Pronunciation: [ʃˈɒtʃɛl] (IPA) 
Shotshell is a type of ammunition used in shotguns. Its spelling is a combination of the words "shot" and "shell". The word "shot" is pronounced as /ʃɒt/ in IPA, which means the /sh/ sound followed by the short /o/ sound and the /t/ sound. The word "shell" is pronounced as /ʃɛl/, which means the /sh/ sound followed by the short /e/ sound and the /l/ sound. When combined, the two words form "shotshell", pronounced as /ˈʃɒt.ʃɛl/ in IPA.
A shotshell refers to a type of cartridge or ammunition used primarily in shotguns. It consists of a metal or plastic case that contains the propellant, primer, wad, and multiple small projectiles, known as shot or pellets. Shotshells are designed to deliver a spread of projectiles instead of a single bullet like in a typical rifle cartridge.
The main components of a shotshell include the case, which holds the other components together and provides stability during firing. The primer, located at the base of the case, ignites the propellant, a chemical compound responsible for generating the necessary gas pressure to propel the shot. The wad, made of plastic or fiber, separates the propellant from the shot, ensuring a controlled dispersion of the pellets upon firing.
The shot or pellets within the shotshell can vary in size, composition, and quantity, according to the desired effect. Shotshells are commonly used in hunting for game birds and small animals, as well as in recreational shooting sports such as skeet, trap, and sporting clays.
Shotshells are available in different gauges, which indicate the internal diameter of the shotgun barrel. The most common gauges include 12, 20, and .410 bore. Depending on the gauge, shotshells can have varying amounts of shot and propellant, producing different patterns and velocities.
Overall, shotshells are an essential component of shotgun ammunition, allowing for effective shooting at relatively close ranges with a spread of projectiles, making them suitable for various hunting and sporting purposes.
The word "shotshell" is a compound word formed by combining "shot" and "shell".
The term "shot" refers to small spherical pellets used as projectiles, particularly in the context of firearms. The word has Germanic origins and can be traced back to the Old English word "sceot", which means "a missile, dart, or projectile".
The word "shell" refers to a container or casing, often made of metal, that holds ammunition or explosive substances. Its origin can be traced back to the Old English word "scealu", meaning "a covering or husk".
When combined, "shotshell" refers to a type of ammunition used in shotguns. It consists of a casing (shell) containing small pellets (shot). The term likely emerged in the English language to describe this specific type of ammunition.
