Hey everyone, we had a bit of a scare recently. Someone tried to get in while we were home. My partner took the kids upstairs while I went outside with my rifle to check it out. Once things were clear, I noticed the window screen had been pulled off one side.
So now we’re looking into security cameras. Ring is one option, but I’d love to hear if anyone has other suggestions. We’re open to any options like cheaper alternatives, no subscription models, solar-powered, battery, wired, better audio, etc.
Also, after this incident, my partner wants to learn how to use the firearms we have. Any leads on that would be awesome too!
Some advice: don’t go outside to check on things alone if you can avoid it. You lose your tactical advantage outside, and it’s tough to cover all angles. If you’re in a place with a police force, call them to come and check it out instead.
@EdwardGenesis
Agreed… unless you have night vision gear and an infrared designator, you’re at a disadvantage outside with a flashlight. Plus, there might be legal risks if you’re outside the “castle” area of your home (depends on local laws). It’s better to secure your home and call local law enforcement to make a report. Also, deer cameras with cellular data are great for monitoring larger areas like the driveway where cables aren’t practical.
Brooklyn said: @Larry
I actually have night vision gear and IR, so I used them during this. Thanks for the advice!
Still risky. Best to stay inside, call the police, and be prepared if they get inside. Going outside can be a legal issue if you end up in a confrontation. From one gun owner to another, it’s just safer that way.
@EdwardGenesis
Sorry for the late response—my partner and I were at the range. I do have night vision, and I used it during the situation. We shut down all lights in the house, and I went out through the back while my partner covered the front. Checked the yard under night vision.
We’ve had issues with police response before, so I wasn’t expecting much help. Last time, my partner was home alone, called the police, and they never arrived, so I got there first.
@EdwardGenesis
Make sure you know your state’s laws. Some places allow using force in home invasions, while others expect you to avoid confrontation. Shooting someone outside can be harder to justify legally.
Big fan of Reolink. Like most electronics, it’s made in China, but it’s not part of the major tech surveillance brands. I have one that’s solar-powered and uses a T-Mobile SIM for remote monitoring, and a set that stores video on a local hard drive. Both detect animals and people, which I find helpful. No subscription needed.
So sorry you went through that! I love our Reolink system, especially with some added infrared lights for better night vision. I used to have Ring but was disappointed by missed events and slow response times.
I’ve been using Eufy cameras, and they’ve worked well for about 3 years now. Solar panels keep them charged, and they come with a home base, so no subscription is needed.
Michelle said:
I’ve been using Eufy cameras, and they’ve worked well for about 3 years now. Solar panels keep them charged, and they come with a home base, so no subscription is needed.
Cameras can capture footage, but there’s no guarantee they’ll give you a clear view of the person. Think about adding physical security first—bars, locks, etc. Then add deterrents like lights or doorbell cameras. Only after that would I consider additional cameras.
I like a mix of Nest and Arlo cameras. They’re viewable together in the Google Home app. If you’re considering outdoor cameras, 24/7 recording can be helpful to get the full context of any event.
matt said:
I like a mix of Nest and Arlo cameras. They’re viewable together in the Google Home app. If you’re considering outdoor cameras, 24/7 recording can be helpful to get the full context of any event.
Looking into 24/7 recording but not sure if I need extra storage. Do these systems overwrite old footage after a while?
@Brooklyn
Yes, POE cameras use a single ethernet cable to power and send video to a DVR that stores recordings. Once full, it rewrites old footage. My setup gives me two weeks with 4 cameras before it starts overwriting.