What can a shotgun be used for in tactical situations?

A shotgun is a versatile tool in tactical situations, particularly effective in building searches. Its design allows for a wide spread of shot, which increases the likelihood of hitting a target in close quarters, making it suitable for engaging multiple threats in confined spaces. This ability enhances the safety of officers during tactical operations, as it allows for quick and effective responses to dynamic encounters, such as hostage situations, active shooter scenarios, or clearing rooms in a building.

The other options, while interesting, do not apply to the tactical usage of shotguns. Cooking purposes and decorative displays do not utilize the shotgun in any operational or tactical context, and fishing is not practical or safe with a shotgun compared to other specialized equipment. Thus, the primary focus of a shotgun's application within law enforcement or tactical environments is grounded in its performance and reliability during high-stakes operations like building searches.