[JamesP81]

I am not sure I agree that a .223 is as effective up close as a load of buckshot but the difference probably isn’t worth mentioning.

I don't think it is quite as effective, it only "compares favorably". It works quite well.

My point is that 223 is still very effective and avoids most of the downsides associated with shotguns. As trade offs go, I think it's a pretty good one.

[yarddog]

Recoil is the main reason I wish I had a 11-87 set up for defense. I hardly notice the recoil from it or a model 1100. I had a Beretta Skeet auto and same thing, almost no recoil.

I owned a Browning Auto 5 for many years. It was a great shotgun which never failed but it kicked really bad. It actually seemed to pull back just so it could kick you again.

Same for a Benelli M1 super 90. It would have been perfect if it had not kicked even worse than the Browning. I suspect if my life were at stake, I would not even notice the recoil but still you need to practice a little.

[editor-surveyor]

Rifles are not a good choice for home defense.

Down-range hits could put you in the slammer for a long spell.