Buying Guide

Best Guns for Home Defense in California: Legal Options Guide

By Ray Lee •

Choosing a home defense firearm in California requires understanding both effectiveness and state-specific legal requirements. This guide covers the best legal options for protecting your home and family.

Top Home Defense Options

1. Pump-Action Shotgun (Recommended)

The pump-action shotgun remains the most recommended home defense firearm for several reasons:

  • No roster restrictions - Any model available nationwide can be purchased
  • Devastating stopping power at home defense distances
  • Psychological deterrent - The sound of a pump action is universally recognized
  • Simple operation - Minimal training required
  • Versatile ammunition - From birdshot to slugs

Top Models:

  • Mossberg 500/590 - Reliable, affordable, ambidextrous safety
  • Remington 870 - Time-tested design, huge aftermarket support
  • Benelli Nova - Excellent ergonomics, rotary bolt

2. Home Defense Handguns

Handguns offer maneuverability and one-handed operation. In California, you're limited to rostered models from dealers.

Recommended 9mm Options:

  • Glock 19 Gen 3 - Reliable, easy to maintain
  • Smith & Wesson M&P 9 - Excellent ergonomics
  • Sig Sauer P226 - All-metal, accurate
  • CZ 75 - Renowned accuracy and feel

Revolver Options:

  • Smith & Wesson 686 (.357 Magnum)
  • Ruger GP100

3. California-Compliant Rifles

Rifles can be effective but require CA compliance:

  • Featureless AR-15 - Fin grip, fixed stock, no flash hider
  • Fixed-magazine AR-15 - Keeps features but requires action to open for reload
  • Mini-14 - Traditional stock, no compliance modifications needed
  • Pistol-caliber carbines - 9mm carbines offer reduced penetration risk

Ammunition Considerations

Shotgun Loads

  • 00 Buckshot - Standard for defense, 8-9 pellets
  • #4 Buckshot - More pellets, less penetration
  • Reduced recoil loads - Easier follow-up shots

Handgun Ammunition

  • Hollow points - Expand on impact, reduce over-penetration
  • Federal HST, Speer Gold Dot, Hornady Critical Defense - Proven performers

Storage and Access

Balance security with quick access:

  • Quick-access safes - Biometric or push-button codes
  • Bedside safes - Within arm's reach
  • Must prevent unauthorized access - Especially with children or prohibited persons present

Legal Considerations

  • California has Castle Doctrine protections
  • No duty to retreat in your home
  • Force must be reasonable and proportional
  • Consider home defense insurance
  • Consult an attorney for specific legal questions

Training Recommendations

Owning a firearm isn't enough—you need to know how to use it effectively:

  • Take a home defense or defensive shooting course
  • Practice regularly at the range
  • Consider low-light shooting training
  • Develop a home defense plan with your family

Find Home Defense Firearms

Browse our directory of California gun stores to find dealers with strong home defense selections. Many offer expert advice on choosing the right firearm for your situation. Consider training classes to build your defensive skills.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best home defense gun in California?

For most Californians, a 12-gauge pump-action shotgun offers the best combination of stopping power, reliability, and legal simplicity. Popular options include the Mossberg 500/590 and Remington 870. Shotguns have no roster restrictions, are effective at close range, and the pump action sound alone can deter intruders.

Can I use an AR-15 for home defense in California?

Yes, if configured to be California-compliant (featureless or fixed magazine). However, 5.56/.223 rounds can over-penetrate walls, potentially endangering family members or neighbors. Many experts recommend shotguns or pistol-caliber options for home defense in residential areas.

What handgun caliber is best for home defense?

9mm is the most recommended caliber for home defense handguns. It offers manageable recoil, sufficient stopping power with modern hollow-point ammunition, and 10-round capacity (California maximum). Popular choices include the Glock 19, Smith & Wesson M&P, and Sig P226.

Do I need a permit to have a gun in my home in California?

No permit is required to possess a firearm in your home in California. You must legally own the firearm and not be a prohibited person. However, if anyone in your household is prohibited or under 18, you must store firearms securely to prevent access.

Find What You Need

Browse our directory to find gun stores, shooting ranges, and training providers throughout California.

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