- 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
- Introduction
- Objectives
- AFTE Knowledge and Ability Factors
- Measurement, Standards, and Accuracy
- Weight, Force, and Their Measurement
- Dimensional Data and Measurement Tools
- Muzzle Velocity of Bullets
- Stereo and Comparison Microscopes
- Small Tools and Supplies
- Imaging Equipment
- Field Support Equipment
- Computer-Based Technologies
- Firing Facilities
- Selected Bibliography
- 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
Bullet Recovery Equipment
Home > Equipment and Instrumentation > Firing Facilities > Bullet Recovery Equipment
Obtaining test standards of fired ammunition components (bullets and cartridge cases) as a basis for comparison with the class and individual characteristics of evidence items is the first step in the identification process. Fired cartridge case collection is relatively simple. However, fired bullet samples must be collected using techniques that decelerate and securely capture the fired bullets within a short distance. The overarching requirement is that this be performed without damage to the microscopic detail on the surface of the fired bullets. A few basic types of recovery devices have evolved, including the cotton box and water recovery tanks.
