[Groesbeck Hurricane]

This all depends upon you and your upkeep initiative. Keep in mind that if you don't hit your target in three shots or less, you have already lost the game.

Shotguns are great in that you might not get your neighbours homes. 12 guage with buck shot works well and in a panic situation you should get some pellets near the perp. Try what works best for you. I like semi-automatics and double barrels, but others like pumps. If for home use only look at units that are ready made to hold low and have a short barrel. Nothing like having the gun taken from you prior to firing. Wood absorbs the shock (recoil) better than the vast majority of synthetic stocks and they all break or can have manufacturing defects.

The next step to look at is a revolver. Single actions tend to force you to aim, double actions tend to lend to quicker firing. You will have only 5, 6, or 7 shots depending upon the weapon. New Tech Ammo makes a very nice round in multiple calibres that will not penetrate a second layer of drywall (i.e. you will not shoot your kids in the next room). This ammo will transmit all of its energy to the target upon impact and it is made of powdered metal which becomes molten when fired. I use these. You can also load rounds that are shot. The good thing about a revolver is most people actually shoot better with them, shoot .38 rounds from a .357 for the wife to diminish recoil, if the cylinder turns the hammer can fall (in otherwords waaaaay fewer misfires and jams). A revolver is more forgiving to a less regimented cleaning schedule.

A semi-auto can deliver many rounds quickly and is quicker to re-load. It requires more cleaning and is more apt to jam. (yes, I do shoot these)

PM me if you have specific questions.