Rifling in the Rifle or Handgun Bore
The bore of a rifle or handgun is grooved, which puts a spiral spin on the bullet for greater accuracy. The bore of the shotgun barrel is smooth because rifling would spread the shot pattern too soon.
![Rifle, handgun, and shotgun bores showing lands and grooves](https://ke-courses-production.s3.amazonaws.com/asset_files/production/695/attachments/original/bores.jpg?1497618050)
The bore of a rifle or handgun is grooved, which puts a spiral spin on the bullet for greater accuracy. The bore of the shotgun barrel is smooth because rifling would spread the shot pattern too soon.