What is the definition of a shotgun?

A shotgun is a type of firearm that is typically designed to be fired from the shoulder with both hands, providing stability and control while aiming. The definition emphasizes that a shotgun is generally intended for shooting multiple small projectiles (such as pellets) at once, which disperse upon firing, rather than single projectiles like a rifle.

The correct choice reflects the design of the shotgun as one that utilizes a shoulder-fired position, often involving a grip under or behind the action of the gun. This stance is essential for managing recoil, especially given the typically larger gauge of shots fired from a shotgun compared to a pistol.

In contrast, the options that discuss firing from one hand or only single projectiles do not accurately describe the fundamental nature of a shotgun. Shotguns are not intended solely for long-range shooting; rather, they excel at various distances depending on the type of ammunition used and the intended application, such as hunting birds or home defense.