Principles of Firearms Identification

Question 1

Principal Problems

1 fired bullet

Answer 1

Determine the caliber, type and make of the firearm from which the bullet was fired

Question 2

Principal Problems

1 spent shell

Answer 2

Determine the caliber, type and make of the firearm from which the shell was fired

Question 3

Principal Problems

1 fired bullet and 1 suspect firearm

Answer 3

Determine whether or not the bullet was fired from the suspected firearm

Question 4

Principal Problems

1 spent shell and 1 suspect firearm

Answer 4

Determine whether or not the shell was fired from the suspected firearm

Question 5

Principal Problems

Two or more fired bullets

Answer 5

Determine whether or not the bullets were fired from the same firearm

Question 6

Principal Problems

Two or more fired cartridge cases

Answer 6

Determine whether or not they were fired from the same firearm

Question 7

Principal Problem

A suspect firearm

Answer 7

Determine whether or not the firearm is serviceable/functional

Question 8

Techniques of examination

All specimens submitted by the requesting party will be physically examined to determine its markings or initials made by the investigator for identification
purposes

Answer 8

Physical Examination

Question 9

Techniques of examination

the firearm is fired from a bullet recovery box or water tank in order to obtain test bullets and test cartridge cases.

Answer 9

Test Firing

Question 10

After the recovery of the test bullets and test cartridge cases, known, test fired specimens are compared to questioned specimens using the Bullet Comparison Microscope.

Answer 10

Microscopic Examination