Properties

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Magnetic

To determine if a bullet is ferrous, a magnet can be used.

Bullet length

Length

Length information may be of limited value because fired bullets are slightly longer than unfired bullets. To ensure good obturation at the base of the bullet, bullets have a diameter slightly larger than the barrel through which they are fired. When the bullet is fired, it is lengthened by extrusion. A general similarity between a fired evidence bullet and a reference standard is sufficient to establish a general consistency in length.

Note:

Damaged, mutilated, and deformed bullets may not yield accurate measurements.

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