David, All the community members that are saying 12 ga good for them But I don't know how you will holster it for personal protection? Also if you've never owned a gun or fired a lot if you decide to go the shotgun route might be better to go 20 ga instead of 12 ga. Believe it or not a 12 ga is not for a beginner. Short 12 ga weapons are described in most classes as "expert" weapons. Some new shooters can't handle the recoil or manual of arms. A mid size compact like a Glock 19 or Taurus G3C would work in and out of the house. And good luck getting your hands on a fully automatic G18 as Drew suggested.

I recommend a 20 Ga for home its as effective as the 12 without the recoil and as a 1st timer its hard to beat a good 357/38 special revolver like the Ruger sp101 budsgunshop.com/product_info.php/products_id/718002562/ruger+sp101x+357+mag+225%22+black+grip+insert />budsgunshop.com/product_info.php/products_id/95561/remington+870+express+youth+20ga%2c+21+inch%2c+rem+modified+chok />

A 12 gauge or a 9mm like a Glock 18. 00 buckshot is nice. 9mm hollow 147 grains wow!

David, I would go with a 12 gauge shotgun of choice and a sidearm. Buckshot for inside defense and slugs for outside work. Hard to be a good ole shotty for home defense. Cheers and stay safe! budsgunshop.com/product_info.php/products_id/719004069/tactical+semi+12-185+blk%2fpgrip -------------- budsgunshop.com/product_info.php/products_id/411553424/tisas+zigana+k+9mm+425%22+15%2b1+black

I recommend something simple and effective. I recommend 3 guns.... A Glock 19, a Glock 19 and a Glock 19.

David, I would go with a 12 gauge shotgun of choice. Buckshot for inside defense and slugs for outside work. Hard to be a good ole shotty for home defense. Cheers and stay safe!

David, Get a Glock G 19. Any Gen. You should go to a range that rents guns. Shoot a bunch of them. Get training. Once you've got the gun bug you will own more then your initial purchase.