Course LogoFirearm Examiner Training
Print Page Previous PageNext Page

Examination

Home > Characterization and Evaluation of Fired Projectiles > Examination

When fired shotshell components are examined, laboratory policies must be followed, including

  • chain of custody,
  • laboratory safety,
  • trace evidence,
    • Coordination of examination sequencing across disciplines to preclude loss of trace evidence.
Preliminary Procedure

The preliminary steps for the examination of fired shotshell components are as follows:

  1. Mark evidence according to laboratory procedures.

    Note: Shot pellets, buckshot, and buffering materials by nature are impractical to mark directly. Their packaging should be marked and appropriate notations made in the related worksheet.
  2. Photograph and document original condition of evidence.
  3. Determine equipment necessary for examination.
    • Laboratory-approved worksheet.
    • Reference standards.
    • Stereo microscope.
    • Evidence marking items.
    • Small hand tools, as required.
    • Equipment for measuring dimensions of components, such as
      • calipers,
      • stereo microscope with micrometer and calipers,
      • stereo microscope with optical grid,
      • stereo microscope and machinist’s steel rule,
      • measuring projector,
      • comparison microscope with micrometer (air gap method).

< Previous Page  ::  Next Page >

Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners logo
Submit Change Request