“...how to have it handy and very safe from the one small child who comes regularly to my home.”
I mentioned getting a pistol of some type to my wife - who for the longest time said NO WAY to having a pistol in the house.
This time she said “As long as it is kept safe, like in a safe, no ammo, etc.”. I mentioned to her “Or, it is always on my person - even in the house”. She said “Oh - that would work.” (Now - what to get, what to get. Probably a .357 revolver. Perhaps a .40 auto. My next step is to go to the local gun range where you can shoot various types, take lessons, etc.)
Even still - the shotgun will remain a standard, easy to use and effective means of home defense.
I think people need to think in terms of not just one invader but an unknown number. One or two are probably most likely, but now with gangs and not knowing how badly society might break down, you have to add into the mix as many repeats as possible without having to reload.
There is a group I lurk on, and they talk about getting military-grade kevlar vests. And not just kevlar but some kind of special liner. Man, are they serious or just thinking worst case scenario? They don't come across like they are out looking for a fight but just being prepared for self defense either at home or wherever they feel they have to flee to their "safe place". They talk about having those and a way to get to them, too, if traffic becomes an issue. And all sorts of other very practical things dealing with basic survival.
Lately a lot of trolls and political ranters have invaded thr group, so I don't read it much, but was amazed at their resourcefulness in things like rigging up a generator from a car, too complicated for me. Food storage. Water purification, all sorts of good tips.