Forensic Firearm Examination

Forensic Firearm Examination provides the reader with a thorough understanding of the theory, application and process of firearm identification. It is essential in the field of forensic firearm identification to not only understand the marks that examiners are observing, but also, more importantly, learn where these marks come from during the manufacturing process. This book explores the various machining techniques utilized in the manufacturing process and the resulting marks left by those tools. This information will equip the examiner with the knowledge to answer questions posed by the legal system regarding the uniqueness or potential similarity of marks on firearms.

Intended primarily for firearm and tool mark examiners, this valuable resource serves as a primary requirement for the training of firearm and tool mark examiners. Finally, it is a valuable resource for students and members of the legal community who are seeking to understand better the scientific aspects of firearm identification.

• Covers the manufacturing process of all components that interact with the bullet or case during firing, the nature of manufacturing and potential pitfalls, such as subclass
• Written by an expert in the field with over 23 years of firearm and tool mark experience

Forensic Firearm Examiners, Forensic/Crime Laboratories, Crime Scene Investigators, and Law Enforcement. Attorneys and Judges as well as Students and Instructors studying or teaching forensic firearm identification

1. History of Forensic Firearm Examination
2. Firearm Nomenclature and Firearm Types
3. Ammunition
4. Fundamentals of Forensic Firearm Examination
5. Manufacturing Techniques used in the Manufacturing of Firearms
6. Barrel Manufacturing and Rifling
7. Equipment used for Forensic Firearm Examination
8. Comparison of Cartridge Cases
9. Comparison of Bullets
10. Documentation, Notes, and Reports
11. The Expert Witness
12. Subclass Characteristics
13. Pitfalls and Challenging Comparisons
14. Legal Challenges to the Science of Forensic Firearm Examination
15. Emerging Technology in Comparisons