[P8riot]

This is a commonly accepted fallacy. If you have to "rack" a shotgun you are at a disadvantage already. Best not to give them any warning at all. The first, and last, sound they should hear is

BOOM!

[ATLDiver]

Correct...While the sound of a shotgun racking is a terrifying sound to be on the ‘receiving’ end it does give away your position. Any/all HD weapons should be at the ready.

[Waverunner]

I agree - but if you want to use sound to scare the intruder, keep one of these in your closet...
RRRRRRRRRR ( intruders tend to run away, they know your crazy)

[Mr. Jazzy]

Agreed.

The only thing that racking does is to convince others, that might be with the initial target is that you have just said “NEXT?” and maybe they will clear out.

[catman67]

I tend to agree. Those outside would hear that sound several times in quick succession.

Benelli M4 - the CWIS of home defense weapons!

[mbynack]

This is a commonly accepted fallacy. If you have to "rack" a shotgun you are at a disadvantage already.

My thoughts, too. You take away any tactical advantage of surprise by racking a shotgun before you fire. If someone enters your house knowing that you're home and possibly armed why give them the knowledge of how you're armed and your position?

[Renegade]

Round hits em before they can hear the sound ! Quiet death !

[andy58-in-nh]

Definitely agree - as a tactical matter, you never want to expose your position, even in low light. Once you’ve made a positive ID on the bad guy, confirm a threat condition and know what’s beyond him, you shoot.

[JimRed]

The first, and last, sound they should hear is BOOM!

There's an old saying that you never hear the one that got you...