5 Best Gun Holster Styles for Women

5 Best Gun Holster Styles for Women

One of the most common questions asked after purchasing a firearm is “what type of holster should I buy?” Whether you are a long-time expert or a concealed carry novice, finding the right gun holsters for women can be an interesting process. Not only do you need a holster that will last you for years, but you also need to safely protect your trigger guard and easily access your firearm.

Here are the 5 Best Gun Holster Styles for Women.

  • Inside the Waistband Holster
  • Outside the Waistband Holster
  • Thigh Holster
  • Belly Band Holster
  • Corset Holster

If you’ve decided to carry concealed and have found the best firearm for you, the next logical step to take is deciding on the type of holster you will need. Understanding the difference between gun holsters can help you make an informed decision about what type you need and the best way to conceal carry.

Inside the Waistband Holster (IWB)

The Inside the Waistband Holster is one of the most popular options. Not only does an IWB allows you to safely carry your firearm, but it also has the added bonus of being comfortable and easy to conceal. These holsters can be attached to a gun belt and will remain in place and secured all day long.

Outside the Waistband Holsters (OWB)

Equally as common as the IWB, an Outside the Waistband gun holster for women is a highly favored and popular option. They are worn outside the gun belt and are a great option for a compact firearm. Coupled with a jacket or cardigan, you can easily conceal it under your shirt and you’re good to go.

Thigh Holster for Women

Compared to a waistband holster, a thigh holster can be a great option if you prefer wearing skirts or dresses. It allows you to conceal and carry exceptionally well, while still being comfortable. When worn correctly, thigh holsters can go unseen. In addition to easy concealability, most thigh gun holsters are adjustable and give you the option of carrying outside or inside the thigh.

Belly Band Holsters for Women

Belly Band Holsters are very versatile and great for women who can’t or don’t want to wear a gun belt. They are a popular and comfortable way to effectively conceal a firearm. These holsters work great with many clothing options and sit across your abdomen. Though some may argue that this style limits accessibility, a well-designed belly band holster is adjustable and gives you the versatility of wearing it higher or lower on your abdomen.

Corset Holster for Women

In comparison, a cousin to the belly band is the corset holster. These gun holsters are perfect for women who want the safety of carrying with the structural benefits of shapewear. Not only are they designed to hug your curves, but corset holsters come in a variety of styles for you to choose from and can be a flattering alternative to traditional holsters.

Ready to Break-In Your New Holster?

Choosing the best gun holster style for women takes some thoughtful consideration and a bit of trial and error. Looking for a place to break in your new holster? Check out one of our SGA Women’s Events. We are currently hosting monthly Girl & a Gun Women’s Shooting League events “Girl’s Night Out” and “Breakfast and Bullets” at both our SGA Spring, TX and SGA Crosby, TX locations. Contact us today about an event or purchasing your next firearm.

5 Reasons You Need a Gun Range Membership

Whether you are a new gun owner or a longtime veteran a gun range membership is a great investment. It’s a great place to not only develop your skills but develop as a person. The right shooting range can provide you with a lot of avenues for personal success. Even if you own a lot of land, a gun range membership can still be very beneficial to you. Don’t believe us? Let us prove it to you. Here are the top six reasons you need a gun range membership.

  1. Community
  2. Expert Advice
  3. Exclusive Rental Prices
  4. Stress Relief
  5. Bonding Experience 

Community

One of the best benefits of a gun range membership that’s rarely mentioned is the ability to find a community. Shooting ranges are gathering places for like-minded individuals from all walks of life. If you go often enough, you’ll most likely see and meet people who are interested in the same hobby you are. The staff at a gun range are also enthusiastic about their hobby and don’t mind talking to you about guns. From shooting techniques to custom gunsmithing, there are plenty of topics to learn and discuss with the individuals you’ll interact with at a gun range. This can be a great way for new gun owners to learn more about gun culture and how it is woven into the fabric of our society.

Expert Advice

A gun range membership can help you build a community of people to help you along your firearm journey. However, more importantly, a gun range membership will give you access to trained professionals. They can help you navigate what the best firearm for a specific situation is as well as instruct you in things like concealed carry. Gun ranges usually host concealed carry classes or can point you in the direction of a concealed carry instructor. Make sure to talk with the gun range owner about these types of instructors and how they can help you.

Exclusive Rental Prices

Once you become a gun owner you realize very quickly how expensive this hobby can be. Fortunately, you can rent guns and ammo and a gun range. This means you aren’t limited to just the guns you buy, but hundreds of different guns and modifications. A great reason to get a gun range membership is the exclusive deals you will have on rentals. While this is not practiced everywhere, most gun ranges have certain incentives for signing up for a membership. These may be exclusive rentals or reduced rates on certain items. Additionally, gun ranges often have different tiers of membership that give you exclusive access to specific things. Not only does this mean you get more for your money, but you can always scale back if need be.

Stress Relief

Having a bad day? Why not practice some stress relief with some target practice? Shooting guns at a gun range has benefits like any other hobby. It helps you connect with people and brings you fulfillment. Having a gun range membership is a great way to blow off steam. You can do this by yourself or with a group of friends.

Bonding Experience

Lastly, one of the most important reasons you should sign up for a gun range membership is the ability to bond with those you love. There are countless stories of people growing up and making memories of shooting guns together. This can be a perfect way for you to connect with your kids or spouse. Heck, we’d even recommend it for a great date night option! All in all, this can be a great way to teach your loved ones a valuable skill and make memories.

Are you interested in signing up for a gun range membership today? Spring Guns and Ammo is the perfect place for you! With multiple locations and different tiers, we have a plan that works for everyone! Contact us today to find out more!

Why Custom Guns Make the Perfect Gift!

Are you looking to show that special someone in your life that you truly love them? Looking for a gift that is truly unique? If so, then you should consider buying a custom gun or getting special custom parts added to a gun. Custom guns make a great addition to any gun collection. From small changes to designing something that has never been done before, they show both your creativity when it comes to gift-giving and care. If you’re considering buying custom guns or customizing a firearm your loved one already owns, consider these five factors.

  1. Custom Gunstocks
  2. Custom Gun Paints
  3. Custom Gun Engravings
  4. Custom Gun Accessories (holsters, slings, etc.)
  5. A one of a kind gift

Custom Gunstocks

Gunstocks don’t really matter, right? That couldn’t be further from the truth. On a custom gun, you can design the stock to be built for certain features. Whether that’s handling recoil, providing comfort, or other needs, customization can come in very handy. Gunstocks account for different types of shooting and help make a gun feel more personalized. Not to mention, custom gunstocks can be subtle in their designs or truly incorporate something new. From improving your grip and stability to making your gun more aesthetically pleasing, custom gun stocks are where it’s at and there are plenty of ideas to choose from. With the right gunsmith, you can incorporate a custom gunstock into both the look and feel of the gun.

Custom Gun Paints

Another reason you should think about custom guns as a gift idea is the different coatings of paint you can apply. In most cases the possibilities are almost endless. You can add new designs to a rifle, shotgun, pistol, or almost any other type of firearm you can think of. If you’re looking for something that will make a custom gun really shine, this may be your best bet. It is also a great gift idea for a partner who would love a gun in a special color such as purple, pink, and yellow. Who doesn’t want to see mom or dad open up a neon green 9mm? Gun paints are one of the cheaper options for custom gunsmithing and make for some excellent gift ideas for holidays like Father’s Day.

Custom Gun Engravings

One of the best things about buying custom guns is that your customization can actually be very personal.  Custom gun engraving is perfect for this. There are tons of fonts to choose from and you can leave personal mementos on a new gun. Common engravings include:

  • Name or initials
  • Date of birth
  • A family saying
  • “Mom, Dad, Brother, etc.)
  • A special scripture or proverb
  • A funny inside joke
  • A custom engraving of a painting or figure.

Any of these options will make for a perfect gift and memorable moments. This is the type of gift you hand down to your children’s children.

Custom Gun Accessories

What’s the purpose of buying a custom gun if you can’t add some cool accessories to it? Gun accessories can make shooting easier, add stylistic looks, and make shooting more fun. These accessories can be attached to the gun or be separate entirely. Common accessories can include:

  • Tri-pod
  • Scope
  • Custom slings
  • Custom holsters
  • Laser sights
  • Silencers
  • Custom triggers
  • Extra or extended magazine clips
  • Cleaning kit
  • And more!

A one of a kind gift

Lastly, we’d like to reiterate that custom guns and gun customization truly make your gifts stand out. Not only will they be a sizable investment, but they will most likely be handed down for generations to come. This is why you need a gunsmith that provides quality and assurance at every turn. At Spring Guns and Ammo, we have the tools and knowledge to fully customize your gun. We’ll work with you to ensure your gun is unlike anything else on the market. Contact us today to learn how we can make your dream a reality.

Perfect 4th of July Gifts to Celebrate America!

The 4th of July is almost upon us, and with it comes the need to be patriotic and give patriotic gifts! While this is certainly a fun time of year to celebrate, choosing the right 4th of July gifts can be hard. Whether you are shopping for a man or woman it can be difficult trying to find that perfect gift. Don’t worry though, we’ve compiled a list of eight items that are perfect for almost anyone. Here are some 4th of July gifts that are sure to be a hit at your party or family gathering!

  1. The U.S.A Flag
  2. Personalized Shirts or Clothing
  3. Framed Declaration of Independence
  4. Fireworks
  5. Donation to a Charity
  6. Grilling Gear
  7. Patriotic Decor
  8. A New Gun

None of the links to products are affiliates.

The U.S.A Flag

One of the best ways to be patriotic this 4th of July is to have a flag flapping in the wind. The United States flag is a relatively inexpensive item to purchase. You can find them online for cheap or buy them from big-box retailers for cheap as well. You’ll find flags in all shapes and sizes so you can really go as big as you want. Additionally, there are also commemorative flag holders that you can buy as well to help store the flag. It’s one of those 4th of July gifts that you or someone you love can use for years to come.

Personalized Shirts or Clothing

Who doesn’t love a fun and festive shirt? You can find custom patriotic shirts on Etsy and other sites like Amazon. These shirts can be as bold as you want them to be or as subtle as you want them to be. You could even try getting that special someone a male romper from target! Now that’s a 4th of July gift that really says, “I love you and America!” Consider wearing some funny shirts while you are outside playing your drinking games!

Framed Declaration of Independence

Looking for 4th July gifts that people can use to decorate their home? Know someone who is in love with historical documents? Then you should consider getting them a framed Declaration of Independence replica. You can find these with all types of frames and sizes. One of our favorites is a bundle we found on Etsy that contains the Declaration of Independence, The Bill of Rights, and the Constitution. These would look perfect in an open living room or personal study.

Fireworks

No 4th of July celebration is complete without some fireworks going off when it gets dark. If you’re trying to find some 4th of July gift ideas for kids this can be a great option. However, you won’t want to wait to purchase fireworks. Firework stands are seasonal and can sell out quickly when there is high demand. Be on the lookout for fireworks and make sure to grab some as soon as you can. Whenever you do light these fireworks, make sure to have some patriotic music going on in the background. It’ll help you create the perfect memories like this scene in The Sandlot:https://www.youtube.com/embed/fWCYvllZn1E

Donation to a Charity

While the 4th of July is a great time to enjoy friends and family, it’s also an important moment to reflect on the men and women who serve this country. So many of our loved ones have sacrificed so much, both mentally and physically. One of the best 4th of July gifts you can give is to donate to a charity in someone’s name. There are a ton of charities dedicated to helping veterans such as the Wounded Warrior Project, which helps veterans who struggle with physical and mental ailments such as PTSD. This can be a great way to make a big impact. Also, every charity is different. Even if you don’t have money to donate you can also donate your time or resources to helping a charity.

Grilling Gear

There’s not much that’s more American than grilling on the 4th of July. Whether you are grilling hot dogs, burgers, or vegetarian options your grill master needs the right tools for the job! Consider buying some grilling accessories to help them take their craft to the next level!

Patriotic Décor

From knick-knacks, to dinnerware, to large canvases, there are tons of great custom patriotic decor. Patriotic decor is one of the best 4th of July gifts you can give to anyone. From plush pillows to a blanket featuring famous patriots or sayings. You can get really creative with this project and come up with a whole theme or design. Not sure exactly what the person would like? You can also get them a gift card to their favorite decor stores so they can pick out their own 4th of July items.

A New Gun

Why not celebrate the Second Amendment on the 4th of July and get you or someone you love a new gun? Expressing your Second Amendment right is a great way to show your patriotic jubilee! Already have a gun? That’s okay, you can still purchase that gun lover some self-defense ammo or a round at theshooting range. Shooting is a fun and engaging activity and is even better on the 4th of July!

Are you thinking about purchasing a gun, or want to purchase some ammo for the 4th of July? At Spring Guns and Ammo, we have an extensive stock of weapons and ammunition for almost any gun owner. Additionally, you can practice shooting this 4th with our incredible gun range in which you can rent special guns and items. Contact us now to find out more!

4 Gun Storage Ideas Every Owner Should Know About!

Buying a gun is a lot like getting your first tattoo: you never stop with just one. In turn, you start to run into a problem with how to store these guns properly. Add into the mix a new family and gun storage now becomes an even bigger component of your life. But where and how should you store these guns? More importantly, what’s best for your situation? Don’t worry, we have some tips on gun storage ideas that can help just about every gun owner from the collector to the personal defense buyer. Here are four gun storage ideas you can implement in your home right now.

  1. Gun Cabinets
  2. Gun Safe (fingerprint safe, steel safe)
  3. Display Case
  4. Hidden compartments with trigger locks

Gun Cabinets

For the purposes of this article and conducting your search, you should understand that the terms ‘gun cabinets’ and ‘gun safes’ are used interchangeably. If you were to search “gun cabinets” online, you’ll also find plenty of steel safes among your search results. For our purposes, we’re going to suggest that a gun cabinet is usually made out of wood and not steel. This is for the owner that isn’t so much worried about security from theft but wants to display their guns while also providing a preventative measure should children be around. This is one of the best gun storage ideas because you can use a gun cabinet as one of your centerpieces in your home. Oftentimes, you’ll find wood gun cabinets with edged glass that have intricate designs. Options range from padded gun cabinets with soft materials to more bare-bones options.

Size, shape, and design all vary between manufacturers, and you should figure out what you need exactly before you go shopping. Think about how many guns you own now, and how many you plan to own in the future. The last thing you want to do is buy a piece of equipment only to find that you can’t fit all of your guns in there.

Gun Safe

If you grew up you’re around guns, then you’re probably familiar with gun safes. If not, a gun safe is just like a safe for money, except it is designed with areas to store your rifles and handguns. They’re usually made with steel and provide not only protection from children entering in but thieves as well. They can be as small as the size of a handgun or be as large as a person and weigh hundreds of pounds. This can be a great option for owners looking for security from both children and criminals. However, due to their size, most gun safes aren’t portable. Additionally, they provide enough space for a shotgun or handgun for home defense.

Gun safes are a great gun storage idea because they provide the most protection for your weapons. Most people can’t pick up a safe, and most criminals don’t know how to properly break into them during a home break-in. The firearm industry has also made a ton of improvements over the years. You have your traditional lock and key, but now you have pin code verification, fingerprint scanners, and more to choose from. Gun safes offer the highest form of protection for your guns. However, you shouldn’t go for cheap when trying to safely store your guns. Quality matters which is why you should do your research before purchasing a gun safe. Make sure to talk with an expert and friends. You want your gun safe to be secure but functional.

Want something secure like a safe but has mobility? Consider grabbing a gun case that includes a combination lock or areas to use a padlock.

Display Case

If you’re a gun collector then there are a lot of guns you probably want to show off to people. One of the best gun storage ideas for you should be finding a display case that will accentuate your guns. Gun display cases come in all types, from housing a single rifle or pistol to showing a selection of guns. These types of cases can range in price but expect to pay $100 or more, as they often come with lighting features, soft materials to not damage the gun, and special glass. Some may contain special etchings or a plaque to tell a little bit more about the gun.

While this can be a great way to show off your weapons, it’s not the ideal choice for mass gun storage. You may use a display case in conjunction with a gun safe or gun cabinet to make your dollar go farther. Display cases are also not necessarily the most child-friendly, as the guns are usually meant to be easily accessible. This option is probably not best for you if you have children around.

Hidden compartments with trigger locks

One of the best reasons to buy a gun is for self-defense, and because of this many gun owners want fast access to their guns in the event of an emergency such as a home invasion or break-in. This often means that gun owners will turn to things such as concealment furniture and hiding guns in drawers or other compartments. If you do decide to go down that route and you have children, it’s important to still point out how safety should be your top priority. Consider using trigger locks, keeping the gun unloaded, storing the ammo in a different location, and teaching your children about firearm safety. A couple of hidden gun storage ideas you could try are:

  •   Behind a painting
  •   Underneath the bed
  •   Behind a clock
  •   Hidden shelf under the drawer
  •   Hidden within a book
  •   Hidden gun rack in bench

There are tons of options to choose from and you can choose from pre-made objects to fully customized ones. However, make sure you understand the risks of possibly keeping a firearm close to children, especially if you are going to keep them loaded.

Are you considering buying a gun safe or more guns? Want expert advice and great prices to help you make a decision? At Spring Guns and Ammo we can help! We want to help you be the best gun owner you can be and find the best deals on the items you want! Contact us today to find out how we can help you!

Proper Gun Range Etiquette for the Beginner

As a gun owner, almost nothing is as fun as going to the gun range with your buddies and testing out your new firearms. A shooting range can provide a valuable space to meet up with friends and find a sense of community. If you’re new to owning a gun you may be a little bit intimidated about going to the gun range. Don’t fret though! With the proper gun range etiquette, you’ll be ready to have a great time on your first trip to the gun range. Let’s start with some of the basics.

  1. Check the rules before heading to the range
  2. Check-in before shooting
  3. Proper gun range terms to know
  4. Keep your gun secured until you are ready to shoot
  5. Have all necessary equipment required by the gun range
  6. Don’t point your gun at anything you do not intend to shoot
  7. Respect any direction given by staff

Check the rules before heading to the range

Although there are some baseline similarities between gun ranges, each one is different. Outdoor ranges and indoor ranges differ in a couple of specific ways (with an outdoor range you often have to set up your own target). Therefore, one of the best things you can do for proper gun range etiquette is to look at the rules before going. They’ll often cover things like:

  •   Safety requirements
  •   Age limits
  •   Ammunition and guns allowed
  •   Protective wear you should bring
  •   Any waivers you might have to sign
  •   And more!

Check-in before shooting

Almost all shooting ranges will require some form of check-in before allowing you to enter facilities. This is so they can monitor the firing lane capacity and make sure everyone stays safe. They may ask you to sign some paperwork and register which guns you are bringing in to shoot. Always be cordial with the staff and respect the rules.

Proper gun range terms you should know

While at a gun range there are certain key phrases that you may hear. All of them are highly important and are to be followed to the letter. We’ve got a couple of examples, but each firing range will probably review these terms with you upon entry:

Ceasefire: when a staff member or person at the gun range yells ceasefire, all shooters are required to stop firing. You will unload your gun, lock your slide back where you can see that the gun is unloaded, place it on the table and stand back. A staff member will then go across the firing range checking for an issue or problem. It’s also important to note that anyone can yell a ceasefire on a gun range if there is a problem on the range. That could be anything from your gun jamming and you needing help, to a rowdy individual. A ceasefire is called to keep everyone safe.

Firing Line: Simply put, the firing line is where the shooter stands to fire their gun. You do not go past this line, and when a ceasefire is called you step behind this line. There is usually a painted line or marked-off area that will indicate the firing line.

Firing Lanes: A firing lane represents the small area in which a shooter occupies while firing his weapon, often referred to as a shooting booth. You will have clear glass on either side of you and a small table to put your things on.

Hot or Cold: the term “hot” refers to firing on the gun range. For example, a staff member may say that the range is hot, which means that there is active firing going on. When a range is referred to as “cold” it means that there is not active fire going on at the moment and shooters have unloaded their weapon. A staff member may say that the range is cold so new shooters can come in, or so someone can go downrange. Downrange meaning past the firing line to where the targets lay and beyond. This is only done by staff members, and it Is usually to fix an issue or target.

Commence Firing: An instructor will tell you to “commence firing.” At this point you can safely load your gun and start firing at a target. There are variations of this saying that a staff member will tell you before you enter the range.

Follow all of these rules without question for proper gun range etiquette. For a more visual guide check out this video by the National Shooting Sports Foundation:https://www.youtube.com/embed/COvFyw-6Fqs

Keep your gun secured until you are ready to shoot

Do not under any circumstances come to the gun range with a fully loaded gun. Usually, this is means for immediate dismissal, and even sometimes banning you from the range. Instead, have your firearm locked in a gun case unloaded. You will then present this to a staff member who will check your things and then let you into the shooting range. However, you may not take out your gun until you’re in the firing lane. Only after you are told by a staff member to commence firing can you load your weapon and start firing.

Have all necessary equipment required by the gun range

Proper gun range etiquette means staying on top of things and being prepared. A shooting range may ask that you bring:

  •   Forms of identification
  •   Gun range membership card
  •   Gun case for your weapon
  •   Protective glasses
  •   Protective earmuffs

At the same time, there are a ton of gun range accessories to choose from that may be helpful. A couple of those are:

  •   Extra ammunition
  •   Range tote or bag
  •   Gun cleaning kit
  •   Shooting bags
  •   And anything else you might need!

Don’t point your gun at anything you do not intend to shoot

It is imperative that you do everything in your power to prevent accidents. That’s why there are such stringent rules at a shooting range. One of the essential rules of gun ownership and proper gun range etiquette is to never point your gun at anything you do not intend to shoot. That could mean a person, target, or even the ceiling. Always be mindful about where you are pointing your gun in and out of a range. Always keep your muzzle pointed downrange at your target. Never pointed at a friend or other person. If you do, you will get kicked off the range, and most likely banned from the establishment. At the end of the day, people’s lives are at stake.

Respect any direction given by staff

Lastly, always respect the staff and safety officers who run the gun range. They’re not only there to keep others safe but you as well. Follow all commands given by them while on the range and you’ll have an amazing time.

Are you looking for a gun range in your area? Want a range that prioritizes safety and offers training for first-time gun owners? At Spring Guns and Ammo, that’s our specialty. We offer a premium shooting range with experts who can help keep you safe and make you a better shooter. Contact us today to find out more!

Is Personal Defense Ammo Worth it? Absolutely

When it comes to defending your home, you may consider buying a gun such as a pistol, shotgun, or AR15. However, people don’t often consider what type of ammo they’ll need not only to shoot someone in a home defense situation but to practice with. Both the type and brand of ammo you choose can help you when it matters most with things like accuracy, stopping power, and penetration. If you’re relatively new to guns you may be confused by the endless types of ammunition and brands to choose from. You may have heard of personal defense ammo, but don’t understand what’s so special about it. Let’s break it down.

  1. What is Target Ammo and Personal Defense Ammo?
  2. Safety
  3. Stopping Power
  4. Reliability

What is Target Ammo and Personal Defense Ammo?

Most target ammo will be classified as a full metal jacket (FMJ). You may also hear target ammo by another name, range ammo. According to Wikipedia:

“A full metal jacket (FMJ) bullet is a small-arms projectile consisting of a soft core (often lead) encased in an outer shell (“jacket”) of harder metal, such as gilding metal, cupronickel, or, less commonly, a steel alloy. A bullet jacket generally allows for higher muzzle velocities than bare lead without depositing significant amounts of metal in the bore…”

FMJ ammo can be much cheaper than other types of ammo because they are easier to produce. But why not use them as personal defense ammo? It has to do with how the bullet impacts an object. Again, Wikipedia makes this clearer by saying:

“By design, fully jacketed projectiles have less capacity to expand after contact with the target than a hollow-point projectile. While this can be an advantage when engaging targets behind cover, it can also be a disadvantage as an FMJ bullet may pierce completely through a target, leading to less severe wounding, and possibly failing to disable the target. Furthermore, a projectile that goes completely through a target can cause unintentional, collateral damage downrange of the target.”

When you use full metal jacket ammo you are more likely to pierce someone and have the bullet keep going. The bullet may not do as much collateral to stop someone in their tracks. Not to mention, there’s also the possibility that you accidentally shoot through a wall and harm someone else. In some instances, range ammo can be terrible for home defense.

Personal defense ammo that is hollow points are different and prevent some of the possibilities. Let’s break it down even further.

Safety

One of the worst problems about firing a gun in your home is the possibility that you may shoot through your drywall and end up hurting one of your family members. With personal defense ammo, that problem is negated (although not entirely – when dealing with guns there is always the chance that something goes wrong). They are designed to expand on impact.

Furthermore, they’re designed to expend their energy on the target it just hit. What does this mean? It means that whenever a hollow point self-defense round hits an intruder it will cause more damage to the intruder, and release its energy. Importantly, this means it won’t go through a wall. So if you miss your shot, you don’t have to worry as much.

Stopping Power

Since hollow points are designed to expel their energy upon impact, it’s going to do more damage to whoever you’re shooting. We’ve all heard and read the stories of people surviving and living through bullet wounds. When it comes to defending your home don’t you want the most stopping power you can have at your disposal? The best way to do that is with personal defense ammo. Not only will it damage vital organs, but it’s going to expel more power onto its subject, possibly knocking them off their feet (depending on the caliber).

Reliability

Since hollow point personal defense ammo is so popular, bullets are often engineered to withstand humid environments and last a long time. Obviously, you want to keep any gun-related ammunition in good condition, but you can feel a little bit better knowing that this specific type of ammo was made to be durable.

Are you considering buying personal defense ammo? Want to find the best ammo for you at the best price point? Don’t worry we can help! At Spring Guns and Ammo we have experts that can help you find the best gun and ammunition for the right price. Contact us today and get the ammo you need.

Is The AR-15 The Best Home Defense Weapon?

When it comes to the best home defense weapon, people are always debating handgun vs. shotgun. Except, what if there was another choice? What if there was a tool that combined the best of both guns? Let’s take a look and what the AR-15 can offer you and why it may be the best choice for you. Both its benefits and possible disadvantages.

  1. Stopping power
  2. Ammo capacity
  3. Lightweight & little recoil
  4. Is it too “big?”
  5. Negative “connotation”

Stopping Power

The AR-15 is one of the best home defense weapons because of its stopping power. Most AR-15’s use .223 Remingtons. This will give you enough power to stop anyone in their tracks. Not to mention, you can also buy special ammo that is specific for home defense purposes. As opposed to a shotgun, which sprays small metal balls, AR-15’s fire single bullets in a targetted direction. This will leave you less worried about accidentally shooting a family member or damaging your home when it matters most.

Ammo Capacity

Unlike other options for the best home defense weapon, you aren’t going to be limited in your ammo capacity. The AR-15 usually allows 20-30 rounds to be fired before you need to switch magazines. This means, even if there are multiple intruders in your home, you still have enough ammo in a single magazine to protect yourself. Again, there are modifications you can make to this as well. You can buy parts to upgrade your ammo capacity and be ready for literally anything. That’s what makes it one of the best home defense weapons.

Lightweight & little recoil

The AR-15 is lightweight, averaging a little under 7 pounds. It’s easy to move in and out of rooms, even for those who may not be as strong. On top of that, the AR-15 has little recoil, making it a perfect weapon to train on and fire repeatedly. With less recoil, you can be more accurate whether you are at the gun range or defending your home.

Contrast that with a pistol or shotgun. A typical Glock 19 is a great weapon for self-defense, but if you don’t have good hand strength it may not be the best choice for you because you can’t use your shoulder to help with recoil. On the other hand, a shotgun does allow you to use your shoulder for recoil but may still be too powerful to handle.

An AR-15 is still light enough to be easily movable and easy to handle, but still powerful enough to make your home secure.

Let’s talk about some potential drawbacks.

Is it too “big?”

One of the most common misconceptions about the AR-15 is that it’s too big to handle deftly in a combat situation. There are a couple of false factors about this notion. First off is weight, and we’ve already covered that. Second, the AR-15 can be attached with a short barrel, making it even smaller and lighter than the original. Third, everyone finds reacting to an emergency situation stressful. Doing so with any gun is difficult. However, if you want to become better in this area with any gun, you should take self-defense training. This training will help you overcome fear to move succinctly and with confidence. You don’t have to be limited when you take training and can use the best home defense weapon that works for you.

Negative “connotation”

The AR-15 is powerful. Because of this, it has been used in several shootings and has garnered somewhat of a negative connotation amongst the public who does not own guns. If you want to buy one of the best home defense weapons, you may want to consider this. Some people may judge you for owning such a firearm. However, when it comes down to someone breaking into your home, don’t you want the best you can buy?

Are you looking to purchase a gun for home defense? Not sure if an AR-15 is right for you or if you need something different? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! At Spring Guns and Ammo we can help novice and veteran gun owners alike! Contact us today to find the perfect gun for you!

The 5 Best Guns for Home Defense

Thinking more and more about buying a gun for home defense? Need a starting point to look for the right gun for your situation? Then this is for you. This is not an all-inclusive list. Rather, this will cover some of the more popular options for new gun buyers. Most first time buyers are shopping guns for home defense. If you are new to firearms, don’t buy these online. Come into the store and try them out. You should be comfortable with your first purchase. In short, our suggestions for home defense are:

  1. Mossberg 500
  2. Remington 870
  3. AR-15
  4. Glock 19
  5. Smith and Wesson .357 Magnum

Shotguns

One of the best guns for home defense that you always see recommended is a shotgun. The reason is that you don’t have to be as accurate when shooting. You still have to point at the intruder, but you don’t necessarily have to be “accurate” as with other guns. Shotguns are also relatively affordable and there are many makes and models that are reliable. When choosing a shotgun, you also need to consider ammo. There are three types of ammo:

Bird Shot

Buck Shot

Slugs

The names explain themselves, but birdshot contains a small metal ball inside the shell. Birdshot is mainly used for bird hunting and small critters. While it would seriously hurt any criminal and even fatally wound them, It doesn’t have the same stopping power as buckshot.

Buckshot also contains small balls, but they are bigger and used for bigger game. With the right type of buckshot, you can blow limbs off. Buck is usually the go-to ammo for home defense because most of the buckshot will be stopped by a wall. Meaning that if you shoot, you won’t accidentally hit someone in the next room. However, as is the case with guns in general, there is still always the possibility of shooting through a wall. Keep that in mind.

Slugs are solid pieces of metals that are shot out of a shell. They pack a disastrous punch but don’t have the same spread as bird or buckshot. Slugs can also go through walls. Common home defense shotguns are:

Mossberg 500 – Used by military and police the world over, the Mossberg 500 is a reliable pump-action shotgun. Relatively affordable, this gun packs a punch and is the only gun for home defense you’ll need if you plan on buying only one gun.

Remington 870 – Around for more than a half-century, this shotgun has sold over 11 million units, according to Remington. As with the Mossberg, this gun can be outfitted with the latest and greatest add-ons or stay true to its basic components. This gun is also pump-action and can be used for just about any situation.

If you are new to firearms, make sure to read our guide on being a new gun owner. Check out other information about tactical shotguns as well.

Rifles

Rifles come in all shapes and sizes. However, we are just going to focus on one for home defense. You’ll find this gun on just about every best-of list on home defense. That gun is the AR-15. The AR-15 may seem scary, but there is a lot to like about this gun for a home defense rifle. For starters, the AR-15 gets a lot right:

  • Starting magazines are usually around 20-30 rounds
  • Extended magazines for extra capacity
  • Lightweight
  • Low recoil
  • Wide range of after-market parts to fully customize your gun

The AR-15 is also moderately priced for a rifle and can be a great tool for hunting and target shooting. Ammo does vary, however, according to Sofrep:

“The rifle’s 30 round magazine capacity is crazy. But you know what’s more crazy? The AR’s most popular cartridge — the .223/5.56 NATO — penetrates less than pistol bullets and shotgun shells. How do I know? The FBI put the claim to the test. They fired various .223 rounds and compared them to 9mm, 10mm, and .40 S&W calibers (pistol ammo). The results? The .223 penetrated the least. The takeaway? If you’re going to choose a cartridge for your AR-15, go with something like the Hornady’s 55-grain load. It’s specifically designed for in-house use which will minimize bullet penetration”

Not only do you get a gun that is reliable and has stopping power, it also won’t tear apart your home completely if you decide to fire multiple shots.

As with all guns, training is key to using a weapon properly. If you decide to buy an AR-15 for self-defense, put in the work to be successful with it.

Pistols & Revolvers

The most common caliber for a home defense handgun is 9mm. This does mean that your gun will penetrate through walls and can possibly harm your loved ones during a home invasion. Also, many experts recommend hollow point ammo because of the power, and they are a bit safer to shoot in a home defense scenario. In general, pistols hold more capacity and have more moving parts. However, with revolvers, all you need to do is keep pulling the trigger if there is a malfunction.

Let’s focus on one pistol and one revolver.

Glock 19 – The Glock 19 is sturdy, having a 15 carrying capacity in a standard magazine, and shoots 9mm. Your Glock 19 can also be used for concealed carry if you have the right holster. It is easy to disassemble and put together again with thousands of tutorials located on YouTube. Glocks can also be fun to train with, and many people report the gun having a firm grip to work with which make them perfect guns for home defense.

Smith & Wesson .357 Magnum – This gun is, without a doubt, one of the best revolvers you can pick up in terms of stopping power. The .357 magnum can shoot both .357 and .32 caliber round and has enough power to go through multiple walls. If all you want is a powerful gun that is almost dummy proof in the heat of the moment, this may be the revolver for you. Whatever you point at will go down.

If you are looking for guns for home defense and concealed carry for a woman to, we also have a guide for that too.

Looking for a gun for home defense and need help making the right choice? Spring Guns and Ammo can help. We will walk you through the gun buying process in a judgment-free manner. Novices and experienced shooters are welcome here. Contact us today and let’s find you the right gun.