ABSTRACT
A sound knowledge of the composition and components of the shotgun cartridge helps greatly in the interpretation of the many and varied injury patterns seen in forensic practice.
The shotgun shell has been in use since the mid 19th century and has changed little in basic design. The original shotgun cartridge cases consisted of a cylinder of tightly wound paper or drawn metal. The paper or cardboard shot shells later had a coating of lacquer to strengthen them and also to prevent water damage. The metallic shells could be reloaded many times before ultimate disposal.
