[RPKESQ]

Most times shotguns are a poor choice for CQC, close quarters combat. Too easy to loose control of the weapon. Outside, with some distance, it is great. In a typical home hallway, stair case, or such it is less than optimum.

"Racking a round" as a deterrent is enormously over rated. If that were so, why isn't it promoted to do the same with a semi-auto pistol? Expecting a person who has already demonstrated the will to transgress, to react as a normal person is highly dubious at best.

If you truly need a firearm, you need it ready for action when it is in your hand (you may only have one hand to use).

A short barreled handgun combined with proper flashlight technique is the better choice for most. Combined with remote control room and outdoor lighting and a "safe room" to retreat to (what there are more than one thief/home invader in the house?) will give you and yours the best chance of survival.