Home security is a real concern for many people, especially those living in the suburbs and other areas with high crime rates.
Many of these homes have security systems installed to prevent burglars from breaking into their houses while they’re away at work or on vacation.
Still, it would take more than just sensors and alarms to protect your loved ones if someone were determined enough to break into your home. So if you’re looking for ways to protect your home and loved ones, you should consider getting a weapon.
There are many different types of weapons that you can choose from, but before you purchase, you need to understand the laws in your state and what is legally allowed for self-defense. Here are the top ten weapons for your homestead!
10 Best Homestead Defensive Weapons
1: 30-06
There are many rifles on the market, but few can compare to the power and versatility of the 30-06. In addition, this rifle has been around for nearly a hundred years with no major design shifts to speak of, which in itself is an impressive feat.
It can be used for hunting or defense with equal ease. The rounds it fires are powerful enough to take down most game animals in North America, yet manageable enough that they don’t destroy edible meat on impact like some bullets do.
And while most weapons require regular maintenance and cleaning after use, this one doesn’t because its gas system vents away all burned gunpowder before ejecting spent casings, so there isn’t any residue left in the gun to gum up the works.
2: 12 Gauge Shotgun
Shotguns are a must-have for any homestead, and the 12 gauge is the king of them all. It’s versatile enough to be used for hunting small game or birds and larger animals like deer or hogs.
And with buckshot rounds, it can also be effective at close-range self-defense. Another big plus is that ammunition is widely available and relatively inexpensive, so you can stockpile plenty without breaking the bank.
As a bonus, a shotgun doesn’t require much maintenance aside from keeping it clean and free of corrosion after use.
3: AR-15 Rifle
The AR-15 rifle has gained widespread popularity due to its modular design, which allows it to be customized for various applications.
For example, it’s ideal for medium-sized game such as deer or elk, and it can also be used for home defense against larger intruders and threats.
Other advantages include the rifle’s high level of accuracy, even at long ranges of 500 yards or more, which makes it an excellent choice for long-range shooting competitions.
And while the AR-15 appears to be a costly firearm at first glance, it is actually quite affordable compared to other rifles of similar design.
4: Pistol
Any list of firearms for self-defense should always include a pistol as a standard item. The.45 ACP is one of the best handgun calibers available.
Anyone can use a pistol effectively in close quarters combat if they receive the proper training. Furthermore, they are simple to conceal and do not take up much space, making them ideal for when you’re on the go.
Another significant advantage is that pistols are reasonably priced, and many models are available for purchase. For self-defense purposes, a pistol is the best choice if you only have one firearm available.
5: Bow and Arrow
An old-fashioned bow and arrow may not seem like the most practical choice for self-defense, but when used correctly, they can be just as deadly as any other weapon.
And with practice, you can become quite proficient at using them. Bows also have the advantage of being very quiet, so you can use them without giving away your position. They’re also great for hunting small game in close quarters.
The only downside is that bows require regular maintenance and tuning to stay in good condition. So while they may not be the best choice for everyone, they can be a deadly weapon in the right hands.
6: Flintlock Rifle
The flintlock rifle was the first successful firearm design, and it’s still prevalent today among collectors and enthusiasts.
This type of rifle also has very low recoil, so even novice shooters can be effective. In addition, flintlock rifles are available in both pistol and long gun formats, making them perfect for various uses.
And while they may not be as common as some other firearms, they’re still readily available if you know where to look.
7: .50 Caliber Sniper Rifle
A .50 caliber sniper rifle is an excellent choice for long-range shooting competitions or hunting large game like deer, elk, moose, and bear from a safe distance away. However, they also have many other uses, especially self-defense against humans.
The sheer power behind this type of rifle will knock an attacker off his feet with just one shot making it an effective weapon that doesn’t require much skill to use correctly.
In addition, these rifles are relatively affordable, making them accessible to most people who want one.
8: Pump Shotgun
Compared to other firearms, the pump shotgun may not be as accurate at longer ranges, but it stops power more than makes up for it.
Therefore, close-quarters combat with this type of a shotgun is ideal, particularly in urban environments where shots are more likely to be fired at close range.
A pump shotgun can also be used for hunting small and large game, provided that the ammunition is appropriate for the situation. They’re also very affordable and simple to use, making them an excellent choice for first-time shooters.
9: Sawed Shotgun
A sawed shotgun is a must-have weapon for any self-defense plan. Plus, you can use them in various situations with the proper training. They come in many different kinds of formats so that you can choose the best suits your needs.
And while they may not be as long-range as some other firearms, they still pack a punch when it comes to stopping an attacker.
10: Bowie Knife
A Bowie knife is a large, fixed-blade knife invented by Jim Bowie in the early nineteenth century.
It can be used for various tasks, such as cutting through brush or defending yourself against an attacker, making it ideal for hunting and self-defense.
Furthermore, because it has a long blade, you can keep your target at a safe distance while still inflicting damage on them. Bowie knives are also reasonably priced and can be found at most sporting goods stores and online retailers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I get my weapons permit?
To get a weapons permit, you’ll need to visit your local law enforcement agency and complete an application. Be prepared to provide proof of residency, your driver’s license, and a completed background check. You will only require a firearms safety course certificate in some states before carrying concealed weapons in some states. Still, other states may have more stringent requirements such as background checks and state-specific training courses that must first be completed.
What kind of firearm is good for beginners?
If you’re a complete newbie, you probably want to start with something inexpensive and easy to use. Handguns may be a good idea — ideally one that doesn’t require certification for purchase (though hunting licenses may still be required). .22s are usually the best entry-level long guns, as they are inexpensive and easy to use. If not, aim for something like a 20 ga shotgun, because those will be much cheaper than other types of firearms.
Takeaway
Hopefully, now you will be more comfortable with which weapons are most useful to keep around your homestead and can even give them all consideration if it’s not entirely clear yet where they fit into the overall strategy outline here.
If anything, remember this: make sure everyone who lives/stays with you knows how to handle each of these firearms safely and effectively!
Also, keep in mind that some of these firearms can also be used for hunting game or other chores around the farm, so make sure you are comfortable and proficient with using them in those ways as well.