Which is better for home defense? A handgun or a shotgun?

TheYankeeMarshal, an experienced firearms instructor, advises against using birdshot or buckshot for home defense in a townhouse. He emphasizes that self-defense ammunition should be chosen for its ability to stop a threat, not just injure it. Birdshot is deemed ineffective for stopping power, while buckshot poses significant over-penetration risks in confined spaces like townhouses. The instructor recommends focusing on handgun calibers like 9mm or .45 ACP for this scenario.

This video, titled 'Ladrão de Entregas se Dá Mal' (Delivery Thief Gets What's Coming to Him), appears to depict a situation where an attempted delivery theft is thwarted, likely involving the use of firearms for self-defense. While specific firearm models or calibers are not mentioned in the title or description, the context strongly suggests a self-defense scenario where a firearm was present and potentially used. The title implies a negative outcome for the perpetrator, suggesting a successful defense or apprehension.

This video from Kentucky Ballistics demonstrates a practical drywall penetration test for common 12-gauge shotgun home defense loads. Instructor Scott uses a Mossberg 500/590 shotgun to test #8 Birdshot, 00 Buckshot, and a 1oz Slug against a drywall setup backed by water jugs. The results clearly illustrate the varying over-penetration risks associated with each load type in a residential environment.

This guide, drawing from the expertise of CajunBoyJake, compares the reliability of revolvers and semi-automatic pistols for home defense, particularly under stress. It highlights common semi-auto malfunctions like failing to chamber a round or going 'out of battery,' which can be critical failures in a defensive scenario. The video emphasizes that while not inherently superior, the simplicity of a revolver often translates to more reliable function when the user is under extreme duress and has not practiced extensively. Consistent practice is stressed as vital for overcoming these challenges with any firearm.

This video from A REGULAR GUN GUY offers a comprehensive look at home defense strategies, emphasizing proactive security measures and informed firearm choices. The instructor, with an experienced authority level, guides viewers through prioritizing home security, personal readiness, and selecting appropriate firearms and accessories for potential threats. The content highlights practical advice for various living situations and legal considerations.

This guide synthesizes expert advice on selecting shotguns and ammunition for home defense. It covers the effectiveness of different shotgun types, emphasizes proper ammunition choices like #4 buckshot to mitigate over-penetration, and highlights the importance of training for operating firearms under stress. The information is presented with an informative, professional tone, drawing on the speaker's expertise as a former officer.

This video demonstrates the ballistic resistance of an excavator bucket against various firearm calibers, from .22 LR to .50 BMG API. The test, conducted by an experienced individual, shows that while smaller calibers cause minimal damage, larger rounds like the .50 BMG API can penetrate the bucket. The footage provides visual evidence of impact effects and the destructive potential of different ammunition types.

This video tests the penetration capabilities of various calibers against a large pine tree, culminating with a .50 BMG API round. Surprisingly, even powerful rifle rounds like 5.56mm and 7.62mm, as well as handgun rounds like 10mm and .44 Magnum, failed to fully penetrate the tree. The .50 BMG API round, while charring the entry point, also did not exit the back of the tree, demonstrating the significant stopping power of a substantial tree trunk.

This video from Yee Yee Life features an experienced host testing the ballistic penetration of various calibers, from .22 LR to .50 BMG, in an Intex swimming pool. The host demonstrates proper firearm safety and provides detailed measurements of bullet penetration depths, offering unique insights into how different rounds interact with water as a medium. The results highlight significant variations in penetration based on caliber and velocity.

This video tests the ballistic resistance of a Secret Service Suburban window against various calibers, from .22 LR to .50 BMG. While smaller calibers and even a 10mm and .44 Magnum were stopped with varying degrees of damage, the window was eventually penetrated by a .50 BMG sniper rifle round. The testing provides a clear demonstration of the limits of armored vehicle glass against high-powered rifle threats.