Simple enough the best homedefense weapon is a 12 gauge pump shotgun. All you do is point in the direction of the threat and pull trigger.
If you think a 12 gauge shotgun is to much for you to handle. Invest in the new stocks that are out. That remove the recoil of the shotgun. Sure they are pricey but when your life is on the line they are worth the investment.
I will put money on it that if she used a 12 gauge shotgun those boys would not have been running home.