This type of ammunition is often referred to as buckshot or birdshot, and is typically fired from shotguns. The projectiles vary in size, with birdshot consisting of smaller pellets and buckshot comprising larger balls. The use of this type of ammunition carries severe risks. When fired at close range, for example, the projectiles cluster tightly, significantly increasing the risk to the person they hit. Small pellets have been associated with ocular injuries and penetrating wounds, and larger balls can inflict substantial harm. The injuries they cause can easily become fatal, especially when vital organs are struck or severe bleeding occurs.
The manufacture, trade, and use of ammunition containing metal projectiles should be carefully controlled and subject to robust standards to ensure that it is not used to violate human rights. The use of ammunition containing metal projectiles in crowd control should be explicitly prohibited.