I don't really trust the knockoff, for an extra $70 you can get the real deal Remington 870 with 18.5" barrel and synth stock. But yes, like everyone else was saying, shotgun is #1 in home defense, followed by a pistol. 12ga 18.5" barrel (legal minimum) - for maneuverability inside home Whatever "shot" you choose to use is up to you - just like handguns, there's pro's and con's to each caliber and type of cartridge.