What is the most widespread material to make shotgun shots of?

The correct answer is lead, as it has historically been the most commonly used material for making shotgun pellets. Lead is favored for its density, which allows for effective energy transfer upon impact and helps ensure a sufficient shot pattern for hunting and shooting sports. Its malleability also means it can be easily formed into shot of various sizes, which is important for different shooting applications.

While alternatives, such as steel and other non-toxic materials, have gained popularity due to environmental regulations, lead remains the traditional choice and is widely used in many types of shotgun ammunition. Other materials like silver and brass are less practical for this purpose; silver is too expensive and not dense enough for effective shot, while brass is typically used for the casing rather than the shot itself. This understanding of lead's properties and its role in shotgun ammunition helps clarify why it is the prevalent choice.