I get what you're saying about the walls, Oldpink had a good idea with getting a 22 or loading the gun with birdshot, which was something I had though about. Also, if I got a shotgun, I was thinking more along the lines of 20 gauge or 410 than 12 gauge, something with a little less power.
Also...
Thank you all, I know that I can buy a handgun from a private seller, but buying a long gun would probably be easier than finding someone who is willing to sell me a pistol.
I live in Indiana and was thinking of buying a rifle or shotgun to keep in my apartment, but I don't have a car or anyone to drive me back from the store. Is it legal to just carry it home? Unloaded of course, but that's the only way I'm going to get it home unless to store I get it from will...