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Examination

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Split barrel resulting from i

Split barrel resulting from
incorrect ammunition

Courtesy of St. Petersburg College
Firing Range

Click for larger image

The following preliminary steps in the examination of all firearms should be sequenced according to laboratory protocol and be documented:

  1. Ensure that the firearm is unloaded.
  2. Determine the brand and model.
  3. Determine caliber designation.
    1. Measure the bore diameter.
    2. Measure the chamber, if possible.
    3. Research the type of design.
    4. Determine the country of origin. (Many of the older bolt-action rifles were manufactured for various countries, each of which used a different type of military ammunition).
    5. Obtain the cartridge dimensions by casting the chamber, if necessary.
  4. Determine the action type.
  5. Determine the safety type.
  6. Determine if any modifications or alterations have been made.
    (AFTE Journal can be searched by keyword)
  7. Observe anything else unusual about the firearm.
  8. Note the type of sighting system and any accessories present.
  9. Examine the bore (interior of the barrel) and determine class characteristics (number of lands and grooves and direction of twist).
    1. Examine the interior of the bore to ensure it is free of projectiles.
    2. Check the bore for the possible presence of biological material or gunshot residues. If biological residues are present, notify the proper laboratory section.
    3. Check for bulges or damage to the bore.
    4. Examine the chamber and/or forcing cone area for damage or cracking.

In addition, all firearm examinations include testing the trigger pull, the safety feature, and test firing of the mechanism.

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