re: Shotgun for home defense, you still need to aim!.

quote:

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A shotgun is a excellent firearm choice for home defense

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It actually isn't that great for firearm novices, which is often the very folks to which it is directed.

A shotgun has, generally, unforgiving recoil - particularly 12 gauge with buckshot or slugs (the most effective defense rounds). They sell them with pistol grips ("cruiser" style) and folding stocks, which is exactly the configuration you might want to store/transport them in, but a novice thinks they can shoot these guns accurately from the hip.

With hilarious results. Most folks would be better suited with a rifle, and I would recommend an AR-15 platform. Not because it's the best (which is subjective), but it is a fantastic platform, all around - and particularly a novice can pick up and fire such a weapon more proficiently at round 1, and will more quickly become proficient than almost any other firearm on the market. The other advantages should be obvious over shotguns and pistols - range, firepower, recoil, etc.

Just my $0.02.