The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word GUNSHOTS
I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
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The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does GUNSHOTS mean?
GUNSHOTS noun- The act of discharging a firearm.
- The sound made by a discharging firearm.
- The distance to which shot can be thrown from a gun; the reach or range of a gun.
- A bullet, projectile, or other shot fired from a gun.