The only experience I had was while squirrel hunting once. While I was sitting a doberman was trotting by. he stopped 20 yds in front of me ,turned in my direction and started toward me. No barking or nothing. I was using #6s. I had a single shot and when he was within 10 yds I shot him in the face. He didn;t even bark.Turned around and fled through the woods. My prayers are with you for favor with the judge, and a quick healing. There is no need for that non-sense. I believe I would work on shooting with my opposite arm friend. It seems like there must be a light weight rifle out there for ya.

God bless you,
Chuck