If you’re looking for the best pistols for home defense, it’s important to take into consideration a variety of factors before making a purchase. Home defense is serious business and requires a firearm that is reliable, accurate, and easy to use. It’s important to choose a pistol that you can confidently handle, as well as one that fits your specific needs.
One factor to consider is the size of the pistol. A larger firearm may provide more stopping power, but can also be more difficult to handle in a stressful situation. On the other hand, a smaller pistol may be easier to maneuver, but may not pack the same punch. It’s important to find a balance between size and power that you feel comfortable with.
Another important factor is ammunition capacity. While you don’t want to rely on a large magazine to get the job done, having extra rounds can provide added peace of mind. It’s also important to consider the type of ammunition you’ll be using, such as hollow points, which can be more effective in stopping an intruder.
Are you looking for a pistol with a laser sight or one that is night vision compatible? Do you want a pistol that allows for easy customization with accessories? These are just a few questions to consider when selecting the best pistol for your home defense needs. By taking the time to research and choose the right firearm, you can have confidence in your ability to protect your home and loved ones.
10 Best Pistols For Home Defense
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The product is ideal for home defense and personal safety, offering spare pepper spray projectiles for a pepper spray gun.
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2
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The product is ideal for securing firearms and providing quick-access to handguns with biometric fingerprint or keypad lock.
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3
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This product is ideal for home defense and provides safe, non-lethal protection with a powerful 25ft wide fog spray.
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4
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This product is ideal for personal self-defense purposes both at home and while on the move.
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5
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This product is ideal for home defense and personal protection against potential attackers or intruders.
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6
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This product is ideal for secure storage of a handgun in various locations, with access via fingerprint, PIN code, or key.
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7
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It is ideal for personal self-defense and ensuring safety in potentially dangerous situations.
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8
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The product is ideal for those needing quick access to a secure, single handgun safe for home or vehicle use.
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9
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Product is ideal for self-defense purposes, particularly for women and men, with an accurate 20-foot range and UV dye.
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10
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The product is ideal for home security defense with a non-lethal projectile launcher that can reach up to 60 feet.
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1. Sabre Pepper Gun Reload Kit.

Introducing the Pepper Spray Launcher, a home defense tool from the #1 pepper spray brand trusted by police departments worldwide, including the New York PD, Chicago PD, and U.S. Marshals. This launcher is designed to help individuals gain muscle memory, familiarity, and confidence in using pepper projectiles for self-defense.
With easy-to-use practice projectiles that load and fire exactly like the live projectiles, users can feel confident and prepared in the event of an intruder. The projectiles disperse a 6-foot wide cloud upon impact, simulating a realistic encounter and providing effective training for real-life scenarios.
The Pepper Spray Launcher is equipped with a multiple round deployment system, allowing users to deploy at least 14 projectiles with each CO2 cartridge. This feature is especially helpful in situations involving multiple intruders or when additional practice is needed.
Designed with a compact and lightweight design, the Pepper Spray Launcher is user-friendly and easy to reload. Each kit comes with instructions on how to safely load and unload projectiles and CO2 cartridges, ensuring a seamless experience for every user.
2. Iron Se Biometric Pistol Safe – Quick Access.

The ONNAIS Fingerprint Gun Safe is a must-have for any family who values safety and security. This quick-access gun safe is designed to keep your handguns out of reach from children or unauthorized individuals. With advanced biometric technology, this gun safe ensures that your contents are secure and accessible only to you.
The biometric fingerprint technology of this gun safe is proven to be more accurate and secure than traditional keypad locks. This technology allows for single-handed access to your firearm device, making it easier and quicker to access your contents when you need them most. The high-resolution fingerprint scanner can store up to 30 user fingerprints, providing access to multiple users.
Constructed with solid steel and anti-corrosion materials, this handgun safe is built to last. The lid of the safe is pry-resistant, providing ultimate protection for your contents. The interior of the safe is padded with soft foam to prevent scratches and can hold up to two standard size regular frame pistols or small items.
The ONNAIS Fingerprint Gun Safe is designed for portability and convenience. It can be kept in a drawer, cabinet, luggage, or any other spot that is easy for you to access. With its 3-way access system, this gun safe offers biometric access, keypad locks, and 2 backup override keys, ensuring that you can always access your guns.
At ONNAIS, customer satisfaction is a top priority. The company is committed to providing quality products and great customer service. If you have any concerns, the company encourages you to contact them directly for a satisfactory solution.
The exterior dimensions of the ONNAIS Fingerprint Gun Safe are 11.49" x 9.17" x 3.07", while the interior dimensions are 10.63" x 6.69" x 2.91". This gun safe is a reliable and secure storage solution for your firearms and other valuable items.
3. Magnum Home Defense Pepper Spray – Powerful Protection

Introducing the Proudly Made in the USA police pepper spray, a maximum strength OC formula designed to provide reliable self-defense protection trusted by multiple law enforcement agencies and security personnel. This pepper spray formula has been HPLC lab tested for consistent performance, ensuring you can count on it when you need it most.
With a powerful 1.33% MC, this pepper spray offers a strong 25-foot range and multiple blasts for added protection. The wide-angle fog feature allows for easy use, taking down multiple attackers without requiring pinpoint accuracy when firing.
This pepper spray canister is an ideal non-lethal safety tool for you and your family, providing peace of mind in uncertain situations. The easy one-hand operation allows for control and accuracy, ensuring you can defend yourself and your loved ones with confidence.
When sprayed across the eyes and nose of an attacker, this pepper spray offers stopping power that will incapacitate them for a minimum of 30 minutes, allowing you and your family to get to safety. With long-lasting effects, you can rest assured that you and your family are protected.
At the manufacturer, each batch of this large pepper spray fog canister is produced in small quantities, ensuring a full 4-year expiration date for your added convenience. And in the event that you need to use your OC spray, the manufacturer offers a replacement guarantee to give you added peace of mind.
Investing in personal safety is important, and the Proudly Made in the USA police pepper spray is an excellent option for anyone looking for reliable self-defense protection. With its superior stopping power, wide-angle fog, and easy-to-use design, this pepper spray can provide you with the added protection you need to navigate uncertain situations with confidence.
4. Sabre Pepper Gel: Compact Defense For Anywhere

When it comes to personal protection, SABRE is a brand that has earned the trust of both police and consumers alike, making it a leader in the personal safety category. The brand's pepper gel is proudly made in the USA, ensuring that it meets the highest standards of quality.
SABRE's professional-grade OC spray is backed by in-house lab testing, which guarantees maximum heat and stopping power in every burst. This eliminates the 30% failure rate that is commonly found in other pepper spray brands, as confirmed by a study conducted by the University of Utah.
Pepper gel is a safer option with a greater range than traditional pepper sprays. With an impressive 18 bursts deployed in a powerful stream of gel, it has an 18-foot (5.5 meter) range. Pepper gel also resists wind blowback, making it an ideal option for outdoor use, and can even be used indoors.
For those who are always on-the-go, the professional-grade pepper gel includes a belt holster for quick access. Its flip top safety allows for fast deployment in an emergency and also helps to prevent accidental discharge while carrying it in a bag.
In addition to its top-notch product, SABRE also offers free safety training to help customers feel more secure in the face of danger. The packaging includes links to free training videos, which can help users better prepare to use their SABRE Pepper Gel.
5. Sabre Red Pepper Gel – Home Defense Essential

The SABRE Pepper Spray brand is a trusted name, used by police and consumers worldwide, including the New York PD, Chicago PD, and U.S. Marshals. Made in the USA, this product has earned the reputation as the #1 Pepper Spray brand in the market.
SABRE's maximum strength Pepper Gel is 2X stronger than other brands, making it the perfect choice when faced with a goal-oriented attacker under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The product is backed by SABRE's industry exclusive in-house HPLC lab, ensuring that each canister contains maximum strength pepper gel.
This defense spray provides 5X more protection, as it has 32 maximum strength red pepper gel bursts and a true 25-foot (7.6m) range delivered in a powerful stream from the nozzle to the target's eyes. The design of the product decreases wind blowback, making it safe to use indoors.
SABRE's pistol grip with thumb trigger enhances aim and control, making it faster and easier to hit the target. The packaging includes a Wall Mount clip to keep the spray out of reach of children, while allowing for immediate access when seconds count.
As an added bonus, SABRE's packaging includes links to free Pepper Spray training videos and safety tips, providing customers with the tools to maximize their personal safety.
6. Auto Slide Pistol Safe With Biometric Access

This pistol gun safe is a highly secure and versatile product that can be installed in multiple locations. It has a slim vertical design that can be stored under a desk or nightstand, on the wall, sit on the floor discreetly on a bookshelf, or inconspicuously in a vehicle. The included mounting plate allows for multiple mounting configurations from right, left, or top side or sit on directly on the floor depending on desired preference.
Constructed from 16-gauge carbon steel with a durable finish, this pistol safe is the heaviest of its kind, weighing 12.5lbs. It has a tough and rugged slider design that ensures maximum security. The anti-theft protection includes a single anti-impact latch that keeps the safe securely locked under impact.
The latest high-resolution 508DPI biometric sensor capable of storing 20 unique fingerprints in any gun safe captures high-resolution fingerprint images with excellent match speed of less than 0.2 seconds for extra-fast entry. You can also use manual keys, and 4-8 digits PIN code for quick firearm access in the ready position.
Installation of the safe is easy and can be done from the top, left, right side of a flat surface using included screws or sit directly on the floor upright. The entire inside has a thick super dense foam, which ensures that the device does not move or shake while sliding out or pushing inside.
The safe features a wrong access beep and silent mode. The safe will beep and cannot be accessed by a PIN code if wrong access occurs three times. Additionally, you can turn off the sound. This is an important function when you have an intruder at night or want to use the safe without disturbing others.
The product comes with complete accessories, and the manufacturer offers 24/7 customer service. If you have any questions, you can contact the manufacturer through the order or email. So, if you're looking for a highly secure and versatile pistol safe, click the add to cart button now!
7. Mace Brand Pepper Spray Gun With Strobe Led Or Gun Holster, Black

The Mace Brand Pepper Gun is a reliable self-defense tool that combines advanced delivery technology with a powerful formula to protect you from long-range threats. It provides accurate and effective protection, with a power stream pattern that can reach up to 20 feet.
The pepper gun's formula contains OC pepper spray, which can cause respiratory distress and coughing, impaired vision, and an intense burning sensation to the skin. The added UV dye leaves a long-lasting residue to aid in investigation and identification.
The pepper gun also comes equipped with an integrated LED light that has a dual mode strobe function to distract threats and improve aim. Additionally, it is 100% TSA/FAA compliant for checked baggage airline travel. Please note that the Mace holster is sold separately.
The Mace Brand Pepper Gun is safe and easy to use, with a pistol-grip design that maximizes point-and-shoot accuracy. The slide-release switch helps prevent accidents or misfires, making it a reliable self-defense tool that is easy to handle.
8. Quickdraw Handgun Safe: Secure Protection Anywhere

Introducing the Single Pistol Safe, a reliable and secure solution for firearms storage. As a responsible gun owner, safety is of utmost importance, especially when children are present. That's why this pistol safe was designed with your family's protection in mind.
One of the standout features of this handgun safe is its versatility. It can be mounted on your nightstand, desk, wall, dresser, or anywhere you prefer to keep your firearm within reach. The LED interior lighting makes it easy to locate your pistol in low light settings.
This quick access pistol safe is designed with a drop-down drawer that opens discreetly and swiftly. You can access your firearm in the shortest time possible, without fumbling around for it in the dark.
Built with a premium structure, this handgun safe is made of thicker steel and lined with foam to protect your sidearm from damage and abrasions. The foam lining also reduces rattling and positions your handgun for quick retrieval.
Programming this wall safe is simple and straightforward. Just follow the instructions, and you'll have it set up in no time. You won't need an expert, and you can rest assured that your weapon is safe from unauthorized access.
9. Mace Pepper Gun – Accurate Defense Spray

The Mace Brand Pepper Gun 2.0 is the perfect personal protection device for people who value their safety. This advanced delivery system combines powerful maximum strength formula with a power stream pattern to protect you from long-range threats up to 20 ft. away.
This OC pepper spray formula causes respiratory distress, coughing, impaired vision, and an intense burning sensation to the skin, making it a highly effective personal safety device. Additionally, the UV dye leaves a long-lasting residue to support investigation and identification.
Included with this Mace self defense spray is an integrated dual mode LED strobe light that distracts threats and enhances aim. The picatinny rail allows for accessory attachments with this Mace pepper spray gun, making it a versatile tool for personal safety.
Designed with safety and ease of use in mind, this Mace Brand pepper spray gun features an easy-to-load and pistol-grip design that maximizes point-and-shoot accuracy for your personal defense. The slide-release switch also prevents accidents or misfires, making it a safe and reliable tool for self-defense.
The Mace Brand is a trusted name in the pepper spray industry. Made in the USA, they continue to innovate the industry with powerful formulas, fast-acting delivery systems, and new safety features that ensure the ultimate in protection and peace of mind. Remember that not all pepper sprays are created equal, so trust the Mace Brand for your personal protection needs.
10. Fireball Pepper Gun: Ultimate Non-Lethal Defense

The Fireball Pepper Spray Launcher is a powerful and versatile self-defense tool that is engineered to last and built to protect. It is a semi-automatic gun that is powered by a 12-gram CO2 cartridge and features an easy-to-load 6-round magazine, enabling rapid fire and quick reaction times.
One of the key features of this pepper spray launcher is its safe range protection, with an effective range of up to 60 ft and a projectile speed of 450 feet per second. This enables you to keep a safe distance from potential attackers while still being able to defend yourself effectively.
Unlike other firearms, the Fireball Pepper Spray Launcher does not require any permits or background checks to own and carry. However, buyers must be 18 years or older to purchase.
The Fireball Pepper Spray Launcher also offers multiple projectile options to suit your needs. Pepper rounds are available for self-defense, while rubber balls are ideal for training. Additionally, powder balls can be used for realistic training without the pepper. You can choose the ideal load for your situation and needs.
Despite its gun-like appearance and performance, the Fireball Pepper Spray Launcher is designed to be non-lethal, reducing the risk of serious harm or injury.
In the box, you will receive the Fireball pepper launcher, Eco-Kinetic Training Ammunition (5 ct.), 2 (two) Kinetic Training / Self Defense Ammunition Tubes (10 ct. total), 8g CO2 Canisters (7 ct.), and an additional bag of Kinetic Training / Self Defense Ammunition (50 ct.).
Best Pistols For Home Defense FAQs
Are there any legal considerations I should be aware of when choosing a home defense pistol?
When choosing a home defense pistol, there are several legal considerations that you should be aware of. First and foremost, you need to ensure that you are legally allowed to own a firearm in your state or region. This can vary depending on where you live and your criminal history.
Additionally, you need to ensure that the pistol you choose is legal to own and use for self-defense purposes. Some states have restrictions on certain types of firearms or ammunition, so it is important to research your state's laws and regulations before making a purchase.
Another important consideration is how you store your firearm. You must store your firearm in a safe and secure manner to prevent unauthorized access and ensure the safety of those around you. Failure to do so could result in legal consequences.
Lastly, if you ever have to use your firearm in self-defense, you must be able to prove that you acted in a reasonable and justifiable manner. This means that you should only use your firearm as a last resort and in a situation where you or someone else's life is in immediate danger.
Overall, it is important to educate yourself on the legal considerations surrounding firearms and home defense before making any purchases or taking any actions.
Can a revolver be a good choice for home defense?
Yes, a revolver can be a good choice for home defense. Revolvers have a simple and reliable design that makes them easy to use and maintain. They are also known for their accuracy and stopping power, which are essential characteristics for any home defense firearm.
One advantage of a revolver is that it is easy to operate. There are no complicated safety mechanisms or magazines to worry about. All you need to do is pull the trigger, and the revolver will fire. This simplicity makes revolvers an excellent choice for people who are new to firearms or who have limited experience with them.
Another benefit of using a revolver for home defense is its stopping power. A revolver typically fires a larger caliber bullet than a semi-automatic pistol, which can cause more damage to an intruder and stop them in their tracks. This can be critical in a high-stress situation where accuracy may be compromised.
Overall, while there are many different types of firearms that can be used for home defense, a revolver can be a reliable and effective option, especially for those who value simplicity and stopping power. However, it's important to receive proper training and practice regularly with any firearm to ensure you can use it safely and effectively in a high-stress situation.
How important is reliability when selecting a home defense pistol?
Reliability is absolutely crucial when selecting a home defense pistol. In a high-stress situation, the last thing you want to worry about is whether or not your firearm will function properly. A reliable pistol should be able to fire consistently without malfunctions or stoppages.
When it comes to home defense, your pistol is your first line of defense against intruders. If your pistol fails to fire or malfunctions, you may not have time to fix the issue and could be left defenseless. This is why it's essential to choose a pistol that is known for its reliability.
To ensure reliability, it's important to choose a pistol that has been thoroughly tested and proven to function consistently. Additionally, regular maintenance and cleaning are necessary to keep your pistol in top working order.
In summary, reliability should be a top consideration when selecting a home defense pistol. It can mean the difference between life and death in a high-stress situation, and choosing a reliable pistol can provide peace of mind knowing that it will function properly when you need it most.
Should I choose a semi-automatic or a revolver for home defense?
Choosing a firearm for home defense is a serious decision that requires careful consideration. Both semi-automatic pistols and revolvers are popular choices for home defense, and each has its advantages and disadvantages.
Semi-automatic pistols are easy to use and offer high capacity magazines, which means you can shoot more rounds without having to reload. They are also more customizable and offer a variety of features such as different grip sizes, adjustable sights, and accessory rails to add lights and lasers.
On the other hand, revolvers are simple to operate, reliable, and have a classic design. They also have fewer moving parts, which means they are less likely to malfunction. Revolvers are also available in larger calibers, which can be beneficial for stopping power.
Ultimately, the choice between a semi-automatic and a revolver for home defense depends on personal preference, experience, and skill level. It is recommended to try out both types of firearms at a shooting range and receive proper training to make an informed decision that fits your needs and abilities. Additionally, it is important to consider factors such as ease of use, accuracy, and accessibility when storing the firearm in your home for quick access during an emergency situation.
What are the most common mistakes people make when selecting a home defense pistol?
When it comes to selecting a home defense pistol, there are some common mistakes that people tend to make. One of the most common mistakes is selecting a pistol that is too large or too small for their hands. This can result in a lack of control and accuracy when firing the weapon. Another mistake is selecting a pistol solely based on its appearance or reputation, rather than testing it out and ensuring that it is comfortable and easy to use.
Additionally, people often overlook the importance of training and practice with their home defense pistol. Simply owning a firearm does not automatically make someone prepared to use it in a high-stress situation. It is important to regularly train and practice with the pistol, as well as familiarize oneself with its safety features and proper maintenance.
Lastly, people may also overlook the importance of selecting the right ammunition for their home defense pistol. It is important to choose ammunition that is reliable and effective in stopping an intruder, while also being mindful of over-penetration and the potential for collateral damage.
Overall, selecting a home defense pistol should involve careful consideration of factors such as size, comfort, training, and ammunition selection. It is important to prioritize functionality and effectiveness over appearance or reputation.
What are the top-rated pistols for home defense?
When it comes to choosing a pistol for home defense, there are several factors to consider such as reliability, accuracy, ease of use, and stopping power. Based on these factors, some of the top-rated pistols for home defense are the Glock 19, Sig Sauer P320, Smith & Wesson M&P9, and Springfield Armory XD(M).
The Glock 19 is a popular choice for home defense due to its reliability and ease of use. It has a 15+1 capacity and is known for its accuracy and durability.
The Sig Sauer P320 is another reliable option with a modular design that allows for customization and easy maintenance. It has a 17+1 capacity and is known for its smooth trigger pull.
The Smith & Wesson M&P9 is a versatile pistol with a customizable grip and a 17+1 capacity. It is known for its accuracy and reliability.
The Springfield Armory XD(M) is a popular choice for its high-capacity magazine (19+1) and its accuracy. It also has a grip safety feature for added security.
Ultimately, the best pistol for home defense will depend on personal preference and comfort level. It is important to train regularly with any firearm and ensure it is stored safely and securely.
What features should I look for in a home defense pistol?
When it comes to choosing a home defense pistol, there are several features that you should consider. The first and foremost feature is reliability. You want to choose a pistol that is known for its dependability and won't jam or malfunction when you need it the most.
Another important feature is accuracy. You want a pistol that is easy to shoot accurately and has a good sight picture. This will allow you to quickly and effectively neutralize any threats in your home.
Additionally, you should look for a pistol that is easy to handle and has a comfortable grip. A pistol that fits well in your hand and is easy to control will allow you to shoot more accurately and with greater confidence.
Finally, you should consider the caliber of the pistol. A larger caliber can deliver more stopping power, but it may also be more difficult to handle. Ultimately, the best home defense pistol is one that you feel comfortable shooting and can rely on to protect yourself and your family in a crisis situation.
What is the best budget-friendly pistol for home defense?
When it comes to selecting a budget-friendly pistol for home defense, there are a few factors to consider. First and foremost, reliability is key. You want a pistol that you can depend on to function properly when you need it most. Additionally, ease of use and accuracy are important factors to consider.
One option that often comes up in discussions of budget-friendly pistols for home defense is the Smith & Wesson SD9VE. This pistol is known for its reliability and affordability, with a price point that is often lower than many other pistols in its class. It also has a comfortable grip and a manageable recoil, making it easy to handle and shoot accurately.
Another option to consider is the Ruger Security-9. This pistol is also known for its reliability and affordability, and it has a slim profile that makes it easy to handle and conceal. It also has a high-capacity magazine, which can be a plus in a home defense situation.
Ultimately, the best budget-friendly pistol for home defense will depend on your personal preferences and needs. It's important to handle and test out different options to find the one that feels most comfortable and reliable for you.
What is the ideal barrel length for a home defense pistol?
The ideal barrel length for a home defense pistol depends on a few factors such as the shooter's skill level, the type of ammunition used, and the layout of the home. In general, a barrel length of 3-5 inches is considered suitable for home defense pistols. Shorter barrels provide better maneuverability in close quarters, while longer barrels offer increased accuracy and velocity.
It's important to note that barrel length is just one of the many factors that contribute to the effectiveness of a home defense pistol. Other factors such as grip, sight picture, trigger pull, and ergonomics are equally important. Additionally, it's crucial to choose the right caliber and ammunition that can effectively stop an intruder without overpenetrating through walls and endangering innocent bystanders.
Ultimately, the best approach is to choose a home defense pistol that you are comfortable shooting and can handle effectively. Regular practice and training are also crucial to ensure that you can respond quickly and effectively in a high-stress situation.
Which handgun caliber is best for home defense?
Choosing the best handgun caliber for home defense can be a difficult decision as there are several factors to consider. However, most experts would agree that a caliber between 9mm and .45 ACP is ideal for home defense purposes. These calibers are powerful enough to stop an intruder but also have manageable recoil for accurate and quick follow-up shots if needed.
It's important to note that the effectiveness of a handgun caliber also depends on the type of ammunition used. Hollow point bullets are the most recommended for home defense as they expand upon impact, causing maximum damage to the target and minimizing the risk of overpenetration.
Ultimately, the best handgun caliber for home defense is the one that you are most comfortable and proficient with. It's essential to practice regularly with your chosen caliber and to ensure that your firearm is properly stored and secured when not in use.