Home defense shotgun?

Question

What is the best, most powerful, and deadly shotgun ammo to use for my new 12 gauge, 18.5" barrel, Mossberg 500 Tactical Cruiser?

Answer 1

12 gauge Terminator ammo.    A slug filled with shot that expands to 1.5" on impact. http://www.hi-vel.com/Catalog__21/Specia...

Or you could just stick with #4 buckshot which is excellent for self defense.  

Answer 2

Typical home defense rounds would be 00 or 000 Buck.  If you wanted something a bit less lethal, you could make the first couple of rounds a really small shot (size 7 1/2, or something), and follow it up with the buckshot, in case you need the stopping power.  Keep in mind that the first shot into the chamber is actually the last round you load in the magazine.

I would say that, if you ever face a home intruder, the sound of chambering a round in your shotgun will probably be about all the effect you need.  I, for one, would turn tail upon hearing it.