- 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
Wadding Material
Home > Characterization and Evaluation of Fired Projectiles > Fired Shotshell Components > Wadding Material
The examination of shot wads frequently revolves around a comparison of remaining observable physical characteristics to an unfired laboratory reference standard.
By examining wadding materials, the examiner may be able to determine
- the gauge of the shotgun,
- the manufacturer or marketer,
- a range of possible shot sizes based on impressions in the wad,
- individual characteristics (in some cases).
Paper and fiber wadding materials are similar in appearance across brands.
Wadding materials may include the following:
- Card wad
- Shot collar
- Over-shot wad or top wad
- Under-shot wad
- Filler wad
- Over-powder wad
- Cup wad
Although older fiber and paper wads are no longer widely used, their examination presents several difficulties because they
- tend to absorb body fluids,
- swell beyond their original dimensions,
- often dry without retaining original dimensions,
- are more easily damaged than plastic wadding materials.
Plastic wads are predominately used today.
Types of plastic wadding materials include
- shot protector wad,
- shot collar,
- combination wad.
Examiners should be aware that combinations of plastic and card and fiber wadding materials have been used and continue to be found; these wadding types are not mutually exclusive.
