A .410 that someone has practised with and has confidence in would probably be a better choice than a 12 ga, if that person has to close their eyes and grit their teeth when they shoot it. However almost anyone should be able to shoot enough to get used to a 12 ga.
The operator, rather than the tool, is the most important part of the equation anyway.
The operator, rather than the tool, is the most important part of the equation anyway.