Originally Posted by
rkittine
From what the original poster said, I get the impression Vietnam Vet or not, he probably has not shot anyone in a long time if ever (I never shot anyone in Vietnam, though had plenty of guns). Living close to New York City, I would bet that he lives on a small piece of property.
So, if you haven't pointed a gun at someone, shot at them and hit them in a long time, a scatter gun with large shot or buck shot, might be a better option and a pump has less possible problems than an auto. There are probably more riot type shotguns bought for personal defense (in reality) than AR type rifles, though I am sure there are probably as many rifles out there, though being used for something else, like shooting off hundreds of rounds at the Sand Pits in Calverton, LI.
A short shotgun will swing well in confined quarters. Personally my, in home, defense weapons are all pistols though I own lots of rifles and lots of shotguns.
Then take the proximity to others possibly in the house as well as very close neighbors. I load Hollow Based Wadcutters upside down over a heavy charge. They will expand really well and have great impact, but usually will not go through a wall and hit someone in the next room, the same for many shotgun loads.
A bolt gun is great if you are a perfect shot and only need to fire once. Not likely.
Bob