What type of walls do shotgun barrels typically have?

Shotgun barrels typically have smooth walls. This design is essential because shotguns are primarily used for firing multiple small pellets, known as shot, rather than a single bullet. The smooth interior allows the shot to spread out after leaving the barrel, making it more effective for hunting moving game such as birds or small mammals, where a wider blast increases the likelihood of hitting the target.

The smooth bore design contrasts with rifled barrels, which are found in rifles and are designed for shooting single projectiles with precision. The grooves in rifled barrels impart a spin to the bullet, stabilizing it during flight for greater accuracy over long distances. Textured and polished finishes may relate to the aesthetics or handling of the firearm but do not significantly affect the functionality of the barrel in the same way that the smooth bore does for shotguns.