Int J Legal Med. 2026 Jun 8. doi: 10.1007/s00414-026-03858-2. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Determining the shooting distance is one of the most crucial factors in firearm injuries and fatalities. When determining distance, it is important to carefully consider the barrel length, cartridge and fuse structures, extension, and environmental conditions. This study aims to measure the distance and ascertain the effects of extensions on pellet dispersal.
RESULTS: It was determined that there were noticeable differences in the pellet distributions between rounds fired at the same distance without extensions and those fired with 5-10-15 cm extensions. The diameter of the pellet dispersion decreased statistically as the choke length increased at distances greater than 100 cm (p < 0,05). It was also seen that the diameter of the pellet entry hole shrank in rounds fired between 200 and 400 cm due to an increase in extension length. Statistics showed that the differences were significant (p < 0.05). The largest satellite entrance hole distance decreased with extension length at 200 and 300 cm. There were statistically significant differences in satellite entrance hole distance (p < 0.05).
CONCLUSIONS: The study’s findings showed that the shotgun extensions directly impact pellet dispersal. It was acknowledged that the shot distance should not be calculated solely on the basis of target features without carefully analyzing the weapon and cartridge used in the incident.
PMID:42252364 | DOI:10.1007/s00414-026-03858-2
