“I’d feel better totin’ something like this.”
I like the way you think.
Ditch the field and game load for #00 for a big cat would probably be wise. Or #00, slug, #00, etc.
Around here it is often a jogger or mountain bike rider that will get attacked. The “fleeing animal” thing I suppose. Although walking might trigger it as well.
Take a look at this video.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TL8unjP4r6Q
1. Can you see the cougar as it stalks the driver shooting the video? Hint: It is closer at the 45 - 50 second period?
2. Could YOU shoot the cougar when it was coming that close to you? It was a very, very narrow target! And this mountain lion was not moving/jumping/attacking. Only stalking.
3. Did you see the second cougar approaching from the other side?