What are the five components of a shotgun shell?

The five components of a shotgun shell are indeed the case, shot pellets, wad column, gunpowder, and primer.

The case is the outer shell that holds all the other components together and is designed to withstand the pressure created when the gunpowder ignites. Inside the case, you have the shot pellets, which are the projectiles that leave the barrel and hit the target. The wad column serves as a seal between the gunpowder and the shot, helping to create an efficient gas seal and ensuring a consistent shot pattern. The gunpowder is the propellant that generates the gas needed to propel the shot pellets when ignited. Finally, the primer is a small metal cup containing a volatile chemical that ignites when struck by the firing pin, starting the whole process.

This understanding of how each component interacts is crucial for both safe handling and effective use of shotgun ammunition in hunting or shooting sports.