[aigel]

The shotgun is a good idea as aiming and handling it is pretty easy. However, how strong is the wife? Handling a 12 gauge even with a light load is not something I'd expect from a petite lady.

A 20 gauge will work as well and reduce recoil. Even better would be a semi-auto to further reduce recoil, but that adds complexity.

I would not go with a pistol grip - maybe a 20 gauge with a youth stock if the wife is a smaller frame. The barrel absolutely needs to be short for the weapon to be useful in tight quarters. 18.5 inches is usually what is offered as 18" is the legal limit.

Loads I would stay light with a #2 pellet. This will not penetrate walls a few feet away but still take anyone out of commission that gets hit by it up to 15 yards out.

If the shotgun isn't going to work, a simple 5 shot .38 with a light self defense round may do the trick too.

At any rate, make sure you practice!

Hope this helps.

G