Sanjeev Bhanot, 29, of Southall, west London, lied about his identity and how he was hurt in Harrow, north-west London, in June 2006.
Bhanot, who was nearly paralysed by the bullet wound, admitted he "feared for his family's safety" if he co-operated, Southwark Crown Court was told.
He pleaded guilty to one count of perverting the course of justice.
He initially claimed he was shot by a mugger and then said a "fugitive bookmaker" had left him for dead over a gambling debt.
"When it comes to the court imposing a sentence, particularly in the current circumstances of gun crime in London, it must be a deterrent sentence"
At one stage, police considered a theory that Bhanot had shot himself.
Judge Christopher Elwen said prison was inevitable for the "thoroughly misleading information" he gave police.
"It is important that those involved in gun crime, even as a victim, co-operate with the police," he said.
"Also when it comes to the court imposing a sentence, particularly in the current circumstances of gun crime in London, it must be a deterrent sentence."
Julia Hackworth, defending, said Bhanot did not want police to pursue the gunman.
She said: "He told them he didn't want them to take any further action because he feared further retribution for his family."
Doctors said the bullet narrowly missed Bhanot's spine, saving him from paralysis "at the very least", the court heard.
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