There are times when I think that I'm at a safe distance and they still map me, or leave me with one HP. Another option is to at least add some flinch to them, because it's hard for sidearms to compete at the moment.
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It should be hard for sidearms to compete with shotguns unless you're at the edge of sidearm range. Special weapons are supposed to be more lethal than primary weapons. Best of luck.