The 5 Best Shotguns for Home Defense

Elliott Delp, an experienced firearms instructor, highlights the Mossberg Maverick 88 as a top-tier shotgun option under $500. He emphasizes its reliability, affordability, and compatibility with the Mossberg 500 series, making it a practical choice for various applications.

This comprehensive review from God Family and Guns highlights the top 10 defensive shotguns, focusing on reliability, accuracy, and effectiveness for home defense. The expert instructor provides insights into iconic models like the Benelli M4 Tactical and Remington 870, detailing their historical significance and technical specifications. The video emphasizes practical considerations for choosing a defensive shotgun, drawing on extensive personal experience and historical context.

This review assesses the budget-friendly Tokarev TBP 12 bullpup shotgun, imported by SDS Imports, priced under $250. The host, an experienced reviewer, details its physical specifications, controls, and initial performance. Despite a broken magazine detent and a single feeding malfunction during testing, the shotgun is deemed a 'pass' for its price point, with plans for a follow-up review.

This review highlights the Mossberg 590A1, specifically the military police variant, as a potentially last-ever shotgun purchase. The instructor, demonstrating significant expertise, emphasizes its robust construction, including a heavier barrel and metal trigger guard. The shotgun's exceptional durability is underscored by its successful completion of the US military torture test, enduring 3000 rounds of buckshot without failure, positioning it as a top-tier duty firearm.

This review by firearms instructor John G. Johnson highlights the Attack Arms Bull Pup 12Ga Semi Automatic shotgun, emphasizing its suitability for home defense due to its compact bullpup design. Key features include an 18-inch barrel, ambidextrous controls, included cheek riser, and flip-up sights. Notably, the shotgun does not require a break-in period and reliably cycles 7.5 birdshot, even with 2 3/4 inch shells, demonstrating its readiness for immediate use.

Elliott Delp reviews the Mossberg Maverick 88 as an excellent budget shotgun option, particularly for home defense. He highlights its reliability and affordability, making it a strong recommendation for those looking for a firearm under $500, especially at its typical $300 price point. The Maverick 88 is noted as being compatible with Mossberg 500 parts, further enhancing its value.

This TFBTV episode identifies the top 5 most reliable firearms across different categories: Glock (handgun), Uzi (SMG), Mauser 98 (bolt-action), Remington 870 (shotgun), and Galil (self-loading rifle). The selections prioritize mechanical simplicity, proven track records, and resilience in harsh conditions, often outperforming more complex designs. The video highlights specific features contributing to their reliability, such as the Uzi's single moving part and the Galil's robust construction.

This review highlights five hilariously impractical firearms for concealed carry. It details the slow, complex loading of black powder firearms, the impractical size of the Mauser C96 and full-size .22 pistols for concealment, and the dangerous accidental discharge flaw in the Type 94 Nambu. The video emphasizes that while historically significant, these guns are unsuitable for modern self-defense.

The Ruger Mini-14 offers distinct advantages over the AR-15, including a lower profile, better stock trigger on modern variants, superior maneuverability with folding stocks, a longer sight radius, and a cleaner piston operating system. Modern Mini-14s also boast improved accuracy (around 2 MOA), cold hammer-forged barrels for durability, and optional all-stainless construction for corrosion resistance. While the AR-15 remains more modular and generally cheaper, the Mini-14 excels in specific areas.

This TFBTV episode reviews five excellent surplus rifles available for under $500, focusing on historical significance and affordability. Featured firearms include the Lee Enfield, Yugoslavian Mauser 98, Swiss K31, MAS 49/56, and a debate between the SKS and Mosin Nagant for the final spot. The discussion highlights unique actions, historical context, and the availability of surplus ammunition.