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I think a really great gun to use for home defense is the CX4 from Beretta. It is a very short carbine so it is easy to handle in tight quarters. You can get it in 9mm, .40, or .45. My brother-in-law has one in .45 and it is a very soft shooter and seems really reliable. You can check it out on the Beretta website. It may be a little near the top end of your price range, but from what you are describing, I think it would fit the bill pretty well. I am thinking about getting one myself, but I kind of want the H&K USC. That is a really nice piece but the price tag is awfully high, especially with the CX4 as an option. Anyway, just a suggestion. Good luck in your search.