While a shotgun has far more intimidation factor, legal restrictions on barrel length, stocks and so on can make one fairly unwieldy in a confined space like a hallway. Also, at point-blank ranges you're not likely to miss with a pistol, since you'll probably fall into a reflexive "point and shoot" pattern, and you'll be able to deliver rounds much faster than with a shotgun. Both are suitable, but you need to make sure that whatever you choose, you can use it in a confined space.Broomstick wrote:Yes, but arguably a handgun is not the ideal choice for home defense. Around here, shotguns seem preferred for that use.
A hand gun is for personal carry. They are designed primarily to shoot other human beings, or for target practice.
A long gun is for hunting.
A shotgun is for defending the home.
(Opinion subject to change without notice)
As to the earlier topic, I'm not sure about Wal Mart, but the Canadian Tire near my house still sold rifles and shotguns 2 years ago. However, they weren't in the main display cases, and only a few employees had access to the room where they were kept.
