when the poo hits the fan, i think the shotgun is the winner.
also, if you use a light load with small shot, you don't have to worry so much as whackin your nieghbors by accident because of penetration issues....

and how about that "CHIK-CHICK " sound??? thats awful scary in the dark. might be enough to avoid a confrontation (although a pistol mounted laser has the same wet-your -pants- effect)

seriously, if you are that concerned for your safety, the FIRST thing i would do is scumbag-proof your house. motion lights, LOUD alarms when the doors or windows are breached,get a big old chessie retriever, etc... and if it's THAT bad, you may want to consider movin!