Shotguns.

Question
I am a fiction writer and need to know a couple of things about using shotguns. (not sure if USA use same names. Double-barrell uses cartridges firing lead pellets)
If you fire a shotgun would you have any residue on your hands?
Could recovered pellets be identified? I realise not to a gun, but for example, a manufacturer.
Are there two triggers on a double-barrelled shotgun or do you pull the trigger twice?

Many thanks if you can help.

Answer
Michael,

Regarding gun shot residue on your hands after shooting a shotgun, there would be some that comes from handling the shotgun and the process of loading and unloading.  There would not be as much as after shooting a pistol, but there would be some.  

As far as recovered pellets, it would be nearly impossible to trace back to a manufacturer since there are no markings at all.  Sometimes a single shell manufacturer sells to multiple ammo suppliers so only the brand differs but not the materials.  Similarly, different manufacturers might use the same supplier of lead pellets.

Regarding your trigger question, typically if the double barrel is a 'side by side' action, there are two triggers.  On an 'over under' double barrel action, there is typically only a single trigger that is selectable.

Hope this helps you out...

Best regards,

Doug Little