Firearms Examiner Training Guide
Firearms Examiner Training Guide
Firearms Section
FORENSIC LABORATORY TRAINING MANUAL
Effective Date: 4/20/2018
Approved by Laboratory Director / Printed Copies are not Controlled
Page 1 of 168
Association
Of
Firearms & Tool Mark
Examiners
TRAINING
MANUAL
March 3, 2001
Page 2 of 168
Introduction
A. Administrative Matters and Procedures
F. Instrumentation
G. Examination of Firearms
Page 3 of 168
INTRODUCTION
The following syllabus will allow you as an examiner trainee to guide yourself through the various areas of
knowledge integral to the field of firearms/toolmark identification. This syllabus is generic in its layout and
allows some modification by the individual training officer or section chief to meet local conditions. It is
paramount that you keep before you the primary and ultimate objective of this training period: to
independently and competently examine and compare evidence relating to firearms and toolmark
identification; to independently and competently render an opinion and reach conclusions relating to your
examinations and comparisons; and to give expert testimony in court in matters encompassed within the
broad definition of firearms/toolmark identification and to do this in a professional, competent and an
impartial manner. The obligation is yours to maximize on the effectiveness of the training period as an
opportunity to learn everything possible in this field. The extent to which you exert yourself during this
training and evaluation period will bear directly on the quality of your performance in the laboratory and on
the witness stand. Note well that your technical abilities and your testimony will, in turn, bear directly on
the future situations of accused persons, and especially in the discipline of firearms/toolmark identification,
the lives of accused persons can hang in the balance. You have a moral and ethical obligation to prepare
yourself technically and professionally during training in order to be able to perform according to the most
rigid standards.
You will be expected to carry out a study of all pertinent section equipment, the Technical Protocol
Manual, Administrative Procedures Manual, the Quality Assurance Manual, the Safety Manual, as well as
print, video and physical reference files. Integral to your course of study will be frequent daily contacts
with section personnel with special expertise in certain areas. Do not hesitate to ask anyone a question,
whether a technician, examiner or section chief.
Your study will include many printed references, including the basic material listed after each area
of study. It is expected that during the training period that you will become thoroughly familiar with these
basic references. Further, it should be noted that you should not restrict your efforts and research to those
basic references. One of your primary sources of additional information will be the Firearm Section
reference library. Familiarize yourself with the library's contents of all types, including the reference files,
related indices, manufacturers' literature and the journal of the Association of Firearm and Tool Mark
Examiners.
It is required that you keep a loose-leaf notebook of your study notes on each of the items shown
in the syllabus for research, discussion, demonstration, study or practical work. Your notebook can include
handwritten notes, charts, graphs, photographs, brief photocopied material, etc., at your discretion, but it
must address and broaden on each of the required items of study set out in the syllabus. Organization of
your notebook in a format that parallels the syllabus is suggested. This notebook will serve as a ready
reference in the months and even years following your qualification, and will assist in documenting your
progress during training.
This training syllabus provides a framework for addressing the most important part of your training:
Preparing you to independently and competently examine firearms/toolmark related evidence and
independently and to competently reach conclusions and render opinions concerning your examinations
and comparisons. This on-the-job, hands-on experience is the core of your training and you will be
assigned to work with a training officer during your training period. This will insure that you have sufficiently
covered each aspect of this training syllabus and have a basis for continuing to develop after you have
graduated beyond your initial qualification and certification.
Page 4 of 168
Your training will be monitored and assisted by your Training Officer, who have responsibility for
training matters. All outside schools, tours, lectures and the training officer will coordinate contacts. Within
sixty days of physically reporting to the section you should have completed pertinent sections of this
training syllabus and you should be sufficiently knowledgeable about section operations and reference
files to conduct tours of the section. This aspect of your training should also be coordinated with the
training officer.
The Laboratory Director, Firearm Section Chief and/or your Training Officer will interview you in
detail after you report to the section. They will be particularly concerned with you past training, experience,
education, published articles and other credentials so that they may establish a base line in regard to your
knowledge, skills and abilities with regard to the examiner position. Based on this information an Individual
Training Plan (ITP) will be prepared for you which will contain projected completion dates for the
established training goals. You will receive a copy of this ITP for your information and guidance. You will
be expected to meet the standards set by your Training Officer for your successful completion of your
training. These standards are set forth in the Administrative Guide as well as in your ITP.
Training Assessment
A trainee shall have successfully completed a qualifying test in each discipline and
sub-disciplines before beginning supervised or independent casework
responsibilities.
Training assessment will be accomplished when
All competency tests must be satisfactorily examined, documented and reported
(minimum of 5)
All training records documenting completion of training requirements, and trainee's
credentials are approved by the Firearms Laboratory Supervisor
The trainee successfully completes comprehensive standardized practical exams
for the specific area of testing (for example: firearm examination, projectile
comparisons, GSR – Distance testing).
Page 5 of 168
A. ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS AND PROCEDURES
1. Discuss the laboratory Quality Assurance Program and the Proficiency Testing Program with
your Laboratory Director/ Firearm Section Chief.
____________________ __________
Lab Director/Section Chief Date
2. Discuss the laboratory policy regarding the reexamination of evidence with your Laboratory
Director/Section Chief.
____________________ __________
Lab Director/Section Chief Date
3. Discuss the opportunities for advancement within the Firearm Section and the laboratory system
with your Lab Director/Section Chief.
____________________ __________
Lab Director/Section Chief Date
4. Meet with the Lab Director and discuss the laboratory's mission, organization and capabilities.
Tour the facilities and prepare a typed summary for your training officer regarding what you
learned.
____________________ __________
Lab Director/Section Chief Date
____________________ __________
Training Officer Date
Page 6 of 168
5. Participate in a one week "ride-along" program with a crime scene evidence processing section.
Observe the collection and preservation of physical evidence of all types, with emphasis on
firearms-related evidence. Prepare a typed report for each day, citing crime scenes observed,
evidence collected and the related crime scene search documentation generated, such as
photographs, sketches, evidence logs, incident reports, etc.
_______________________ __________
Crime Scene Supervisor Date
_______________________ __________
Training Officer Date
6. Discuss with your Lab Director/Section Chief the laboratory policies regarding the following:
____________________ __________
Lab Director/Section Chief Date
7. Become familiar with the requirements and the facilities available for the secure storage of
evidence within the section. Discuss this with the Lab Director/Section Chief and an examiner
from the section.
_________________ ________
Lab Director/Section Chief Date
____________ ________
Student Date
8. Become familiar with the requirements of section security in regard to firearms, electrical
appliances, evidence while under examination, and section space security. Discuss this with the
Section Chief and an examiner from the section.
_________________ ________
Lab Director/Section Chief Date
____________ ________
Student Date
Page 7 of 168
9. Familiarize yourself with the Firearms Reference Collection (FRC):
a. Learn how to locate firearms in the FRC using the FRC printed inventory listings, and
obtain up-to-date copies of this inventory for your use.
b. Know the correct procedure for checking a firearm out of the FRC.
_____________ __________
Lab Director/Section Chief Date
____________ __________
Student Date
10. Be briefed by the Section Chief in regard to his files, records and procedures in regard to
delinquent cases, annual and sick leave, time and attendance, report files, ordering expendable
supplies, purchase orders and obtaining necessary tools, equipment and protective clothing.
______________________ _________
Lab Director/Section Chief Date
______________________ _________
Student Date
11. Know the procedures utilized in the firearm section for handling and examining evidence that
may be or is known to be infected by the AIDS virus or other diseases.
______________________ _________
Student Date
12. Obtain a copy of the "Technical Protocols for Handling of Firearms and Ammunition" which
includes safety rules and procedures. Familiarize yourself with its content and indicate you
understand the rules and procedures contained therein by your signature below.
___________ ________
Student Date
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
Page 8 of 168
REFERENCE MATERIALS
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
Should you encounter other references in this category, you are encouraged to make additional
notes about them at the end of this listing.
Basic
Firearms Safety
Chemical Safety
Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), as applicable can be obtained in print or on disk from
chemical supply houses.
Biohazards
Bigbee, P.D., “Collecting and Handling Evidence Infected with Human Disease-Causing
Organisms,” FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin, Jul. 1987.
---. The Law Enforcement Officer and Aids, U.S. Government Printing Office, current
edition.
Page 9 of 168
---. Bloodborne Facts - Personal Protective Equipment Cuts Risk, current edition.
---. Bloodborne Facts - Protect Yourself When Handling Sharps, current edition.
Ball, P. and Mikko, D., “Protective Optics,” AFTE Journal, 1992; 24(1):80-81.
Lead Poisoning
Geibel, J., “Ammunition Can Be Hazardous to Your Health (In More than the Obvious Way),”
Police and Security News, May-Jun. 1992, p. 11.
Gregory, A.M., “At Close Range,” American Society of Law Enforcement Trainers Journal, Vol.
4, No. 2.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Standards for Occupational Exposure to Lead,
Chapter XVII, Title 29, U.S. Department of Labor, Section 1910.1025.
Quality Assurance
Association of Firearms and Tool Mark Examiners, “Association of Firearm and Tool Mark
Examiners Quality Assurance Program 1986,” AFTE Journal, 1986; 18(3):10.
Bradford, L.W., “Barriers to Quality Achievement in Crime Laboratory Operations,” AFTE
Journal, 1983; 15(2): 71.
Page 10 of 168
---. “Forensic Firearms Identification, Competence or Incompetence,” AFTE Journal, 1979;
11(2):12.
Serrill, M.S., “Forensic Sciences: Overburdened, Underutilized,” AFTE Journal, 1980; 12(4):58.
Lucas, D.M., “American Proficiency Testing Program,” AFTE Journal, 1985; 17(1):26.
“Proficiency Testing Recommended for Crime Labs,” AFTE Journal, 1979; 11(2):22.
Thornton, J.I., “Nationwide Crime Laboratory Proficiency Project,” AFTE Journal, 1979; 11(2):23.
Individual Certification
Kopera, J., “Summary of the Study of the Feasibility of Certification,” AFTE Journal, 1992;
24(1):84-90.
Laboratory Accreditation
“Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners Bylaws,” AFTE Journal, 1990; 22(1):61-70.
Howe, W.J., “Report on the Formation of the Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners,”
AFTE Journal, 1989; 21(2):118-119.
Ethics
“AFTE Procedures for Enforcement of the Code of Ethics,” AFTE Journal, 1990; 22(4):457-470.
Page 11 of 168
B. BACKGROUND/HISTORY OF FIREARMS IDENTIFICATION AND CURRENT TRENDS
a. Firearm identification
b. Ballistics
__________________ _________
Training Officers Date
2. Read the applicable sections from the basic references and prepare a report on the history,
principles, evolution and scope of firearms identification in its broadest sense. Support your
report by data accumulated in your notebook. Discuss this with the Training Officer from the
section who will review your report.
__________________ _________
Training Officer Date
__________________ _________
Training Officer Date
4. Familiarize yourself with the "Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners" (AFTE), to
include its history, current officers, criteria for membership, committees, the AFTE glossary and
the AFTE journal and be able to discuss them.
__________________ _________
Training Officer Date
5. Discuss with system operators the status of the ongoing research initiatives to link shootings
using computer imagery such as NIBIN (National Integrated Ballistics Information Network-
formerly DRUGFIRE and IBIS). Prepare a report on this system.
__________________ _________
Training Officer Date
Page 12 of 168
6. Visit and tour the various laboratories that provide firearms and toolmark examinations within
your region. Coordinate this visit with your Training Officer.
__________________ _________
Training Officer Date
__________________ _________
Training Officer Date
8. Be able to demonstrate a practical working knowledge of firearm terminology using the AFTE
Glossary as the standard.
__________________ _________
Training Officer Date
9. Select a topic for a research project to be completed during your training period. Obtain approval
from your Training Officer before initiation of the project. This project should contribute to the
overall fund of information in the field of firearm identification. These results will be shared with
the section upon completion. In addition, your results should be formatted for publication in the
AFTE Journal and for presentation at an AFTE Meeting.
__________________ _________
Training Officer Date
Page 13 of 168
REFERENCE MATERIALS
FIREARMS IDENTIFICATION - HISTORY, PRINCIPLES, EQUIPMENT AND CURRENT
DEVELOPMENTS
Should you encounter other references in this category, you are encouraged to make addtional
notes about them at the end of this listing.
BooksBooks
Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners Standardization Committee, Glossary of the
Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners, 3rd edition, Available Business Printing, Inc.,
Chicago, 1994.
Burrard, G., The Identification of Firearms and Forensic Ballistics, 1st edition,Charles Scribner
Sons, NY, 1934, revised edition, A.S. Barnes & Co., NY, 1964.
Davis, J.E., An Introduction to Tool Marks, Firearms and the Striagraph, Charles C. Thomas,
Springfield, IL, 1958.
Gunther, J.D., and Gunther, C.O., The Identification of Firearms, John Wiley and Sons, Inc.,
New York, 1935.
---. Firearms Investigation, Identification and Evidence, and Textbook of Pistols and Revolvers,
Small Arms Publishing Company, Plantersville, SC, 1946.
Hatcher, J.S., Jury, F.J. and Weller, J., Firearms Investigation, Identification and Evidence, 2nd
edition, Stackpole Books, Harrisburg, PA, 1957.
Himmelwright, A.L.A., “Forensic or Legal Ballistics” in Pistol and Revolver Shooting, The
Macmillan Company, NY, 1928.
Heard, B.E., Handbook of Firearms and Ballistics: Examining and Interpreting Forensic
Evidence, John Wiley & Sons, New York, 1997.
NRA Firearms Fact Book, 3rd edition, National Rifle Association, Fairfax, VA, 1989.
Rowe, W. H., “Firearms Identification”, Forensic Science Handbook, Vol. II, 1988,
Saferstein, R. (Ed.), Prentice Hall, Englewood Cliffs, NJ, pp. 393 – 461
Page 14 of 168
AFTE Journal
Barrett, M.R., “Microchip and the Bullet: A Vision of the Future, 1991; 23(3): 876-883.
Beck, R., “Alexander von Inostranzeff and the Technical Development of Optical
Comparison Systems,” 1989; 21(1):67-72.
Biasotti, A.A., “Bullet Bearing Surface Composition: Variables: Fired Bullets,” 1981;
13(2):94.
Biasotti, A.A. and Murdock, J., “State of the Art of Firearm &Toolmark Identification,
“ 1984; 16(4):16.
Blackwell, R.J., and Framan, E.P., “Automated Firearms Identification System (AFIDS) Phase I,”
1980; 12(4):11.
Page 15 of 168
Dillon, J.H. and Sibert, R.W., “FBI Laboratory’s DRUGFIRE Program,” 1990; 22(2) :216.
Goebel, R., “Comparison SEM First Experiments in Forensic Application,” 1983; 15(2):47.
Grove, C.A., Judd, G, and Horn, Horn, R., “SEM: A New Technique for Firearms Examination,”
1972; 4(1):19.
Howe, W.J., “Report on the Formation of The Association of Firearm and Toolmark
Examiners,” 1989; 21(2):118-119.
Inbau, F.E., “Scientific Evidence in Criminal Cases: Firearms Identification - Ballistics’,” 1981;
13(2):75.
---. “Scientific Evidence in Criminal Cases: Firearms Identification -Ballistics,” 1989; 21(2):280-
293.
Juling, R.J. and Stern, W.W., “Overview of Firearms Identification Evidence for Attorneys, I.
Salient Features of Firearms Evidence,” 1981; 13(4): 128.
Page 16 of 168
Lambert, R.R., “Firearms Identification,” 1971; 3(3):23.
Lee, H.C., “Firearm Related Evidence: The Nicola Sacco and Bartolomeo Vanzetti Case,” 1985;
17(3):13.
Mann, M., Espinoza, E.O., and Scanlan, M.D., “Firearms Examinations by Scanning
Electron Microscopy: Observations and An Update on Current and Future Approaches,
“ 1992; 24(3): 294-303.
Matty, W., “Comparison of Three Individual Barrels Produced from One Button Rifled
Barrel Blank,” 1985; 17(3):64.
---. “Comparison of Three Individual Barrels Produced from One Button Rifled Barrel Blank,”
1989; 21(2):370-374.
Miller, J., “Book Review: The Law and Forensic Ballistics by T.A. Warlow,” 1997; 29(2):239,
173.
Molnar, S., “Comparison Scope Effects Simulated by Use of Photography,” 1971; 3(3):18.
---. “Manual and Automated Bullet and Cartridge Case Comparison Systems: A Commentary,”
1997; 29(1):55-57.
Page 17 of 168
---. “Gun Barrel Individuality and Button Rifled .22 Caliber Rifle Barrels,” 1981; 13(3):84.
Ogihara, Y., “5000 Consecutively Fired Bullets and Cartridge Cases from .45 Caliber M1911A1
Pistol,” 1983; 15(3):127.
Ogihara, Y., Kubota, M., Sanada, M., Fukudo, K., Uchiyama, T., and Hamby, J.E., “Comparison
of 5000 Consecutively Fired Bullets and Cartridge Cases from a .45 Caliber M1911A1 Pistol,”
1989; 21(2):331-343.
Rathman, G.A., and Ryland, S.G., “Use of the SEM-EDXA as an Aid to the Firearms
Examiner,” 1987; 19(4):338-392.
Starrs, J.E., “Once More Unto the Breech: The Firearms Evidence in the Sacco and
Vanzetti Case Revisited: Part I,” 1987; 19(1):37-60.
---. “Once More Unto the Breech: The Firearms Evidence in the Sacco and Vanzetti Case
Revisited: Part II,” 1987; 19(1):61-89.
Thomas, F., “Striation Matching and Forensic Firearms Identification,” 1980; 12(3):31.
Thompson, R.M., Desrosiers, M., and Hester, S., “Computerized Image Analysis for
Firearms Identification: The Integrated Ballistic Identification System: IBIS,” 1996;
28(3):194-203.
---. “Change of Rifling Marks of the Bullets Fired from a Revolver,” 1986; 18(4):40.
---. “Criterion for Land Mark Identification Using Rare Marks,” 1988; 20(3):260-268.
---. “Similarity Among Breech Face Marks Fired from Guns with Close Serial Numbers,” 1986;
18(3):15.
Uchiyama, T., Igarashi, N., and Nagai, M., “Frequency of Occurrence of Individual
Characteristics of Firearms on Fired Bullets,” 1988; 20(4):376-390.
Ziegler, P.A., “Examination Techniques: The Beam Splitter and Reverse Lighting,” 1983;
15(2):37.
Page 18 of 168
Professional Journals
---. “The Principles of Evidence Evaluation as Applied to Firearms and Tool Mark Identification,”
Journal of Forensic Sciences, Vol. 9, 1964.
Blackwell, R., “Automated Firearms Identification System (AFIDS),” JPL Report SP 43-8:
Phase I, July, 1974.
Brackett, J. W., “A Study of Idealized Striated Marks and their Comparisons Using Models,” The
Journal of Forensic Science Society, Vol. 10, No. 1, Jan. 1970, pp.27 - 55.
Burd, D.Q., and Kirk, P.L., “Tool Marks. Factors involved in Their Comparison and Use as
Evidence,” Journal of Criminal Law and Criminology, Mar. - Apr. 1942.
Burrard, G., “The Identification of Fire-Arms in Murder Cases,” Game and Gun, Vol. 10, No. 92,
May 1933, pp. 214 -219.
Buxton, J.T., “The Science of Ballistics: Judicial Applications,” Law Notes, Vol. 34, May 1930,
pp. 24 -28.
Churchill, R., “The Forensic Examination of Firearms and Projectiles, “ The Police
Journal, Vol. 2, Jul. 1929, pp. 367 -380 (London).
Crossman, E.C., “Some Questions Not in the Program,” The American Journal of Police
Science, May - Jun. 1930.
Davis, J.E., “The Striagraph: A New Police Science Instrument,” Police, Nov. - Dec. 1956, pp.
26 - 29.
Goddard, C.H., “Evidence in Shooting Cases,” Chicago Police Journal, Nov. 1913.
---. “Scientific Identification of Firearms and Bullets,” Journal of Criminal Law and
Criminology, Aug. 1926.
---. “The Valentine Day Massacre: A Study in Ammunition Tracing,” The American Journal of
Police Science, Vol. 1, 1930, pp. 60-79.
---. “Firearms as Evidence,” The American Journal of Police Science, Vol. 2, 1931, p. 3.
---. “A National Firearms Bureau,” Chicago Police Journal, Jul. 1934, pp. 15-16.
---. “In Search of the Firearm,” Chicago Police Journal, Part I, Jan. 1935;
Part II, Feb. 1935.
Page 19 of 168
---. “A History of Firearm Identification,” Chicago Police Journal, 1936, pp. 1-14.
Dougherty, P.M., “Report on Two Early United States Firearms Identification Cases,” Journal of
Forensic Sciences, Vol. 14, No. 4, Oct. 1969, pp. 453-459.
“A Federal Firearms Identification Bureau,” editorial in Army Ordnance, Vol. 14, May - Jun. 1934,
p. 365.
Grove, C.A., Judd, G., and Horn, R., “Examination of Firing Pin Impressions by Scanning
Electron Microscopy,” Journal of Forensic Sciences, Vol. 17, No. 4, 1972, pp. 645-658.
---. “Evaluation of SEM Potential in the Examination of Shotgun and Rifle Firing Pin
Impressions,” Journal of Forensic Sciences, Vol. 19, No. 3, 1974, pp. 441-447.
Gunther, C.O., “Markings on Bullets and Shells Fired from Small Arms,”
Mechanical Engineering, 54, 1932, pp. 341-345.
---. “Markings on Bullets and Shells Fired from Small Arms,” Mechanical Engineering,
53, 1930, pp 107-113.
---. “Markings on Bullets and Shells Fired from Small Arms,” Mechanical Engineering,
52, 1930, pp. 1065-1069.
Hall, A.L., “The Missile and the Weapon,” The Buffalo Medical Journal, Jun. 1900. (Reprinted in
American Journal of Police Science, Vol. 2, 1931, pp. 311-322.)
Hatcher, J.S., “The Identiification of Firearms,” Army Ordance, Vol. 14, Jul. - Aug. 1933,
pp. 27 - 32; Vol. 14, Sep. - Oct. 1933, pp. 89-95.
Inbau, F.E., “Firearms Identification Ballistics’,” Journal of Criminal Law and Criminology,
Vol. 24, 1933, pp. 825-845.
Judd, G., Sabo, J., Hamilton, W., Ferriss, S., and Horn, R., “SEM Microstriation Characterization
of Bullets and Contaminant Particle Identification,” Journal of Forensic Sciences, Vol. 19, No. 4,
1974, pp. 798-811.
Katterwe, H., Goebel, R., and Gross, K.D., “The Comparison Scanning Electron Microscope
within the Field of Forensic Science,” Scanning Electron Microscopy/1982, SEM Inc., pp. 499 -
504.
Korda, E.J., Macdonell, H.L., and Williams, J.P., “Forensic Applications of the Scanning Electron
Microscope,” Journal of Criminal Law, Criminology and Police Science, Vol. 61, No. 3, 1970, pp.
453-458.
Murdock, J.E., “The Effect of Crowning on Gun Barrel Individuality,” The Journal of the Forensic
Science Society, Vol. 12, 1972, pp. 305-308.
Page 20 of 168
Nichols, R.G., “Firearms and Toolmark Identification Criteria: A Review of the Literature”; Journal
of Forensic Science, 1997:42(3): 466-474 (contains 35 references)
Peterson, C.A., “A Camera for Bullet Photography,” Chicago Police Journal, May 1934,
pp. 7 - 8.
Roche, G.F., “The Use of Photographs in Forensic Firearms Identification,” Identification News,
Vol. 3, No. 6, Jun. 1953.
Sibert, R.W., “Drugfire: Revolutionizing Firearms Identification and Providing a National Firearms
Identification Network,” Crime Laboratory Digest, Oct. 1994.
Smith, S., “The Identification of Firearms and Projectiles,” The Police Journal, Vol. 1,
Jul. 1928, pp. 411-422 (London).
Sullington, D., “Ballistics, a New Science,” The Criminologist, Vol. 5, Jun. 1929, pp. 32-
34.
Tangen, E., “The Schopflin Case,” The American Journal of Police Science,” Vol. 2, 1931, pp.
518-528.
Thomas, F., “Comments on the Discovery of Striation Matching and on Early Contributions to
Forensic Firearms Identification,” Journal of Forensic Sciences, Vol. 12, No. 1, Jan. 1967, pp. 1-
7.
Thornton, J., “The Validity of Firearms Evidence,” California Attorneys for Criminal Justice
Forum, Vol.5, No. 4, Aug. 1978, p. 15.
Wescott, A.P., “The Firearms Expert,” The Police Journal, Vol. 7, Oct. - Dec. 1934, pp. 472-485
(London).
Wiard, S.W., “Ballistics as Applied to Police Science,” The American Journal of Police Science,
Vol. 1, 1930, pp. 538-542.
Wiard, S., “Application of Ballistics in Legal Cases,” American Journal of Police Science, Vol. 2,
1931, pp. 174-179.
Wigmore, J.H., “Evidence - Homicide - Identification of Bullet and Firearms,” Illinois Law Review,
Vol. 25, 1931, p. 692.
Page 21 of 168
Periodicals
Barton, A., “You Can’t Get Away With Murder,” Guns, Jul. 1979.
Braverman, S., “Forensic Ballistic Errors,” The Gun Digest, 1966, pp. 280-283.
Coggswell, J.F., “Is There a Perfect Crime?,” Popular Mechanics, Aug. 930, pp. 194 - 199.
Crossman, E.C., “The Scientific Side of Firearms and Crime,” The Sporting Goods
Dealer, June 1930.
Dunn, H.H., “Trade-Marks of Crime,” Popular Mechanics, Jul. 1929, pp. 50-56.
Goddard, C.H., “Who Did the Shooting?,” Popular Science Monthly, Nov. 1927, pp. 21-23.
---. “Forensic Ballistics - Popular Style,” American Rifleman, Vol. 77, Jul. 1929, pp. 14,
15 and 20.
---. “The Bullet and Microscope,” The Rifleman, Nov. 1929 (London).
---. “Gang Guns,”, American Rifleman, Vol. 78, Jan. 1930, pp. 16 and 38.
---. “How Science Solves Crime: II. Identification of Firearms,” Hygeia, Vol. 10, Mar.
1932, pp. 219-233.
Gorman, S.F., “Scientific Criminology - How Bullets and Firearms are Matched for Identification,”
Scientific American, Oct. 1930, pp. 265-267.
---. “Scientific Criminology - The Pistol Witness,” Scientific American, Dec. 1930, pp. 456-457.
“His Camera Sees Where Human Eye Fails,” Newark News, Feb. 17, 1941. (Phillip O. Gravelle)
“How the St. Louis Ballistics Expert Operates in His Part of Crime Detection,” St. Louis Globe-
Democrat, Jul. 14, 1929.
Herrich, R.E., “Ballistic Jusrisprudence,” Arms and the Man, May 1923.
Landis, C.S., “Winchester’s Ballistic Chief Has Helped to Unravel Many Crime Mysteries,”
The Sporting Goods Dealer, Nov. 1931.
“A New Way of Examining the Inside of a Rifle Barrel,” Scientific American, April, 1926.
“Optics and the Dectective,” Bausch and Lomb Magazine, Jul. 1925.
Pardua, R., “What’s in a Name....Ballistics for Instance,” Spring 3100, a Magazine for Policemen,
Vol. 22, No. 2, (NYCPD).
Page 22 of 168
Souder, W., “Firearm Identification,” Army & Navy Journal, Mar. 1932.
“South Orange Man is Awaitng Medal for Photomicrography,” Newark News, Jun. 24, 1924
(Phillip O. Gravelle).
Stout, W.S., “Fingerprinting Bullets - The Expert Witness,” The Saturday Evening Post,
June 13, 1925.
---. “Fingerprinting Bullets The Silent Witness,” The Saturday Evening Post, June 20, 1925.
“Photomicrography Authority Started Career as Hobbyist,” Newark News, Feb. 16, 1936.
(Phillip O. Gravelle)
“Photomicrography Expert to Address Camera Club,” Newark News, Jan. 25, 1934.
(Phillip O. Gravelle)
Teale, E.W., “Secrets of Crime Read on Bullets,” Popular Science Monthly, Feb. 1932.
Thompson, W., “How Who Dunits Are Solved,” Guns Magazine, Aug. 1955.
“Wizard in Ballistics: Phillip O. Gravelle of So. Orange, Expert with Microscope, Dead at
77,” Newark News, Feb. 4, 1955.
Other Documents
“Benchmark Evaluation Studies of the Bulletproof and DRUGFIRE Ballistic Imaging Systems,”
Executive Summary, Published by the Executive Office of the Presidents’s Office of National
Drug Control Policy
Devaney, J.R., and Bradford, L.W., “Applications of Scanning Electron Microcopy to Forensic
Science at Jet Propulsion Laboratory, 1969 - 1970,” Scanning Electron Microscopy/1971 (Part
II), proceedings of the Workshop on Forensic Applications
of the Scanning Electron Microscope, IIT Research Institute, Chicago, IL, pp. 561-568
Kingston, C.R., and Kirk, P.L., “The Use of Statistics in Criminalistics,” unpublished paper
presented at California Association of Criminalists, Fall Seminar, Oct. 1973.
“Study of Fired Bullets and Shells in Brownsville, Texas, Riot.” Annual report of Chief of
Ordnance, U.S. Army, Government Printing Office, Washington, DC, 1907.
Page 23 of 168
C. FIREARMS & AMMUNITION DEVELOPMENT
AND CURRENT TRENDS
1. Review the history of early firearms and ammunition development up to the advent of metallic
cartridges, with particular emphasis on lock mechanisms, early rifling techniques, percussion
systems, priming methods and pre-metallic cartridges. Prepare a chronological outline of this
early development and discuss it with your Training Officer.
__________________ _________
Training Officer Date
2. Visit the firearm collection of a museum in your region and observe first-hand those firearms that
constitute examples of early firearms and ammunition development. Meet the curator of the
collection and obtain their views and opinions on those firearms that are developmental
benchmarks. Coordinate this tour with your Training Officer and discuss the tour with them
afterwards.
__________________ _________
Training Officer Date
3. Tour the firearms reference collection noting in particular the types of firearms that are
representative of commercial and military firearm development since the advent of metallic
cartridges.
__________________ _________
Training Officer Date
4. Trace the evolution of the rimfire cartridge from the mid-nineteenth century to the current
generation of modern .22 caliber rimfire cartridges.
__________________ _________
Training Officer Date
5. Study the history of centerfire cartridge development starting with black powder cartridges to the
current generation of modern centerfire cartridges. Make notes to show the chronological
history of this development and discuss these with your Training Officer.
__________________ _________
Training Officer Date
Page 24 of 168
6. Study the Firearm Section Standard Ammunition File (SAF) with the Firearms examiner to whom
it is assigned, noting in particular cartridges and shotshells that are representative of commercial
and military ammunition development during the past three decades.
__________________ _________
Training Officer Date
7. Conduct an in depth study of exterior bullet coatings which have been developed in the last
decade. Prepare a report concerning how this new technology impacts the firearm examiner.
__________________ _________
Training Officer Date
8. Obtain a copy of the (most recent) studies concerning cartridge effectiveness conducted by the
FBI. Prepare a report listing trends you see unfolding in cartridge and bullet development and
show any historical significance to these findings.
__________________ _________
Training Officer Date
9. Prepare an overview of the recent development in handguns and how this information might be
of significance to the firearm examiner.
__________________ _________
Training Officer Date
Page 25 of 168
REFERENCE MATERIALS
HISTORY OF BLACK POWDER AS A PROPELLANT
to provide a wider range of resources should you have a particular interest given topic.
to provide reference materials for your future professional use.
to allow you to gain additional depth in particular subject areas.
Should you encounter other references in this category, you are encouraged to make additional
notes about them at the end of this listing.
Books
Barnes, Cartridges of the World
Davis, T.L., The Chemistry of Powder and Explosives, reprinted by Angriff Press, Las Vegas, NV
(Originally printed as two separate volumes in 1941 and 1943; also reprinted by John Wiley and
Sons, New York, 1950.) pp. 1-51.
Periodicals
Brown, M., “America’s Gunpowder Maker,” American Rifleman, Aug. 1979, pp. 40-43, 81
Lewis, R.B., “Bacon’s Thunderous Sound,” American Rifleman, May 1952, pp. 35-40.
Ley, W., “Friar Berthold...Man or Myth,” American Rifleman, Jul. 1959, pp. 31-34.
Nonte, G.C., “At Last a Black Powder Substitute” in Hogdon’s Data Manual No. 23, Hogdon
Powder Co., Shawnee Mission, KS, 1977.
Roberts, D., “Dupont - Powder Supplier for a Nation,” Rifle Magazine, Jul./Aug. 1973, pp. 36-37,
54.
Silva, E., “The Black Powder Saga,” Guns Magazine, Aug./Sep. 1977
AFTE Journal
Garland, P.V., “The Augusta Powder Works - A Historical Sketch,” 1974; 6(2):8-10.
Rosenberg, S.F., “Good News for the Charcoal Burners, New Source for Black Powder,
“ 1974; 6(2):13.
Videotapes
Page 26 of 168
REFERENCE MATERIALS
EVOLUTION OF EARLY FIREARMS
Books
Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners Standardization Committee, Glossary of the
Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners (Appendix F, Firearm Ignition Systems), 3rd
edition, Available Business Printing, Inc., Chicago, 1994.
Chapel, C.E., Guns of the Old West, Coward-McCann, Inc., New York, 1961.
(Reprinted by Odysseus Editions, Inc., for the NRA Firearms Classics Library, 1995)
Fuller, C.E. and Stewart, R.D., Firearms of the Confederacy, Standard Publications, Inc.,
Huntington, WV, 1944. (Reprinted by Odysseus Editions, Inc., for the NRA Firearms Classics
Library, 1996)
Greener, W.W., The Gun and Its Development, Cassel and Company, Ltd., New York, 1910.
(Reprinted by Bonanza Books, 1967, and by Odysseus Editions, Inc., for the NRA Firearms
Classics Library, 1995)
Hogg, I.V., The Story of the Gun from Matchlock to M16 , St. Martin’s Press, New York, 1996.
Logan, H.C., Hand Cannon to Automatic, Standard Publications, Inc., Huntington, WV, 1944.
Peterson, H.L., Arms and Armour in Colonial America 1526-1783, The Stackpole Co.,
Harrisburg, PA, 1956.
Pope, Guns
Roberts, N.H., The Muzzle-loading Cap Lock Rifle, The Clarke Press, Manchester, NH, 1944.
(Reprinted by Odysseus Editions, Inc., for the NRA Firearms Classics Library, 1996)
Sharpe, P.B.., The Rifle in America, William Morrow and Co., New York, 1938. (Reprinted by
Odysseus Editions, Inc., for the NRA Firearms Classics Library, 1995)
Page 27 of 168
Smith, W.H.B., The NRA Book of Small Arms: Volume II - Rifles, NRA/Military Service
Publishing Company, Harrisburg, PA, 1948. (Reprinted by Palladium Press for the NRA
Firearms Classics Library, 1997)
Smith, W.H.B., The NRA Book of Small Arms: Volume I - Pistols and Revolvers,
NRA/Military Service Publishing Company, Harrisburg, PA, 1946. (Reprinted by Palladium Press
for the NRA Firearms Classics Library)
Periodicals
Peterson, H.L., “The Development of Firearms,” American Rifleman, Parts 1 and 2, Mar. and
Apr., 1960.
AFTE Journal
Cayton, J.C., “Blackpowder Firearms, Powder Residue & Ball Penetration,” 1984; 16(4):80.
Videotapes
Guns of the Civil War, Volumes I & II, Monterey Movie Co., 1993.
The History of Firearms - The Springfield Armory, United States Video Corp., Vienna, VA, 1994.
The Story of the Gun, Volume I and first 38 minutes of Volume II, up to but not including the
development of rimfire ammunition, A&E Television Networks, New York,1996.
Page 28 of 168
D. MANUFACTURE OF MODERN FIREARMS
1. Numerous techniques are used in the manufacture of modern firearms. Research in detail these
processes and set these out in your notes. Include but do not restrict your study to the following
machining methods:
__________________ _________
Training Officer Date
__________________ _________
Training Officer Date
__________________ _________
Training Officer Date
Page 29 of 168
4. Obtain broaches and buttons for study from the section training materials. Determine the
difference between barrels, which have been button, rifled and those, which have been
broach, rifled.
__________________ _________
Training Officer Date
5. Discuss and define the following terms as they relate to firearm manufacture or firearms
identification.
a. Chambering
b. Crowning
c. Ballizing
d. Bore slugging
e. Forcing cone
f. Bore
g. Choke
h. Choke tubes
Page 30 of 168
(Use Training Assignment #8 to complete this objective.)
__________________ _________
Training Officer Date
6. Research the history and current significance of proof marks as they relate to the
manufacture of firearms. Discuss this with your Training Officer.
__________________ _________
Training Officer Date
7. Visit the manufacturing facilities of at least six firearms and/or barrel manufacturers such
as Wilson barrels, Ruger, Smith and Wesson, Mossberg, Marlin and US Repeating Arms.
Record notes in your notebook on each visit and produce a written report of your visit for
the Firearm Section files and an oral report for Firearm Section members. Particular
emphasis should be placed on manufacturing and rifling techniques used by each
manufacturer, noting methods and procedures which leave unique manufacturing
toolmarks on firearm parts which, in turn, produce individual microscopic marks on
bullets, cartridge cases and shotshell casings. Coordinate these visits with your Training
Officer.
_________________ _________
Training Officer Date
Page 31 of 168
REFERENCE MATERIALS
MODERN FIREARMS DEVELOPMENT AND OPERATING SYSTEMS
Should you encounter other references in this category, you are encouraged to make
additional notes about them at the end of this listing.
Books
Chinn, G.M., The Machine Gun, Volumes I-IV, U.S. Government Printing Office, 1951-
1955.
Ezzel, E.C., Handguns of the World, Barnes and Noble Books, New York, 1993.
---. Small Arms of the World, Barnes and Noble Books, New York, 1993.
---. Modern Small Arms, Book Sales Inc., Edison, N.J., 1994.
Johnson, M.M., Automatic Arms: Their History, Development and Use, W. Morrow & Co.,
New York, 1941.
Johnson, G.B., and Lockhoven, H.B., International Armament, Volumes I-II, International
Small Arms Publishers, Cologne, 1965.
Mueller and Olson, Shooters Bible, Small Arms Lexicon and Concise Encyclopedia
Murtz, H.A., ed., The Gun Digest Book of Exploded Long Gun Drawings, DBI Books, Inc.,
Northbrook, IL, 1993.
Page 32 of 168
---. The Gun Digest Book of Exploded Handgun Drawings, DBI Books, Inc., Northbrook,
IL, 1992.
Nelson, T.B., and Lockhoven, H.B., The Worlds Submachine Guns, International Small
Arms Publishers, Cologne, 1963.
Nelson, T.B., and Musgrove, D., The Worlds Assault Rifles and Automatic Carbines, TBN
Enterprises, 1968.
NRA Fact Book, 3rd edition, National Rifle Association, Fairfax, VA, 1989.
Petzal, D.E., The Encyclopedia of Sporting Arms, Facts on File, Inc., New York, 1991.
Roberts, J.B., ed., Firearms Assembly, the NRA Guide to Pistols and Revolvers, NRA,
Fairfax, VA, 1993.
---. Firearms Assembly, the NRA Guide to Rifles and Shotguns, NRA, Fairfax, VA, 1993.
Smith, W.H.B., Small Arms of the World, Stackpole Books, Harrisburg, PA, 1973.
---. Book of Pistols and Revolvers, 7th edition, Stackpole Books, Harrisburg, PA, 1968.
Wirnsberger, G., The Standard Directory of Proof Marks, Blacksmith Corporation, Chino
Valley, AZ.
---. Firearms Assembly/Disassembly - Part II: Revolvers, DBI Books, Northbrook, IL,
1990.
---. Firearms Assembly/Disassembly - Part III: Rimfire Rifles, DBI Books, Northbrook, IL,
1994.
---. Firearms Assembly/Disassembly - Part IV: Centerfire Rifles, DBI Books, Northbrook,
IL, 1991.
---. Firearms Assembly/Disassembly - Part VI: Law Enforcement Weapons, DBI Books,
Northbrook, IL, 1981.
AFTE Journal
Bell, P.D., and Mikko, D.M., “Iraqi Model 74 Semiautomatic Pistol,” 1992; 24(1) 23-27.
Berg, S.O., “Firearms Safety Design Origins and the Firearms,” 1996; 28(4): 211-221.
Page 33 of 168
---. “Gas Handling, Containment, Deflection and Venting for Bolt Action Rifles,” 1992;
24(4): 375-380.
Boss, G., “Number One: AK-47 the Most Popular Gun in the World,” 1995; 27(3): 220-
221.
Chenow, R.W., “Bauer .25 Caliber Stainless Steel Semiautomatic Pistol,” 1976; 8(4): 20.
Dodson, R.V., and Stengel, R.F., “American Derringer,” 1992; 24(1): 63-64.
Dujanovich, M.B., “Heckler & Koch 9x19mm Firearms,” 1995; 27(4): 297-302.
---. “Navy Arms Model TU90 Semiautomatic Pistol,” 1994; 26(2): 121-126.
Fournier, R.J., and Lemmer, J.T., “Type Sugiura: Oriental 32 ACP Pistol,” 1985; 17(2):
38.
Freeman, R.A., “M11/Nine and KG 99 Closed Bolt Semiautomatic Pistols,” 1985; 7(2):
92.
Garland, P.V., and Lutz, M., “USAF Rifle/SMG,.221 Cal,” 1971; 3(1):24.
Gieszl, R., Wolslagel, P., and Nordhoff, T., “Stallard Arms Model JS 9mm Semiautomatic
Pistol,” 1990; 22(3): 299-302.
Page 34 of 168
Goodman, R., Santora, D., and Trochum, T., “Kahr K9,” 1996; 28(3): 166-167.
Hawkins, R.R., “Davis Industries Model D-25 Derringer,” 1985; 17(2): 77.
Hughes, D.R., “Book Review: The History and Development of the M16 Rifle and Its
Cartridge,” 1991; 23(3): 798.
Johnson, T.D., and Matty, W., “Arcadia Machine and Tool: Notes on AMT Firearms,”
1986; 18(3): 69.
---. “AMT Back-Up Pistol Manufacturer Marking Information,” 1984; 16(3): 20.
Laskowski, G.E., “American Industries Calico M-100 & M-100P 22 Long Rifle Carbine
and Pistol,” 1988; 20(2): 131-134.
Lutz, M.C., “Smoothbore 38 Special Derringer: Davis Industries Model D38,” 1996; 28(3):
174-176.
Matty, B., and Dougherty, P., “Sedco Industries Model SP-22 Pistol,” 1990; 22(2): 195-
198.
Mauer, C.C., “Rohm Model 38T Double Action Revolver,” 1970; 2(3): 25.
McBrayer, W.S., “Smith & Wesson Model SW40F,” 1994; 26(4): 297-298.
Mikko, D., “Ceska Zbrojoka (CZ) Model 50 Semiautomatic Pistol,” 1993; 25(4): 264-265.
Moorehead, C.A., and Mauer, R., “AMT Back Up 9mm Kurz (380 ACP) Auto Loading
Pistol,” 1985; 17(2): 97.
Page 35 of 168
---. “Wyoming Arms Parker 10mm S.S. Pistol,” 1990; 22(2): 191-193.
Schubert, K.H., “Technical Note on the Grendel P-30 Pistol,” 1993, 25(2): 108-109.
Sojat, J.G. and Hart, R.P., “Heckler & Koch Model HK-4 Pistol,” 1973, 5(2): 19.
Stengel, R.F., and Dodson, R., “Rohm 41 Magum Model 57 Revolver, 1990; 22(4): 444-
445.
Stone, R.S., “Sites Spectre 9mm Semiautomatic Pistol,” 1991; 23(4): 1000-1002.
Templin, R.H., “Jennings, Model J-22 Semiautomatic Pistol Information,” 1987; 19(1) 18.
Thorpe, J.C., “Information on the S.W.D., Inc. SMG Production,” 1984; 16(3): 17.
Thompson, E., and Qanass, N., “9mm Danshway Semiautomatic Pistol,” 1992; 24(3):
311-313.
Vagnozzi, V., “Information on the M3 SMG Grease Gun,” 1989; 21(1): 74.
Vaughan, R.T., and Gilman, P.L., “Information of the Rogak LES P18 Pistol,” 1985;
17(2):72.
Whitemarsh, J.W., “Jennings Firearms Model J22 Semiautomatic Pistol,” 1985; 17(2):
120.
---. “Jennings Firearms Model J22 Semiautomatic Pistol Information,” 1987; 19(1): 18.
Page 36 of 168
Videotapes
American Gunsmithing Institute (AGI) Armorer’s Course videotape series, including the following
titles:
Lenny Magill Productions “Bill Wilson Presents” videotapes series including the following titles:
Rock’n Roll #1(45 min.) Complete Ruger .22 Pistol (67 min.)
Infantry Weapons and Their Effects (30 min.) Fundamentals of Small Arms (30 min.)
Page 37 of 168
Videotapes from other sources marketed by Lenny Magill Productions under the following titles:
Anite Productions, P.O. Box 375, Pinole, CA, videotapes under the following titles:
A & E Television Networks, 126 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY, videotape series:
The Story of the Gun, Vol. I-IV (50 min. each volume)
Magnum Research, Inc., 7110 University Avenue, N.E., Minneapolis, MN, videotape:
Page 38 of 168
REFERENCE MATERIALS
MANUFACTURE OF MODERN FIREARMS
Books
Hatcher, J.S., Jury, F.J., and Weller, J., Firearms Investigation, Identification and
Evidence, 2nd edition, Stackpole Books, Harrisburg, PA, 1957, Chapters 3-6.
Herb, C.O., Machine Tools at Work, The Industrial Press, New York, 1942.
Periodicals
Bird, J., “How Handguns Are Made,” Handguns, Feb. 1996, pp. 70-73.
Peterson, H.L., “The Development of Firearms,” American Rifleman, Parts 3 and 4, May
and Jun., 1960.
Ruger Staff, “Ruger’s Gun Talk - Rifled Barrels,” Guns and Ammo, Mar. 1997.
Sitton, G., “Blackstar Barrel Accurizing,” Guns and Ammo, Aug. 1994.
S & W Staff Report, “How S & W Builds Great Guns,” Smith & Wesson Handguns 96,
PJS Publications, Peoria, Il. 1996.
Weller, J., “The Quiet Revolution in U.S. Firearms Manufacture, Part 1,” American
Rifleman, Jan. 1971.
---. “The Quiet Revolution in U.S. Firearms Manufacture, Part 2 - Sporting Rifles,”
American Rifleman, Feb. 1971.
---. “The Quiet Revolution in U.S. Firearms Manufacture, Part 3 - Shotguns,” American
Rifleman, Mar. 1971.
---. “The Silent Revolution at Savage and Ithaca Gun Co.,” American Rifleman, Nov.
1972.
Page 39 of 168
AFTE Journal
Chenow, R.W., and Lemmer, J.T., “Use of Investment Castings in the Manufacture of
Firearm Components,” 1994; 26(1):64-76.
Goddard, C.H., “Proof Tests and Proof Marks,” 1983; 15(2): 116-142.
Lansing, J.F., “Electrochemical Machining: A New Barrel Making Process, Part 2, Testing
the Coonan Arms Model B Pistol and the Reproducibility of Rifling Stria,” 1988; 20(4):
396-403.
Papke, R.E., “Electrochemical Machining: A New Barrel Making Process,” 1988; 20(1):
48-52.
Sugarman, L.A., “Eddy Manufacturing Co., Caliber .45 Auto Pistol,” 1982; 14(1): 43.
Videotapes
Shotguns in Valtrompia, How a Gun is Made (Com Nasce Un’Arma), Consorzio Armaioli
Bresciani, Gardone Valtrompia, Italy, 1995 (English version).
Page 40 of 168
E. MANUFACTURE OF MODERN AMMUNITION
1. Define in your notebook and know the meaning of the following terms as they relate to
modern ammunition and its manufacture:
__________________ _________
Training Officer Date
2. Sketch the cross-section of Berdan and Boxer primers, showing their relationship to the head of
the cartridge.
__________________ _________
Training Officer Date
Page 41 of 168
3. Discuss the purpose and essential ingredients of priming mixture used in modern cartridges.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
4. Know and discuss the difference between caliber and caliber type. Illustrate this difference by
relating these terms to a discussion of the .22 caliber, .30 caliber and .38 caliber families of
cartridges.
(Use Training Assignment #10 and Practical Exercise #2 to complete this objective.)
________________ ________
Training Officer Date
________________ ________
Training Officer Date
Page 42 of 168
REFERENCE MATERIALS
MODERN AMMUNITION EVOLUTION AND MANUFACTURE
to provide a wider range of resources should you have a particular interest in a given
topic.
Should you encounter other references in this category, you are encouraged to make additional
notes about them at the end of this listing.
Books
ANSI/SAAMI Centerfire Pistol & Revolver Voluntary Performance Standards, Sporting Arms and
Ammunition Manufacturers’ Institute, Wilton, CT, current edition.
ANSI/SAAMI Centerfire Rifle Voluntary Performance Standards, Sporting Arms and Ammunition
Manufacturers’ Institute, Wilton, CT, current edition.
Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners Standardization Committee, Glossary of the
Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners (Appendix F, Firearm Ignition Systems), 3rd
edition, Available Business Printing, Inc., Chicago, 1994.
Barnes, F.C., Cartridges of the World, DBI Books, Inc., Northbrook, IL, current edition.
Davis, T.L., The Chemistry of Powder and Explosives, reprinted by Angriff Press, Las Vegas, NV
(Originally printed in two separate volumes in 1941 and 1943; also reprinted by John Wiley and
Sons, New York, 1950.) pp. 244-330, pp. 400-458.
Frost, G.E., Ammunition Making, An Insider’s Story, National Rifle Association, Fairfax, VA, 1990.
“The Ever-changing Shotshell Story,” Gun Digest, 1973 edition, DBI Books, Northbrook, IL.
Hackley, F.W., Woodin, W.H., and Scranton, E.L., History of Modern U.S. Military Small Arms
Ammunition, MacMillan Co, 1967.
Halsey, A., ed., The NRA Handloader’s Guide, National Rifle Association, Washington, DC, 1968.
Handloaders’ Bullet Making Annual, Wolf Publishing Co., Prescott, AZ, current edition.
Hatcher, J.S., Hatcher’s Notebook, Military Service Publishing Co., Harrisburg, PA, 1947, pp.
300-333.
Page 43 of 168
Hatcher, J.S., Jury, F.J., and Weller, J., Firearms Investigation, Identification and Evidence, 2nd
edition, Stackpole Books, Harrisburg, PA, 1957, Chapters 3-6.
Hayes, T.J., Elements of Ordance, John Wiley and Sons, Inc., New York, 1938.
Hoyen, G.A., The History and Development of Small Arms Ammunition, Volumes I-II, Armory
Publications, Tacoma, 1981.
The Illustrated Reference of Cartridge Dimensions, Wolfe Publishing Company, Prescott, AZ,
1993.
Logan, H.C., Cartridges, A Pictorial Digest of Small Arms Ammunition, Standard Publications,
1948.
Mann, F.W., The Bullet’s Flight from Powder to Target, Standard Printing and Publishing Co.,
Huntington, WV. (Reprinted by Palladium Press for the NRA Firearms Classics Library, 1997).
Ohart, T.C., Elements of Ammunition, John Wiley and Sons, Inc., New York, 1946.
SAAMI Publication #200, Smokeless Powder, Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers’
Institute, Wilton, CT.
SAAMI Publication #201, Primers, Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers’ Institute,
Wilton, CT.
SAAMI Publication #202, Sporting Ammunition, Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers’
Institute, Wilton, CT.
SAAMI Publication #204, Facts About Sporting Ammunition, Sporting Arms and Ammunition
Manufacturers’ Institute, Wilton, CT.
SAAMI Publication #226, Ammunition Types and Characteristics - Handguns, Sporting Arms and
Ammunition Manufacturers’ Institute, Wilton, CT.
Sharp, P.B., Complete Guide to Handloading, Funk and Wagnells, New York, 1937.
---. The Rifle in America, William Morrow & Co., New York, 1938, pp. 28-43.
Page 44 of 168
Periodicals
Hatcher, J.S., “This Stuff Gunpowder,” American Rifleman, Aug. 1949, pp. 32-34 and Sep. 1949,
pp. 35-36.
Weller, J., “Quality in U.S. Ammunition, “ American Rifleman, Oct. 1975, pp.48-51.
AFTE Journal
Dillon, J.H., “The Manufacture of Conventional Smokeless Powder,” 1991; 23(2): 682-688.
Johnson, T.D., and Matty, W., “Eclipse All Plastic Shotshells,” 1983; 15(4):60.
Matty, W.P., “Primer Composition and Gunshot Residue,” 1987; 19(1): 8-13.
Videotapes
Page 45 of 168
F. INSTRUMENTATION
a. compound microscope
b. stereo microscope
c. comparison microscope
(Use Training Assignment #30 and Practical Exercise #7 to complete this objective.)
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
2. Study the instruction manual for the various brands of stereo microscopes. Determine how to
insert a reticle and how to check the calibration of the microscope.
__________________ _______
Training Officer Date
3. Familiarize yourself with the instruction manuals and the mechanical and optical aspects of the
various brands of comparison microscopes in the Firearm Section. Note the differences and
similarities in each, both mechanically and optically.
(Use Training Assignment #30 and Practical Exercise #7 to complete this objective.)
__________________ _______
Training Officer Date
4. Familiarize yourself with the following types of light sources, which are in use in the Firearm
Section on the comparison microscopes.
a. Fluorescent
b. Fiber optics (with and without filters)
(Use Training Assignment #30 and Practical Exercise #7 to complete this objective.)
__________________ _______
Training Officer Date
Page 46 of 168
5. Using each type of light source in the field of view on a comparison microscope, note the
differences in the quality of each using the following different surfaces: lead bullets, jacketed
bullets, various types of cartridge cases, and various types of surfaces containing impressed and
striated toolmarks. Manipulate the above light sources with respect to angle and vary the
intensity of the light source, if possible. Gain an appreciation for the effects of varying the angle
and intensity for each light source on each type of surface. Discuss this with your Training
Officer.
(Use Training Assignments #30 and #31 and Practical Exercises #7 and #8 to complete this
objective.)
__________________ _______
Training Officer Date
6. Set up a comparison microscope for your vision requirements and focus the "hairline.” Prepare
the microscope for your personal use, and familiarize yourself with each set of objective lenses
on your comparison microscope. Become familiar with the different types of Polaroid film and/or
other photographic systems used in the Firearm Section with the comparison microscopes.
Master the use of the Polaroid Land film holder. Using all of the objective lenses, make timed
exposures of the same objects while varying the intensity and angle of the light sources.
Calculate the magnification for each set of objective lenses on your comparison microscope.
(Use Training Assignment #30 and Practical Exercise #7 to complete this objective.)
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
7. Become familiar with and demonstrate the use of the following equipment:
a. speed micrometer
b. inertia bullet puller
c. steel rule
d. reticle in ocular lens of binocular microscope
e. Ainsworth scale
f. balances and scales located in the Firearm Section
g. Stage micrometer
h. Digital (electronic) micrometer
i. depth gauge (Federal brand or equivalent for firing pin impression measurements
(Use Training Assignment #31 and Practical Exercise #8 to complete this objective.)
__________________ _______
Training Officer Date
Page 47 of 168
REFERENCE MATERIALS
MICROSCOPY AND INSTRUMENTATION
to provide a wider range of additional resources should you have a particular interest in a
given topic.
Should you encounter other references in this category, you are encouraged to make additional
notes about them at the end of this listing.
AFTE Journal
Biasotti, A.A., “Photomicrography and Illumination: Some Critical Factors,” 1979; 11(4):60.
Haemmerle, C., “Easily Made Diffusers for Fiber Optic Illuminators,” 1990; 22(4): 446-447.
Hueske, E.E., “Application of Fiber Optic Videomicroscopy to Firearm and Toolmark Examination:
A Further Look,” 1993; 25(2):132-139.
---. “Preliminary Report on the Application of Fiber Optic Videomicroscopy to Firearm and
Toolmark Examination,” 1990; 22(3):280-287.
Moran, B., “Building an Inexpensive High Intensity Fluorescent Lighting System for the
Comparison Microscope,” 1997; 29(1):49-54.
Ziegler, P.A., “Examination Techniques: The Beam Splitter and Reverse Lighting,” 1983;
15(2):37.
Periodicals
Page 48 of 168
Manuals
Leica Microsystems, Inc., “Operating Instructions for the K2700 Universal Forensic Microscope
(UFM IV).”
Basic References
Page 49 of 168
G. EXAMINATION OF FIREARMS
1. Define each of the following types of firearms and explain in detail the operation of each type to
include the loading of cartridges and the subsequent movement of the cartridge case and/or
bullet after firing.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
2. Explain and illustrate the differences between a gas-operated and a recoil-operated autoloading
shotgun.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
3. Explain and illustrate the differences between the following types of autoloading pistols:
a. blowback action
b. delayed blowback action
c. gas-delayed blowback action
d. short recoil action
e. long recoil action
__________________ _______
Training Officer Date
Page 50 of 168
4. Partially disassemble and reassemble the following revolvers. Photograph and note the
differences in their mechanisms. Identify each part by name.
__________________ _______
Training Officer Date
5. Field strip and reassemble the following pistols. Note and photograph differences in their
mechanisms. Identify each part by name.
(Use Training Assignments #16, #17, and #18 to complete this objective.)
__________________ _______
Training Officer Date
6. Field strip and reassemble the following submachine guns. Note differences in the mechanism
and operation of each. Make appropriate photographs for your notes and identify the major parts
by name.
a. .45 Auto caliber RPB Industries, M10, submachine gun (open bolt and closed
bolt)
b. 9mm Luger SWD Inc., M11/Nine, submachine gun
c. 9mm Uzi submachine gun
d. 9mm H&K, MP5, submachine gun
e. .45 Auto caliber US M3 submachine gun
f. 9mm Intratec, TEC 9, submachine gun
g. .45 Auto caliber Thompson submachine gun
__________________ _______
Training Officer Date
Page 51 of 168
7. Familiarize yourself with the operation of each of the following firearms. Identify the major parts
by name and make appropriate notes.
__________________ _______
Training Officer Date
8. Familiarize yourself with the operation of each of the following shotguns. Identify the major parts
by name and make appropriate notes.
_________________ _________
Training Officer Date
9. Familiarize yourself with the operation of each of the following firearms. Identify the major parts
by name and make appropriate notes.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
Page 52 of 168
10. Familiarize yourself with the operation of each of the following firearms. Identify the major parts
by name and make appropriate notes.
__________________ __________
Training Officer Date
11. Familiarize yourself with the Firearm Section Range Rules and Safety Rules regarding firearms.
Demonstrate, using firearms from No. 4 through No. 9 above and others, how to place firearms in
a safe condition, how to load and unload each, how to handle and carry these firearms in the
Laboratory, and how to safely test fire each of these different types of firearms.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
12. Using the firearms in No. 4 through No. 9 above, study the various safety mechanisms employed
in each design. Include thumb safety, grip safety, magazine safety, firing pin block, transfer bar,
and any other mechanical safety. Illustrate how the firing mechanisms are blocked, interrupted,
or otherwise stopped from operating.
(Use Training Assignments #15 through #29 and Practical Exercises #3 through #6 to
complete this objective.)
__________________ ________
Training Officer Date
13. Familiarize yourself with the Firearm Section equipment used for measurement of trigger pull.
Determine the trigger pull on at least one firearm from each of the firearms listed in the No. 4
through No. 9 groups, using various methods and compare the results.
(Use Training Assignments #15 through #29 and Practical Exercises #3 through #6 to
complete this objective.)
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
14. Discuss with your Training Officer the protocol to be used in determining whether a firearm "can
be made to fire without pulling the trigger.” Demonstrate, using one firearm from each of the No.
4 through No. 9 groups of firearms above, how to conduct this type of examination.
(Use Training Assignments #15 through #29 and Practical Exercises #3 through #6 to
complete this objective.)
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
Page 53 of 168
15. Research, define, and/or determine the implications of the following terms as they relate to safety
in the operation of a firearm.
(Use Training Assignment #28 and Practical Exercise #5 to complete this objective.)
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
16. Become familiar with the Section firearm range including its physical dimensions, construction of
walls and backstop, and bullet velocity limitations. Know how to test fire firearms thought to be
possibly unsafe. Become familiar with the use of all the equipment on the range. Know the
range rules and emergency medical treatment procedures.
(Use Training Assignment #28 and Practical Exercise #5 to complete this objective.)
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
17. Attend armorer training offered by various manufacturers of firearms, at their manufacturing
facilities, if possible. Coordinate these with your Training Officer.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
18. Explore the capabilities in restoring an inoperable evidence firearm to operating condition and
also know the limitations and reservations, which must be considered. Discuss these with your
Training Officer.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
Page 54 of 168
19. Review and record the references in the Firearm Section library, which can be used to identify the
manufacturer and/or source of a firearm using the following criteria:
a. proof marks
b. inspector marks
c. factory numbers and markings
d. serial number
e. part numbers
f. company logos
(Use Training Assignment #29 and Practical Exercise #6 to complete this objective.)
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
20. Discuss the following topics with your Training Officer and become familiar with the capabilities
and limitations of the section in regard to these areas:
(Use Training Assignment #29 and Practical Exercise #6 to complete this objective.)
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
21. Become knowledgeable about how to submit evidence firearms to the Laboratory when they have
been recovered from water or when they are in a rusted condition. Also, become familiar with the
capabilities, limitations, and reservations, which must be considered when restoring such firearms
to operating condition to obtain test specimens from them.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
22. Discuss with your Training Officer how to conduct an examination to determine if a firearm has
been altered to fire full automatic. Using a firearm, which has been altered to fire full automatic,
conduct this type of examination and verbally report your findings.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
Page 55 of 168
REFERENCE MATERIALS
GENERAL PRELIMINARY EXAMINATIONS OF FIREARMS
to provide a wider range of additional resources should you have a particular interest in a
given topic.
Should you encounter other references in this category, you are encouraged to make additional
notes about them at the end of this listing.
General
Burrard, G., Identification of Firearms and Forensic Ballistics, 1st edition, Charles Scribner Sons,
NY, 1934, revised edition, A.S. Barnes & Co., NY, 1964.
Davis, J.E., An Introduction to Tool Marks, Firearms and the Striagraph, Charles C. Thomas,
Springfield, IL, 1958.
Gunther, J.D., and Gunther, C.O., The Identification of Firearms, John Wiley and Sons, Inc., New
York, 1935.
Hatcher, J.S., Hatcher’s Notebook, Military Service Publishing Company, Harrisburg, PA, 1947.
Hatcher, J.S., Jury, F.J. and Weller, J., Firearms Investigation, Identification and Evidence, 2nd
edition, Stackpole Books, Harrisburg, PA, 1957.
Heard, B.E., Handbook of Firearms and Ballistics: Examining and Interpreting Forensic Evidence,
John Wiley & Sons, New York, 1997.
Mathews, J.H., Firearms Identification, Volumes I III, Charles C. Thomas, Springfield, IL, 1962.
NRA Firearms Fact Book, 3rd edition, National Rifle Association, Fairfax, VA, 1989.
AFTE Journal
Case Notes
Page 56 of 168
Worksheets
Cooper, R.E., “Firearm Safety and Trigger Pull Worksheet,” 1995; 27(3):vii.
Hildebrandt, C., “Problems with Preservation of Evidence for Secondary Gun Examination,” 1991;
23(4):982-985.
Howe, W.J., “Laboratory Work Sheets,” Newsletter #2, Aug. 1969, pp. 13-14.
Jordan, T.D., “Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation Firearms Laboratory: A Pictorial Display,”
1979; 11(4):46.
Untitled insert, Newsletter #3, Oct. 1969, pp. 17, 18, 21.
Reporting of Conclusions
---. “Firearms Safety Design Origins and the Firearms,” 1996; 28(4):211-221.
---. “Gas Handling, Containment, Deflection and Venting for Bolt Action Rifles,” 1992; 24(4):375-
380.
Page 57 of 168
---. “Safety Notch: Design Dangers Through the Ages,” 1994; 26(1):4-10.
Binsbacher, H., “Caution: When Examining Remington Arms Co. Model of 1911,” 1973; 5(3):21.
Buckleton, J.S., and Walsh, K.A.J., “Perplexing Accidental Discharge of Ammunition,” 1992;
24(1):46-54.
Chenow, R.W., “False Half Cock Position in Semiautomatic Handguns,” 1977; 9(2):179.
Garrison, T., “Altered Firing Pin Contributes to Accidental Discharge,” 1991; 23(4):908-909.
Gieszl, R., and Wolslagel, P.F., “Accidental Death by a Pen Gun,” 1990; 22(4):448-450.
Lipscomb, J.W., and Harden, L.R., “Evaluating Trigger Mechanisms for Sensitivity to Shock,”
1985; 17(4):4.
Molnar, S., “Use of Scale Drawings to Establish Facts in Shooting Cases,” 1970; 2(2):2-14.
Pex, J.O., “Accidental Discharge of a Smith and Wesson Model 659,” 1994; 26(1):18-20.
Phillips, G.R., “Ruger Security-Six Revolver for Accidental Discharge,” 1983; 15(4):56.
Page 58 of 168
Reitz, J.A., “Trigger Shoes Causing Accidental Shootings,” 1976; 8(4):64.
Robinson, E.L., “Accidental Discharge of a Cobray Selective Fire Pistol,” 1990; 22(1):43-46.
Silverwater, H., Shoshani, E., Argaman, U., Hocherman, G., and Schecter, B., “Accidental
Discharge of a FN Browning Hi-Power Pistol,” 1996; 28(4):233-240.
Swearengen, T.F., “Firearms Accident Investigation Involving Ithaca Model 37 Police Shotgun,”
1975; 7(1):37.
Thompson, R.W., and Amble, A.M., “Ruger Mark 1 Pistol Accidental Discharges,” 1980; 12(2):16.
Vaughan, R.T., and Kreiser, M.J., “Potential Accidental Discharge in a Semiautomatic Firearm,”
1990; 22(1):47-48.
Branch, D.M., “Modification of 16 Gauge Shotgun To Fire 12 Gauge Shotshells,” 1983; 15(3):14.
Chenow, R.W., “Conversion of the Intratec Tec 9 to Full Auto,” 1987; 19(2):169-171.
---. “Full Auto Conversion of the Intratec Tec 9: An Update,” 1988; 20(2):165-166.
---. “Illinois State Police Model 39 Barrel Ramp Modifications,” 1983; 15(4):6.
Chenow, R.W., and Lemmer, J.T., “Correction: PPS/50 Full Auto Modification Attempt Resulting
in a Dangerous Firearm,” 1990; 22(3):345.
Page 59 of 168
---. “PPS/50 Full Auto Modification Attempt Resulting in a Dangerous Firearm,” 1990; 22(2):174-
185.
Finor, J.M., “Uncontrollable Full Automatic Fire Occurring in a Walther Pistol, Model PP,” 1996;
28(1):48-54.
Freeman, R.A., “M11/Nine and KG 99 Closed Bolt Semiautomatic Pistols,” 1985; 17(2):92.
Hofmeister, A.G., “Conversion of .36 Navy To Fire .38 Smith & Wesson,” 1978; 10(2):65.
Laskowski, G.E., “Full Auto Conversion of an UZI 9mm Semiautomatic Pistol,” 1995; 27(4):287-
292.
Lutz, M.C., “Atchisson Device for Conversion Unit for AR-15 & M-16 Rifles,” 1973; 5(5):18.
Molnar, S., and Nicholson, T., “Homemade Machine Gun,” 1970; 2(4):28.
Rathman, G.A., “Two or More Alterations of the RPB Semiautomatic Pistol,” 1984; 16(3):13.
Rathman, G.A., and Rudolph, N.J., “Full Auto Conversion of an AK-47 and HK94,” 1990;
22(3):302-306.
Schubert, K.H., “Full Auto Conversion Of An RPB Industries M10,” 1989; 21(3):511-512.
Stengel, R.F., “Illegitimate Smith & Wesson Model 59 Autos?,” 1977; 9(2):167.
Templin, R.H., “Full Auto Conversion of F.N. Belgium, FNC,” 1989; 21(3):509-510.
Page 60 of 168
---. “Two Shot Double Barrel Shotgun Suicide,” 1991; 23(4):973-976.
Thornton, J.I., and Rios, F.G., “Full Automatic Fire Conversions of the Colt AR 15 and Variants,”
1983; 15(1):114.
Trahin, J.L., “Disguised Conversion of the RPB (MAC 10) Pistol,” 1988; 20(4):452-453.
Yales, L., “Modified Rohm Revolver,” 1980; 12(1):41.
Zahn, M.S., “Browning Hi Power Automatic Pistol: Another Type of Full Automatic Modification,”
1981; 13(2):24.
---. “Browning Hi Power Automatic Pistols Full Automatic Modification,” 1978; 10(1):13.
---. “RPB Industries M10 Autoloading Pistol Full Automatic Modification,” 1980; 12(3):29.
---. “RPB Industries M10 Autoloading Pistol: New Rifling Observed,” 1981; 13(2):32.
Barrel Obstructions
Berg, S.O., “Rifle Barrel Obstruction Tests and Experiments,” 1991; 23(4):951-957.
Barrel Ruptures
Andrews, D., “Warning Do Not Use Blazer 357 Magnum Ammunition in Rifles,” 1983; 15(3):12.
Haag, L.C., “Novel Means of Propellant Identification in Shooting Mishap,” 1983; 15(4):42.
McBeth, R.G., “Another Potentially Dangerous Weapon from a Starters Gun,” 1975; 7(1):72.
McBrayer, W.S., “Unrifled Adapter: The PC-410 Shot Shell Adapter,” 1985; 17(2):69.
Page 61 of 168
Drop Testing
Lipscomb, J.W., and Harden, L.R., “Evaluating Trigger Mechanisms for Sensitivity to Shock,”
1989; 21(2):382-384.
Noedel, M., Franklin, T., Krylo, J., and Kusumi, R., “Drop Testing a .45 Auto Colt 1911,” 1997;
29(2):183-185.
Firearm Markings
Dragan, P., “Notes on Serial Numbers on the AK-47 Type, Assault Rifle,” 1996; 28(1):22-24.
Gun Week, “Marlin Computerizes System for Recording Serial Numbers,” 1972; 4(4):20.
Guns & Ammo,” United States Military Serial Numbers for 1911, 1911A1 .45 Automatics,” 1971;
3(3):7.
Hawkins, R.R., “Colt Revolvers with Identical Serial Numbers,” 1988; 20(2):190-191.
Keisler, M.A., “Smith and Wesson Model SW9F and the Hidden Serial Number,” 1997; 29(2):186-
187.
Improvised/Homemade Firearms
Page 62 of 168
---. “Homemade BB Gun,” 1972; 4(4):34.
Harriman, J.J., and Wilder, R., “Tear Gas Pen Guns: Who Will the Victim Be?” 1974; 6(4):4.
Mason, J.J., “Conversion of Butler Associates Replica Derringer to Firing Condition,” 1989;
21(1):37.
McBeth, R.G., “Another Potentially Dangerous Weapon from a Starters Gun,” 1975; 7(1):72.
Smith, R.M., “Potentially Dangerous Weapons from a Starters Gun,” 1973; 5(5):34.
Page 63 of 168
Uchiyama, T., and Ishihara, M., “Forged 45 Colt Semiautomatic Pistols,” 1988; 20(1):81-84.
Woodward, R.J., “Look for the Conventional and the Bizarre,” 1978; 10(2):43.
Photography
Burton, W.E., “Actually, Axial Lighting Works,” 1991; 23(4):963-965.
Cassidy, F.H., “Method To Deal With Polaroid Film Back Problems,” 1983; 15(4):26.
Haag, L.C., “Information on Construction of High Speed Photography Unit,” 1985; 17(2):74.
Haag, L.C., and Kokanovich, J., “Shot in the Dark: A Procedure for the Photographic
Documentation of Firearm’s Muzzle Flash,” 1991; 23(4):910-918.
Lutz, M.C., and Buck, J.C., “High Speed Photography Applied to Firearms Identification,” 1984;
16(4):75.
Parian, R.W., “Sound Trigger for Stop Action Photography,” 1975; 7(2):92.
Wilhelm, R.M., “Use of High Speed Photography in Firearms Cases,” 1972; 4(2):4.
Cooper, R.E., “Firearm Safety and Trigger Pull Worksheet,” 1995; 27(3):vii.
Dillon, J.H., “The Trigger Scan System Microprocessor Technology Applied to Precision
Trigger Pull Analyses,” 1999; 31(2):123-130.
Gamboe, T.E., “MAFS Firearms Workshop: Trigger Pull Methods,” 1986; 18(3):77.
Hamby, J.E., “Trigger Pull Data for Selected Military Weapons,” 1972; 4(1):23.
Krylo, J., and Slonina, S., “Trigger Pull Statistics,” 1985; 17(1):79.
Quirk, T.W., “Handgun Trigger Pull Scale/Dry Fire Safety Station,” 1994; 26(2):119-120.
Page 64 of 168
Rios, F.G., and Thornton, J., “Static vs Dynamic Determination of Trigger Pull,” 1984; 16(3):84.
Rosenberg, S.F., “Some Colt Firearm Trigger Pulls from the Factory,” 1973; 5(5):5.
Templin, R.H., and Nielson, J.P., “Evaluation of the Effects of Cyanoacrylate Processing on Pistol
and Revolver Trigger Pull,” 1988; 20(4):443-445.
Page 65 of 168
REFERENCE MATERIALS
TEST FIRING FOR KNOWN SPECIMENS AND OPERABILITY
General
Burrard, G., Identification of Firearms and Forensic Ballistics, 1st edition, Charles Scribner Sons,
NY, 1934, revised edition, A.S. Barnes & Co., NY, 1964.
Davis, J.E., An Introduction to Tool Marks, Firearms and the Striagraph, Charles C. Thomas,
Springfield, IL, 1958.
Gunther, J.D., and Gunther, C.O., The Identification of Firearms, John Wiley and Sons, Inc., New
York, 1935.
Hatcher, J.S., Hatcher’s Notebook, Military Service Publishing Company, Harrisburg, PA, 1947.
Hatcher, J.S., Jury, F.J. and Weller, J., Firearms Investigation, Identification and Evidence, 2nd
edition, Stackpole Books, Harrisburg, PA, 1957.
Heard, B.E., Handbook of Firearms and Ballistics: Examining and Interpreting Forensic Evidence,
John Wiley & Sons, New York, 1997.
Mathews, J.H., Firearms Identification, Volumes I III, Charles C. Thomas, Springfield, IL, 1962.
NRA Firearms Fact Book, 3rd edition, National Rifle Association, Fairfax, VA, 1989.
AFTE Journal
Case Notes
Worksheets
Cooper, R.E., “Firearm Safety and Trigger Pull Worksheet,” 1995; 27(3):vii.
Hildebrandt, C., “Problems with Preservation of Evidence for Secondary Gun Examination,” 1991;
23(4):982-985.
Howe, W.J., “Laboratory Work Sheets,” Newsletter #2, Aug. 1969, pp. 13-14.
Page 66 of 168
Jordan, T.D., “Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation Firearms Laboratory: A Pictorial Display,”
1979; 11(4):46.
Untitled insert, Newsletter #3, Oct. 1969, pp. 17, 18, 21.
Reporting of Conclusions
Arnold, R.R., and Gallant, R., “Bullet Recovery Tank For Under $1,500.00,” 1988; 20(2):168.
Ball, P., and Mikko, D., “Snail Passive Bullet Trap,” 1992; 24(1):82-83.
Cayton, J.C., “Firing Chamber & Safety Measures Taken in Firearm & Toolmark Work
Environment,” 1985; 17(3):95.
Dragan, P., and Miller, J., “Atlanta Forensic Science Laboratory Bullet Recovery Tank,” 1996;
28(1):1-2.
Hueske, E.E., “Anti-Splash Back Lid for Water Traps,” 1988; 20(1):72-74.
Lansing, J.F., and Seestrom, J.L., “Cheap Water Recovery Tank,” 1975; 7(1):54.
Lansing, J.L., “Bullet Recovery in a Six Foot Cotton Box,” 1994; 26(4):286.
Lattig, K.N., and Kreiser, M.J., “Water Recovery Tank Safety,” 1982; 14(4):12.
Lutz, M.C., “Source for Cotton Waste Recovery Materials,” 1985; 17(2):59.
McBrayer, W.S., “What? Another Water Tank and Bullet Stop,” 1978; 10(2):90.
Page 67 of 168
Miller, K.E., “Description of Water Tank Bullet Recovery Units at Missouri State Highway Patrol,”
1971; 3(2):18.
Moyer, F.A., “Chamber, Bullet Recovery, Water, Horizontal, MK1,” 1977; 9(1):32.
Ziegler, P.A., “Bullet Recovery Using Non Newtonian Fluids,” 1982: 14(3):43.
Cartridge Interchangeability
Barber, D., and Cassidy, F., “When is a Caliber 380 Auto Not a 380 Auto?,” 1993; 25(3):168-171.
Ernest, R.N., “Obsolete 256 Winchester Magnum Cartridge Causes Interesting Problems,” 1990;
22(2):200-201.
---. “.223 Remington Versus 5.56 X 45mm: What’s the Difference?,” 1994; 26(1):50-63.
Stengel, R.F., and Mills, D., “Revolver Cartridges in Automatics,” 1980; 12(3):68.
Downloading Ammunition
Smith, L.L., “Random Notes on Test Firing and Lab Techniques,” 1969; 1(2):19.
Page 68 of 168
Remote Discharge of Firearms
Lutz, M.C., “Evaluating Zero-One New Testing Device for Firearms Examiners,” 1983; 15(4):28.
Uri, B., “Remote Controlled Device for Safe Discharge of Dangerous Firearms,” 1993; 25(2):116-
124.
Basic References
Keith, Shotguns
Page 69 of 168
Nelson, The World's Submachine Guns
Savage Arms, Component Parts Catalog, Savage, Stevens, Fox, Springfield Sporting Arms
Page 70 of 168
H. BULLET EXAMINATIONS AND COMPARISONS
1. Define what is meant by or determine the significance of the following terms or phrases as they
relate to the examination and comparison of fired bullets. Discuss these with your Training Officer.
class
a. characteristics
l. general
slippage riflingm.
b. "insufficie
nt individual microscopic marks"
shaving n. corrosion
c. o. leading
p. "limited
obturation individual microscopic marks"
d.leading edge and q. "single-
action" firing
trailing edge r. "double-
e. action" firing
s. knurled &
melting grooved cannelure
f. t. stab
crimp
blow-by u. Boattail
g. v. open
base
striation w. closed
h.individual base
x. recessed
microscopic marks base
i. y. skived
tip/hollow point
ogive z. trace
j. evidence aspects (lacquers, sealants,
painted tips)
bearing surface
k.
(Use Training Assignment #32 to complete this objective.)
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
2. As they relate to the examination and comparison of fired bullets or bullet fragments, know
the importance of, and limitations of, determining the following:
a. weight
b. caliber
c. caliber type
d. manufacturer
e. general rifling characteristics
f. pitch of rifling
g. depth of rifling
h. jacket construction/composition
Page 71 of 168
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
Page 72 of 168
3. Familiarize yourself with the Standard Ammunition File (SAF). Know how to search this
file manually and by use of the computer in order to determine the manufacturer of fired
bullets. Demonstrate your proficiency in using this file to your Training Officer.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
4. Become familiar with the Known Specimen File (if your laboratory maintains such a file).
Know its location, composition, filing system, and uses as a reference file. Discuss this
with your Training Officer.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
5. Familiarize yourself with the General Rifling Characteristics (GRC) file. Know how to use
this file to compile a list of firearms in a "no-gun case.” Demonstrate your proficiency in
using the GRC file to your Training Officer.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
6. Using test bullets and other fired bullets and bullet fragments provided to you,
demonstrate your proficiency in accurately determining caliber, caliber type,
manufacturer, and rifling characteristics of these fired bullets. Also, prepare a list of
firearms that could have been used to fire these bullets provided to you. As necessary,
use the KSF, SAF, and GRC files in conducting these examinations.
(Use Training Assignments #34 and #35 and Practical Exercises #8a and #10 to complete
this objective.)
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
7. Determine the methods and techniques used to differentiate between lead bullets and
bullet cores.
_________________ _________
Training Officer Date
Page 73 of 168
8. Using test bullets fired from polygonal rifled barrels, demonstrate your proficiency in
accurately determining the rifling characteristics of these fired bullets. Compile a list of
firearms that could have been used to fire these bullets using the GRC file.
(Use Training Assignment #38 and Practical Exercise #13 to complete this
objective.)
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
9. Become knowledgeable about the facilities in the section for the recovery of fired test
bullets. Know when and how to use the horizontal recovery tank and cotton boxes and
their limitations. Observe and assist your Training Officer in the recovery of fired bullets
using each of these methods. Know and observe all safety rules.
(Use Training Assignment #39 and Practical Exercise #14 to complete this
objective.)
__________________ ________
Training Officer Date
10. Familiarize yourself with the ammunition storage areas in the section. Know how to
locate test ammunition after correctly selecting test ammunition using the SAF. Discuss
with your Training Officer the reasons for using substitute ammunition or downloading
ammunition for test firing. Know the proper procedure for downloading ammunition for
test firing. Under supervision of your Training Officer prepare and fire downloaded test
ammunition.
(Use Training Assignment #39 and Practical Exercise #14 to complete this
objective.)
____________ ________
Training Officer Date
11. Test fire "consecutively-made" barrels and/or microscopically compare test bullets from
"consecutively-made" barrels. Observe the differences and similarities in the striations
and discuss this with your Training Officer.
____________ ________
Training Officer Date
Page 74 of 168
12. Using the same .22 caliber firearm, test fire two each of the following cartridges and
attempt to identify the test bullets with each other. Take appropriate photographs and
notes.
(Use Training Assignment #40 and Practical Exercise #15 to complete this
objective.)
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
13. Using the same .357 Magnum caliber revolver, test fire two each of the following
cartridges and attempt to identify the test bullets with each other. Take appropriate
photographs and notes.
(Use Training Assignment #37 and Practical Exercise #13 to complete this
objective.)
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
14. Using the same 9mm Luger pistol, test fire two each of the following cartridges and
attempt to identify the test bullets with each other. Take appropriate photographs and
notes.
(Use Training Assignment #36 and Practical Exercise #11 to complete this
objective.)
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
Page 75 of 168
15. Using a .22 caliber rifle, test fire and recover two test bullets and identify these bullets
with each other. Cut off approximately three inches of the muzzle of the barrel and crown
the muzzle end of the barrel. Test fire and recover two test bullets using the same
ammunition as above. Microscopically compare these bullets with each other and with
the previously fired test bullets.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
16. Using a 30 caliber rifle, test fire two each of the following cartridges and compare the
tests with each other. Conduct this test with your Training Officer.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
17. Using a .32 S & W caliber Harrington & Richardson revolver, test fire two each of the
following cartridges and compare the test bullets with each other. Conduct this test with
your Training Officer.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
18. Test fire each of the following pistols. Using two test bullets from each pistol, make
microscopic comparisons of the test bullets. Conduct this test with your Training Officer.
________________ ________
Training Officer Date
Page 76 of 168
19. Compile a list of reasons as to why bullet identifications cannot be made in some cases,
and why some barrels and bullets can preclude or tend to preclude identifications. This
list should include, but not be limited to, the results of the above testing.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
20. Discuss the significance of identifying manufacturing toolmarks on a fired bullet from a
victim with those on unfired bullets loaded into cartridges from the suspect. Read the
article in the April 1985 issue of the Crime Laboratory Digest concerning "Manufacturing
Toolmark Identification on the Base of Jacketed Bullets.”
________________ ________
Training Officer Date
21. Discuss the feasibility of determining caliber and/or the rifling characteristics of a fired
bullet from an examination of a bullet hole in metal.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
22. Test fire a .22 caliber firearm. Compare and identify test bullets with each other. Using
this same firearm, "slug" the barrel and compare the previously fired test bullets with the
bullets used to "slug" the barrel. Cut off approximately 25 percent of the barrel at the
muzzle and "slug" this portion of the barrel and compare these tests with the previous
test bullets. Conduct this exam with your Training Officer.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
23. Obtain a copy of and familiarize yourself with the Firearm Section protocol for the
examination of fired bullets.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
Page 77 of 168
REFERENCE MATERIALS
BULLET EXAMINATIONS AND COMPARISONS; SHOTSHELL PROJECTILES
Should you encounter other references in this category, you are encouraged to make
additional notes about them at the end of this listing.
General
Burrard, G., The Identification of Firearms and Forensic Ballistics, 1st edition, Charles
Scribner Sons, NY, 1934, revised edition, A.S. Barnes & Co., NY, 1964.
Davis, J.E., An Introduction to Tool Marks, Firearms and the Striagraph, Charles C.
Thomas, Springfield, IL, 1958.
Gunther, J.D., and Gunther, C.O., The Identification of Firearms, John Wiley and Sons,
Inc., New York, 1935.
Hatcher, J.S., Hatcher’s Notebook, Military Service Publishing Company, Harrisburg, PA,
1947.
Hatcher, J.S., Jury, F.J., and Weller, J., Firearms Investigation, Identification and
Evidence, 2nd edition, Stackpole Books, Harrisburg, PA, 1957.
Heard, B.E., Handbook of Firearms and Ballistics: Examining and Interpreting Forensic
Evidence, John Wiley & Sons, New York, 1997.
AFTE Journal
Case Notes
Page 78 of 168
Examination Protocols and Procedures
Worksheets
Howe, W.J., “Laboratory Work Sheets,” Newsletter #2, Aug. 1969, p. 15.
Reporting of Conclusions
Anderson, C.E., “General Rifling Characteristics Using the Personal Computer,” 1990;
22(4):431-433.
Anderson, C.E., Martinson, D., and Burnham, R., “Update of Houston’s General Rifling
Characteristics Computer System,” 1991; 23(4):1005.
Baney, R.E., “Smith & Wesson Model’s 39 and 59 Rifled 5 Right,” 1978; 10(2):18.
Bell, P.D., and Mikko, D.M., “Iraqi Model 74 Semiautomatic Pistol,” 1992; 24(1):23-27.
Berry, L., “Additional Information Concerning Sterling Arms Company,” 1981; 13(2):16.
Biasotti, A.A., “Bullet Bearing Surface Composition: Variables: Fired Bullets,” 1981;
13(2):94.
Butler, D.J., and Sachs, S., “Type 54 Tokarev Pistol,” 1990; 22(2):160-162.
Cashman, P.J., and Thornton, J.I., “Rapid Method for Determining Rifling Pitch,” 1975;
7(3):21.
Page 79 of 168
Cassidy, F.H., “Nomograph for Calculation of the Number of Lands and Grooves,” 1981;
13(4):67.
Cayton, J.C., “Bullet Recovered From Jesse James Grave,” 1979; 11(3):57.
Davis, J.E., “Land Impression Widths: A Simplified Measuring Set Up,” 1976; 8(4):14.
Dragan, P., “Land & Groove Count from Bullet Cores,” 1978; 10(2):28.
Fournier, R.J., and Lemmer, J.T., “Type Sugiura: Oriental 32 ACP Pistol,” 1985; 17(2):38.
Fraser, D., “Further Information on the Enfield: Lee Enfield Confusion,” 1994; 26(3):173-
175.
George, W., “Excam 25 ACP Pistol Design and Rifling Change,” 1989; 21(1):78.
---. “Smith & Wesson 10mm and Beretta 9mm,” 1990; 22(3):288-294.
Gieszl, R., and Wolslagel, P., “Atypically Rifled SWD Cobray Pistols,” 1990; 22(3):328-
329.
Goodman, R.E., Santora, D.N., and Trochum, T., “Kahr K9,” 1996; 28(3):166-167.
Page 80 of 168
Haag, L.C., “Class Characteristics of Rifled Barrels,” 1978; 10(2):11.
Haag, L.C., and Petronino, J., “Colt: Right Twist Rifling,” 1974; 6(5-6):10.
Hamby, J.E., “Heckler & Koch Model 9 & 9s Pistol,” 1974; 6(2):16.
Harden, L.R., “Charter Arms Rifling Specifications & Serial Number Information,” 1972;
4(3A):29.
Heflin, T.F., “Rifling Characteristics for the Iver Johnson 38 Special Revolver,” 1985;
17(2):82.
Hueske, E.E., “Conversion Kit for a Colt Government Model,” 1988; 20(2):162.
Johnson, T.D., and Matty, W., “Arcadia Machine and Tool: Notes on A M T Firearms,”
1986; 18(3):69.
Jordan, T.D., and Looney, J., “Class Characteristics of Overpressured Cast Bullets,”
1981; 13(4):100.
Kreiser, M.J., “AMT Back-Up Pistol Manufacturer Marking Information,” 1984; 16(3):20.
Page 81 of 168
Larson, E.G., “Rifling Specifications on All Remington Firearms Currently Catalogued,”
1973; 5(4):30.
---. “Smoothbore 38 Special Derringer: Davis Industries Model D38,” 1996; 28(3):174-
176.
McBrayer, W.S., “380 Caliber Colt with 12 Lands & Grooves,” 1979; 11(4):22.
Meyers, C.R., “North American Revolver with Faint Rifling,” 1985; 17(2):76.
Mikko, D., “Ceska Zbrojoka (CZ) Model 50 Semiautomatic Pistol,” 1993; 25(4):264-265.
Molnar, S., “Characteristics of the Erma .22 Caliber Luger Pistol,” 1970; 2(4):26.
---. “Rifling and Name Change Noted in 25 Caliber German-Made Auto Pistol,” 1969;
1(3):27.
---. “Rifling Changes Noted in Bauer & Guardian .25 Auto Pistol,” 1978; 10(1): 16.
---. “Simplified Technique for L & G Measurement: Twist Rate,” 1969; 1(4):28.
---. “Torque Shifts in Rifling Impressions Indicate Direction of Rotation,” 1970; 2(2):2-13.
Page 82 of 168
Nennstiel, R., “Computer Supported Method of Firearm Type Determination,” 1986;
18(4):4.
Pearl, A., and Trusty, G.A., “German Derringer with Multiple Rifling Characteristics,”
1977; 9(2): 168.
Perkins, W.E., “Colt Revolver with Right Hand Twist,” 1969; 1(2):5.
Rios, F.G., and Thornton, J.I., “Comments on the Trigonometrical Basis of Bullet Twist
Measurements,” 1983; 15(1):104.
Roberts, J.L., “Information on Gun Barrels Manufactured by Fred Kart,” 1982; 14(1):70.
Royse, D., “Identification Made on a Bullet Fired from an Unrifled Pistol,” 1995; 27(3):197.
Sham, P., “Smith and Wesson Model SW9F Pistol,” 1995; 27(2):152-153.
Smith, D., “Delu .25 Auto Caliber Vestpocket Pistol,” 1972; 4(2):33.
Sojat, J.G., and Hart, R.P., “Heckler & Koch Model HK-4 Pistol,” 1973; 5(2):19.
---. “Some Interesting Information From Amadeo Rossi Company,” 1974; 6(5-6):17.
Stengel, R.F., “Thoughts on Bullet Comparisons and No Gun Cases,” 1987; 19(3):306-
307.
Page 83 of 168
Thompson, E.J., “National Cartridge Rifled Sub Caliber Adapters,” 1988; 20(4):463-464.
Uchiyama, T., and Nagai, M., “Rifle Markings of Titan 25 Caliber Semiautomatic Pistols,”
1986; 18(2):3.
Vaughan, R.T., and Gilman, P.L., “Information of the Rogak LES P18 Pistol,” 1985;
17(2):72.
Walch, W.N., and Wilhelm, R.M., “Uniform Bullet Classification System,” 1977; 9(2):26.
Walsh, J.F., “Accuracy Speed and Convenience in Rifling Measurements,” 1977; 9(1):50.
Warehime, L.E., “Remington Ammunition with Manufactured Lands & Grooves,” 1989;
21(1):76.
Williams, D.L., “In Reply to Land and Groove Count from Bullet Cores,” 1978; 10(3):31.
Zahn, M.S., “RPB Industries M10 Autoloading Pistol: New Rifling Observed,” 1981;
13(2):32.
---. “Smith & Wesson 9mm Autoloading Pistol Are Now Rifled 5R,” 1978; 10(1):6.
Comparison Techniques
Molnar, S., “Firearms Tick Tack Toe: A Methodical Searching Technique,” 1972; 4(3):18.
Page 84 of 168
Robinson, M.K., “Stikki-Wax,” 1982; 14(2):4.
Stengel, R.F., “Thoughts on Bullet Comparisons and No Gun Cases,” 1987; 19(3):306-
307.
Thompson, E., and Caine, C., “AO Fiber Optic Light Diffusors,” 1987; 19(3):321.
Vander Werff, K., “Effect Changing and Altering Firearms Parts Has on Bullet and
Cartridge Case Comparisons,” 1987; 19(3):316-317.
Ward, D., and Sibert, R., “Use of Vacuum Evaporation of Metals for Surface Feature
Enhancement,” 1986; 18(4):76.
Automated Systems
Blackwell, R.J., and Framan, E.P., “Automated Firearms Identification System (AFIDS)
Phase I,” 1980; 12(4):11.
Dillon, J.H., and Sibert, R.W., “FBI Laboratory’s DRUGFIRE Program,” 1990; 22(2): 216.
Moran, B., “Manual and Automated Bullet and Cartridge Case Comparison Systems: A
Commentary,” 1997; 29(1):55-57.
Shutt, J., “CLIS: Ballistics Database Rifles Fast Reply on Gun Makes,” 1981; 13(1):43.
Thompson, R.M., Desrosiers, M., and Hester, S., “Computerized Image Analysis for
Firearms Identification: The Integrated Ballistic Identification System: IBIS,” 1996;
28(3):194-203.
Silliman, J.R., “Crime Scene Search: Evidence at the Scene of a Shotgun Shooting,”
1977; 9(2):111.
Page 85 of 168
Shot Pellets
MacPhee, H.M., “Determination of Shot Content In Fired Shot Shells,” 1978; 10(2):24.
Mann, M.J., Espinza, E.O., Ralston, R.M., Stroud, R.K, Scanlan, M.D., and Strauss, S.J.,
“Shot Pellets: An Overview,” 1994; 26(3):223-241.
Mann, M.J., Ferguson, W., Henderson, C., and Stroud, R., “Analysis of Unusual Home
Made Shot Pellets From Louisiana,” 1994; 26(3):242-250.
Shotshell Slugs
Arrowood, M.C., and Bullock, J.J., “Identification of a 12 Gauge Slug,” 1983; 15(2):58.
Freels, R.H., “Comparison of a Shotshell Shot Collar to a Cut Barrel,” 1983; 15(3):21.
Galan, J.I., “Identification of a Rifled Slug Through Front Sight Defect,” 1986; 18(4):62.
Shotshell Wadding
Franovich, J., “20 Gauge Filler Wads Used in 12 Gauge Shotgun Shells,” 1996; 28(2):92-
94.
Page 86 of 168
Buffer Material
Freels, R.H., and Wheeler, B.P., “Forensic Analysis of Shot Buffering Materials,” 1983;
15(2):31.
Thornton, J.I., and Guarino, K., “Polyethylene Shotshell Buffer & Determination of
Trajectory,” 1984; 16(3):132.
Manufacturing Marks
Hamman, J.E., “Loading Machine Marks on Federal Shotshell Wads,” 1980; 12(1):36.
Kellet, P.M., “The Identification of a Tool Mark on the Interior of a Semi-Jacketed Bullet,”
1984; 16(3):22.
---. “The Comparison and Identification of Toolmarks on the Base of Remington Semi-
Jacketed Bullets,” 1984; 16(3):81-83.
---. “The Comparison of Mold Marks on Cast Bullets and Punch Marks in Copper Gas
Checks,” 1984; 16(3):104-106.
Kreiser, M.J., “Identification of Cast Bullets and Their Molds,” 1985; 17(3):88.
Nagai, M., and Uchiyama, T., “Identification of a Tool Mark on the Jacket of a
Bullet,"“1989; 21(1):80.
Page 87 of 168
I. CARTRIDGE/CARTRIDGE CASE EXAMINATIONS AND COMPARISONS
________________ ________
Training Officer Date
2. Test fire each of the following firearms at least twice. Using the test fired cartridge cases,
visually relate the markings imparted to the fired cartridge case with the part on the
firearm which produced these markings. Also load and extract at least two cartridges
from each of the following firearms and visually relate the markings imparted to the
unfired cartridges with the part on the firearm that will produced these markings.
________________ ________
Training Officer Date
3. Using the test cartridge cases and cartridges from paragraph 2, above, microscopically
examine all of the markings with each other. Include the following types of markings in
your microscopic comparisons: firing pin impression, breechface marks, chamber marks,
anvil marks, extractor marks, ejector marks, ramp marks, and slide drag marks, slide
scuff marks, ejection port scuffmarks and magazine lip marks. Photograph the results of
your comparisons.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
Page 88 of 168
4. Test fire the following firearms using comparable CCI, Remington, Federal, and
Winchester ammunition of the appropriate caliber type for each firearm. Select
ammunition with both nickel and brass primers. Test fire each firearm at least twice using
each brand of ammunition. Microscopically examine and photograph the markings as in
paragraph 3, above.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
5. Test fire a .22 Long Rifle caliber Smith and Wesson revolver, fire six .22 Long Rifle
caliber cartridges, six .22 Long caliber cartridges, and six .22 Short caliber cartridges of
the same manufacturer. Mark each cartridge to note the chamber in which it is fired.
Examine and photograph the markings imparted to the fired cartridge cases.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
Page 89 of 168
8. Test fire a .30 Carbine caliber U.S. Carbine and compare the test cartridge cases with
each other. Compare all of the marks imparted to the fired cartridge cases. Load and
extract cartridges from this same firearm. Note and compare all of the marks imparted to
the test cartridges.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
9. Read the following two articles in the October 1989 issue of the AFTE journal and
discuss them with your Training Officer.
a. "Firing Pin Impressions - Their Measurement and
Significance"
b. "Firing Pin Impressions - Their Relation to Hammer
Fall Conditions"
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
10. Obtain a copy of and be familiar with the Firearm Section protocol for the examination of
cartridges and cartridge cases.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
11. Compare test firings from various firearms before the breech and bore are cleaned and
after the breech and bore are cleaned.
________________ _________
Training Officer Date
12. Use a series of examinations that incorporates bullets, cartridge cases, firearms and the
comparison microscope during an “on going investigation.”
________________ _________
Training Officer Date
Page 90 of 168
REFERENCE MATERIALS
CARTRIDGE AND CARTRIDGE CASE EXAMINATIONS AND COMPARISONS
Should you encounter other references in this category, you are encouraged to make
additional notes about them at the end of this listing.
General
Datig, F.A., Cartridges for Collectors, Volumes I-III, Borden Publishing Co., 1956.
Davis, J.E., An Introduction to Tool Marks, Firearms and the Striagraph, Charles C.
Thomas, Springfield, IL, 1958.
Gunther, J.D., and Gunther, C.O., The Identification of Firearms, John Wiley and Sons,
Inc., New York, 1935.
Hatcher, J.S., Hatcher’s Notebook, Military Service Publishing Company, Harrisburg, PA,
1947.
Hatcher, J.S., Jury, F.J., and Weller, J., Firearms Investigation, Identification and
Evidence, 2nd edition, Stackpole Books, Harrisburg, PA, 1957.
Heard, B.E., Handbook of Firearms and Ballistics: Examining and Interpreting Forensic
Evidence, John Wiley & Sons, New York, 1997.
Horn, W.R., Headstamps and Cartridge Identification Data, Horn Co., 1962.
James, C.R., “Fluted and Annular-Grooved Chamber Markings,” paper delivered at the
AFTE annual training seminar, Tampa, 1998.
Krcma, V., “Fluted and Annular Grooved Barrel Chambers in Firearms,” Journal of
Forensic Sciences, Vol. 41, No. 3, May 1966, pp. 407-417.
Mathews, J.H., Firearms Identification, Volumes I-III, Charles C. Thomas, Springfield, IL,
1962.
Page 91 of 168
NRA Firearms Fact Book, 3rd edition, National Rifle Association, Fairfax, VA, 1989.
White, H.P., and Munhall, B.D., Cartridge Headstamp Guide, H.P. White Laboratory,
1963.
AFTE Journal
Case Notes
Worksheets
Reporting of Conclusions
General
Davis, J.E., “Test Toolmarks from Weapon Parts May Facilitate Comparisons,” 1972;
4(3A):28.
Hart, R.P., “Information on Weapons Frequently Encountered,” 1981; 13(4):51.
Page 92 of 168
Kennington, R.H., and Galan, J.I., “Ejector Type Marks on Unfired Cartridges,” 1987;
19(4):452.
Lapierre, J.A.G., “Additional Identifying Features Dealing with Revolvers,” 1978; 10(3):36.
McGuire, D.L., “Potentially Incorrect Weapon Identification,” 1972; 4(3):30.
McKay, S.A., “Class Characteristics of Shotguns from Shell Markings,” 1971; 3(3):34.
Walsh, K.A., and Buckleton, J.S., “Firing Sequence Involving Two 303 British Cartridges,”
1991; 23(3):816-819.
Headstamps
Cassidy, F.H., “What Caused the Unusual Headstamp Mark?,” 1989; 21(4):655.
Ernest, R.N., and Fite, K., “Remington Cartridge Made By Winchester,” 1989; 21(3):520.
Garland, P.V., “Color Code Identification of Small Arms Cartridges,” 1974; 6(2):27.
Page 93 of 168
Gieszl, R., “New Ammunition,” 1982; 14(1):40.
Green, K., “Remington Announces a New Headstamp for Rimfire,” 1983; 15(3):18.
Haag, L.C., “Korean Ammunition Available in North America,” 1981; 13(1):7.
Page 94 of 168
Lambert, R.R., “Ammunition Headstamps,” 1972; 4(3):36.
Lomoro, V.J., “.22 Short, .22 Long Rifle and Now the .22 In-Between,” 1975; 7(2):33.
---. “Special .380 Submachine Gun Cartridge for MAC (Ingram) SMG,” 1972; 4(3A):35.
---. “Winchester & Hirtenberg Ammunition Sold by Sears Roebuck & Federal Cartridge
Co.,” 1974; 6(4):14.
Woodin, W.H., “Military and Police Ammunition Research Identification,” 1981; 13(4):102.
Page 95 of 168
Specific Models and Mechanism Marks
Celovsky, J.R., “Heckler & Koch, Model HK4 Pistol, Additional Outstanding Class
Characteristics,” 1973; 5(5):23.
Celovsky, J.R., and Lemmer, J.T., “Heckler & Koch Pistol, Model VP702 9mm
Parabellum,” 1984; 16(3):108.
Fournier, R.J., and Lemmer, J.T., “Type Sugiura: Oriental 32 ACP Pistol,” 1985; 17(2):38.
Kennington, R.H., “380 Auto Arcology: The Firing Pin Ejector Models,” 1996; 28(2):82-91.
Kreiser, M.J., “Unusual Cartridge Marking by a Model 39 Smith & Wesson,” 1983;
15(4):13.
Maciejewski, K., “Possible Identification Feature: .22 Caliber Smith & Wesson Model 61
Pistol,” 1970; 2(5):38.
Molnar, S., “Characteristics of the Erma .22 Caliber Luger Pistol,” 1970; 2(4):26.
Nichols, R.G., “Glock Versus Smith and Wesson Model SW40F: Comparison of Markings
on Fired Cartridge Cases,” 1995; 27(2):133-139.
Shem, R.J., and Striupaitis, P.P., “Fired Bullets & Cartridge Cases from Raven Pistol,”
1983; 15(3):109.
Sojat, J.G., and Hart, R.P., “Heckler & Koch Model HK-4 Pistol,” 1973; 5(2):19.
Page 96 of 168
Firing Pin Impressions
Frazier, R.A., “Firing Pin Impressions: Their Relationship To Hammer Fall Conditions,”
1989; 21(2):589-92.
Haag, L.C., “Firing Pin Protrusion and Impression Depth Measurement,” 1990; 22(3):295-
298.
Matty, W., and Johnson, T., “Comparison of Manufacturing Marks on Smith & Wesson
Firing Pins,” 1984; 16(3):51.
McBrayer, W.S., “Unique Firing Pin Impression,” 1981; 13(4):116.
Miller, J., “Pressure Effects on Firing Pin Impression Depth,” 1995; 27(3):242-245.
Ojena, S.M., and Murdock, J.E., “Evaluation of an Alibi: Relative Firing Pin Impression
Depths,” 1981; 13(3):79.
Stephenson, J.S., McPhillips, E.T., and Jachimowicz, E., “Use of a Duplex Nail as a
Firing Pin in the Intratec Tec-9 Pistol,” 1996; 28(1):15-18.
Verbeke, D.J., and Stauffer, J.C., “Unique Firing Pin Identification,” 1975; 7(1):59.
Anvil Marks
Manufacturing Marks
LaVoy, T.A., and Willmer, J.H., “Toolmarkings From a Reloading Die,” 1979; 11(2):37.
Matty, W., “Persistence of Toolmarks in the Cartridge Case Head Forming Process,”
1983; 15(1):108.
Page 97 of 168
Breech Face Marks
Cook, C.W., “Breech Face Markings from a Non Operable Weapon,” 1983; 15(4):53.
Esposito, A.J., “Apparent Mirror Image Breech Face Marking in the Stevens Model 311
Side by Side Shotgun,” 1995; 27(3):200-201.
Matty, W., “Raven 25 Automatic Pistol Breech Face Toolmarks,” 1984; 16(3):57.
---. “Marks of Spanner Wrench Holes in Firing Pin Escutcheons,” 1970; 2(7):34.
Uchiyama, T., “Similarity Among Breech Face Marks Fired from Guns with Close Serial
Numbers,” 1986; 18(3):15.
Chamber Marks
Thompson, E., “Odd Chamber Markings in a 9mm Armi Tanfoglio Pistol,” 1992; 24(1):61-
62.
Bunter Marks
Dodson, R.V., and Masson, J.J., “Bunter Marks: What Do They Mean,” 1997; 29(1):33-
36.
Matty, W., “Persistence of Toolmarks in the Cartridge Case Head Forming Process,”
1983; 15(1):108.
Zahn, M.S., “Unique Markings on a Shotshell Head Due to a Worn or Chipped Bunter
Tool,” 1984; 16(3):8.
Page 98 of 168
Basic References:
Page 99 of 168
J. SHOTSHELL AND SHOTSHELL COMPONENT EXAMINATIONS AND COMPARISONS
1. Determine what type of examinations may be conducted and what conclusions can be
reached from an examination of the following components. Discuss this with your
Training Officer.
(Use Training Assignment #55 and Practical Exercise #17 to complete this
objective.)
_____________ ________
Training Officer Date
2. Familiarize yourself with the use of the SAF in regard to the determination of gauge and
manufacturer of fired shotshell components. Know the limitations in regard to making
such determinations. Demonstrate your proficiency in using the SAF to conduct this type
of search to your Training Officer.
_____________ ________
Training Officer Date
3. Using a shotgun, saw off a portion of the barrel. Test fire this shotgun using a Remington
shotshell with a power piston wad. Recover the test shotshell wads and make
microscopic comparisons of marks imparted to the test wads.
_____________ ________
Training Officer Date
______________ ________
Training Officer Date
5. Using a 12-gauge Remington, Model 1100, shotgun, obtain at least two test shotshell
casings with each of the following types of ammunition. Also, recover a representative
number of the fired pellets and fired wadding from each test firing. Compare markings on
these test shotshell casings with each other. Examine the fired components that are
recovered and compare them to unfired components of the same type. Discuss the
significance of your findings.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
6. Discuss in detail the procedures used in reloading shotshells and familiarize yourself with
the shotshell reloading equipment in the Firearm Section. Know how to recognize
reloaded shotshells from an examination of the shotshell casing and/or its components.
Reload shotshells using the shotshell reloading equipment in the section and examine
the reloaded shotshells for reloading-type marks.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
________________ _________
Training Officer Date
Should you encounter other references in this category, you are encouraged to make
additional notes about them at the end of this listing.
General
Datig, F.A., Cartridges for Collectors, Volumes I-III, Borden Publishing Co., 1956.
Davis, J.E., An Introduction to Tool Marks, Firearms and the Striagraph, Charles C.
Thomas, Springfield, IL, 1958.
Gunther, J.D., and Gunther, C.O., The Identification of Firearms, John Wiley and Sons,
Inc., New York, 1935.
Hatcher, J.S., Hatcher’s Notebook, Military Service Publishing Company, Harrisburg, PA,
1947.
Hatcher, J.S., Jury, F.J., and Weller, J., Firearms Investigation, Identification and
Evidence, 2nd edition, Stackpole Books, Harrisburg, PA, 1957.
Heard, B.E., Handbook of Firearms and Ballistics: Examining and Interpreting Forensic
Evidence, John Wiley & Sons, New York, 1997.
Horn, W.R., Headstamps and Cartridge Identification Data, Horn Co., 1962.
James, C.R., “Fluted and Annular-Grooved Chamber Markings,” paper delivered at the
AFTE annual training seminar, Tampa, 1998.
Krcma, V., “Fluted and Annular Grooved Barrel Chambers in Firearms,” Journal of
Forensic Sciences, Vol. 41, No. 3, May 1966, pp. 407-417.
Mathews, J.H., Firearms Identification, Volumes I-III, Charles C. Thomas, Springfield, IL,
1962.
NRA Firearms Fact Book, 3rd edition, National Rifle Association, Fairfax, VA, 1989.
White, H.P., and Munhall, B.D., Cartridge Headstamp Guide, H.P. White Laboratory,
1963.
AFTE Journal
Case Notes
Worksheets
Reporting of Conclusions
Plastic Shotshells
Gallant, J.J., “Will Plastic Shotshells Hinder Firearms Identification?,” 1987; 19(1):17.
Davis, J.E., “Test Toolmarks from Weapon Parts May Facilitate Comparisons,” 1972;
4(3A):28.
Kennington, R.H., and Galan, J.I., “Ejector Type Marks on Unfired Cartridges,” 1987;
19(4):452.
Lapierre, J.A.G., “Additional Identifying Features Dealing with Revolvers,” 1978; 10(3):36.
McKay, S.A., “Class Characteristics of Shotguns from Shell Markings,” 1971; 3(3):34.
Walsh, K.A., and Buckleton, J.S., “Firing Sequence Involving Two 303 British Cartridges,”
1991; 23(3):816-819.
Headstamps
Cassidy, F.H., “What Caused the Unusual Headstamp Mark?,” 1989; 21(4):655.
Ernest, R.N., and Fite, K., “Remington Cartridge Made By Winchester,” 1989; 21(3):520.
Garland, P.V., “Color Code Identification of Small Arms Cartridges,” 1974; 6(2):27.
Green, K., “Remington Announces a New Headstamp for Rimfire,” 1983; 15(3):18.
Lomoro, V.J., “.22 Short, .22 Long Rifle and Now the .22 In-Between,” 1975; 7(2):33.
---. “Special .380 Submachine Gun Cartridge for MAC (Ingram) SMG,” 1972; 4(3A):35.
---. “Winchester & Hirtenberg Ammunition Sold by Sears Roebuck & Federal Cartridge
Co.,” 1974; 6(4):14.
Woodin, W.H., “Military and Police Ammunition Research Identification,” 1981; 13(4):102.
Celovsky, J.R., “Heckler & Koch, Model HK4 Pistol, Additional Outstanding Class
Characteristics,” 1973; 5(5):23.
Celovsky, J.R., and Lemmer, J.T., “Heckler & Koch Pistol, Model VP702 9mm
Parabellum,” 1984; 16(3):108.
Fournier, R.J., and Lemmer, J.T., “Type Sugiura: Oriental 32 ACP Pistol,” 1985; 17(2):38.
Kennington, R.H., “380 Auto Arcology: The Firing Pin Ejector Models,” 1996; 28(2):82-91.
Kreiser, M.J., “Unusual Cartridge Marking by a Model 39 Smith & Wesson,” 1983;
15(4):13.
Maciejewski, K., “Possible Identification Feature: .22 Caliber Smith & Wesson Model 61
Pistol,” 1970; 2(5):38.
Molnar, S., “Characteristics of the Erma .22 Caliber Luger Pistol,” 1970; 2(4):26.
Shem, R.J., and Striupaitis, P.P., “Fired Bullets & Cartridge Cases from Raven Pistol,”
1983; 15(3):109.
Sojat, J.G., and Hart, R.P., “Heckler & Koch Model HK-4 Pistol,” 1973; 5(2):19.
Frazier, R.A., “Firing Pin Impressions: Their Relationship To Hammer Fall Conditions,”
1989; 21(2):589-92.
Haag, L.C., “Firing Pin Protrusion and Impression Depth Measurement,” 1990; 22(3):295-
298.
Matty, W., and Johnson, T., “Comparison of Manufacturing Marks on Smith & Wesson
Firing Pins,” 1984; 16(3):51.
Miller, J., “Pressure Effects on Firing Pin Impression Depth,” 1995; 27(3):242-245.
Nielsen, F.I., “Ruger 10/22 Firing Pin Modification,” 1988; 20(3): 325.
Ojena, S.M., and Murdock, J.E., “Evaluation of an Alibi: Relative Firing Pin Impression
Depths,” 1981; 13(3):79.
Stephenson, J.S., McPhillips, E.T., and Jachimowicz, E., “Use of a Duplex Nail as a
Firing Pin in the Intratec Tec-9 Pistol,” 1996; 28(1):15-18.
Verbeke, D.J., and Stauffer, J.C., “Unique Firing Pin Identification,” 1975; 7(1):59.
Anvil Marks
LaVoy, T.A., and Willmer, J.H., “Toolmarkings From a Reloading Die,” 1979; 11(2):37.
Matty, W., “Persistence of Toolmarks in the Cartridge Case Head Forming Process,”
1983; 15(1):108.
Cook, C.W., “Breech Face Markings from a Non Operable Weapon,” 1983; 15(4):53.
Esposito, A.J., “Apparent Mirror Image Breech Face Marking in the Stevens Model 311
Side by Side Shotgun,” 1995; 27(3):200-201.
Matty, W., “Raven 25 Automatic Pistol Breech Face Toolmarks,” 1984; 16(3):57.
---. “Marks of Spanner Wrench Holes in Firing Pin Escutcheons,” 1970; 2(7):34.
Uchiyama, T., “Similarity Among Breech Face Marks Fired from Guns with Close Serial
Numbers,” 1986; 18(3):15.
Chamber Marks
Thompson, E., “Odd Chamber Markings in a 9mm Armi Tanfoglio Pistol,” 1992; 24(1):61-
62.
Bunter Marks
Dodson, R.V., and Masson, J.J., “Bunter Marks: What Do They Mean,” 1997; 29(1):33-
36.
Matty, W., “Persistence of Toolmarks in the Cartridge Case Head Forming Process,”
1983; 15(1):108.
Zahn, M.S., “Unique Markings on a Shotshell Head Due to a Worn or Chipped Bunter
Tool,” 1984; 16(3):8.
1. Successfully complete the Gunpowder and Primer Residues Course at the FBI Academy,
Quantico, Virginia, or equivalent course. Coordinate this with your Training Officer.
____________ ________
Instructor Date
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
2. Demonstrate your proficiency in preparing the chemicals and the test papers used in the
modified Griess test and the Sodium Rhodizonate test, including the test media and the
photographic paper.
________________ ________
Training Officer Date
3. Describe in detail the chemical reactions that take place in the burning of smokeless
powder, the modified Griess test and the Sodium Rhodizonate test.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
5. Using specimens provided to you by your Training Officer, demonstrate your proficiency
in conducting "muzzle-to-garment" distance tests in cases involving the deposition of
gunshot residues. Your examination should include note taking, microscopic and
chemical examinations, test firing to produce test patterns and accurately determining
"muzzle-to-garment" distance.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
_________________ _________
Medical Examiner Date
________________ _________
Training Officer Date
9. Visit the facilities of the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology (AFIP if feasible or any other
such facility in your area). Become familiar with their mission, capabilities, casework and
research efforts. Generate a report on your visit emphasizing your understanding of their
capabilities concerning gunshot wound analysis.
_________________ _________
Agency Representative Date
_________________ _________
Training Officer Date
Should you encounter other references in this category, you are encouraged to make
additional notes about them at the end of this listing.
Books
Davis, T. L., The Chemistry of Powder and Explosives, reprinted by Angriff Press, Las
Vegas, NV (Originally printed in two separate volumes in 1941 and 1943; also reprinted
by John Wiley and Sons. New York 1950.) pp. 244-330, pp. 400-458.
Di Maio, V.J., Gunshot Wounds - Practical Aspects of Firearms, Ballistics, and Forensic
Techniques, 2nd edition, CRC Press, Boca Raton, FL, 1998.
Fiegl, F., “Spot Tests in Organic Analysis,” 7th edition, Elsevier Publishing Co., New
York, 1966.
Fiegl, F., and Anger, V., “Spot Tests in Inorganic Analysis,” 6th edition, Elsevier
Publishing Co., New York, 1972.
Fisher, R.S., “Shotgun Wounds” in W.U. Spitz and R.S. Fisher, eds., Medicolegal
Investigation of Death,” Charles C. Thomas, Springfield, IL, 1980, pp. 275-294.
Spitz, W.U., “Gunshot Wounds” in W.U. Spitz and R.S. Fisher, eds., Medicolegal
Investigation of Death,” Charles C. Thomas, Springfield, IL, 1980, pp. 216-274.
AFTE Journal
Gunshot Residues
Allen, D.E., “Effects of Blood on Gunshot and Gunpowder Residue,” 1983; 15(2):102.
Bashinski, J.S., Davis, J.E., and Young, C., “Detection of Lead in Gunshot Residues on
Targets Using the Sodium Rhodizonate Test,” 1974; 6(4):5.
Brown, C.G., “Detection of Nitrites and Lead in Gunpowder Residue Patterns,” 1985;
17(2):118.
Carr, J.C., “Alternative Device for Distance Measurement in Range Determination Tests,”
1992; 24(l):76-78.
Cayton, J.C., “Blackpowder Firearms, Powder Residue & Ball Penetration,” 1984;
16(4):80.
Cochrane, D.W., “Test Pattern Cloth Range Determination Examination,” 1981; 13(2):55.
Cole, M.D., Ross N., and Thorpe, J.W., “Gunshot Residue and Bullet Wipe Detection
Using a Single Lift Technique,” 1992; 24(3):254-259.
Cook, C.W., “Test Pattern Target Material for Proximity Testing,” 1979; 11(4):25.
Davis, J.E., “Some Notes on Bullet Holes and Powder Residues,” 1972; 4(4):17.
---. “Some Notes on Bullet Holes and Powder Residues,” 1989; 21(2):152-155.
Denio, D.J., “Forms To Document Procedure in Case Notes: Chemical Tests for Gunshot
Residues,” 1997; 29(l):61-65.
---. “Modified Griess Test: A Chemically Specific Chromophoric Test for Nitrite
Compounds in Gunshot Residues,” 1990; 22(3):243-250.
---. “Sodium Rhodizonate Test: A Chemically Specific Chromophoric Test for Lead in
Gunshot Residues,” 1990; 22(3):251-256.
Dodson, R.V., and Stengel, R.F. “Recognizing Vaporized Lead from Gunshot Residue,”
1995; 27(l):43-44.
Gamboe, T.E., “Peculiar Feature in Near Contact Gunshot Residue Pattern,” 1993;
25(4):292-293.
Ghabbour, F.B., Walsh, M.I., and Abo-Namous, S.A., “Detection of Lead in Gunshot
Residue: A Case Study,” 1990; 22(2):149-153.
Haag, L.C., “American Lead Free 9mm Parabellum Cartridges,” 1995; 27(2):142-149.
---. “Method for Improving the Griess and Sodium Rhodizonate Tests for GSR Patterns
on Bloody Garments,” 1991; 23(3):808-815.
---. “Propellant Type from the Examination of Fired Bullets,” 1980; 12(2):26.
---. “Microchemical Test for Copper Containing Bullet Wiping,” 1989; 13(3):22.
---. “Microchemical Test for Copper Containing Bullet Wiping,” 1989; 21(2): 298-303.
Horvath, M.A., “Gunshot Residue Patterns Using Infrared Microscopy,” 1981; 13(l):21.
Howe, W.J. “References Pertaining to Firearms Discharge Residues and Related Subject
Matters,” 1972; 4(3A):26.
Hueske, E.E., “Gunshot Residue Testing of Blood Stained Garments,” 1994; 26(l):26-33.
---. “Potential False Reaction With the Griess Test,” 1984; 16(3):9.
Lansing, J.F., and Powers, D.C., “Barrel Length vs Shot Powder Dispersion,” 1982;
14(l):29.
Lindman, D.A., and Papke, R.E., “Range Determination by a Different Method,” 1991;
23(3):856-858.
Lutz, M.C., “Gunshot Residue Problems,” 1978; 10(l):4.
Lutz, M.C., and Templin, R.H., “Some Disinfectants Cause Positive Reaction to Griess
Test,” 1983; 15(4):35.
Molnar, S., “Bullet Bears Unusual Indications of Distance of Shot,” 1979; 11(4):21.
---. “ Powder Residues Can Give Valuable Clues to Examiner,” 1969; 1(4):37.
Nielsen, F.I., and Simpson, R., “Unusual Firearms Discharge Residues,” 1979; 11 (2):44.
Owens, M., and George, W., “Gunshot Residue Examinations: Modification in the
Application of the Sequence of Chemical Tests,” 1991; 23(4):940-942.
---. “Investigation into Examination and Analysis of Gunshot Residues,” 1984; 16(3):63.
Stone, I.C., and DiMaio, V.J.M., “Metallic Residues in Gunshot Wounds,” 1977, 9(2):31.
Stone, I.C. and Fletcher, L., “Primer Residue Study,” 1986; 18(2):49.
Stone, I.C., Fletcher, L., Jones, J., and Huang, G., “Investigation into Examinations and
Analysis of Gunshot Residues,” 1989; 21(2):345-354.
Thompson, R.C., “Effects of Wind Velocity on Gunshot Powder and Residue,” 1997;
9(2):139.
Shot Patterning
Besant, P.E., Thompson, E.J., Hamby, J.E., Wolberg E., Haag, L., Martini, L.T.,
Loznycky, B., and Gailistel, T., “Rifled Shotgun Barrel Effect,” 1992; 24(3):246-253.
Garrison, D.H., “Field Recording and Reconstruction of Angled Shot Pellet Patterns,”
1995; 27(3):204-208.
Kamaka, S.K., “Sawed Off Shotgun and Shot Pattern,” 1970; 2(7):26.
Lutz, M.C., “Pellet Counting Device & Shot Measuring Device,” 1983; 15(3):24.
Mann, M.J., Espinza, E.O., Ralston, R.M., Stroud, R.K., Scanlan, M.D., and Strauss, S.J.,
“Shot Pellets: An Overview,” 1994; 26(3):223-241.
Mann, M.J., Ferguson, W., Henderson, C., and Stroud, R., “Analysis of Unusual Home
Made Shot Pellets From Louisiana,” 1994; 26(3):242-250.
Omilion, P.M., “Effects of Window Glass on Shotgun Pellets Pattern,” 1979; 11(4):54.
Silliman, J.R., “Crime Scene Search: Evidence at the Scene of a Shotgun Shooting,”
1977; 9(2):111.
Thornton, J.I., and Guarino, K., “Polyethylene Shotshell Buffer & Determination of
Trajectory,” 1984; 16(3):132.
Vincie, P., and Thornton, J.,”Quality Assurance in Shotshell Manufacture Implications for
Determination of Discharge Distance,” 1985; 17(3):70.
Wound Effects
“International Wound Ballistics Association and the Wound Ballistics Review,” 1991;
23(2):654.
Dougherty, P.J., “Early Investigations into the Mechanisms of Wounding,” 1984; 16(4):46.
Fackler, M.L., “Bullet Penetration: Modeling the Dynamics and Incapacitation Resulting
from Wound Trauma, by Duncan MacPherson,” 1995; 27(2):150-151.
---. “Tissue Disruption Pattern Used to Determine the Direction of Fire in an Unusual
Bullet Wound,” 1995; 27(3):250-253.
Jason, A., Fackler, M., Dougherty, P., and Malinowski, J., “Omnishock Bullets,” 1989;
21(1):32.
Gag, J., “Survey of Handgun Cartridges for Law Enforcement Applications,” 1982;
14(2):110.
Jones, J.A., “Evaluation of Police Ammunition: .38 Special, .45 ACP and 9mm
Parabellum,” 1974;6(1):11.
Minnigerode, S.C., “Missile Wounds: Entrance and Exit Gunshot Wounds,” 1977;
9(2):157.
Poole, R.A., Cooper, R.E., Emanuel, L.G., Fletcher, L.A., and Stone, I.C., “Angle Effect
on Hollow Point Bullets Fired into Gelatin,” 1994; 26(3):193-198.
Reich, J.E., “Cooperation Between the Firearms Examiner and Medical Examiner,” 1983;
15(1):30.
Robert, G.K. and Bullian, M.E., “Comparison of the Wound Ballistic Potential of 9mm vs
5.56(.223) Cartridges for Law Enforcement Entry Applications,” 1993; 25(2):142-148.
Roberts, G.K., and Wolberg, E.J., “Book Review: Handgun Stopping Power: The
Definitive Study,” 1992; 24(4):383-387.
Smith, W.C., “Notes on Terminal Ballistic Effects, Using Caliber.30 Military Ammunition,”
1970; 2(5):20.
---. “Penetration Tests of Societe Francaise Munitions (SFM) T.H.V. 9mm & 357
Magnum,” 1987; 19(2):151-164.
---. “Technique for Recording Gunshot Wounds: Plastic Overlay,” 1984; 16(3):74.
Shooting Reconstruction
Courtney, M., and Hueske, E.E., “Use of Hand Held Laser Pointers in the Reconstruction
of Events at Crime Scene,” 1994; 26(3):170-172.
French, M.L., and Thompson, E.J., “Scene Reconstruction Using a Ballistic Alignment
Laser,” 1997; 29(3):372-374.
Garrison, D.H., “Effective Use of Bullet Hole Probes in Crime Scene Reconstruction,”
1996; 28(1):57-63.
---. “ Examining Auto Body Penetration in the Reconstruction of Vehicle Shootings,” 1995;
27(3):209-212.
---. “Reconstructing Bullet Paths With Unfixed Intermediate Targets,” 1995; 27(1):45-48.
---. “Reconstructing Drive-By Shootings from Ejected Cartridge Case Location,” 1993;
25(1):15.
---. “Bullet Ricochet: An Empirical Study and a Device for Measuring Ricochet Angle,”
1975; 7(3):44.
---. “Bullet Ricochet: An Empirical Study and a Device for Measuring Ricochet Angle,”
1989; 21(2):182-188.
---. “Hornady Vector Ammunition: A New Tool in Studying Selected Exterior and Terminal
Ballistic Events of Forensic Interest,” 1996; 28(1):32-40.
---. “Measurement of Bullet Deflection by Intervening Objects and the Study of Bullet
Behavior After Impact,” 1987; 19(4):382-387.
---. “Portable Laser Theodolite System for Use in Shooting Scene Reconstruction,” 1991;
23(1):538-542.
Houde, J., and Cassidy, F.H., “Short-Range Bullet Trajectory Computer Program for MS-
DOS Computers,” 1991; 23(3):784-791.
Lattig, K.N., “Determination of the Point of Origin of Shots Fired into a Moving Vehicle,”
1991; 23(1):524-534.
Laskowski, G.E., “Use of the LaserMax Gunsight as a Ballistics Alignment Tool,” 1997;
29(3):369-371, 329.
Molnar, S., “Bullets, Bullet Holes, Strings, Line of Sight,” 1969; 1(4):6.
---. “Determination of the Line of Sight Angle Through Firing Experiments,” 1991;
23(4):919-924.
---. “Exterior Ballistics (EB), The Computer Program Revised,” 1990; 22(3):341-342.
---. “Forensic Aspects of Bullet Penetration of Thin Metal Sheets,” 1986; 18(2):18.
Patty, J.R., “Associating Recovered Bullets with Ricochet Sites,” 1975; 7(2):28.
Rathman, G.A., “Bullet Impact Damage and Trajectory Through Auto Glass,” 1993;
25(2):79-86.
Stone, R.S., “Calculation of Trajectory Angles Using a Line Level,” 1993; 25(1):21.
Zeldes, I., “Laser Beam: A New Tool for Firearm Examiner,” 1981; 13(4):21.
Journals
“Ball Powder” (with four page flow chart), Chemical Engineering,Dec. 1946, pp. 136-139.
Barnes, F.C., and Helson, R.A., “An Empirical Study of Gunpowder Residue Patterns,”
Journal of Forensic Sciences, Vol. 19, 1974, pp. 448-462.
Breitenecker, R., and Senior, W., “Shotgun Patterns I - An Experimental Study on the
Influence of Intermediate Targets,” Journal of Forensic Sciences, Vol. 12,1967, pp. 193-
204.
Fann, C.H., Ritter, W.A., Watts, R.H., and Rowe, W.F., “Regression Analysis Applied to
Shotgun Range-of-Fire Estimates: Results of a Blind Study,” Journal of Forensic
Sciences, Vol. 31, 1986, pp. 840-854.
Jauhari, M., Chatterjea, S.M., and Ghosh, P.K., “Statistical Treatment of Pellet Dispersion
Data for Estimating Range of Firing,” Journal of Forensic Sciences, Vol. 17,1972.
pp.141-149.
Moreau, T.S., Nickels, M.L., Wray, J.L., Bottemiller, K.W., and Rowe, W.F., “Pellet
Patterns Fired by Sawed-Off Shotguns,” Journal of Forensic Sciences, Vol. 30,1985, pp.
137-149.
Rowe, W.F., and Hanson, S.R., “Range of Fire Estimates from Regression Analysis
Applied to the Spreads of Shotgun Pellet Patterns: Results of the Blind Study,” Forensic
Science lnt., Vol. 28,1985, pp. 239-250.
Walker, J.T., “Bullet Holes and Chemical Residues in Shooting Cases,” Journal of
American Institute of Criminal Law and Criminology, Vol. 31, 1940, pp. 497-521.
Wray, J.L., McNeil, J.E., and Rowe, W.F., “Comparison of Methods for Estimating Range
of Fire Based on the Spread of Buckshot Patterns,” Journal of Forensic Sciences, Vol.
28, 1983, pp. 846-857.
Zeichner, A., and Glattstien, B., “Improved Reagents for Firing Distance Determination,
“Journal of Energetic Materials, Vol. 4, 1986, pp. 187-197.
Periodicals
Brown, P., “What is This Ball Powder?” (with charts), The American Rifleman, Dec. 1952,
p. 17.
“Computerized Ballistics II, More High-Tech Data,” Gun Tests, Feb. 1996.
Wooters, J., “Winchester-Western’s New Ball Powder Line,” The Handloader Magazine,
Sep.-Oct. 1973, p. 36.
Papers
Ballou, S., “Reconstruction of Trajectory Paths Through the Use of Basic Trigonometric
Functions,” paper presented at the FBI Laboratory Crime Scene Processing and
Reconstruction Seminar, September 4-6, 1996, Quantico, VA.
Bashinski, J.S., Davis, J.E., and Young, C., “Detection of Gunshot Residues - the Sodium
Rhodizonate Test.” Presented at the 1974 spring meeting of the California Association of
Criminalists, Long Beach, CA.
Bashinski, J.S., “The Evaluation of Gunshot Residues - the Sodium Rhodizonate Test.”
Presented at the 1974 fall meeting of the California Association of Criminalists, Berkeley,
CA.
Ernest, R., “A Study of Shooting Scene Dynamics,” paper presented at the FBI
Laboratory Crime Scene Processing and Reconstruction Seminar, September 4-6, 1996,
Quantico, VA.
Taormina, S., “Reconstructive Placement of a Victim Within the Kill Site of a Homicidal
Shotgun Discharge, paper presented at the FBI Laboratory Crime Scene Processing and
Reconstruction Seminar, September 4-6, 1996, Quantico, VA.
1. Review your notes in reference to the section entitled "Manufacture of Modern Firearms.”
Those machining methods are the basis for toolmark identification as they were for
firearm identification. However, it should be noted that in the broad definition of
toolmarks identification, certain other related types of examinations are also performed.
Discuss your review with your Training Officer.
________________ ________
Training Officer Date
2. Define the word "tool" and “toolmarks identification” in the narrow sense of the
expression. Also define toolmark identification in its broadest sense, and determine the
kinds of conclusions that may be reached in toolmark identification. Set these out in
detail and discuss these with your Training Officer.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
3. Discuss the significance of examining submitted tools first for trace evidence and itemize
several types of such deposits.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
a. Shearing
b. Pinching
c. Fracture
d. Scrape mark
e. Impression
f. Slicing
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
6. Define the term "class characteristics" as it applies to toolmark identification. Using the
tools or methods selected as examples in the above, describe their respective class
characteristics in detail.
Select at least two tools representative of each category listed in paragraph 5, above.
Produce toolmarks with each tool and observe the class characteristics of the toolmark.
Vary the angle and force with which each tool is used.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
7. Using soft copper wire of approximately 1/4-inch diameter, make cuts through it with the
tools that employ a shearing, pinching and slicing action. Make test cuts in lead using the
same tools. Attempt to identify the cuts in the copper wire as having been made by the
same tool as that which cut the test lead. Support your results with photographs and note
any lighting considerations made necessary by the color difference between copper and
lead.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
8. Select a flat-bladed tool such as a screwdriver, and a pry bar and make marks in a piece
of copper or brass sheeting. Make the same type of marks in lead with both tools.
Microscopically compare those in the brass or copper sheeting with the test marks in the
lead. Attempt to identify the appropriate marks with the appropriate tool. Photograph
your results and comment on the difference in the quality of marks made by each tool.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
10. Using a junked doorknob and a serrated-jawed tool, have your Training Officer produce
impressions and scrape marks like those produced by an attempt at an entry. Devise a
method of obtaining test marks in lead like those produced by the serrated-jawed tool on
the doorknob. Microscopically examine the marks on the doorknob with those on the test
material. Identify the tool with the marks on the doorknob and reproduce the tool-
doorknob orientation and relate each mark to its respective serration on the tool.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
11. Learn the technique of reverse lighting. Obtain a piece of brittle material such as
Plexiglass or pot metal and fracture it into two fragments. Attempt to identify the two
fragments as having once been a single object. Take notes and support your results by
photographs.
_______________ _______
Training Officer Date
12. Obtain an ax blade that contains numerous defects. Cut a piece of seasoned wood such
as dowel rod with the ax blade and attempt to identify the blade with the cut. Insure that
your test cuts are consistent with your "unknown" with respect to the orientation of the ax
to the wood and the direction of the grain. Support your results with sketches and
photographs.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
13. Obtain a section of large-diameter telephone cable and cut it with the ax used above and
study the effects of a slicing action on a multi-stranded cable. Note the quality and extent
of microscopic marks of each strand and comment on the problems involved in
identifications of this sort. Photograph the sliced end of the cable.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
14. Discuss the fact that generally saws, files and abrasive tools are not identifiable with the
marks they produce. Cite any exceptions to this rule.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
16. Investigate pressure/contact examinations in regard to objects that may have been in
contact with each other for an extended time. Research several cases of this type and
set these out in your notes.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
17. Discuss and demonstrate the making of casts of toolmarks. Also, discuss the potential of
such casts and of photographs alone in making toolmarks identifications.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
Should you encounter other references in this category, you are encouraged to make
additional notes about them at the end of this listing.
AFTE Peer Group on Certification, “Firearms and Tool Mark Identification: A Forensic
Science Discipline,” AFTE Journal, 1980; 12(3):12-15.
---. “The Principles of Evidence Evaluation as Applied to Firearms and Tool Mark
Identification,” Journal of Forensic Sciences, Vol. 9, No. 4, Oct. 1964, pp. 428-433.
---. “Firearms and Toolmark Identification: A Forensic Science Discipline, AFTE Journal,
1980; 12(3):12.
Biasotti, A.A., and Murdock, J.E., “Criteria for Identification or State of the Art of Firearms
and Toolmark Identification,” AFTE Journal, 1984; 16(4):16-22.
Blackwell, R., and Framan, E., “Automated Firearms Identification System (AFIDS):
Phase I, AFTE Journal, 1980; 12(4):11-37.
Bonfanti, M., and DeKinder, J., “The Influence of Manufacturing Processes on the
Identification of Bullets and Cartridge Cases A Review of the Literature,” Science and
Justice, Vol. 39, No. 1, 1999, pp. 3-10.
Brackett, J., “A Study of Idealized Striated Marks and Their Comparison Using Models,”
Journal of the Forensic Science Society, Vol. 10, No. 1, 1970, pp. 27-56.
Brown, C., and Bryant, W., “Consecutively Rifled Gun Barrels Present in Most Crime
Labs,” AFTE Journal, 1995, 27(3):254-258.
Brundage, D.J., “The Identification of Consecutively Rifled Gun Barrels,” AFTE Journal,
1998; 30(3):438.
Burd, D.Q., and Gilmore, A., “Individual and Class Characteristics of Tools,” Journal of
Forensic Sciences, Vol. 13, No. 3, Jul. 1968, pp. 390-396.
Burd, D.Q., and Greene, R.S., “Tool Mark Comparisons in Criminal Investigations,”
Journal of Criminal Law, Criminology and Police Science, Vol. 39, 1948, pp. 379-391.
---. “Tool Mark Examination Techniques,” Journal of Forensic Sciences, Vol. 2, 1957, pp.
297-310.
Burd, D.Q., and Kirk, P.L., “Toolmarks: Factors Involved in Their Comparison and Use as
Evidence,” Journal of Police Science, Vol. 32, No. 6, 1942, pp. 679-686.
Butcher, S., and Pugh, D., “A Study of Marks Made by Bolt Cutters,” Journal of the
Forensic Science Society, Vol. 15, No. 2, Apr. 1975, pp. 115-126.
---. “Wire Nails and Their Forensic Significance,” AFTE Journal, 1998; 30(4):614.
Conrad, E.C., “The Expert and Legal Certainty,” Journal of Forensic Sciences, Vol. 9, No.
4, Oct. 1964, pp. 445-455.
DeKinder, J., Prevot, P., Perlot, M., and Nys, B., “Surface Topology of Bullet Striations:
An Innovative Technique,” AFTE Journal, 1998; 30(2):294.
Dougherty, P.M., “Report on Two Early United States Firearms Identification Cases,”
Journal of Forensic Sciences, Vol. 14, No. 4, Oct. 1969, pp. 453-459.
Flynn, E.M., “Toolmark Identification,” Journal of Forensic Sciences, Vol. 2, Jan. 1957,
pp. 95-106.
Fox, R.J., “The Myth of Bullet Matching,” Forensic Science, Civil and Criminal
Symposium conducted in Eugene, Oregon, November 1987.
Freeman, R., “Consecutively Rifled Polygon Barrels,” AFTE Journal, 1978; 10(2):40-42.
Goddard, C.H., “Scientific Identification of Firearms and Bullets,” AFTE Journal, 1979;
11(4):97.
Greene, R.S., and Burd, D.Q., “Special Techniques Useful in Tool Mark Comparisons,”
Journal of Criminal Law, Criminology and Police Science, Vol. 41, 1950, pp. 523-527.
Grzybowski, R.A., Summary of Proficiency Testing Results in the Firearms and Toolmark
Field extracted from Peterson, J.L., and Markham, P.N., “Crime Laboratory Proficiency
Testing Results, 1970-1991, II: Resolving Questions of Common Origin,” Journal of
Forensic Sciences, Vol. 40, No. 6, Nov. 1995, pp. 1009-1029.
Gunther, C.O., “Markings on Bullets and Shells Fired from Small Arms,” Mechanical
Engineering, May 1932, pp. 341-345.
Hall, E., “Bullet Markings from Consecutively Rifled Shilen DGA Barrels,” AFTE Journal,
1983; 15(1):33-47.
Hall, J., “Consecutive Cuts by Bolt Cutters and Their Effect on Identification,” AFTE
Journal, 1992; 24(3):260-272.
Kingston, C.R. “The Law of Probabilities and the Credibility of Witnesses and Evidence,”
Journal of Forensic Sciences, Vol. 15, No. 1, Jan. 1970, pp. 18-27.
Kirby, S.J., “Comparison of 900 Consecutively Fired Bullets and Cartridge Cases from a
455 Caliber S&W Revolver,” AFTE Journal, 1983; 15(3):113-126.
Kirk, P.L., and Kingston, C.R., “Evidence Evaluation and Problems in General
Criminalistics,” Journal of Forensic Sciences, Vol. 9, No. 4, Oct. 1964, pp. 434-444.
Kockel, R., “About the Appearance of Clues or Marks from Knife Blades,” AFTE Journal,
1980; 12(3):16.
Lardizibal, P., “Cartridge Case Study of the Heckler and Koch USP,” AFTE Journal, 1995;
27(1):49-51.
Lopez, L., “Striae Matching and Angle of Incident,” AFTE Journal, 1998; 30(2):271.
Lutz, M.C., “Consecutive Revolver Barrels,” AFTE Newsletter, Aug. 1970, pp. 24-28.
Matty, W., “Comparison of Three Individual Barrels Produced from One Button Rifled
Barrel Blank” AFTE Journal, 1985; 17(3):64-69.
---. “Raven 25 Automatic Pistol Breech Face Toolmarks,” AFTE Journal, 1984; 16(3):57.
Matty, W., and Johnson, T., “Comparison of Manufacturing Marks on Smith & Wesson
Firing Pins,” AFTE Journal, 1984; 16(3):51.
May, L.S., “The Identification of Knives, Tools and Instruments, A Positive Science,”
American Journal of Police Science, Vol. 24, No. 6, 1936, p. 246.
Meyers, C.R., “Objective vs. Subjective Boondoggle,” AFTE Journal, 1987; 19(1):24-30.
Miller, J., “Cut Nail Manufacturing and Tool Mark Identification,” AFTE Journal, 1998;
30(3):492.
---. “Reproducibility of Impressed and Striated Toolmarks: 4d Cut Flooring Nails,” AFTE
Journal, 1998; 30(4):631.
Miller, J., and McLean, M., “Criteria for Identification of Toolmarks,” AFTE Journal, 1998;
30(1):15-61.
Murdock, J.E., “Effect of Crowning on Gun Barrel Individuality,” AFTE Journal, 1970;
2(3):12.
---. “Individuality of Toolmarks Produced by Desk Staplers,” AFTE Journal, 1974; 6(5-
6):23.
---. “A General Discussion of Gun Barrel Individuality and an Empirical Assessment of the
Individuality of Consecutively Button Rifled .22 Caliber Rifle Barrels,” AFTE Journal,
1981; 13(3):84-111.
---. “Some Suggested Court Questions to Test Criteria for Identification Qualifications,”
AFTE Journal, 1992; 24(1):69-75.
Nichols, R.G., “Firearm and Toolmark Identification Criteria: A Review of the Literature,”
Journal of Forensic Sciences, Vol. 42, No. 3, 1997, pp. 466-474.
Ogihara, Y., Kubota, M., Sanada, M., Fukuda, K., Uchiyama, T., and Hamby, J.E.,
“Comparison of 5000 Consecutively Fired Bullets and Cartridge Cases from a 45 Caliber
M1911A1 Pistol,” AFTE Journal, 1983; 15(3):127-140.
Rowe, W.F., “Statistics in Forensic Ballistics,” The Use of Statistics in Forensic Science,
C.G.G. Aitken and D.A. Stoney, Elllis Hammond, 1991.
Skolrood, R., “Comparison of Bullets Fired from Consecutively Rifled Cooey Rifles,”
Canadian Society of Forensic Science Journal, Vol. 8, No. 2, 1975, pp. 49-52.
Stoney, D.A., “What Ever Made Us Think We Could Individualize Using Statistics,”
Journal of the Forensic Science Society, Vol. 31, No. 2, 1991, pp. 197-199.
Taroni, F., Champod, C., and Margot, P., “Statistics, A Future in Toolmarks
Comparisons?,” AFTE Journal, 1996:28(4):222-232.
---. “Phoenix Arms (Raven) Breech Face Toolmarks,” AFTE Journal, 1994; 26(2):134-
135.
---. “The Validity of Firearms Evidence,” California Attorneys for Criminal Justice Forum,
Vol. 5, No. 4, Aug. 1978, p. 15.
Tuira, Y.J., “Tire Stabbing with Consecutively Manufactured Knives,” AFTE Journal,
1982; 14(1):50-52.
Tulleners, F., Hamiel, J., and Giusto, M., “Striae Reproducibility on Sectional Cuts of
Thompson Contender Barrel,” paper presented at the 28th AFTE Training Seminar,
Annapolis, MD, July 1997.
Uchiyama, T., “Similiarity Among Breech Face Marks Fired from Guns with Close Serial
Numbers,” AFTE Journal, 1986; 18(3):15.
---. “Change of Rifling Marks of the Bullets Fired from a Revolver,” AFTE Journal, 1986;
18(4):40.
---. “A Criterion for Land Mark Identification,” AFTE Journal, 1988; 20(3):236-251.
---. “A Criterion for Land Mark Identification Using Rare Marks,” AFTE Journal, 1988;
20(3):260-268.
Uchiyama, T., Igarashi, N., and Nagai, M., “Frequency of Occurrence of Individual
Characteristics of Firearms on Fired Bullets,” AFTE Journal, 1988; 20(4):376-390.
Uchiyama, T., and Nota, O., “Non-Firing Markings on Primer of Remington Cartridges,”
AFTE Journal, 1986; 18(4):78.
Uchiyama, T., and Tokano, K., “Non-Firing Markings on Shotshell Cases and Primers,”
AFTE Journal, 1988; 20(1):46.
Vandiver, J., “New Screwdrivers Production and Identification,” AFTE Journal, 1976;
8(1):29-52.
Andersen, G.R., “Round Pegs in Square Holes: The Aftermath of Daubert,” South
Carolina Trial Lawyers Association Bulletin, Fall, 1996, pp. 9-12.
Biasotti, A.A., and Murdock, J.E, “Firearms and Toolmark Identification: Scientific Status,”
Chapter 23, Section 23-210. Modern Scientific Evidence: The Law and Science of Expert
Testimony (D.L. Faigman, D.H. Kaye, M.J. Saks, and J. Sanders eds., West Publishing
Co., 1997), Vol. 2, pp. 131-151.
Bohan, T.L., and Heels, E.J., “The Case Against Daubert: The New Scientific Standard’
and the Standards of the Several States,” Journal of Forensic Sciences, Vol. 40, No. 6,
Nov. 1995, pp. 1030-1044.
Faigman, D.L., Kaye, D.H., Saks, M.J., and Sanders, J., Modern Scientific Evidence:
Firearms and Toolmark Identification: Legal Issues, Section 23-1.0, West Publishing Co.,
1997, Vol. 2, pp. 124-131.
Glossary of the Association of Firearms and Tool Mark Examiners (AFTE) AFTE
Standardization Committee, published by Available Business Group, Chicago, IL, 3 rd
edition, 1994, Revision Section, June 6, 1994.
Grzybowski, R.A., and Murdock, J.E., “Firearm and Toolmark Examiners Meeting the
Daubert Challenge,” AFTE Journal, 1998; 30(1):3-14.
Melson, G.R., “Qualifying as An Expert in State Court: The Impact of Daubert,” paper
presented at the Fourth Annual Conference for Medical and Forensic Experts, Dec. 6-7,
1997, Newport Beach, CA.
Peterson, J.L., and Markham, P., “Crime Laboratory Proficiency Testing Results 1978-
1991, II: Resolving Questions of Common Origin,” Journal of Forensic Sciences, Vol. 40,
No. 6, Nov. 1995, pp. 1009-1029.
Relman, A.S., and Angell, M., “How Good is Peer Review?”, (an editorial), The New
England Journal of Medicine, Vol. 321, No. 12,
September 21, 1989, pp. 827-829.
Ruchlis, H., Discovering Scientific Method, Harper and Row Publishers, New York, 1963.
Saks, M.J., “Implications of the Daubert Test for Forensic Identification Science,”
Shepard’s Expert and Scientific Evidence, Vol. 1, No. 3, Winter, 1994, pp. 427-434.
Crum, R.A., “Manufacturing Tool Mark Identification on the Base of Jacketed Bullets,”
Crime Laboratory Digest, Vol. 12, No. 2, Apr. 1985, pp. 29-31.
Kellet, P.M., “The Identification of a Tool Mark on the Interior of a Semi-Jacketed Bullet,”
AFTE Journal, 1984; 16(3):22.
---. “The Comparison and Identification of Toolmarks on the Base of Remington Semi-
Jacketed Bullets,” AFTE Journal, 1984; 16(3):81-83.
---. “The Comparison of Mold Marks on Cast Bullets and Punch Marks in Copper Gas
Checks,” AFTE Journal, 1984; 16(3):104-106.
Matty, W., “The Formation and Persistence of Toolmarks in the Cartridge Case Head
Forming Process,” AFTE Journal, 1983; 15(1):108-113.
Nagai, M., and Uchiyama, T., “Identification of a Tool Mark on the Jacket of a Bullet,"
AFTE Journal, 1989; 21(1):80.
Quirk, T.W., “Toolmarks on Primers of Rio’ Brand Ammunition,” AFTE Journal, 1987;
19(3):309-310.
Skolrood, R.W., “Do Not Disregard Mould Markings,” AFTE Journal, 1975; 7(1):73-74.
Automotive Ignitions
Arrowood, M.C., “Identification of a Metal Screw and Auto Ignition Cylinder,” AFTE
Journal, 1983; 15(2):97.
Paholke, A.R., “New Tool for Pulling Ignition Locks,” AFTE Journal, 1975; 7(3):17-20.
Tenorio, F., “Identification of a Pop-Top’ Tab and Beer Can,” AFTE Journal, 1983;
15(2):56-57.
White, R., “An Unusual Tool Mark Case,” AFTE Journal, 1975; 7(1):19.
Boltcutters
Butcher, S.J., and Pugh, P.D., “A Study of Marks Made by Bolt Cutters,” Journal of the
Forensic Science Society, Vol. 15, No. 2, Apr. 1975, pp. 115-126.
Cassidy, F., “An Unusual Tool Mark from a Bolt Cutter,” AFTE Journal, 1994; 26(1):21-
22.
Hall, J., “Consecutive Cuts by Bolt Cutters and Their Effect on Identification,” AFTE
Journal, 1992; 24(3):260-272.
Komar, S.M., and Scala, G.E., “Examiner Beware New Bolt Cutter Blades Class or
Individual,” AFTE Journal, 1993; 25(4):298-300.
Bonte, W., “Toolmarks in Bone and Cartilage, Journal of Forensic Sciences, Vol. 20, No.
2, Apr. 1975, pp. 315-325.
Galan, J.I., “Identification of a Knife Wound in Bone,” AFTE Journal, 1986; 18(4):72-75.
Kelty, J.J., “Court Presentation of Toolmarks Identified in Stab Wounds,” AFTE Journal,
1985; 17(2):66.
Mikko, D., and Hornsby, B., “On the Cutting Edge II An Identification Involving a Knife,”
AFTE Journal, 1995; 27(4):293.
Burglary Tools
Cilwa, R.B., and Townshend, D.G., “Tool Mark Identification, Knife to Cut Wire,” AFTE
Journal, 1976; 8(4):66-67.
Molnar. S., “Identification by Extrusion Marks on Wire,” AFTE Newsletter, Jan. 1970, p.
22.
Ogle, R.R., and Mitosinka, G.T., “The Identification of Cut Multistranded Wires,” Journal
of Forensic Sciences, Vol. 19, No. 4, Oct. 1974, pp. 865-867.
Schubert, K.D., “Toolmarks Link Bomb Components with Suspects,” AFTE Journal, 1985;
17(2):122-123.
Williams, D.L., “Comparison of Cut Telephone Cables,” AFTE Journal, 1979; 11(2):39-41.
Wilson, C.M., “The Comparison and Identification of Wire in a Coal Mine Bombing Case,”
Journal of Criminal Law, Criminology and Police Science, Vol. 2, 1935-1936, pp. 873-
902.
Barber, D.C., and Cassidy, F.H., “A New Dimension with Mikrosil’ Casting Material,”
AFTE Journal, 1987; 19(3):328-329.
Biasotti, A.A., “Plastic Replicas in Firearms and Tool Mark Identifications,” Journal of
Criminal Law, Criminology and Police Science, Vol. 47, 1956, pp. 110-117.
Carlson, C.J., “Use of Coe-Flex for Test Toolmarks,” AFTE Journal, 1983; 15(2):87.
Klees, Greg, “Casting Material Update on Toolmark Replication,” AFTE Journal, 1988;
20(4):463.
Molnar, S., “Wax Replicas of Tool Marks,” AFTE Newsletter, Jan. 1970, p. 19.
Murdock, J.E., “Silicone Rubber Replicas of Tool Marks,” AFTE Journal, 1970; 2(3):22-
23.
Ojena, S.M., “A New Silicone Rubber Casting Material Designed for Forensic Science
Application,” Journal of Forensic Sciences, Vol. 29, No. 1, Jan. 1984, pp. 317-321.
Rees, P.O., and Cundy, K.R., “A Method for the Comparison of Tool Marks and Other
Surface Irregularities,” Journal of the Forensic Science Society, Vol. 9, 1969, pp. 153-
155.
Wilson, R.J., “Reproduced Impressed Markings for Comparison by Casting with Mikrosil,”
AFTE Journal, 1994; 26(3):181-184.
Dies
Van Dijk, T.M., “Steel Marking Stamps Their Individuality at the Time of Manufacture,”
Journal of the Forensic Science Society, Vol. 25, No. 4, Jul./Aug. 1985, pp. 243-253.
Watson, D.J., “Manufacturing Process of Crimping Dies and the Examination of Class
versus Individual Characteristics Between Them,” AFTE Journal, 1978; 10(3):19-21.
Drills/Lathes
Cilwa, R.B., and Townshend, D.G., “Identification of Lathe Shavings,” AFTE Journal,
1978; 10(1):23.
Reitz, J.A., “An Unusual Tool Mark Identification Case,” AFTE Journal, 1975; 7(3):40-43.
Bishop, E.E., “Tool Mark Identification on a Black Powder Revolver,” AFTE Journal,
1995; 27(4):310-313.
Davis, J.E., “Test Tool Marks from Weapon Parts May Facilitate Comparisons,” AFTE
Journal, 1972; 4(3):28.
La Voy, T.A., “Firearm/Tool Mark Identification on a Cap and Ball Revolver,” AFTE
Journal, 1977; 9(1):66-68.
Matty, W., “Raven .25 Auto Pistol Breech Face Tool Marks,” AFTE Journal, 1984;
16(3):57-60.
Matty, W., and Johnson, T., “A Comparison of Manufacturing Marks on Smith and
Wesson Firing Pins,” AFTE Journal, 1984; 16(3):51-56.
Thompson, E., “Phoenix Arms (Raven) Breech Face Toolmarks,” AFTE Journal, 1994;
26(2):134-135.
Burghardt, H.D., Machine Tool Operation, Vol. I & II, McGraw-Hill Book Company, Inc.,
NY, 1936.
Cochrane, D.W., “Class Characteristics of Cutting Tools and Surface Designation,” AFTE
Journal, 1985; 17(3):73-82.
Cook, C.W., A Practical Guide to the Basis of Physical Evidence, Chapter 16, Charles C.
Thomas, IL, 1984.
---. “The Firearms/Tool Mark Investigator: An Excursion into the Realm of the Weird and
Wonderful,” AFTE Journal, 1979; 11(3):35-43.
“FBI Makes Tool Mark Examinations,” FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin, Sep. 1950, pp. 1-
6.
Gibson, W.M., “AFTE Toolmark Article Index,” AFTE Journal, 1996; 28(4):266-286.
Herb, C.O., Machine Tools at Work, Vol. I-VII, The Industrial Press, NY, 1942.
Kirk, P.L., “Tool Marks,” in Crime Investigation, 2nd edition, J. I. Thornton (ed.), University
of California, Berkeley, CA, 1974.
---. “Tool Mark, Two Words,” AFTE Newsletter, Aug, 1969, p. 18.
Soderman, H., and O’Connell, J.J., “Traces of Tools,” in Modern Criminal Investigation,
5th edition, Funk & Wagnalls, NY, 1962.
Versailles, J., “Tool Marks: Striated Versus Impressed,” AFTE Journal, 1971; 3(5):13.
Impressions
Arrowood, M.C., and Berglund, J., “A Tool Mark Impression in a Unique Shooting Case,”
AFTE Journal, 1976; 8(2):83 (firearm hammer).
Johnson, A.P., “Hammer Spur Impresions, Physical Evidence in Homicides,” FBI Law
Enforcement Bulletin, Sep. 1983, pp. 11-14.
Molnar, S., “Unusual Tool Mark Impression Identification,” AFTE Journal, 1970; 2(3):32-
33.
Knives
Cilwa, R.B., and Townshend, D.G., “Tool Mark Identification, Knife to Cut Wire,” AFTE
Journal, 1976; 8(4):66-67.
Edwards, R.L., and Kelley, M.I., “The Straight Line (Springer) Knife,” AFTE Journal, 1993;
25(1):7-10.
Fears, J.W., “An Expert’s Guide to Knives, Part II,” Shooting Times, Aug. 1987, pp. 48-
51.
Garcia, C.H., “Are Knife-Prints’ Reliable Evidence: An Analysis of Tool Mark Evidence
and Ramirez v. State,” AFTE Journal, 1993; 25(4):266-280.
Hollis, D., “The Knife, Man’s Oldest/Modern Tool,” Guns and Ammo, May 1986, pp. 56-
72.
---. “Pocketknives, An American Tradition,” Guns and Ammo, Aug. 1986, pp. 53-97.
Kockel, R., “About the Appearance of Clues or Marks from Knife Blades,” AFTE Journal,
1980; 12(3):16-28.
Love, E., “Knives and Knife Terminology,” AFTE Journal, 1989; 21(3):490-495.
Purtell, D.J., “The Identification of Paper Cutting Knives and Paper Cutters,” Journal of
Criminal Law, Criminology and Police Science, Vol. 44, 1953, pp. 262-268.
Lighting Techniques
Peterson, J.L., “Utilizing the Laser for Comparing Tool Striations,” Journal of the Forensic
Science Society, Vol. 14, No. 1, Jan. 1974, pp. 57-62.
Winkel, N., “A New Method of Comparative Investigation of Trace Replicas,” Bulletin for
the Forensic Laboratory, No. 2, Mar. 1979, pp. 8-10.
Ziegler, P.A., “Examination Techniques: The Beam Splitter and Reverse Lighting,” AFTE
Journal, 1983; 15(2):37-41.
Molnar, S., “Bobby Pins . . . Lock Picking,” AFTE Newsletter, Oct. 1969, p. 28.
Paholke, A.R., “What a Toolmark Examiner Should Know About Locks (A Guide for the
Firearms Examiner),” AFTE Journal, 1989; 21(2):147-150.
---. “Notes on Lock Decoder and Picking,” AFTE Newsletter, Oct. 1970, p. 28.
---. “Pen . . . A Lock Picking Device,” AFTE Newsletter, Aug. 1971, p. 24.
---. “A New Lock with Magnetic Key,” AFTE Newsletter, Aug. 1972, p. 21.
Plumtree, W.G., “The Examination of Disc and Pin Tumbler Locks for Tool Marks Made
by Lock Picks,” Journal of Forensic Sciences, Vol. 20, No. 4, Oct. 1975, pp. 656-667.
---. “Examination Techniques for Picked Locks,” AFTE Journal, 1982; 14(4):23-24.
Striupaitis, P.P., “Compression Spring Marks on Lock Pins,” AFTE Journal, 1982;
14(4):22.
“Physical Security Devices, Part II,” The Chicago Police Department Training Bulletin,
Vol. 15, No. 11, June 24, 1974.
“Physical Security Devices, Part III,” The Chicago Police Department Training Bulletin,
Vol. 15, No. 12, July 8, 1974.
Arrowood, M.C., “A Tool Mark Identification with a Pop Rivet Gun,” AFTE Journal, 1987;
19(3):305.
Bailey, T., “What’s to Know About Files,” AFTE Journal, 1986; 18(4):105-110.
Bishop, E.E., “Tool Mark Identification on Nails,” AFTE Journal, 1995; 27(4):306-309.
Boudreau, A.J., “Significant Baling Wire Characteristics,” AFTE Journal, 1975; 7(2):99-
103.
Hamby, J.E., “Matching of Tool Marks Made in Rubber,” AFTE Newsletter, Jun. 1972, p.
18.
Harden, L.R., “Tool Marks on a Rape Case,” AFTE Journal, 1979; 11(1):25.
Lambert, R.R., “A Tool Mark Case,” AFTE Newsletter, Aug. 1970, p. 34 (lock puller).
Larsen, D., “Murder -- Buttons and Toolmarks,” AFTE Newsletter, Dec. 1971, p. 15.
Mason, J.J., and Grose, P., “The Individuality of Toolmarks Produced by a Label Maker
Used to Write Extortion Notes,” Journal of Forensic Sciences, Vol. 32, No. 1, Jan. 1987,
pp. 137-147.
Meyers, C., “Tool Marks on Paper Matches,” AFTE Journal, 1977; 9(2):131.
Molnar, S., “Cutting Torch Marks,” AFTE Newsletter, Aug. 1970, p. 32.
Roberts, J.L., “Razor Blade Manufacturing Information,” AFTE Journal, 1976; 8(1):80-84.
Serpa, J., “Identification of Manufacturing Marks on Nylon Cable Ties,” AFTE Journal,
1994; 26(3):187-192.
Vaughan, R.T., and Gilman, P.L., “An Identification With a Puncture Type Tool,” AFTE
Journal, 1981; 13(4):78.
Baney, R.E., “An Examination of Consecutive Scratch Marks on Kodak Instant Print
Film,” AFTE Journal, 1981; 13(4):112-113.
Biasotti, A.A., “Photography and Illumination: Some Critical Factors, AFTE Journal,
1979;11(4):60.
Catterick, T., and Taylor, M., “A Photometric Method for the Quantitative Mapping of
Parallel Striated Marks,” Forensic Science International, Vol. 33, 1987, pp. 197-207.
Sanchez, D.W., “Aluminum Oxide Casting, Technique for Comparison and Photography
of Toolmarks,” AFTE Newsletter, August, 1970, p. 20.
Townshend, D., “Photography and Casting Toolmarks,” FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin,
Vol. 45, No. 4, 1976, pp. 9-11.
Ward, D.C., and Sibert, R.W., “The Use of Vacuum Evaporation of Metals for Surface
Feature Enhancement,” AFTE Journal, 1986; 18(4):76-77.
Physical/Fracture Matches
Agron, N., and Schecter, B., “Physical Comparisons and Some Characteristics of
Electrical Tape,” AFTE Journal, 1986; 18(3):53-59.
Caine, C., and Thompson, E., “Physical Match of an Automobile Roof to the Body
Section,” AFTE Journal, 1989; 21(4):632-634.
Dixon, T.R., “Trace Evidence in a Toolmarks Case,” AFTE Journal, 1975; 7(1):70-71.
Funk, H.J., “Comparison of Paper Matches,” Journal of Forensic Sciences, Vol. 13, No. 1,
Jan. 1968, pp. 137-143.
Hathaway, R.A., “Physical Match of a Broken Pool Cue Stick,” AFTE Journal, 1994;
26(3):185-186.
Laux, D.L., “Identification of a Rope by Means of a Physical Match Between the Cut
Ends,” Journal of Forensic Sciences, Vol. 29, No. 4, Oct. 1994, pp. 1246-1248.
Moran, B., “An Interesting Physical Match,” CAC News, Summer 1995, p. 19.
---. “Physical Match/Tool Mark Identification Involving Rubber Shoe Sole Fragments,”
AFTE Journal, 1984; 16(3):126-128.
Striupaitis, P., “Physical Fit Public Utility Cable,” AFTE Journal, 1981; 13(4):48-49.
Castle, D.A., Gibbins, B., and Hamer, P.S., “Physical Methods for Examining and
Comparing Transparent Plastic Bags and Cling Films,” Journal of the Forensic Science
Society, Vol. 34, 1994, pp. 61-68.
Ford, K.N., “The Physical Comparison of Polythene Film,” Journal of the Forensic
Science Society, Vol. 15, No. 2, Apr. 1975, pp. 107-113.
Kopec, R.J., and Meyers, C.R., “Comparative Analysis of Trash Bags A Case History,”
AFTE Journal, 1980; 12(1):23-26.
Stone, R.S., “The Examination and Comparison of Plastic Bags Used in Home Heat
Sealers,” AFTE Journal, 1986; 18(1):21-23.
Pliers
Reloading
LaVoy, T.A., and Wilmer, J.H., “Tool Markings from a Reloading Die,” AFTE Journal,
1979; 11(2):37-38.
Safes
Dixon, T.R., “Trace Evidence in a Toolmarks Case,” AFTE Journal, 1975; 7(1):70-71.
Murdock, J.E., “Positive Association Through Tool Marks of a Safe Door Hinge Pin with a
Damaged Safe,” AFTE Journal, 1981; 13(3):72-78.
Sherlock, W.E., Fournier, R.J., and McCown, R., “Examination of a Drilled’ Safe,” AFTE
Journal, 1988; 20(4):441-442.
“Physical Security Devices, Part V,” The Chicago Police Department Training Bulletin,
Vol. 16, No. 2, Jun. 23, 1975.
“Physical Security Devices, Part IV,” The Chicago Police Department Training Bulletin,
Vol. 16, No. 1, Jan. 13, 1975.
Saws
Andahl, R.O., “The Examination of Saw Marks,” Journal of the Forensic Science Society,
Vol. 18, No. 1, Jan. 1978, pp. 31-46.
Cook, C.W., A Practical Guide to the Basics of Physical Evidence, Charles C. Thomas,
IL, 1984, p. 213.
Molnar, S., “Saw Cuts and Log Ends,” AFTE Newsletter, Apr. 1970, p. 30.
Castro, S.M., Galbreath, N.W., Pecko, J.L., Hellman, F.N., and Rowl, W.F., “Use of the
Scanning Electron Microscope to Examine Film Impressions on Typewriter Correction
Tape,” Journal of Forensic Sciences, Vol. 40, 1995, pp. 291-295.
Matricardi, V.R., Clark, M.S., and DeRonja, F.S., “The Comparison of Broken Surfaces: A
Scanning Electron Microscope Study,” Journal of Forensic Sciences, Vol. 20, 1975, pp.
507-523.
Ward, D., and Sibert, R.W., “The Use of Vacuum Evaporation of Metals for Surface
Feature Enhancement,” AFTE Journal, 1986; 18(4):76-77.
Screwdrivers
Burd, D.Q., and Gilmore, A.E., “Individual and Class Characteristics of Tools,” Journal of
Forensic Sciences, Vol. 13, No. 3, Jul. 1968, pp. 390-396.
Cook, C., A Practical Guide to the Basics of Physical Evidence, Charles C. Thomas, IL,
1984, p. 221.
Newquist, A.M., “Screwdriver Identified to Bullet Base,” AFTE Journal, 1978; 10(2):68.
Vandiver, J.V., “New Screwdrivers, Production and Identification,” AFTE Journal, 1976;
8(1):29-52.
Speedometers
Stoner, D., and Zeldes, I., “An Aid in Accident Investigation,” FBI Law Enforcement
Bulletin, Mar. 1980, p. 11.
Staplers/Staples
Murdock, J.E., “The Individuality of Tool Marks Produced by Desk Staplers,” 1974;
6(5&6):23-39.
Davis, J.E., “Indium Metal for Toolmarks, AFTE Journal, 1973; 5(4):29.
McGuire, D.L., and Brodie, T.G., “Standard Toolmark Production Device,” AFTE Journal,
1975; 7(1):33-37.
Molnar, S., “Techniques for Making Test Tool Marks Involving a Vise and C-Clamp,”
AFTE Newsletter, 1970; 2(6):26-30.
Tires
Bridgemon, R.R., “The Examination of Cut Tires,” AFTE Journal, 1984; 16(3):102-103.
Tuira, Y.J., “Tire Stabbing with Consecutively Manufactured Knives,” AFTE Journal,
1982; 14(1):50-52.
Maheshwari, H.S., “Influence of Vertical Angle of a Tool on Its Tool Mark,” Forensic
Science International, Vol. 18, No. 1, Jan. 1981, pp. 5-12.
Dixon, T.R., “Trace Evidence in a Toolmarks Case,” AFTE Journal, 1975; 7(1):70-71.
Versailles, J., “Metal Residue Build-Up on Tool Blades,” AFTE Journal, 1974; 6(4):7.
Vehicles
Arrowood, M.C., and Berglund, J.S., “Examination of Toolmarks from a Vehicle Involved
in a Hit and Run,” AFTE Journal, 1983; 15(2):100-101.
Brinkman, R.W., “An Unusual Tool Mark Comparison from a Hit and Run Case,” AFTE
Journal, 1978; 10(1):33.
Lapierre, J., “Two Interesting and Unusual Tool Mark Cases,” AFTE Journal, 1978;
10(2):57-58.
Smith, R.M., “Another Hit and Run Toolmark Case,” AFTE Newsletter, Dec. 1972, p. 31.
Townshend, D.G., “Identification of Hub and Wheel,” AFTE Journal, 1975; 7(1):56-58.
Wood
Hathaway, R.A., “Physical Match of a Broken Pool Cue Stick,” AFTE Journal, 1994;
26(3):185-186.
Lapierre, J., “Two Interesting and Unusual Tool Mark Cases,” AFTE Journal, 1978;
10(2):57-58.
Mezger, O., Hasslacher, F., and Frankle, P., “Identification of Marks Made on Trees,”
American Journal of Police Science, 1930, pp. 358.
Molnar, S., “Saw Cuts and Log Ends,” AFTE Newsletter, Apr. 1970, p. 70.
Robinson, M.K., “Comparison of Growth Rings in Wood to Identify Clock Parts,” AFTE
Journal, 1976; 8(1):88-91.
---. “Comparison of Gunstock Parts to Barreled Action,” AFTE Journal, 1976; 8(1):65-69.
Versailles, J., “Tool Markings on Balsam Branches,” AFTE Journal, 1974, 6(1):10.
“Wood as Evidence,” FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin, Oct. 1975, pp. 5-7.
1. Read the Handbook of Methods for the Restoration of Obliterated Serial Numbers, by
Tretow. Be prepared to discuss the theory of number restoration.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
2. Sketch the entire stressed area above and below the indentation of a stamped item and
depict what remains when the indented area is removed.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
3. Make a list of the various methods used to mark items by private industry. This list
should include but not be restricted to: casting, stamping, embossing, debossing,
coining, vibratory pencil, laser and electrical discharge machining.
a. Discuss with the Training Officer the effect each of these marking
techniques has on the subsurface of the marked area.
b. Discuss with the Training Officer the marking methods used that can
directly affect the ability of the examiner to restore any obliterated
markings and why.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
____________________ ________
Training Officer Date
5. Briefly discuss in your notebook and with your Training Officer the difference between
cold rolled steel and cast iron metal.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
_______________ ________
Training Officer Date
7. Determine the telltale signs that can be left by the various alteration methods. Discuss
how these signs will determine your specific approach to the restoration attempt.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
8. Discuss with your Training Officer the different types of lighting (e.g., incandescent,
infrared, UV, and fluorescent) and how they can improve or enhance the restoration
results. Be prepared to explain how the angle of incidence of these lighting techniques
might vary the results.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
9. Discuss the various methods of surface preparation such as sanding and polishing and
how they will affect the results in the restoration attempt.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
10. Determine the chemical reaction that takes place when etching is conducted and
document in your notebook the appropriate chemical formulations for the general
reactions of acid with steel and aluminum.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
12. Determine the specialized equipment that might be used in number restoration and
discuss these your Training Officer.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
13. Discuss with your Training Officer the appropriate photography techniques and
procedures to be used before, during, and after restoring obliterated serial numbers.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
14. Determine the various types of film utilized for number restoration photography. Be
prepared to discuss with your Training Officer under what circumstances each would be
used.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
15. Research the various kinds of magnifying and enhancing equipment used for number
restoration and explain when and why each would be used.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
a. CuNH4Cl2
b. CuCl2
c. NaOH
d. HCl
e. HNO3
f. KCN
g. K2SO4
h. Aqua Regia
i. H2SO4
j. FeCl3
k. H2O2
l. Tartaric acid
m. Ammonium Persulfate
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
17. Obtain the proper safety equipment (e.g., eyewear, masks, gloves, and lab coats)
before attempting any chemical restorations. Review the chemical hygiene policies to
insure proper safety precautions are used.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
18. Define and place in your notebook these common chemical terms:
a. Fryes Reagent
b. Arais Reagent
c. Hydrofluoric acid
d. Turner's Reagent
e. Davis' Reagent
__________________ ________
Training Officer Date
19. Become knowledgeable of the numbering systems and methods used by various firearm
manufacturers including but not limited to Colt, Ruger, Smith & Wesson, US Repeating
Arms (Winchester) and Remington.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
a. Colt pistol
b. Smith & Wesson revolver
c. RG Industries revolver
d. Ruger stainless steel revolver
e. chrome/nickel 25 caliber autoloading pistol
f. shotgun alloy receiver
g. shotgun casehardened receiver
h. Winchester rifle
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
21. Obtain several firearms from your Training Officer, alter the serial numbers using different
methods and then attempt to restore them. Prepare notes and photographs to
substantiate your conclusions and results.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
22. Be prepared to discuss with your Training Officer the methods used and lessons learned
during the restoration process.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
23. Obtain several pieces of aluminum that have had stamped numbers removed. Attempt to
restore these numbers using various techniques. Prepare notes and photographs to
substantiate your conclusions and results.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
24. Discuss with your Training Officer how the combination of brief application of CuNH 4Cl2
followed by normal NaOH application can shorten the processing time on aluminum.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
26. Research the effect of D. C. electricity (Include the proper polarity and voltage for
enhance etching/development of obliterated numbers and letters) on the reaction time of
the different chemical techniques you have learned. Conduct restorations using this
method.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
Should you encounter other references in this category, you are encouraged to make
additional notes about them at the end of this listing.
Books
Cook, C.W., “A Practical Guide to the Basics of Physical Evidence” Colorado Bureau of
Investigation, April 1975.
Cook, C.W., “Chemical Etching Reagents for Serial Number Restoration” Colorado
Bureau of Investigation, April 1975.
Hatcher, J.S., Jury, F.J., and Weller, J., Firearms Investigation, Identification and
Evidence, 2nd edition, Stackpole Books, Harrisburg, PA, 1977.
Hein, Morris, et al., Foundations of College Chemistry, Dickenson Publishing Co., 1977.
Kegser, C.A., Basic Engineering Metallurgy - Theories, Principles and Applications, 6th
edition, Prentice-Hall, Inc., Englewood Cliffs, N.J., 1957.
Kehl, G.L., The Principles of Metallographic Laboratory Practice, 3rd edition, McGraw-Hill,
New York, 1949.
Kotz and Purcell, Chemistry and Chemical Reactivity, Saunders College Publishing,
1991.
Polk, D.E., and Giessen, B.C., Metallurgical Aspects of Serial Number Recovery, Institute
of Chemical Analysis-Northeastern University, Boston, MA (undated).
Treptow, R.S., Handbook of Methods for the Restoration of Obliterated Serial Numbers,
NASA, 1978.
Katterwe, H., “Modern Approaches For the Examination of Toolmarks and Other Surface
Marks,” Forensic Science Review, Vol. 8, No. 1, Jun. 1996, pp. 46-71.
---. “The Recovery of Erased Numbers in Polymers,” Journal of Forensic Science Society,
Vol. 34, 1994, pp. 11-16.
Krcma, V., “The Identification of Pistols by Serial Numbers and Other Markings,” Journal
of Forensic Sciences, 1961.
“Metallurgy vs. Crime,” FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin, Vol. 19, No. 11, Nov. 1950, p. 8.
“Restoring Altered and Obliterated Markings on Metal,” FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin,
Vol. 25, No. 7, Jul. 1956, p. 13.
Thorton, J.I., and Cashman, P.J., “The Mechanism of the Restoration of Obliterated
Serial Numbers by Acid Etching,” Journal of the Forensic Science Society, Vol. 16, No.
69, 1976.
AFTE Journal
Barabash, T., and Fahey, R.T., “Non-Destructive Methods of Restoring Defaced Serial
Numbers,” 1977; 9(1):23.
Brundage, D.J., “Surface Preparation for Serial Number Restoration,” 1982; 14(4):9.
Cantor, A., “Serial Number Restoration with Image Enhancement on the FBI Drugfire
Computer,” 1997; 29(2):223-230.
Cook, C.W., “Chemical Etching Reagents for Serial Number Restoration,” 1975; 7(2):80.
Dragan, P., “Abrasive Wheels for Serial Number Restoration Preparation,” 1996;
28(1):21.
Miller, J., “Book Review: The Law and Forensic Ballistics by T.A. Warlow,” 1997;
29(2):239, 173.
Miller, K.E., “Current Assist for Die Stamp Impression Restoration,” 1972; 4(3A):38.
Montgomery, J.L., “New Process Restores Filed Serial Numbers,” 1975; 7(3):80.
Polk, D.E., and Giessen, B.C., “Metallurgical Aspects of Serial Number Recovery,” 1975;
7(2):38.
Sherlock, W.E., and Keating, D.M., “Obliterated Serial Number Tracking Program,” 1995;
27(4):264-280.
Taulbee, D., “3x5 Card File of Die Stamped Impressions on Metal,” 1973; 5(3):18.
Thompson, R.W., “Second Serial Number on Tarus Model 80 Revolvers,” 1980; 12(2):18.
---. “Technique for Restoring Obliterated Serial Numbers on Plastic Cards,” 1981;
13(2):30.
1. Formulate a method of taking notes in your cases, that is, how to note essential data on
which you base your conclusions, to document chain of custody, to identify a case with a
particular contributor and with a particular file. Develop a system for the administration of
your cases. Discuss the above areas with your Training Officer.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
2. Read through copies of reports generated by at least two examiners for the purpose of
familiarization with report format and phraseology. Compile a reference file which reflects
correct phraseology divided into appropriate categories, i.e., bullet examination, bullet "no
conclusion,” bullet identification, cartridge case identification, firearms function, accidental
discharge, gunshot residues, etc. Discuss this with your Training Officer.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
3. Attend moot courts of other trainees during your training period and evaluate the
demeanor and professionalism of the trainee. Discuss this with your Training Officer.
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
4. Review several transcripts of at least two examiners regarding their "expert" testimony in
the field of firearms/toolmark identification. Discuss these transcripts with each examiner.
_________________ ________
Examiner Date
_________________ ________
Examiner Date
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
5. Discuss the meaning and/or definition of the following terms or phrases, as they apply to
testimony in the field of firearms/toolmark identification, with your Training Officer.
a. expert witness
b. reasonable degree of scientific certainty
c. hearsay
d. opinion
e. voir dire
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
_________________ ________
Examiner Date
_________________ ________
Examiner Date
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
8. Confer with other examiners regarding personal hints and recommendations in regard to
courtroom testimony. This discussion should be lengthy and cover all aspects of the
topic.
_________________ ________
Examiner Date
_________________ ________
Examiner Date
_________________ ________
Examiner Date
_________________ ________
Examiner Date
_________________ ________
Training Officer Date
Should you encounter other references in this category, you are encouraged to make
additional notes about them at the end of this listing.
Research Techniques
Carr, J.J., The Art of Science: A Practical Guide to Experiments, Observations, and
Handling Data, High Text Publications, San Diego, CA, 1992.
Halpern, D.F., Thought and Knowledge: An Introduction to Critical Thinking, 2nd edition,
Lawrence Erlbaum Associates, Hillsdale, NJ, 1989.
Jaffe, A.J., and Spirer, H.F., Misused Statistics: Straight Talk about Twisted Numbers,
Marcel Dekker, Inc., NY, 1987.
Paul, R., Critical Thinking: What Every Person Needs to Survive in a Rapidly Changing
World, Sonoma State University, Rohnert Park CA, 1980.
Smith, G., Statistical Reasoning, Allyn & Bacon, Needham Heights, MA, 1991.
Tukey, J., and Mosteller, F., Data Analysis and Regression, Addison Welsey, Reading,
MA, 1977.
Dunn, R., and Dunn, K., Practical Approaches to Individualizing Instruction, Parker
Publishing Co., West Nyack, NY, 1972.
Knowles, M.S., The Modern Practice of Adult Education, Follet Publishing, Chicago,
1980.
Knowles, M.S., and Associates, Andragogy in Action: Applying Modern Principles of Adult
Learning, Jossey-Bass, San Francisco, 1984.
Knowles, M.S., Self-Directed Learning: A Guide for Learners and Teachers, Association
Press, New York, 1975.
Knowles, M.S., The Adult Learner: A Neglected Species, Gulf Publishing Co., Houston,
TX, 1973.
Should you encounter other references in this category, you are encouraged to make
additional notes about them at the end of this listing.
General
Andersen, G.R., “Round Pegs in Square Holes: The Aftermath of Daubert,” South
Carolina Trial Lawyers Association Bulletin, Fall, 1996, pp. 9-12.
Babitsky, S., and Mangravati, J.J., How to Excel During Cross-Examination; Techniques
for Experts That Work, SEAK, Inc., Falmouth, MA.
Bailey, F.L., and Rothblatt, H.B., Investigation and Preparation of Criminal Cases,
Federal and State, The Lawyers Co-operative Publishing Company, Rochester, NY, and
the Bancroft-Whitney Company, San Francisco, CA, 1970.
---. Crimes of Violence: Homicide and Assault, The Lawyers Co-operative Publishing
Company, Rochester, NY, and the Bancroft-Whitney Company, San Francisco, CA,
1973.
Biasotti, A.A., and Murdock, J.E., “Firearms and Toolmark Identification: Legal Issues and
Scientific Status,” Chapter 23, Modern Scientific Evidence: The Law and Science of
Expert Testimony, (Faigman, D.L., Kaye, D.H., Saks, M.J., and Sanders, J., eds., West
Publishing Co., 1997), Vol. 2, pp. 124-151.
Bohan, T.L., and Heels, E.J., “The Case Against Daubert: The New Scientific Standard’
and the Standards of the Several States,” Journal of Forensic Sciences, Vol. 40, No. 6,
Nov. 1995, pp. 1030-1044.
Bradley, M.D., The Scientist and Engineer in Court, American Geophysical Union,
Washington, DC, 1983.
Bronstein, D.A., Law for the Expert Witness, CRC Press, Boca Raton, FL, 1998.
Burke, J.J., “Testifying in Court,” FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin, Sep. 1975.
Hatcher, J.S., Jury, F.J., and Weller, J., Firearms Investigation, Identification and
Evidence, 2nd edition, Stackpole Books, Harrisburg, 1957, pp. 445-460.
Matson, J.V., Effective Expert Witnessing, CRC Press, Boca Raton, FL, 1994.
Melson, G.R., “Qualifying as An Expert in State Court: The Impact of Daubert,” paper
presented at the Fourth Annual Conference for Medical and Forensic Experts, Dec. 6-7,
1997, Newport Beach, CA.
Moenssens, A.A., Moses, R.E., and Inbau, F.E., Scientific Evidence in Criminal Cases,
The Foundation Press, Mineola, NY, 1973.
Molloy, J.T., New Women’s Dress for Success, Warner Books, 1996.
---. John T. Molloy’s New Dress for Success, Warner Books, 1988.
Moses, R.E., Scientific Proof in Criminal Cases A Texas Lawyers Guide, The Lakeland
Press, 1969.
Neal, M.W., “From the Hot Seat: Tips for Effective Courtroom Testimony,” Forensic
Focus The Journal of The West Virginia State Police Forensic Laboratory, Vol. 1, No.
2, Jul.-Dec. 1995, pp. 1, 11-13.
Saks, M.J., “Implications of the Daubert Test for Forensic Identification Science,”
Shepard’s Expert and Scientific Evidence, Vol. 1, No. 3, Winter, 1994, pp. 427-434.
AFTE Journal
Adler, M., “How to Refute the Experts Told Members at Lawyers’ Club Meeting,” 1972;
4(3):26.
Grzybowski, R.A., and Murdock, J.E., “Firearm and Toolmark Examiners Meeting the
Daubert Challenge,” 1998; 30(1):3-14.
Hodge, E.E., and Blackburn, B.D., “Courtroom Demeanor Information,” 1984; 16(4):35.
Hodge, S.A. and Blackburn, S.A., "The Firearms-Toolmark Examiner in Court", October
1979.
Joling, R.J., and Stern, W.W., “An Overview of Firearms Identification Evidence for
Attorneys, II: Applicable Law of Recent Origin,” 1981; 13(4):134-139.
---. “An Overview of Firearms Identification Evidence for Attorneys, III: Qualifying and
Using the Firearms Examiner as a Witness,” 1981; 13(4):140-144.
---. “An Overview of Firearms Identification Evidence for Attorneys, IV: Practice and
Procedures When Using the Firearms Examiner and Demonstrative Evidence,” 1981;
13(4):145-148.
Keefe, J.F., “Forensic Sciences: Criminal Justice System Viewed by the Defense,” 1980;
12(2):59.
Mann, M., Henson, G., Stone, R., and Guerra, S., “Visual Aides for Firearm Training and
Courtroom Testimony,” 1994; 26(4):309-310.
“Maryland State Court of Appeals. Appeals Case: (Olen J. Kelly et. al. vs. R.G. Industries,
Inc., et. al.),” 1986; 18(2):77.
Moses, R.E., “Scientific Proof in Criminal Cases: A Texas Lawyer’s Guide,” 1989;
21(2):123-128.
Munhall, B.D., “Tools for the Firearm Examiner in Tort Matters,” 1972; 4(3):11.
Murdock, J.E., “Some Suggested Court Questions to Test Criteria for Identification
Qualifications,” 1992; 24(1):69-75.
Tanton, R.L., “Jury Preconceptions and Their Effect on Expert Scientific Testimony,”
1980; 20(2):67.
Should you encounter other references in this category, you are encouraged to make
additional notes about them at the end of this listing.
Books
Kirk, P.L., and Bradford, L.W., The Crime Laboratory: Organization and Operation,
Charles C. Thomas, Springfield, IL, 1965.
Osterberg, J.W., The Crime Laboratory, Clark Boardman Company, Ltd., New York, NY,
1982.
Periodicals
Cadman, W.J., “How to Get the Best from Your Laboratory,” The Police Chief, Feb. 1978,
pp. 64-70.
Professional Journals
AFTE Journal
Fleming, P.J., and Purtell, D., “Scientists or Factory Workers?, “ 1989; 21(2):119-120.
Lucas, D.M., “Laboratory Director’s View of the Firearms Section,” 1989; 21(2):188-190.
National Institute of Justice, Forensic Evidence and the Police: The Effects of Scientific
Evidence on Criminal Investigations, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC,
1984.
Manuals