10 Best Handguns for Home Defense: Protect Your Home with Confidence
When it comes to protecting your home and loved ones, the handgun you choose can be the difference between peace of mind and uncertainty. The need for a reliable, powerful, and easy-to-use firearm is essential in any home defense situation. However, selecting the right handgun can be challenging given the vast number of options available. With countless models designed for various shooting styles and preferences, it’s crucial to understand the features that make certain handguns stand out in home defense scenarios.
Whether you’re a seasoned firearm owner or a first-time buyer, finding the right handgun involves more than just a powerful caliber. It requires consideration of factors such as magazine capacity, trigger quality, recoil management, and overall ergonomics. In this blog, we’ll delve into the Top 10 Handguns for Home Defense in 2024, highlighting their features, advantages, and what makes them the best options for safeguarding your home.
- Sig Sauer P365 9MM X-SERIES
One of the P365-9MM X-SERIES’s most notable features is its 17+1 round magazine capacity which is quite impressive for a pistol with such a sleek and compact design. This bridges the gap between full-size and compact handguns as the users don’t have to give up on ammunition for concealment. The 17+1 round capacity is apt for defensive scenarios where having extra rounds can make a difference.
| Manufacturer | Sig Sauer |
| Pricing Unit | GN |
| Model | P365 |
| UPC | 798681671205 |
| SKU | 365XCA9BXR3 |
| Width | $7.30 |
| Length | 10.3 |
| Height | 2.8 |
| Weight | 2.675 |
| Accessories | 2 Mags |
| Action | Striker Fire |
| Barrel Description | Carbon Steel |
| Barrel Finish | Black |
| Barrel Length | 3.70″ |
| Barrel Length In Inches | 3.7 |
| Barrel Material | Carbon Steel |
| Caliber/Gauge | 9mm Luger (9×19 Parabellum) |
| Capacity | 17 |
| Description | Optics Ready |
| Dimension | 2.65 X 7.25 X 10.20 |
| Finish | Nitron |
| Finish/color | Nitron |
| Frame Color | Black |
| Frame Description | Polymer Frame w/Beavertail & Picatinny Rail |
| Frame Finish | Black |
| Frame Material | Stainless Steel |
| Frame Size | Compact |
| Grip Material | POLYMER |
| Grips | Black Interchangeable Backstrap |
| Height | 5.20″ |
| Includes | 2 Magazines |
| Magazine | 2 17 rd. Steel Magazines |
| Number Of Magazines Included | 2 |
| Oal | 6.60″ |
| Safety | No |
| Series | XMacro |
| Sight Configuration | XRAY3 Day/Night |
| Sight Style | Night |
| Sights | Night Sights |
| Similar Items | HG9MM |
| Size | Sub-Compact |
| Slide Color | BLACK |
| Slide Description | Optic Ready/Serrated |
| Slide Finish | Black Nitron |
| Slide Material | Stainless Steel |
| Trigger | Flat Face |
| Type | Striker Fired |
| Type Action Function | SEMI-AUTO |
| Type Of Sights | NIGHT SIGHTS |
| Weight | 22 oz |
| Weight In Ounces | 22 |
| Width | 1.10″ |
- Glock 20 Gen5 MOS
An improved version of the Gen3, the Glock 20 Gen5 MOS offers many enhancements and upgrades in the 10mm handgun market. Among the most potent semi-automatic handguns on the market is this one. Hunters and those looking for a dependable, high-impact sidearm have traditionally preferred it.
The revised grip design is one of the most notable upgrades to the Glock 20 Gen5 MOS. Compared to the Gen3, which some users found difficult to use, the Gen5 has a more ergonomic grip circumference, fully curved edges, and no bulge. A more comfortable and controlled shooting experience is offered by its revised grip.
| Specification | GLOCK 20 GEN5 MOS 10MM 4.61 3 15RD |
| Manufacturer | Glock |
| Model | 20 Gen5 |
| UPC | 764503054273 |
| SKU | PA205S203MOS |
| Weight(With loaded magazine) | 38.80 oz (3.6000 lbs) |
| Accessories | 3 Mags |
| Action | Safe Action |
| Barrel Description | GMB |
| Barrel Finish | Black |
| Barrel Length | 4.61″ |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Caliber/Gauge | 10mm Auto |
| Capacity | 15 |
| Description | Optics Ready |
| Frame Color | Black |
| Frame Description | Polymer Frame w/Picatinny Rail |
| Frame Material | Polymer |
| Frame Size | Standard |
| Grip Material | Polymer |
| Grip Type | Interchangeable |
| Sights | Fixed Glock Sights |
| Safety | Firing Pin/Trigger Block |
| Series | Gen5 MOS |
| Slide Color | Black |
| Slide Description | Serrated |
| Slide Finish | Black nDLC |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Type | Striker Fired |
| Weight | 38.80 oz |
| Width | 1.38″ |
| Length | 10.50″ |
| Height | 5.51″ |
| Includes | 3 Magazines/Mag Loader/Cleaning Kit/Pistol Case/Backstrap Set/Gun Lock |
| OAL | 8.07″ |
| Magazine Capacity | 15 |
| Max Chamber Size | 15 |
| Finish | COLORED |
| Finish/Color | nDLC |
| Grips | Black Interchangeable Backstrap |
- Glock 48 MOS
The Glock 48 MOS is part of the well-known Glock family, a model that exemplifies reliability, precision, and cutting-edge design. The slim and compact frame of this firearm makes it a perfect choice for those needing a balance between concealable carry and powerful performance. Chambered in 9mm Luger, the Glock 48 delivers consistent reliability, while its 4.17-inch barrel ensures impressive accuracy without contributing unnecessary bulk. One of the most prominent features of the G48 MOS is its slim profile and lightweight construction, making it an excellent choice for concealed carry. The G48 can be comfortably carried inside the waistband or in a shoulder holster, as its width is 1.10 inches and weight is 18.48 ounces.
| Feature | Specification |
| Manufacturer | Glock |
| Model | G48 |
| Caliber | 9mm Luger (9x19mm Parabellum) |
| Finish | Matte Black / Gas Nitride (nPVD) |
| Action | Safe Action (DAO) |
| Frame | Black Polymer |
| Barrel Length | 4.17 inches |
| Overall Length | 7.28 inches |
| Weight | 18.48 oz (Weight may vary with accessories) |
| Capacity | 10+1 (10 rounds + 1 in chamber) |
| Number of Magazines | 2 |
| Safety | Safe Action, Trigger, Firing Pin, Drop Safety |
| Sight Configuration | Fixed White Dot Front, White Outline Rear |
| Sight Style | Fixed |
| Slide Finish | Black nDLC Steel with MOS Cuts |
| Grip Material | Polymer with Textured Beavertail Grip |
| Hand | Right-Handed |
| Frame Size | Slim Compact |
| Includes | 2 Magazines, Cleaning Set, Mag Loader, Cable Lock, Pistol Case |
| Type of Action | Striker Fired |
| Magazine Capacity | 10 rounds per magazine |
| Price | $569.33 |
- Glock 40 Gen4 10mm
The Glock 40 Gen4 in 10mm Auto is a powerful pistol made for people who value accuracy, toughness, and adaptability. The Glock 40 delivers a remarkable blend of features and functionality, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a dependable personal defense weapon, hunter, or tactical shooter.
Its advanced safety features and durable construction ensure it’s ready when you need it most.
| Attribute | GLOCK 40 M.O.S. |
| Item | B2_GLOCK_G40415MOSAUT |
| SKU | G40415MOSAUT |
| Model | 40 M.O.S. |
| UPC | 764503048005 |
| Price | $777.33 |
| Manufacturer | Glock |
| Width | 9.5 inches |
| Length | 10.5 inches |
| Height | 2.5 inches |
| Weight | 4.63 lbs |
| Accessories | 3 Mags, Mag Loader, Cleaning Kit, Pistol Case, Backstrap Set, Gun Lock |
| Action | DAO (Double Action Only) |
| Barrel Description | Hammer Forged |
| Barrel Length | 6.02 inches |
| Caliber/Gauge | 10mm Auto |
| Capacity | 15 rounds |
| Finish | Gas Nitride |
| Frame Color | Black |
| Frame Description | Polymer Frame w/Picatinny Rail |
| Grip Material | Polymer |
| Grip Type | Interchangeable |
| Grips | Black Textured Finger Grooved w/Interchangeable Backstrap |
| Hand | Right |
| Magazine | 3 10-rounds |
| Sight Configuration | Adjustable |
| Sight Style | Adjustable Glock Sights |
| Slide Description | Serrated/Long w/MOS Cuts |
| Slide Finish | Matte Black |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Safety Features | Trigger/Firing Pin/Drop |
| Weight Range | 32 oz to 47.99 oz |
| Overall Length (OAL) | 9.49 inches |
- SIG P365X
When it comes to concealed carry firearms, the SIG P365X series has earned a reputation as one of the best options on the market today. The P365X models from SIG Sauer, a market leader in the compact pistol market, combine comfort, performance, and adaptability into a premium package. The P365X was primarily designed to fulfill the needs of law enforcement, regular carriers, and anyone who is looking for a reliable self-defense weapon, and it successfully delivered remarkable features in a small frame.
| Specification | P365X (2x12RD) |
| Model | P365X |
| SKU | 365X9BXR3RXX |
| Caliber | 9mm Luger (9×19) |
| Barrel Length | 3.1 inches |
| Capacity | 12 rounds (2 magazines) |
| Action | Striker Fired |
| Sights | X-RAY3 Day/Night Sights |
| Slide | Optic Ready, Serrated |
| Trigger | XSeries Flat |
| Frame Material | Stainless Steel w/ Picatinny Rail |
| Frame Size | Micro-Compact |
| Grips | Black Polymer |
| Weight | 17.8 oz |
| Safety | Manual Safety |
| Finish | Black Nitron Finish |
| Price | $953.80 |
| Special Features | Optic Ready, X-RAY3 sights, Striker Fired |
- CZ 75 B
Few models of recognized firearms have had the same influence or durability as the CZ 75B. One of the most admired and imitated pistols in the world is this semi-automatic pistol, which was designed and manufactured by Česká zbrojovka (CZ). It is a favorite among fans, police enforcement, and military personnel thanks to its outstanding reputation for accuracy, durability, and innovative design.
| Attribute | Details |
| Manufacturer | CZ |
| Pricing Unit | GN |
| Model | CZ 75 B |
| UPC | 806703911021 |
| SKU | 91102 |
| Width | 8.4 |
| Length | 11.6 |
| Height | 2.6 |
| Weight | 3.7600 lbs |
| Accessories | 2 Mags |
| Action | DA/SA |
| Barrel Description | Hammer Forged, Non-Tilted |
| Barrel Length | 4.60″ |
| Barrel Length (Inches) | 4.7 |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Barrel Type | Cold Hammer-Forged |
| Caliber/Gauge | 9mm Luger (9×19 Parabellum) |
| Capacity | 16 |
| Dimension | 2.60 X 8.35 X 11.60 |
| Finish | COLORED |
| Finish/Color | Black |
| Frame Color | Black |
| Frame Description | Steel w/Serrated Triggered Guard & Beavertail |
| Frame Finish | Black Polycoat |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Grip Material | Rubber |
| Grip Type | Plastic |
| Grips | Black Plastic |
| Hand | Right |
| Height | 5.40″ |
| Includes | 2 Magazines |
| Magazine | 2 x 16 rd. |
| Max Chamber Size | 16 |
| Number of Magazines | 2 |
| Overall Length (OAL) | 8.10″ |
| Safety | Firing Pin/Hammer/Manual |
| Series | B |
| Sight Configuration | 3-Dot Fixed |
| Sight Style | Fixed |
| Sights | Fixed Sights |
| Similar Items | HG9MM |
| Size | Full Size |
| Slide Color | Black |
| Slide Description | Inside Railed |
| Slide Finish | Black |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Type | DA/SA |
| Type Action Function | Semi-Auto |
| Type of Sights | Fixed |
| Weight | 35.20 oz |
| Weight (Ounces) | 34 |
| Weight Range | 32 oz to 47.99 oz |
| Width | 1.40″ |
- B&T TP9
This 9mm Luger-caliber semi-automatic pistol offers top-notch performance for all types of shooters whether they are professionals or firearms collection enthusiasts.
B&T is known for its innovative designs in firearms and tactical solutions and has crafted the TP9 with precision and efficiency in mind. Designed for optimal performance in close-quarter battles, law enforcement use, or as a premium addition to your firearms collection, the TP9 exemplifies reliability.
| Attribute | Details |
| Manufacturer | B&T |
| Pricing Unit | GN |
| Model | TP9 |
| UPC | 840225705706 |
| SKU | 30105NUS |
| Width | 10.0000 inches |
| Length | 14.7000 inches |
| Height | 4.9000 inches |
| Weight | 4.7600 lbs |
| Accessories | 1 Mag |
| Action | Semi-Auto |
| Barrel Finish | Black |
| Barrel Length | 5.10″ |
| Caliber/Gauge | 9mm Luger (9×19 Parabellum) |
| Capacity | 30 |
| Finish | Black |
| Grip Type | B&T |
| Grips | Black Polymer |
| Magazine | 1 x 30 rd. |
| Overall Length | 11.90″ |
| Receiver Finish | Black |
| Safety | Ambidextrous |
| Sights | Iron |
| Similar Items | HGT9MM |
| Twist | 1:10″ |
| Weight (lbs) | 3.75 lbs |
| Weight Range | 3 lbs to 3.99 lbs |
| Price | $2,520.00 |
- Beretta 80X Cheetah .380 ACP
The 80X Cheetah carries forward this legacy with modern refinements that meet today’s standards for concealed carry. The name “Cheetah” itself brings to mind agility, reliability, and a long-standing reputation for high-quality engineering. Beretta has kept this essence while upgrading the pistol’s ergonomics, reliability, and functionality for the modern shooter.
| Attribute | Details |
| Item | B2_BER_SPEC0713A |
| SKU | SPEC0713A |
| Model | 80X |
| UPC | 82442976907 |
| Price | $1,133.48 |
| Manufacturer | Beretta USA |
| Action | DA/SA |
| Barrel Length | 3.9 in |
| Caliber | .380 ACP |
| Grip Width | 1.06 in (at grip radius) |
| Magazine Capacity | 13 Rounds |
| Overall Height | 4.9 in |
| Overall Length | 6.8 in |
| Overall Width | 1.4 in |
| Sight Radius | 133 mm |
| Weight (Unloaded) | 25 oz |
| Frame Material | Polymer |
| Frame Finish | OD Green |
| Grip Material | Rubber |
| Grips | Black Vertec |
| Sight Configuration | Interchangeable Front Sight, White Dot |
| Safety | Decocker |
| Includes | 2 Magazines, Leather Pistol Case |
| Trigger | X-treme S, Adjustable Overtravel |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Slide Finish | Black, Optic-Ready/Serrated |
| Weight | 33 oz |
| Frame Description | Polymer Frame w/ Beavertail & Picatinny Rail |
| Finish | Colored |
| Slide Description | Optic Ready/Serrated |
| Barrel Description | Steel, Black Inox |
| Dimensions | 13.1 in x 14 in x 4 in |
| Type of Sights | Fixed |
| Type Action Function | Semi-Auto |
| Series | Cheetah |
| Includes | Magazine, Leather Pistol Case |
| Similar Items | HG380 |
- Glock 21 Gen5 MOS
The Modular Optic System and Glock Marksman Barrel significantly improve the accuracy of the Glock 21. With the help of these features the pistol efficiently covers short and long-range targets delivering consistent results.
The high stopping power and the reliable build make this firearm a considerable choice for self-defense scenarios or emergency situations.
| Attributes | GLOCK UA215S203MOS G21 45ACP |
| Item | B2_GLOCK_UA215S203MOS |
| SKU | UA215S203MOS |
| Model | G21 |
| UPC | 764503059797 |
| Price | $728.00 |
| Manufacturer | Glock |
| Caliber/Gauge | .45 ACP/Auto |
| System | Safe Action |
| Barrel Length | 4.61 inches |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Barrel Description | Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB) |
| Slide Finish | Black nDLC |
| Frame Material | Polymer |
| Grip Material | Polymer |
| Frame Finish | Black |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Action | Semi-Auto |
| Capacity | 13 rounds |
| Sights | Fixed Sights |
| Weight Without Magazine | 25.93 oz |
| Weight With Magazine | 29.10 oz |
| Weight Loaded | 38.62 oz |
| Overall Length (OAL) | 8.07 inches |
| Width | 1.38 inches |
| Height | 5.51 inches |
| Accessories | 3 Magazines, Mag Loader, Cleaning Kit, Pistol Case, Gun Lock |
| Other Features | Optics Ready, Enlarged Magwell, Ambidextrous Slide Stop Lever |
| Customizability | Interchangeable Backstraps for Grip Size Adjustment |
- Smith & Wesson Model 19 Classic
The Smith & Wesson Model 19 Classic is known for its aesthetic design that is preferred by many shooters for its great historical significance, unmatched craftsmanship, and most importantly, the modern performance it delivers. For a gun collector, a recreational shooter, or someone who is seeking a reliable firearm for self-defense purposes, the Model 19 is a perfect choice for multiple reasons. The .357 Magnum is built to deliver superior stopping power which is crucial for self-defense scenarios, the revolver’s reliability additionally makes it a solid option for home defense. The simple operation of the Model 19 offers confidence in high-pressure situations.
| Attribute | Details |
| Item | B2_SW_12040 |
| SKU | 12040 |
| Model | Model 19 |
| UPC | 22188874969 |
| Price | $1,092.00 |
| Manufacturer | Smith & Wesson |
| Pricing Unit | GN |
| Action | DA/SADouble Action/Single Action |
| Barrel Description | 4.25″ |
| Barrel Finish | Blued |
| Barrel Length | 4.25″ |
| Barrel Length in Inches | 4.25 |
| Barrel Type | Stainless |
| Caliber/Gauge | .357 Mag |
| Capacity | 6 |
| Cylinder Capacity | 6 |
| Cylinder Finish | Blued |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 3.20 X 8.50 X 13.00 |
| Finish | Blue |
| Firearm Type | Revolver |
| Frame Color | Blued |
| FrameDescription | Carbon Steel |
| Frame Designation | K FRAME |
| Frame Finish | Blued |
| Frame Material | Carbon Steel |
| Frame Size | Medium K-Frame |
| Grip Type | Wood |
| Grips | Custom Wood |
| Grips Material | Wood |
| Hammer Style | Exposed |
| Hammer Type | Standard |
| Overall Length (OAL) | 9.90″ |
| Safety | Internal Lock |
| Series | Classic |
| Sight Type | Adjustable |
| Sights | Red Ramp Front/Adjustable Black Blade Rear |
| Similar Items | HG3574 |
| Stock | Steel Frame /Custom Wood Grips |
| Trigger Type | Standard |
| Type | DA/SA |
| Weight | 37.20 oz |
| Weight in Ounces | 37.12 |
| Weight Range | 32 oz to 47.99 oz |
| Width | 8.5 |
| Length | 12.9 |
| Height | 3.2 |
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right handgun for home defense is not a one-size-fits-all decision. With a multitude of options available, it’s crucial to find a firearm that matches your shooting style, comfort level, and safety needs. The handguns featured in this guide offer a diverse range of features, including high-capacity magazines, powerful calibers, and advanced optics-ready systems, ensuring you’re well-equipped to defend your home effectively.
Whether you’re prioritizing stopping power, compactness for concealed carry, or tactical accuracy, the 10 Best Handguns for Home Defense provide the best choices on the market. No matter which handgun you choose, rest assured that each one on this list is built to offer reliability, precision, and peace of mind when it matters most. Always remember to practice proper firearm safety and training, ensuring you’re prepared in any situation.
Please Note: Product pricing and availability may vary. Please verify current pricing and stock information from our website at https://www.bigstonesarmory.com.