Would a shotgun be safer as far as wall penetration is concerned? We have a small home and if I shot someone in my upstairs hallway, there is a good chance that something could go through the wall into my daughter's room.
I'm really ignorant about guns so if I'm asking stupid questions, I apologize.
Wall penetration.
If you insist upon a shotgun, ballistically, at across the room distances, #6 squirrel shot will have similar energy as buck shot. The advantage of smaller shot is that there is less liklihood of overpenetration.
Yes, a shotgun would be safer for penetration reasons, depending on the load you use. I would consult with you local dealer for specifics.
Generally, though a shotgun does not have "rifling" (spirals in the barrel -- that's why it's a shotgun, not a rifle). As a result, the slugs tumble, rather than spin, resulting in less penetration.
Plus, there are game loads (e.g., turkey loads) that would still kill/maim, but I doubt they'd make it through an wall. (Again, ask your dealer about what you are buying.)
'We have a small home and if I shot someone in my upstairs hallway, there is a good chance that something could go through the wall into my daughter's room.'
Depends on how long your hallway is. As noted earlier, the spreading effect on a shotgun is overrated when you are within the normal ranges of a small house. Measure the distance and take a shot on paper at that distance to see.
Loading other than 00 buck or slugs (which are great outdoors) can help reduce the recoil. Semi-automatic shotguns reduce felt recoil as well. Buy a good one and practice. But it is tough to beat a pump. A hit from any shotgun within 20 feet is going to drill the guy you hit. Changing the shot can allow you to customize your loads to you situation. Get some shells and practice on wood/sheetrock/telephone books. See what will work for you under comfortable circumstances for you. You still have to point. Practice makes perfect.