My sister and myself run a handmade jewelry booth at a local flea market. It is a cubical with an walkway between us and the booth on the other side. I wanted something to defend us, but not harm customers walking the walkway. The 410 with no# 4 shot, not buckshot, is just what the doctor ordered. At about 2 yards, the pattern is about 18 inches, just wide enough for one person. It is plenty to correct a bad attitude, but not enough to wipe out the neighbors. The recoil is stiff, but not serious, and I am sure in a panic moment unnoticeable, as is the recoil on a rifle when you are shooting at the trophy Buck you have been waiting a lifetime to see. I am happy with my choice of firearm for the situation, and have no problem recommending it to others.