Shotgun vs AR-15 for home defense — which wins?

The shotgun delivers overwhelming close-range power with buckshot, but it kicks hard, holds few rounds, and reloads slowly. The AR-15 has very light recoil, holds 30, is easy to add a light and dot, and 5.56 often over-penetrates walls less than buckshot or handgun rounds. For most households — especially recoil-sensitive shooters — the AR is the more forgiving and capable choice. The shotgun rewards someone who patterns it and trains hard. Either needs a weapon light.