Washington State Hunters Ed Practice Exam

The primer in a shotgun shell serves a critical function in the ignition process. When the trigger is pulled, the firing pin strikes the primer, creating a small explosion that ignites the gunpowder contained within the shell. This ignition generates the rapidly expanding gases that propel the shot out of the barrel.

Understanding this function is essential for safe and effective firearm handling. The primer is a vital component in the firing sequence, making its role indispensable for the shotgun to operate properly. Without a functioning primer, the gunpowder would not ignite, and the shotgun would fail to fire.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe the role of the primer. While holding the shots in place or keeping the shell together pertains more to the structure and design of the shell itself, acting as a backstop relates to safety measures in shooting environments. The primary and crucial role of the primer is specifically to ignite the powder.