Actually, an AK-47 will allow one to defend himself from a large amount of people in a very short period of time. Or a few people at close range if he is a bad shot. Or a horde of zombies if he is a good shot and can reload on the run.

One of the good things about an AK or tricked-out Bushmaster is the impression it gives an intruder. Brandish one at the top of the stairs and watch the badguys scatter without firing a shot. But for this purpose the sound of a shotgun being racked in the dark is the best recipe for putting a wet spot on a burgler's crotch.

A gun is just a tool, like a hammer, or a chainsaw, or an alligator.
- Homer Simpson