[Smokin Gator]

For home defense I have a Ruger Security Six. It is simple, reliable, a blast to shoot for practice, and can be found (used) in great shape for about $350. I also keep a Mossberg 500 under the bed.

For a carry pistol I love my SW Airweight 38. It is not much fun for practice but is light/small enough to be a everyday concealed carry.

Lots of options out there, but those work for me. For straight up home defense though a shotgun has a lot of plusses.