Choosing a home defense gun in West Virginia

In much of rural West Virginia, help can be a long way off, so many families keep a gun for home defense. The right choice is one you can store safely and shoot well. This is general information, not legal advice.

The pistol

A full-size or compact 9mm with a weapon light is the most practical choice for most homes. The Glock 17 and 19, SIG P320, Smith and Wesson M&P and Ruger Security-9 are proven. A .357 Magnum revolver is simple and powerful.

The shotgun

A 12- or 20-gauge pump with buckshot has protected rural homes for generations. It is powerful at close range but recoils harder and holds fewer rounds.

The rifle

An AR-15 in 5.56 is accurate, light-recoiling and holds 30 rounds. It also serves on the farm against coyotes.

Storage

Keep a home defense gun in a quick-access safe and lock up every other firearm, especially with children in the home.

West Virginia law

West Virginia has a castle doctrine and stand-your-ground provisions that allow reasonable force, including deadly force when justified, against an intruder unlawfully entering a home. Every case is judged on its facts.

Practice

Practice at a free WVDNR range and plan with your family what everyone does at night.

Shop handguns, shotguns and rifles, and read the concealed carry guide.

General information, not legal advice. Current as of September 2026. Laws change; check the official source before you act.