Forgive me, Do you mean by HD as in Home Defense? I don’t think I’ve seen that abbreviated. Generally shotguns are considered long guns. A compact shotgun is still 18” or more before you consider the stock. Certainly not considered a carry gun unless you live in a really rural area where carrying a firearm is wise due to needing to rely on yourself. (Alaska, Texas, AZ, NM, Wy and CO (and a bunch of remote areas in other states.
A good way to get comfortable with shotguns is to shoot trap, skeet and sporting clays. It’s pretty easy to take 100 shots in 2 hours and no dislocated shoulders with 12 gauges. You do have to shoulder the gun properly so you don’t bruise yourself. I have seen cheek bruises as well on people who didn’t handle it assertively.
If you are worried about recoil, there are two simple fixes in addition to a good recoil pad, 1) pick a gas operated semi auto like a Remington 1100 or a Beretta 300/400. The gas diverted to cycle the action reduces the recoil felt.
The other strategy is go heavy, ie a double barrel. The stationary weight burns more energy before it gets to the shooter vs a single shot.
For home defense, I generally recommend a pump shotgun, mainly because their reliability is quite high.
You still have to practice. If you have to think when you are in a home defense situation, you are in trouble. It needs to be fast & smooth. You need to be 100% focused on the threat and verifying the threat is a threat. not trying to remember how to load, pump or manipulate the safety.
Given your exposure to shotguns is from a distance, go to a local gun store and get some suggestions on training options, or the local Clays club.
Best way to learn is to do.
Also be aware of your local government’s restrictions.. hopefully your state has castle doctrine in place.
Let us know how you proceed.
Safety first.
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