaning towards a pistol in 45 ACP. The thing is I have really sensitive ears, so I'm worried about hearing damage and ear pain. I've had tubes put in my ears and I even have to wear ear plugs at the movies because of my hearing sensitivity now. I was thinking of getting a pistol in 45 ACP because it's a heavier round and thus slower. I figured since it is a heavier round, it would be less loud. Right now, I'm leaning towards a Spingfield XDM. It's like to have something with a rail, so I can put a light on it in case I need to use it at night. Also, I'd like something that isn't above the $500 range.
 
#3 ·
Welcome aboard! I too like the .45 for both home defense, and concealed carry. I carry a 1911A, a full sized .45. I wouldn't worry about my hearing if I was in a situation were my life, or the life of my family, was in danger. And I don't think you will really hear the gun being fired. Adrenalin will be flowing, and other things will be happening to your body as well. Tunnel vision, rapid heart rate, and most probably super human strength!
 
#4 · (Edited)
Thanks guys. I was also thinking about maybe an M&P. I was also wondering if it's safer to conceal a pistol with a hammer, or if it doesn't matter. I know some pistols aren't recommended to carry a round in the chamber, at least according the manual on some pistols. I already have 45 ACP ammo, because I bought a Hi-Point carbine. That's another reason I was looking at getting something in 45ACP.
 
#5 ·
As far as a pistol with a hammer, and concealed carry, it really depends on how you intend to carry it. Mine is carried cocked, and locked at all times. Just make sure the hammer doesn't get caught on anything when you are trying to draw it. That's the only down side to the pistols that have hammers.
Starting pistol Revolver Airsoft gun Gun accessory
 
#6 ·
Home defense is a tough subject because most pistols for home defense will easily penetrate interior and exterior walls. You have to be aware of what is on the other side of the wall. The best weapon for home defense is one that will quickly disable an intruder while not going through the walls which would or could endanger family members or neighbors. The only gun that works within that realm is a shotgun loaded with small shot. Even across a room (say 15 feet) the shotgun will spread to about a five inch pattern (less with a full choke). The force of that shot hitting an intruder will hit him like a ton of bricks. (even if he is wearing armor) because it spreads out it doesn't penetrate well but it makes a big wound and can break bones. If you miss then the wall will stop the shot without penetration. (small shot)
With concealed carry you need a gun you can hide but not so in the house. It is easy to swing a shotgun to target an intruder and so is a handgun but the handgun is also easy to swing at your spouse or children, even when they are close to you. The shotgun is less likely to be accidentally swung to a "non-target". At the close ranges inside your home you still have room to aim the shotgun and make lethal shots. The shotgun is less dangerous to your own family and the neighbors.
 
#8 ·
Some of the defense things depend on home lay out, location, and insurance. I have a house alarm system that is used faithfully so I rely on the system to wake me up. My house lay out provides me ample time to put on my electronic ear pro (which also gives me super hearing w/ volume maxed out). My plan is simple. Barricade and dial 911. My police response in my area is 3-4 minutes. The insurance means if they steal or damage anything in that short time, I get an insurance upgrade of the items. I am not going out to confront anyone. Police don't go in after anyone by themselves wearing only their undies so why should I. The barricade mehtod is is not scientific. I just have to tip over a chest high chester drawer in front of the door. It is a time buyer. Also position in the bedroom is important for safety in case they are armed. My firing line would need to penetrate the length of my home which should stop most any caliber in the standard pistol calibers most folks carry. I like the 45acp for home defense. Watch you tube on frangibles and see if they would fit your need.
 
#9 ·
Where I live, the sheriff department response time is anywhere from 20 minutes to 12 hours. My MIL called about a prowler around her rural home one night, they showed up the next afternoon. I hear a lot about shotguns and birdshot, but you might want to read this article.
http://www.theboxotruth.com/the-box-o-truth-3-the-shotgun-meets-the-box-o-truth/

I live in the country, so I keep a 40 S&W handy. I keep a set of electronic earmuffs and a flashlight next to it.
 
#10 ·
Where I live, the sheriff department response time is anywhere from 20 minutes to 12 hours. My MIL called about a prowler around her rural home one night, they showed up the next afternoon. I hear a lot about shotguns and birdshot, but you might want to read this article.
http://www.theboxotruth.com/the-box-o-truth-3-the-shotgun-meets-the-box-o-truth/

I live in the country, so I keep a 40 S&W handy. I keep a set of electronic earmuffs and a flashlight next to it.
Tell her the next time she calls NOT to tell them she is a MIL.
 
#11 ·
I keep a hi point 40 S&W beside the bed with a spare mag. 5 feet from my bed are a 30-06 loaded, a 12 guage and .410 both loaded with .000 buckshot.
Home defense is a tough subject because most pistols for home defense will easily penetrate interior and exterior walls. You have to be aware of what is on the other side of the wall. The best weapon for home defense is one that will quickly disable an intruder while not going through the walls which would or could endanger family members or neighbors. The only gun that works within that realm is a shotgun loaded with small shot. Even across a room (say 15 feet) the shotgun will spread to about a five inch pattern (less with a full choke). The force of that shot hitting an intruder will hit him like a ton of bricks. (even if he is wearing armor) because it spreads out it doesn't penetrate well but it makes a big wound and can break bones. If you miss then the wall will stop the shot without penetration. (small shot)
With concealed carry you need a gun you can hide but not so in the house. It is easy to swing a shotgun to target an intruder and so is a handgun but the handgun is also easy to swing at your spouse or children, even when they are close to you. The shotgun is less likely to be accidentally swung to a "non-target". At the close ranges inside your home you still have room to aim the shotgun and make lethal shots. The shotgun is less dangerous to your own family and the neighbors.
interesting theory. You do make good points. But the problem with a shotgun is follow up shots. A pistol allows for faster second and third shots. In the time it would take you to empty all 5 shell's I could empty my mag on target slap in the spare, and be shooting before you're done. That's just my opinion though.
 
  • Like
Reactions: carver
#14 ·
I keep a hi point 40 S&W beside the bed with a spare mag. 5 feet from my bed are a 30-06 loaded, a 12 guage and .410 both loaded with .000 buckshot.
interesting theory. You do make good points. But the problem with a shotgun is follow up shots. A pistol allows for faster second and third shots. In the time it would take you to empty all 5 shell's I could empty my mag on target slap in the spare, and be shooting before you're done. That's just my opinion though.
If I hit you with a load of 00 Buck where I intend to hit you, center mass, it's over! No need for a second shot. I've killed many deer with 00 Buck, and out to 30 yards, I've never had one get up! My go to home defense shot gun is a Remington 1100. It will fire just as fast as any pistol, if I should need more than one shot. Let me ask you all a couple of questions. If you were being attacked by a black bear what firearm would you choose to defend your life with? Do you think a pissed off black bear would be harder to kill than a 250 pound pissed off man? Maybe, but not by that much.
 
#12 ·
Welcome to the forum from SE of Seattle.

If you haven't been around firearms before, you might consider taking some classes. The range that my wife and took classes at had guns that we could use, during the class. They also had handguns that could be rented; which would give you some hands on experience with different guns.
 
#15 ·
Some of the defense things depend on home lay out, location, and insurance. I have a house alarm system that is used faithfully so I rely on the system to wake me up. My house lay out provides me ample time to put on my electronic ear pro (which also gives me super hearing w/ volume maxed out). My plan is simple. Barricade and dial 911. My police response in my area is 3-4 minutes. The insurance means if they steal or damage anything in that short time, I get an insurance upgrade of the items. I am not going out to confront anyone. Police don't go in after anyone by themselves wearing only their undies so why should I. The barricade mehtod is is not scientific. I just have to tip over a chest high chester drawer in front of the door. It is a time buyer. Also position in the bedroom is important for safety in case they are armed. My firing line would need to penetrate the length of my home which should stop most any caliber in the standard pistol calibers most folks carry. I like the 45acp for home defense. Watch you tube on frangibles and see if they would fit your need.
Drymag, I like your plan and mine was very similar when I was single and childless. Unfortunately, plans get more complex when there are loved ones in the home that need protecting. I'm still trying to come up with something I feel very comfortable with in that situation.
 
#17 ·
Plus Carver, what if there is more than one attacker?
 
#18 ·
If I ever have to shoot someone I don't want them to have a chance to think about anything. Same thing with a bear. Just want them to drop right where they are. If I do my job right I won't need a second shoot, but if I do I will have a quick follow up shot on hand.
 
#19 ·
A shotgun loaded with buckshot is your best bet for a one shot stop. My problem is My bedroom is down a hallway. I have no room to maneuver with any of my shotguns. I want to try a self defence shotgun with a short barrel say 18 inches.

I don't want to buy one as I would never use it other than for home defence. I just want to see how it would work down a hallway. If it worked well I probably would buy one.
 
#22 ·
No I have a Mossberg 535. All my other shotguns are trap or sporting clay guns. Not good for self defence in a home. They are cheap enough. I paid more in tax on my last shotgun then an 870 cost. I should pick one up..
 
  • Like
Reactions: carver
#24 ·
With the Maverick 88 you can get an M4 style 6-position collapsible stock for shooting from the shoulder or from the hip. I don't like the lack of control that a pistol grip only arrangement leaves me with. They can be bought with the 18 1/2 inch barrel for right around $200. Not too much investment for a good, reliable home defense shotgun. Maybe look into it? I have a Mossberg 500A with a 19 1/2" barrel that I'm going to put one of those stocks on for better control.
 
  • Like
Reactions: carver
#32 ·
I said most cases. If their are two attackers, the surprise of you firing one shot and taking down a perp. the other runs. If not, the surprise allows you to make the second shot. If their are three or more, while you concentrate on one or two the rest are not going to stand around. If one or more don't run, odd are you will go down.
 
#29 ·
Hey guys, I think I finally decided. I have my sights set on the Springfield XD in 45ACP with a 4" barrel. I think I'd feel very safe carrying it, because of the grip and trigger safety. Plus, the XDs are in my price range.
I have the exact same pistol. It conceals with most clothing, and it has never had ANY malfunctions. NONE!!! Report is not too bad and a full 13 round magazine with a back up mag. The palm grip safety is a nice feature IMO. If dropped it won't go off. IMO, I don't use a light because the bad guy knows where you are at.

Good choice. Send pics when you get it.

Highboy
 
#36 ·
Hey guys; Do you really think you will be standing bravely in one spot to deliver all these rounds. I point out, you may (may) get off 2 to 5 or 6 rounds and it is almost guaranteed that you will have absolutely no idea where they went.
That is of course if your attacker shoots first or at the very beginning of the altercation. The instant that happens you will begin stumbling, falling, running, crawling or whatever is possible to get the hell out of dodge.
Don't take my word, research some police shootings. Watch very closely their reaction in EVERY instance as soon as the first round goes off.
One other thing about missing the first several shots, there is a reason why in all law enforcement shootings nationwide, their hit rate is 24% and remember, they practice the drills and also use simulators.
WE on the other hand don't have the luxuries of simulators and most do not practice reaction drills.
As Clint Smith says, "harden your perimeters" then practice, practice and practice"
Also says, "create your what if drills" and get into your mind what you would do if it happens.

UF
 
#37 ·
Personal carry and home defense. First thing I'd do is rule out the 45! To much recoil and the one's I've seen are to thick, to big and heavy for concealed carry. That's not to say you can't, guys do it everyday. I'm and old guy! How do you shave weight and size? Smaller frame, shorter barrel and single stack magazine. Cartridge much more shooter friendly! I carry a S&W Shield 9c every day. Very light and very comfortable and 9mm is pleasant to shoot. I keep it on the headboard at night along with a Ruger P89. I really doubt they will ever be needed but if they are, I've got a gun that carry's well and is comfortable to shoot. The Shield has a single stack magazine, make's it thinner than any 45 I've ever seen. It has a very short barrel. Along with a single stack magazine, makes it much lighter. Shorter, thinner, lighter and shorter barrel make's concealment much easier and remove's a bunch of weight that, for an old guy, will add up. I prefer DA's in handgun's but, my 38 is much larger and much heavier. Shot a friend's S&W Detective Special with factory ammo once, to much recoil for me. I know I wouldn't shoot it in practice enough! The idea that you'll need more than five or six round's I find bogus but should you need six, with an eight shot magazine, You have two or three extra shot's. Say you actually do need a seventh shot, you'll have to reload a revolver and no way can that be done quick as a auto loader. Some extra fire power while keeping weight down is a plus for me. I also carry one extra magazine. If I need more than one it would shock me. I do have a double magazine pouch I seldom use, add's more weight!

In home defense, unless you are a bad guy, I suspect the biggest detriment to attack is noise. People that break into your house want to steal something, not get shot or even risk getting shot. 99.9% of the crooks that might break into your house will be looking for a way out when the first shot goes off. I suspect the intruder won't even be armed. I read that from a retired burgler year's ago. He said the worst thing to do in his line of work is to carry a gun! He's there to get the jewelry, not shot and if he is caught, he's didn't want to be caught with a gun.

I would not get to paranoid about this business unless you live in a place like Chicago. They shoot people there for practice. One light weight concealable gun with one extra magazine I believe would do fine. In fact if I were thinking of going somewhere I might need more, I wouldn't go! Some guy's have their primary gun, another in another spot and for the final act some kind of fighting knife! To me, that is the definition of paranoid! You should be able to defend yourself, not prepare for combat! I believe that most confrontation's will end with the sight of your gun! Unless your in a place like Chicago!
 
#38 ·
I actually prefer full size pistols. I'm not the biggest guys, but I am into bodybuilding. I'm a little over 5' 11", but I have hands and the wingspan of someone who's 6' 3", so I hate the feel of compact pistols. I even needed to order a special gaming mouse, because my hands are so big. That's another reason I wasn't as worried about the recoil. I'm sure I'll do fine with a 45, but I need to practice with one.
 
This is an older thread, you may not receive a response, and could be reviving an old thread. Please consider creating a new thread.
Top