- 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
AFTE Range of Conclusions
Home > Bullet Comparison and Identification > AFTE Range of Conclusions
Based on the AFTE Theory of Identification, there are four categories of examination outcomes (AFTE Range of Conclusions Possible When Comparing Toolmarks) typically used by firearm examiners in the microscopic comparison of fired bullets. Laboratory protocols determine how final conclusions are reported.
The following categories are accepted for all types of toolmark comparisons:
- Identification
- Inconclusive
- Elimination
- Unsuitable for comparison
