The only other weapons were shotguns - they would be inappropriate given the number of times you would need to reload. He also wouldn't be able to use his story about leaving out the rifle out. He factored in the rifle in his plan, not the shot gun.
Hi Caroline

I sent you a personal message in response to you theory of the crime. It is rather long, it also includes a few diverse references, but be patient and give it a thorough reading. I would normally have posted this sort of thing on the forum, but I'm a bit concerned about the inclinations that some members have of responding to posts that are not intended for them.
All this can be aggravated by the possibility that one or perhaps two people on the forum seem to be unable to comprehend what I'm trying to say, or is it me that has the problem? I don't know, but a personal message is the only way in this instance since my PM is a direct response to your post upthread. If you can understand it grammatically at least let me know. I think I'd be vindicated if you do.
Oh I've also removed my avatar, I'm aware that it might be giving people the wrong impression of me.
Hoots!