A typical shotgun is a long-barreled firearm designed to fire multiple small projectiles, called shot, with each pull of the trigger. Unlike rifles, shotguns usually have smooth bores rather than rifled barrels, allowing the shot to spread out in a pattern as it travels.
The most common action types are pump-action, where the user manually slides the forearm to eject and load shells, and break-action, where the barrel hinges open for loading. Semi-automatic shotguns, which automatically cycle shells, are also popular.
Shotguns typically fire 12 gauge or 20 gauge ammunition, with 12 gauge being the most common. The shells can be loaded with different sizes of shot - from tiny birdshot for small game to larger buckshot for deer hunting or self-defense. They can also fire single projectile slugs.