Dar is correct-I  have seen the results of both heavy and light shot at close range- not much difference.
Even low bras at close distance gets it done.
But if your getting shot at at a longer distance may as well use what decent for further out -just in case.
Neverknow what situation ya may be confronted with.

Set up some scrap 2" × ?" targets. Shoot each with various calibers of hand guns, walking back 10 yds each time then break out the shotgun and do the same. You be the judge.

Out-n-bout it's 9mm to 357 on the hip. Home defense, it's shotgun #6 shot all the way.

Sawed off shot guns, are they legal to have in possession?

I would take my chances on a firearms violation if it means a gun with stopping power and reduced aim needed, especially if I was looking for someone with diminished arm strength or shaky hands. A 22 with a laser site is easy to use but not much stopping power, yes they are lethal (I have seen the results firsthand) but not really quick.
I would say it comes down to having a shooting range and a variety to test out to find the weapon that matches the person's ability and comfort zone.
And I carry a knife with me most times, legal or not. If someone is close enough for me to use it I will take my chances on explaining why or paying a penalty for carrying it.

Congratulations pop TB
👍👣

HT "Watch out for your top knot."
 

Don't really prefer the conversation but since we are on it- remember a once shot perp can still kill ya even with a fatal wound- he often has time with knife or gun.
 

One of my hunting buddies was the PSP expert witness on shootings, so he got to interview lots of folks who ended up getting shot. The statistic that he provided that really jumped out was that 77% of people shot with a handgun survived. That goes to the point above where a shot person is still dangerous, especially after they fall because blood no longer needs to flow vertically to the brain, just horizontally, which often makes the shot person viable again.

James Arness was shot hundreds of times on Gunsmoke alone, and he still lived to the age of 88.

Thanks HT.  Get to see my new granddaughter for the first time later this afternoon.  A new fishing buddy in the making.
 

Teach her well TB.. she entered a new world upon the likes possibly changed forever in our lives.
Remember, social interaction is a very good thing. Computers can't replace humans