Skip to main content

Contact-range discharge to the left side of the neck (12 G shotgun, homicide). (left image) Exit site on the right lateral neck. (right image) Entrance wound with longitudinal splitting laceration toward the angle of jaw and soot staining in the depth.

Fig.1

Smooth-bore firearms or shotguns have a completely different profile of injuries as compared to rifled firearms. This difference is determined primarily by the type of projectiles in the shotgun. Shotgun cartridges consist of multiple projectiles that disperse a short distance from the muzzle, leading to more extensive damage. The penetrating power of each projectile is, however, reduced.

Shotguns, in general, also propel the flame for a distance of 15 cm, smoke and gas for 30 cm, unburnt particles, and metal scraps for 60 cm. The contact injuries appear similar to a rifled firearm, in both pressed and loose, as well as with underlying bone and soft tissue. In pressed or firm contact injuries, the skin may present with a double muzzle imprint from the double barrels.

Latest posts

Fig.1 Protrusion of the tongue on this decomposing individual.

Protrusion of the tongue on this decomposing individual

| Decomposition | No Comments
Notice the protrusion of the tongue on this decomposing individual. The rate of decomposition depends on the temperature,…
Fig.1 Postmortem animal destruction of a corpse.

Postmortem animal destruction of a corpse

| Accident, Animal Scavenging | No Comments
A broad range of carnivores can be involved in the postmortem destruction of corpses located in open spaces…
Fig.1 Probe demonstrating the path of projectile.

Probe demonstrating the path of projectile

| Gunshot | No Comments
Probes are effective in demonstrating the paths of projectiles through the body. All cutaneous wounds must be photographed…
Fig.1 Lacerations inflicted by a claw hammer.

Lacerations inflicted by a claw hammer

| Homicide | No Comments
Lacerations inflicted by a claw hammer. Multiple lacerations with split and abraded margins are typical for bludgeoning but…