9 Best Home Defense Shotgun of 2024: Tactical, Semi Auto, & Pump Action
Lock and load, gentlemen! Security is a top priority for everyone. When it comes to securing your home, nothing says “get outta here” quite like a shotgun.
Get ready to channel your inner John Wick (or your inner action hero) as we explore the most top-notch home defense shotguns, and help you find the perfect one for your man cave.
We’ve got something for everyone, from sleek and tactical to those with a little more personality. After all, who said protecting your home had to be boring?
Grab an ice cold one, kick back, and let’s dive into the best home defense shotgun collection that is sure to make any intruder wet their pants!
What Is The Best Home Defense Shotgun?
With so many options out there, how do you know which home defense shotgun is best for you? It needs to have a perfect balance of power and precision, and also be easy to handle. Here are the top contenders for the title of best home defense shotgun before we deep dive into each.
Top Picks:
- Best Overall: Benelli M4
- Budget Friendly: Remington 870 Tactical
- Newest Release: Beretta A300 Ultima Patrol
1. Benelli M4
If there’s a shotgun to be the most excited about, it’s the Benelli M4. This shotgun is a model of excellence in the shotgun world. Need proof? Well, the Benelli M4 is an OG used in the military and law enforcement – that should tell you how top-tier this pick is for a home defense shotgun. Let’s get into the details.
Specifications
- Action: Semi Automatic
- Capacity: 5+1
- Barrel Length: 18.5”
- Caliber: 12 Gauge
- Length of Pull: 14-⅜”
- Sights: Ghost Ring Sights
- Hand: Right
- Weight: 7.8 lbs
Key Benefits
- ARGO (Auto-Regulating Gas Operated): This has got to be the coolest feature I’ve seen in a shotgun. The ARGO system allows the Benelli M4 to automatically adjust the gas system to the load you’re using, handling any type of shotgun shell.
- Ghost Ring Sights: Ghost sights have to be the cherry on top for the Benelli M4. These sights are popularly used in combat, meaning they’re insanely fast and accurate. Another plus is the Picatinny rail included which allows you to mount additional sights or scopes.
- Pistol Grip: Having a pistol grip is a feature that’s never a bad thing, especially on a shotgun for home defense specifically. It allows you more control and stability when handling your shotgun.
Pricing
2. Beretta 1301 Tactical
Beretta is a household name at this point and for good reason. The Beretta 1301 Tactical has a lot of features to get excited about: adjustable length of pull, gas operated system, and enlarged controls (to name a few). Let’s take a closer look.
Specifications
- Action: Semi Automatic
- Capacity: 7+1
- Barrel Length: 18.5”
- Caliber: 12 Gauge
- Length of Pull: 13”
- Sights: Ghost Ring; Picatinny Rail
- Hand: Ambidextrous
- Weight: 6.4 lbs
Key Benefits
- Integrated BLINK system: This system has a cross-tube gas piston that allows the shotgun to cycle up to 36% faster than most shotguns on the market.
- Large Textured Bolt Release: Allows you to eject the shells.
- Oversized Reversible Safety Button: This feature allows this shotgun to be fully ambidextrous, catering to left handed shooters and right handed shooters.
Pricing
3. Kel-Tec KSG
The Kel-Tec KSG leaves me with only 2 words for the ultimate feature: magazine capacity. This shotgun defies all the odds with a capacity of 12 or 14 depending on the size (yes, you read that correctly)! That’s freakishly cool! Just skip to the “Key Benefits” to read more on this.
Specifications
- Action: Pump Action
- Capacity: 6+6+1 (or 7+7+1 depending on shell length)
- Barrel Length: 18.5”
- Caliber: 12 Gauge
- Length of Pull: n/a
- Sights: None, includes Picatinny Rail
- Hand: Ambidextrous
- Weight: 6.9 lbs
Key Benefits
- Capacity: The Kel-Tec KSG has a capacity of 6+6+1 or 7+7+1 (depending on the size of the shell). There aren’t too many tactical shotguns for home defense that have that kind of capacity. This is a game changer because it allows you to reload way less.
- Dual Tubes: The dual tubes are the superstars behind this shotgun’s capacity. And from the picture, it looks freaking cool.
- Ambidextrous: This is often an overlooked feature, but one I feel is always the most important because it allows both right and left handed shooters to enjoy this work of art.
Pricing
4. Beretta A300 Ultima Patrol
The Beretta A300 Ultima Patrol was just released in 2023, and it’s already the favorite shotgun of many for home defense. Let’s see why.
Specifications
- Action: Semi Automatic
- Capacity: 7+1
- Barrel Length: 19.1”
- Caliber: 12 Gauge
- Length of Pull: 13’
- Sights: Ghost Ring Sight
- Hand: Ambidextrous
- Weight: 7.1 lbs
Key Benefits
- Enlarged Controls: Having larger controls allows you to easily handle this gun. Included in that is an oversized and reversible safety.
- 7-Slot Picatinny Optic Rail: This gives you the option of adding sight or scopes to your gun, like a red dot sight.
- Aggressive Grip Texture: The Beretta A300 Ultima Patrol includes aggressive grip textures in the areas you’d need to handle most, giving you more ease of use.
Pricing
5. Remington 870 Tactical
The Remington 870 Tactical has big “barrels” of steel, and as a man, we have to keep our “barrels” of steel on us (I could be a comedian at this point). But seriously, this gun is made from a single block of solid steel, which essentially weatherproofs it, making it a reliable shotgun for home defense.
Specifications
- Action: Pump Action
- Capacity: 6+1
- Barrel Length: 18.5”
- Caliber: 12 Gauge
- Length of Pull: 14”
- Sights: XS Ghost Ring Sights
- Hand: Right
- Weight: 7.5 lbs
Key Benefits
- Price: The Remington 870 is the best priced on this list, and that isn’t to be looked down on. Remington’s quality of shotguns is top tier, making this shotgun a heck of a steal.
- Reliability: Many can attest to the fact that this gun is one that any person could rely on. It’s often dubbed America’s favorite shotgun which should tell you something.
- Availability: If there’s one thing that you want for certain, it’s to have easy access to your favorite shotguns. A huge plus to the Remington 870 is it’s widely available for purchase.
Pricing
6. Mossberg 590A1
If a Mossberg 590A1 could go to school, it would be a straight A student. But get this, it did get an A+ on the Mil-Spec 3443E Test. This test is an Army test where a shotgun has to withstand 3,000 rounds without jamming and the Mossberg 590A1 withstood that test. *round of applause*
Specifications
- Action: Pump Action
- Capacity: 8+1
- Barrel Length: 20”
- Caliber: 12 Gauge
- Length of Pull: 12.25″–14.25″ (Adjustable)
- Sights: XS Ghost Ring (rear sight), Combat (front sight)
- Hand: Right
- Weight: 7.25 lbs
Key Benefits
- Mil-Spec 3443E Test: The Mossberg 590A1 has passed the Mil-Spec 3443E Test, a test of the Army firing 3,000 rounds of 12 gauge shotgun shells without jamming.
- Safety Accessibility: A unique and handy feature of the Mossbery 590A1 is the location of the safety. It sits on top of the gun giving you easy access to it with just your thumb.
- Heavy Walled Barrel: This feature speaks to how durable this defensive shotgun is. The heavy walled barrel design keeps the barrel from blowing due to high impact.
Pricing
7. Kel-Tec KS7
The Kel-Tech KS7 is the ultimate shining star for a lightweight and compact gun, making it an ideal home defense firearm. And it seriously looks like something straight out of Call of Duty. Let’s get to the details.
Specifications
- Action: Pump Action
- Capacity: 6
- Barrel Length: 18.5”
- Caliber: 12 Gauge
- Length of Pull: 13”
- Sights: Fiber Optic Bead
- Hand: Ambidextrous
- Weight: 5.9 lbs
Key Benefits
- Carry Handle: A carry handle isn’t a feature that comes on just any old shotgun, so having a carry handle on a workhorse like the Kel-Tec KS7 really makes it stand out.
- Bullpup Design: The bullpup design takes the trophy for the Kel-Tech KS7 having extra capacity but is compact.
- Fiber Optic Bead Sight: Having a built-in sight is a pro-feature of this gun. It avoids the need to get additional sights to add on (unless you prefer to).
Pricing
8. Mossberg 940 Pro Tactical
With all the features of the Mossberg 940 Pro Tactical, there isn’t a need to try upgrading it.
Specifications
- Action: Semi Automatic
- Capacity: 7+1
- Barrel Length: 18.5”
- Caliber: 12 Gauge
- Length of Pull: 12.50″-14.25″
- Sights: Fiber Optic Front
- Hand: Right
- Weight: 7.5 lbs
Key Benefits
- Adjustable Length of Pull: Having an adjustable length of pull is like having the ability to adjust your seat in the car, it’s a must for comfortability.
- Fiber Optic Front Sight: This allows for better target and aim accuracy, and includes a cover plate when the fiber optic front sight is not in use.
- Durable Gas System: The Mossberg 940 Pro Tactical has a durable gas system that enables it to go up to 1500 rounds before needing a cleaning.
Pricing
9. Remington Tac 14
The Remington Tac 14 is a go-to option if you’re looking for a reliable home defense shotgun, but prefer something smaller in size. I wouldn’t judge this one on its size if I were you. Let’s see what makes this small but mighty.
Specifications
- Action: Pump Action
- Capacity: 4
- Barrel Length: 14”
- Caliber: 12 Gauge (20 Gauge available also)
- Length of Pull: n/a
- Sights: Bead Sight
- Hand: Right
- Weight: 5.6 lbs
Key Benefits
- Compact Size: The Remington Tac 14 is renowned for its small size, so much that you could easily sleep with it under your pillow (but don’t actually do that).
- Raptor Pistol Grip: If you take a look at the picture above, you can see the difference in this grip compared to the other home defense shotguns. It allows you to have a better hold and handle on the gun without worry of it slipping from your hand.
- Reliability: A home defense tactical shotgun has to be reliable, and this option doesn’t disappoint. The price point is great, the size is great, and Remington’s quality of shotguns is one to depend on for home defense.
Pricing
Why Choose A Shotgun for Home Defense?
You may have had the thought, “Why should I choose a shotgun when there are so many other options out there?” Allow me to explain why shotguns are at the top of the list for home defense.
You’ve seen a shotgun, I mean these bad boys are like the Arnold Schwarzenegger of firearms. They’re powerful and command respect.
Aside from the looks, the most important thing is shotguns are insanely versatile. You have semi automatic shotguns and pump action shotguns, and different sizes and models, that all allow you to choose what suits you best.
If that doesn’t say enough, the overall use of a shotgun is far easier, especially for men because you don’t have to fiddle with small features.
Let’s not forget the most important part – the intimidation factor! The sound of a shotgun alone sends the message “You’re about to make a big mistake, buddy!”
So go invest in a shotgun for home defense and rest easy at night knowing you’ve got something that will keep your home safe.
Wrapping Up (a.k.a. The Conclusion)
And there you have it my fellow defenders of the fortress, the best home defense shotguns of 2024.
On a serious note, when it comes to home defense and protecting your loved ones, you can’t afford to take any chances. That’s why this blog article has brought you the best possible information to make an informed choice. The best home defense shotguns are right here at your fingertips.
Whether you’re a seasoned gun pro or a rookie in the realm of home defense shotguns, I hope you walk away with a newfound appreciation for the world of firearms.
Stay safe, stay responsible, and stay protecting what’s yours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are pump action shotguns?
Pump action shotguns are also referred to as “slide action” shotguns. These shotguns are operated by sliding the handguard on the underside of the gun to load a new round and eject the empty shotgun shell.
What is a semi auto shotgun?
Semi automatic shotguns don’t require manually pulling a slide to cock the gun. A semi auto shotgun automatically reloads itself after squeezing the trigger to release the shell, which is typically a preferred option for home defense.
What shotgun gauge is best for home defense?
The most common shotgun gauge for home defense is the 12 gauge. 12 gauge shotgun shells are readily available and are compatible with most home defense shotguns.
Is a 12 gauge shotgun good from defense?
Yes, 12 gauge shotgun shells make a great choice for home defense tactical shotguns.
What is the best shotgun for turkey and home defense?
If you want a 2-in-1 for turkey hunting and home defense, the Remington 870 will get the job done!
Is 12 or 20 gauge better for home defense?
12 gauge is the most favored and preferred pick for a home defense tactical shotgun.
What is the best shotgun for home defense in 2024?
The best shotgun for home defense in 2024 is the Benelli M4.