- 01: Introduction
- 02: History
- 03: Propellants, Firearms, and Ammunition Development
- 04: Modern Firearms Manufacture
- 05: Small Arms Ammunition
- 06: Evidence Handling Procedures
- 07: Equipment and Instrumentation
- 08: Examination of Firearms
- 09: Cartridge and Shotshell Examination
- 10: Characterization and Evaluation of Fired Projectiles
- 11: Bullet Comparison and Identification
- 12: Gunshot Residue and Distance Determination
- 13: Toolmark Identification
- 14: Communicating Results
- Resources
Final Steps
Home > Modern Firearms Manufacture > Final Steps
Upon completion of the assembly process, the firearm is tested before being shipped. Proof testing, test firing, or both, are performed on the assembled firearm.
Proof Testing
Most major gunmakers use proof testing to stress test their products. Special proof ammunition is loaded to pressures 30-40 percent higher than the most powerful commercial ammunition. One or more of these cartridges is fired in each firearm. The maker stamps the firearm to indicate proof testing was conducted.
Click here to watch a video on completed rifles being proof tested
In the United States, members of the Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers’ 
Institute Inc. (SAAMI) perform proof testing to comply with voluntary guidelines. In most other countries, firearms proof is the role of a government agency called a proof house. Each country has its own rules of proof; most follow the standards of the European Commission Internationale Permanente (CIP).
