Shotcup Petal Abrasions in Close Range .410-Caliber Shotgun Injuries

Shotcup petal abrasions centred around a shotgun wound of entrance are generally thought to occur at 30 to 90 cm. Significant soot deposition around a suicidal .410-caliber shotgun injury suggested a firing range of about 15 cm, although typical petal abrasions were noted. Test-firing of the decedent’s weapon & ammunition & other .410 ammunition confirmed the spread of shotcup petals at ranges less than 30 cm. All but 1 of the other guns tested demonstrated spread at a range of 12.5 cm. (KM)