Shotguns are a type of firearm designed to be fired from the shoulder, using a smoothbore barrel to shoot a spread of pellets or a single slug. They are commonly used for hunting, sport shooting, and home defense due to their versatility and effectiveness at close range. Popular models include the Remington 870 and Mossberg 500, which are favored for their reliability and ease of use. The design of shotguns allows for various ammunition types, including birdshot, buckshot, and slugs, making them suitable for different shooting scenarios. Their unique ability to deliver multiple projectiles at once makes them particularly effective for hunting birds and small game, while also providing a powerful option for self-defense situations.