Branches of Ballistics Flashcards
It involves all reactions that take place while the bullet is still in the gun
Interior/Internal
Refers to the attributes and movements of the bullet after it has left the gun muzzle
Exterior/External
The sound associated with the rough being fired
Muzzle Blast
The light or flame associated with the round being fired
Muzzle flash
The actual pattern or the curved path of the bullet in flight
Trajectory
Three Stages of Trajectory
- straight horizontal line
- parabola like flight
- vertical drop
The straight distance between muzzle and target
Range
Types of Range
The distance within which the shooter has control of his shots
Accurate
Types of Range
The distance at which the projectile can be expected to be lethal
Effective range
Types of Range
The farthest distance that a projectile can be propelled from a firearm
Maximum range
Types of Range
A shot fired so close to the target that no sighting is necessary for effective aiming
Point Blank Range
Speed of the bullet measured in ft/sec
Velocity
Force of the air encountered by the bullet in its flights
Air resistance (drag)
Downward reaction of the bullet towards the earth center due to its weight
Pull of gravity
The entry of the bullet on target
Penetration
The study of the behavior of a projectile when it hits its target. Deals with the destructive actions and effects that occur at the end of the projectile’s flight
Terminal Ballistics
refers to the size of bullet grouping on the target
Terminal accuracy
refer to the energy of the projectile when hitting the target
Terminal energy
The depth of entry of the projectile on the target
Terminal penetration
Refer to the speed of the bullet
Terminal velocity
Refer to the study of shots from smooth bore firearms like shotgun and muskets
Shot Ballistics
The study of the effects of a projectile on a target and the condistions that affects them
Wound Ballistics
Gun muzzle pressed against, or within an inch or two, of the body
Contact
Gun muzzle that is 6 inches to 2 ft to the body
Close Discharge
Gun muzzle is 2 and 3 ft from the body
Distance discharge
It is the science of analyzing FA usage in crimes by means of the ammunition fired through them
Forensics Ballistics
Divisions of Forensic Ballistics
3
- Field Investigations
- Technical Examinations of the Ballistic Exhibits
- Legal Proceedings/ Court Duty
