I have to agree with "Ducimus" a shotgun is the best all around gun.I have a 20 gauge rem 870 express pump youth.I bought a pistol grip that I keep on it for home and put the reg stock back on for hunting.I have used that gun for years.Last year I killed 15 Squirrels one month and the next month took a deer at 100+ yards all with a smooth bore barrel.I use #3 buckshot for home defense.I have never had one issue with this gun in 8 years of heavy use.Rain,sleet or snow it has never failed to fire or pump the next round in the chamber.As far as an all around military gun for battle "it is not" but If you want a gun for all around "general needs" a shotgun is the best hands down.
Tim