
Or go with a 60 cal handgun http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lzri8dn7p0
The vids real good for a laugh, doesn't seem like a practical gun though

As for house security, not every thing has to be high tech, don't forget the basics like no hedges, bright lights, good frame work and hardware, and dogs. Most of which were already mentioned. However, I would stay away from motion sensetive lights, as they can be beaten, I'd just go with some brights that are always on.
Now, lets say you do all this. High security locks, special doorframe, special windows, etc.
A professional burglar might see all this, and become interested. Here's the problem, you're assuming the entry will have to be through a door or a window. What if they cut a hole in the roof or wall?
Alarms could help prevent this, I know you're against them, but they'd be one more layer of security. Of course they can be beaten, but that'd take a lot of work.
As for a safe, lookinto the ones that can be cemented into the concrete basement....