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Top 15 Double-Barrel Shotguns for Home Security That Mean Business

When it comes to home security, reliability and stopping power are non-negotiable, and double-barrel shotguns have proven their worth time and again. Their straightforward design, ease of use, and devastating effectiveness make them a popular choice for protecting what matters most.

This guide highlights the Top 15 Double-Barrel Shotguns designed for home security, each offering a combination of quality, performance, and value. From trusted brands to hidden gems, these options ensure you have a dependable tool to defend your home. We’ve considered factors like durability, ease of handling, and overall reliability to help you make an informed choice.

Let’s dive into the lineup of double-barrel shotguns that mean business when it comes to safeguarding your home and loved ones.

1. Mossberg Silver Reserve II Field

Mossberg Silver Reserve II Field
Image Credit: Mossberg

The Mossberg Silver Reserve II Field is well-regarded for its dependability. Weighing only 6.25 pounds, this 12-gauge shotgun is among the lightest models available. Its 28-inch barrels strike a harmonious balance between maneuverability and efficient targeting. These features make it suitable for both tight spaces and open environments. Known for its precise construction, this shotgun offers versatility, catering to enthusiasts who engage in both hunting and defense. The Silver Reserve II Field serves as a valuable addition to any firearm collection.

2. Stoeger Coach Gun

Stoeger Coach Gun
Image Credit: Stoeger Industries

The Stoeger Coach Gun is known for being both affordable and practical. It is designed for home protection and cowboy action use. This side-by-side 12-gauge shotgun stands out with its short, 20-inch barrels. Its lightweight build, at about 6.5 pounds, aids in easy handling and swift maneuverability within confined spaces. It features a straightforward break-action mechanism and sturdy build, providing consistency when needed most. The Stoeger Coach Gun appeals to those seeking a reliable and economical double-barrel option with its exposed hammers and traditional design. It accommodates both 2-3/4″ and 3″ shells, offering users a range of choices in ammunition.

3. Savage Arms Fox A Grade Series

Savage Arms Fox A Grade Series
Image Credit: Savage Arms

The Savage Arms Fox A Grade Series brings a classic shotgun back to life with a stylish and practical design. This 12-gauge shotgun weighs 7 pounds and has 26-inch barrels that make it maneuverable for home defense and great for clay shooting. It has double triggers that let users choose barrels quickly, which is useful in fast-moving defense situations. Its case-hardened receiver adds beauty and durability, ensuring it lasts through years of use.

4. TriStar Hunter EX

TriStar Hunter EX
Image Credit: TriStar Arms

The TriStar Hunter EX over/under shotgun is a strong option for those seeking both reliability and affordability. Weighing 6.8 pounds, this 12-gauge shotgun offers a stable base for quick follow-up shots. The 28-inch barrels are chrome-lined, ensuring durability and making maintenance straightforward—ideal for those who prioritize lasting equipment. With automatic ejectors, a single selective trigger, and a top tang safety, the Hunter EX is designed to be user-friendly and efficient, catering to the needs of users in tense situations.

5. Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon I

Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon I
Image Credit: Beretta

The Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon I stands as a prime example of Italian shotgun excellence. This over/under shotgun weighs 7.3 pounds and features 28-inch barrels, making it a well-balanced choice for diverse uses. It utilizes Beretta’s proven boxlock mechanism, valued for strength and dependability. Included Optima Bore HP choke tubes permit adjustments to shot patterns for various defense needs. Although it may appear lavish for home defense, the quality and adaptability of the Silver Pigeon I make it a noteworthy choice for those seeking high standards in their firearm selection.

6. Ithaca Model 500

Ithaca Model 500
Image Credit: Rock Island Auction

The Ithaca Model 500 is an impressive over/under shotgun notable for its reliable and sturdy construction. This 12-gauge firearm is equipped with 28-inch barrels and weighs about 7.5 pounds, providing excellent balance and suitability for both home defense and sporting activities. Its smooth break-action design, along with a single selective trigger and automatic ejectors, ensures ease of use during tense situations. Renowned for its durability and straightforward design, the Model 500 consistently performs well, making it a preferable option for those seeking a versatile and trustworthy over/under shotgun for protecting their property.

7. CZ Bobwhite G2

CZ Bobwhite G2
Image Credit: CZ-USA

The CZ Bobwhite G2 features barrels that measure 28 inches, offering both balance and control. Despite its length, this 12-gauge shotgun is a trusted choice for home defense. At a weight of 7.30 pounds, it is sturdy enough to handle recoil effectively yet remains manageable. Equipped with a single selective trigger, it allows for smooth and quick follow-up shots. The gun boasts traditional aesthetics paired with modern mechanisms, ensuring dependable performance. Additionally, this shotgun proves to be a useful option for bird hunting pursuits when not needed for protection.

8. Franchi Instinct L

Franchi Instinct L
Image Credit: Franchi

The Franchi Instinct L showcases Italian craftsmanship in home defense. This 12-gauge over/under shotgun is light, weighing just 6.40 pounds. Its 28-inch barrels aid in precise aiming, and the over/under design ensures a more streamlined appearance compared to side-by-side shotguns. Equipped with auto-ejectors, this shotgun allows for quicker reloads when timing is critical. It is compatible with both 2-3/4″ and 3″ shells, offering users versatile ammunition options. Its design makes it both a practical and attractive choice for defense situations.

9. Stevens 555 Enhanced

Stevens 555 Enhanced
Image Credit: Savage Arms

The Stevens 555 Enhanced is a refined over-and-under shotgun that stands out due to its light weight and elegant design. This 12-gauge model weighs only 6 pounds, making it remarkably easy to handle. It is equipped with 28-inch barrels, ensuring smooth balance and precise aiming. The shotgun features a stock and fore-end made from Turkish walnut, matched with a silver receiver that includes tasteful engravings. Despite its attractive appearance, this shotgun is also highly functional, sporting chrome-lined barrels and a single selective trigger for reliable performance.

10. Stoeger Double Defense

Stoeger Double Defense
Image Credit: Stoeger Industries

The Stoeger Double Defense is designed specifically for home protection, offering both 12 and 20 gauge models. It weighs 6.50 pounds and has 20-inch barrels, making it compact and easy to handle. This shotgun distinguishes itself with Picatinny rails that permit the attachment of optics or lights, enhancing its effectiveness in dark environments. By combining traditional reliability with modern tactical features, it offers a versatile solution for those seeking dependable home defense.

11. CZ Sharp-Tail

CZ Sharp Tail
Image Credit: CZ-USA

The CZ Sharp-Tail brings together the most impressive elements of its Bobwhite predecessor in a sleeker build. Weighing at just 6.70 pounds, this 12-gauge side-by-side shotgun features 20-inch barrels. Its light weight and compact size make it an excellent choice for navigating through tight spaces during home defense situations. The shotgun’s design allows for easy handling while maintaining high performance. It is designed to handle 3-inch shells, ensuring it delivers powerful shots despite its smaller frame.

12. Century Arms JW-2000 Coach Gun

Century Arms JW 2000 Coach Gun
Image Credit: Century Arms

The Century Arms JW-2000 Coach Gun is a sturdy 12-gauge side-by-side shotgun, designed for durability and efficiency. With 20-inch barrels and a weight of 7.84 pounds, it offers agility in confined areas, making it suitable for close-quarters defense. This shotgun handles 3-inch shells, ensuring ample firepower. Its straightforward construction reduces the risk of mechanical issues, thus ensuring reliability during critical times. Built for practicality, it remains an ideal option for those seeking a robust firearm for protection or sport.

13. Browning Citori 725 Field

Browning Citori 725 Field
Image Credit: Browning

The Browning Citori 725 Field stands out as a top-tier choice among double-barrel shotguns. This over/under model, known for its sleek design, features a 12-gauge build that tips the scales at 7 pounds 4 ounces. It comes equipped with 28-inch barrels. One of its key features is a low-profile receiver, which positions the shooter’s eye closer to the bore. This design enhances accuracy and quickens target acquisition. The shotgun’s mechanical trigger system delivers a consistent pull on both barrels. Though it demands a higher price, its exceptional build and performance offer long-term value.

14. Pedersoli Wyatt Earp

Pedersoli Wyatt Earp
Image Credit: Davide Pedersoli

The Pedersoli Wyatt Earp is a recreation of a famous marshal’s shotgun, combining tradition with functionality. It is a 12-gauge side-by-side shotgun, weighing 7.05 pounds, making it both portable and stable. With 20-inch barrels, it strikes a good balance between ease of handling and solid build. The design, valued for over a hundred years, still serves its purpose well. One key feature is the external hammers, which add safety and deliver an iconic “click-click” sound as a warning.

15. Taylor’s & Co. 1878 Coach Gun

Taylor’s & Co. 1878 Coach Gun
Image Credit: Taylor’s Firearms

The Taylor’s & Co. 1878 Coach Gun draws inspiration from the Old West while using modern production techniques. This 12-gauge shotgun has a side-by-side barrel configuration, weighs about 6.70 pounds, and includes 20-inch barrels. Such features make it a strong option for home protection. Its external hammers add a layer of safety by providing an unmistakable click before firing. The simple design minimizes potential failures. Moreover, the short barrels are practical for moving around in cramped areas.