- 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
Introduction
Home > Examination of Firearms > Introduction
This module discusses some of the most common types of firearms that an examiner might receive as evidence. The techniques presented can be adapted to any firearm. New models, variations of old models, and new designs are constantly introduced to the firearms marketplace, requiring the firearm examiner to continue to research and study new products.
Many people are exposed to the misuse of firearms through personal experience and misunderstandings. The firearm examiner must overcome misconceptions, and understand and be able to explain the type of firearm, its capabilities and limitations, and how this information correlates with the facts of the case.
The firearm examiner must be able to do the following:
- Classify firearms
- Determine operability
- Explain the safety features of the firearm and their proper function
In addition, having an understanding of how a particular firearm functions allows the examiner to determine what type of identifiable microscopic marks may be present on submitted bullets and cartridge cases.
The quality assurance officer or appointed individual will do an administrative and technical review of the results of the examination and attest that the protocols have been adhered to throughout.
