The only reason to do without the buttstock is for using in tight quarters. When it comes to actual shooting then firing from the shoulder is vastly better.
I would buy a 20 gauge if I was buying the gun for you.
If you do get a shotgun get a big sheet of cardboard, mark some aiming spots on it and shoot at them from ten feet or so, fifteen, twenty and so forth while backing up. This will give you an idea of the shot spread at different distances. You will be surprised at the small spread at close distances.
BTW, a fairly decent gunsafe is a real good investment for guns and other stuff.
PS, some states require shotguns, no rifles, for deer hunting.
I’m full of opinions. :-)
Why a gun safe? I have one in my purse, one behind the safe, and want this shotgun under the bed. Don’t have hunting rifles or anything to lock up for “special” occasions. Also, have awesome Kevlar locking holster very difficult for child to pull off but quick yank at right angle for me and ready to fire. Why gun safe?