Hi William and welcome to the community. I would suggest both a shotgun and a handgun for home/self-defense. This cover stopping power and capacity, both of which are important. 12ga with low recoil loads - Dickinson Tac 4: budsgunshop.com/product_info.php/products_id/176089/dickinson+tac-4+tactical+12ga+shotgun+18.5+barrel+ghost+ring+sights+5+1 and Taurus G3cXL: budsgunshop.com/product_info.php/products_id/144443/taurus+g3xl+9mm+semi+auto+pistol ---------------------------- Self-defense loads: budsgunshop.com/product_info.php/products_id/22931/hrndy+ag+12ga+2.75+00+10+100 --------- and ---------- budsgunshop.com/product_info.php/products_id/61880/sellier+%26+bellot+9mm+jacketed+hollow+point+115+gr+12 ---------------- Cheers, stay safe and enjoy!

Go to the range and get some suggestions. Rent different guns to shoot, and pick one you like.

Going off of your age and never owning a firearm before I'd go with a 20g pump action shotgun. Will be easy to learn and use, recoil is easier than a 12g and you have different options as far as barrel length which for home defense you would want it shorter. And a never ending variety as far as ammo goes for home defense. But the main thing is practice at a range and become confident and proficient in your ability to use it. I would even suggest a safety and train class which would help you out a lot. Hope this helps ya . Good luck stay safe!

Hi William, that is a pretty vague question. Do you want a handgun or a long gun?
For home defense I would suggest a pump action shotgun, like the Maverick 88 budsgunshop.com/product_info.php/products_id/42605/maverick+88+security+12+ga+18.5+cylinder+bore+5+1 ,
It is easy to use, reliable, & affordable.
Best loads for home defense is #4 buckshot budsgunshop.com/product_info.php/products_id/151718/barnes+defense+buckshot+loads+12+ga.+2.75+in.+4bk+21+pellets+5+rd. />.
Stay safe & have a great day!