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Microscopic Marks

Home > Characterization and Evaluation of Fired Projectiles > Microscopic Marks

The greatest potential for obtaining forensic information from fired bullets is found within the land and groove impressions in the form of microscopic striations.

The information obtained from these striations goes beyond class characteristics (GRC) and is

  • unique to a particular firearm,
  • reproducible shot after shot,
  • identifiable with a specific firearm.

If microscopic marks are present, they must be evaluated for their potential; this information should be noted in the worksheet and related report.

There are three possibilities resulting from the evaluation of microscopic marks on fired bullets:

  • Microscopic marks are present and sufficient for comparison purposes.
  • Microscopic marks are present, but insufficient for comparison purposes.
  • Microscopic marks are not present, precluding an identification.

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