Tell her, ahem! I mean tell the book keeper that you need a new "room broom" and plan to do some cleaning.
Guns are non-returnable, so this is a good option. you can tell her you got a good deal on it...for good measure.Another good method, buy the shotgun and throw the reciept in the trash, that way she can't make you return it, and turning around and selling it would just be a waste of money. You win either way.
I feel that complete honesty is the best way to keep peace at home, and I also agree that each spouse should have his/her own separate account under his/her control and yes, a household account where they each contribute to the household finances. Sure avoids a lot of arguments about money.I've always been an advocate of separate, private accounts for both spouses. There can still be a primary, joint account of course, but two other, separate accounts. Doesn't have to be anything shady or secret, but just somewhere where both can keep a bit of money that they made themselves. That way, if she wants to go on a spur of the moment shopping trip, she can do so without guilt. Same for the guy.