FORENSIC BALLISTIC

BALLISTICS – is the science of the motion of projectile.

ORIGIN OF BALLISTIC – The word “BALLISTICS” originated from the

Greek word “Ballein” which means “to throw” and from the Roman word
“Ballista” which is machine to hurl a stone.
-From those words the modern term for Forensic Ballistics was
derived to indicate the science of moving projectile.

BRANCHES OF BALLISTICS

a. ) INTERIOR BALLISTICS – traits of the motion of the projectiles

while still in the firearm, namely the studies of combustion of the
powder, pressure developed and velocity.

b. ) EXTERIOR BALLISTICS – traits of the motion of the projectiles

after leaving the muzzle namely trajectory, velocity, range penetration,
etc.

c. ) TERMINAL BALLISTICS – traits of the effects of the projectile

on impact on the target.

d. ) FORENSIC BALLISTIC – the science of firearms identification by

means of the ammunition fired through them.

DIVISION OF FORENSIC BALLISTICS:

a. ) FIELD NVESTIGATION – refers to the work of an investigation in

the field. It concerns mostly with the collection, marking, preservation,
packing and transmission of firearms evidences. It include the study of
class characteristics of firearms and bullets.

b. ) TECHNICAL EXAMINATION – refers to the examiners who

examine bullets/ or shells, whether fired from also whether or not
cartridges were loaded and ejected made by the suspected firearms
submitted. Reports are made by the examiners and testify in court
regarding their reports.

LEGAL DEFINITION OF FIREARM – “Firearms” or “Arms” are herein

used includes rifles, muskets, carbines, shotguns, revolvers, pistols
and all other deadly weapons from which a bullet, ball, shot, shell or
other missile may discharge off by means of gunpowder or other
explosives. The term also includes air rifles except such as being of
small caliber and limited range used as toys. The barrel of any firearm
shall be considered a complete firearm for all purposes hereof (Sec.
877, Revised Administrative Code see also Sec. 290 National Internal
Revenue Code).

TECHNICAL DEFINITION OF FIREARM – instrument used for the

propulsion of a projectile by means of expansive force of gases from
burning powder.

AMMUNITION (defined) – under the National Internal Revenue Code

the word “Ammunition” shall mean loaded shell for rifles, muskets,
carbines, shotguns, revolvers and pistols from which bullets, ball shot,
shell or other missile may be ammunition for air rifles.

PRINCIPLES OF IDENTIFICATION (BULLETS)

 1. No two barrels are microscopically identical as the surface of
their bores all possesses individual characteristics markings
of their own.

2. When a bullet is fired from rifled barrel, it becomes engraved

by the rifling and this engraving will vary in its minute details
with every individual bore. So it happens that the engraving
on the bullets fired from one barrel will be different from
another bullet fired from another barrel.

3. Every barrel leaves its thumb mark or fingerprint on very

single bullet fired through it just as every breech face leaves
its thumb mark on the base of every fired cartridges case.

PRINCIPLES OF IDENTIFICATION (SHELLS)

1. The breech face and striker of every single firearm leave

microscopical individualities of their own.

2. The firearm leaves its “fingerprints” or “thumb mark” on ever

cartridges case which it fires.

3. The whole principles of identification is based on the fact that

since the breech face of every weapon must be individually
distinct, the cartridges cases which it fires are imprinted with
this individuality. The imprints on all cartridges cases fired
from the same weapon are always the same; those on
cartridges cases fired from different weapons are different.

TYPES OF PROBLEMS: There are six (6) types of problems in

Forensic ballistic, namely:

Type 1- Given bullets, to determine the caliber and type of firearm

from which it was fired.

Type 2- Given a fired cartridge case, to determine the caliber and

type of firearm from which it was fired.

Type 3- Given a bullet and a suspected firearm, to determine

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

Type 4- Given a fired cartridge case and a suspected firearms, to

determine whether or not the cartridge case was fired from the
suspected firearm.

Type 5- Given two or more bullets, to determine whether or not

they were fired from only one firearm.

Type 6- Given two or more cartridges cases, to determine whether

or not they were fired from only one firearm.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS – Those which are determine prior to the

manufacturer of the firearm and are within control of man. These serve
as basis to identify a certain class or group of firearm.

a ) Caliber (Bore Diameter) e ) Width of grooves

b ) Number of lands f ) Direction of twist
c ) Number of grooves g ) Pitch of rifling
d ) Width of lands h ) Depth of grooves

INDIVIDUAL CHARACTERISTICS – Those which are determinable only

after the manufacture of the firearm. They are characteristics whose
existence is beyond the control of man and which have random
distribution. Their existence in a firearm is brought about by the tools
in their normal operation resulting through wear and tear, abuse,
militilations, corrosion, erosion and other fortuitous causes.

SMALL ARMS – firearms which propel projectiles of less than one inch
in diameter.

TYPES OF SMALL ARMS GENERAL:

a ) Smooth-bore – firearm which do not have rifling

Ex: shotguns, muskets

b ) Rifled-bore – firearm which contain rifling marks.

Ex: pistols, revolvers, rifles

SMALL ARMS AMMUNITION – small arms ammunition consists of

cartridges used in rifles, carbines, revolvers, pistols, sub-machineguns
and shell used in shotgun.

EQUIVALENT OF CALIBERS IN INCHES AND MILLIMETERS:

a ) Caliber .22 – About 5.59 mm.

b ) Caliber .25 – About 6.35 mm.
c ) Caliber .32 – About 7.65 mm.
d ) Caliber .30 – About 7.63 mm. (mouser)
e ) Caliber .38 – About 9 mm.
f ) Caliber .45 – About 11 mm.
g ) Caliber .30 – About 7.56 mm. (Luger)

RIFLING – consist of a number of helical grooves cut in the interior

surface of the bore. The rifling in firearms may be divided into the
following types:

a ) Small type – four grooves, right hand twist, grooves and lands of
equal width. (4R G-L)

b ) Smith and Wesson type – five grooves, right hand twist, grooves
and lands of equal width (5R G-L)

c ) Browning type – six grooves, right hand twist, narrow lands and
broader grooves (6R G2X)

d ) Colt type – six grooves, left hand twist, narrow lands and
broader grooves (6L G2X)

e ) Webley type – seven grooves, right hand twist, narrow lands and
broader grooves (7R G3X)

f ) Army type – four grooves, right hand twist, narrow lands and
broader grooves (4R G3X)

PURPOSE OF RIFLING – is to impact a motion of rotation to a bullet

during its passage inside the barrel in order to insure gyroscopic in the
flight, and so that it will travel nose-on towards the target.

PARTS OF CARTRIDGES

a) Bullet c ) Gunpowder
b ) Shell d ) Primer

TYPES OF CARTRIDGES:
a ) Pin-fire – the pin extends radically through the need of the
cartridges case into the primer.

b ) Rim-fire – the priming mixture is placed in the cavity formed in

the rim of the head of the cartridges case. The flame produced is in
direct communication with the powder charge. Used in the calibers .22,
.25 and .45 Derringer pistols.

c ) Center-fire – the primer sup is forced into the middle portion of

the head of the cartridges case and the priming mixture is exploded by
the impact of the firing pin. The flame is communicated to the powder
charge through the vents leading into the powder charge.

TYPES OF CENTER-FIRE CARTRIDGES:

a ) Rimmed type – the rim of the cartridges case is greater than the
diameter of the body of the cartridges case. Ex: Cal .38 and Cal .22

b ) Semi rimmed type – the rim of the cartridge case is slightly

greater than the diameter of the body of the cartridges case. Ex: Cal.
Super .38 auto, Pistol, .32 and .25

c ) Rimmed less type – the rim of the cartridges case is equal to the
diameter of the body of the cartridge case. Ex: Cal .45 Auto Pistol .30
carbine .223

PROCEDURE AT THE SCENE OF SHOOTING CASES

When an officer arrives upon the scene of a shooting case, he is

usually confronted by a condition of utter confusion. Neighbors
and onlookers are crowded around the place; relatives are
weeping and hysterical. In his career as an officer he will meet
with other situations which require as much as much poises tact
and common sense when he appears upon the scene of
homicide.

His first duty is to clear the premises of all persons so that an

intelligent investigation is not a matter of five or ten minutes,
but it requires that a definite routine shall be followed, if
mistakes are to be avoided. Things should be done, which may
appear wholly unnecessary at the time, but only to become
vitally important later. One can never forces the angels that will
develop and it is far better to do a hundred things unnecessarily
than to miss doing one that might mean the solution of the case.
The victim is dead and will stay dead. The officer may be
important by reporters or other to do things which he is not yet
ready to do – to give statement to the press or to draw
conclusion. In spite of all persuasions, he should bear in mind
that there is one purpose and one purpose only, and that is to
carry out an intelligent investigation.

Upon receiving a cell to the sense of a shooting case, the officer

should always take along with him a loose-leaf notebook and
fountain pen to make notes at the time and on the place and not
trust to his memory to reconstruct the situation at his
convenience.
When the officer is summoned on such an errand, his procedure
should follow a logical pattern. His observation should be put in
writing at the time of his investigation to keep for future
references and to produce in court if necessary. These steps are
as follows:

1. Note accurately in writing the time he received the call and by

whom it was sent.
2. Note accurately the time he arrive at the scene and the correct
address.

These first two items seem to be trivial, but it is amazing how

often in court they become of vital importance. It is not
uncommon that the officer is unable to fix the time accurately
within an hour to the satisfaction of a jury.

3. He should ascertain if the victim is dead, and if not non-medical

aid or remove the body to a hospital, otherwise the body should
not be disturbed.

4. Immediately clear the premises of all bystanders and under no

circumstances allow anyone to touch or remove anything in the
vicinity.

5. Use every effort and means to identify the deceased.

6. Does the body lie where the shooting took place? Often, before
the officer arrives the body will be moved by a bystander.
Frequently it will be picked up off the floor and put a bed or
taken from one room to another.

7. Take the names and addresses of all witnesses and take written
notes on the statement of as many persons as practicable.

8. Photograph the body from all angels to show its relationship to

doors, windows, furniture’s and other objects in the room.

9. Measure with a tape the exact distance of the body with relation
to the previously mentioned fixtures of the premises.

10. Note in writing the exact position where he found the body
whether he found it lying on the side, back or abdomen that
objects if any, were in the hands; reports what was the
conditions of the clothing and the amount of bleeding.

11. Examine the ceiling, floor and furniture for bullet holes,
blood stains, fired bullets, fired shell or shotgun wadding.

12. If there is a firearm at the scene, he should mote in

writing the following observations:

a. Exactly where found.

b. Type of weapon – automatic pistol, revolvers, rifle, or shot
gun, caliber or gauge designation.
c. Make and serial numbers and at that time he should mark
his initials on the butt or frame of the weapon for future
identification.
d. Other distinct features.

13. At the crime scene note down where the empty shells,
bullets and/ or firearms where found and make a diagram to
 illustrates the same, to show their relatives distances from the
body of the victims, Photograph if possible.

14. Be careful in handling a firearm found at the scene of the

crime for they may have latent fingerprint on the parts of the
firearm. Note down the type, kind, make caliber and serial
number. If there are fingerprints, submit said firearm to a
fingerprint technician but be sure that the firearm should not be
disturbed.
15. Mark the empty cartridges cases inside or near the mouth
by scratching the initials to the investigation or the initials of the
victims.

16. Mark the bullets at the give (or nose) by scratching the
investigation’s initials of the victim but definitely NOT at the
rifling marks (landmarks and groove marks).

17. Mark the empty shotgun shells with indelible ink at the
body.

18. The barrel of the firearms must be marked too.

19. After marking the empty shells and bullets, wrap them
separately and individually with soft tissue paper and note down
on the wrapper where each was found the time and date. The
purpose of wrapping them separately is to avoid being
scratched.

20. When a lead bullet is found at the scene of the crime the
body of the victim, the presumption is that a Revolver was used.

21. When a jacketed bullets is found at the scene of the crime

or in the body of the victim, it can be measured that a presumed
that a Automatic Pistol or Automatic Weapon was used.

22. When an empty shell is found at the scene of the crime,

the presumption is an Automatic Pistol or Weapon was used.

23. When one empty shell is found at the scene of the crime,
the presumption is a Revolver was used.

24. In the bore of a barrel, the depressed portions are the

grooves, and the raised are the lands.

25. On a fired bullet, it is the reverse. The landmarks are the

depressed portions, and the groove marks are the raised
portions.

26. To determine the real direction of the rifling twist in a

rifled barrel, peep thru the barrel, place a land or groove in
inclines to the right, then it has a right twist and if it inclines to
the left, then the rifling twist is left.

27. To determine the direction of the twist of a bullet, look on

the bullets in an elongated position. If the landmarks and groove
marks incline to the right, then it has a right twist and if it is
inclines to the left, then the rifling twist is right. If the inclination
is left then it is a left twist.

28. A fired bullet will acquire the class characteristics of the

bore of the barrel from which it was fired. So therefore if a bore
has class characteristics of .45 caliber, .6 lands, .6 grooves,
 right twist, groove wider than the land, each characteristics will
be marked on the bullet it fires.

29. It is the rifling of the bore that marked a fired bullet.

30. So if a fatal will have the same class characteristics as

the bore of the suspected gun, then it is possible that the bullets
could have been fired from the suspected gun.

31. To determine definitely if the bullet above was fired or not

from a suspected gun, then the case must be sent to a Forensic
Ballistics Experts who will conduct the proper examinations.

32. If two bullets do not have the same class characteristics,

definitely and conclusively they were NOT fired from the same
barrels.

33. If a fatal bullets does not have the same class

characteristics as the suspected firearm (barrel), then
conclusively the bullets was not fired from said barrel.

The following are suggestions for the investigator to observe in

testifying in courts of justice:

1. Be prepared.
2. Be calm and well poised.
3. Tell the truth, nothing but the truth.
4. Be courteous.
5. Be natural and sit straight forward.
6. Do not volunteer.
7. Keep your temper.
8. Listen to the question asked before giving your answer.
9. Speak loud enough to be heard.
10. Watch your personal appearance and conduct in the
courtroom.
11. Answer only what you are asked, no more.

DEFINITIONS OF TERMS

1. PERCUSSION – Action when the priming mixture of chemical

compound hit or struck by firing in would ignite.

2. JUXTAPOSITION – Two objects is evidence bullet and test

bullet are examined and compared under the bullet comparison
microscope. Includes also the examination of fired shells.

3. BALLO or BALLEIN – Greek words where Ballistics was derived

from which means “to throw”.

4. BALLISTA – The early Roman was Machine – a gigantic bow or

Catapult.

5. BALLISTICS – Science of the motion of projectiles.

6. FORUM – A Greek word of forensic which means debatable,

argumentation in relation to the court of justice.

7. FORENSIC BALLIASTICS- The study of firearms identification

by means of ammunition fired from them.

8. BALLISTICIAN – Person whose knowledge in identification is

accepted by the courts and other investigation agencies.
9. ABRASSION – (in the world) Scratches cause by using improper
cleaning materials, or by firing ammunition with bullets to which
abrasive material was adhering. Normal enlargement of the bore
and wearing away of lands due to the abrasive action of the
bullets.

10. BLACK POWDER – A mechanical mixture of charcoal, sulfur and

salt paper. Burned with considerable white smoke.

11. CARTRIDGE – is a complete unfired unit of bullets, cartridge

case, gunpowder and primer.

12. AMMUNITION (legal) – SEC. 877 of the RAC – shall mean

“loaded shell” for rifles, muskets, carbines, shotguns, revolvers
and pistols which a ball, bullet shot shell or other missile maybe
discharges by means of gunpowder or other explosive. The term
includes ammunition for a rifles as mentioned else where in the
code.

Ammunition (technical) – refers to a group of cartridge or to a single

unit cartridge, meaning a complete unfired unit consisting of bullets,
cartridge case, gun powder and primer. The term may also refer to a
single round.

13. BALL BULLETS – Bullets have soft lead course inside a jacket.

14. ROUND – one single complete cartridge.

15. BULLET ENERGY – the powder possessed by a moving bullet,

or in other words its ability to keep going meets an obstacle of
immense importance, for obviously, the more powder a bullet
has and the harder it is to stop the, more effective it can be as a
weapon.

16. BULLET RECOVERY BOX – consist of a wooden box, 12” x 12” x

96”, with the hinged to cover and with one end open. This long
box is filled with ordinary cotton and separated into section by
card board partitions.

17. CALIBER – is the diameter of the inner surface of the barrel that
is measured from land to land.

18. DUMDUM BULLET – “Dumdum” is an out molded and generally

misused term. It was an unofficial name first applied hallow
point bullets maid at the British arsenal at Dumdum, India.

19. EROSION – the mechanical wear and tear of the inner surface
of the gun barrel due to the mechanical abrasion or gliding.

20. CORROSION – the mechanical wear and tear of the inside of

the gun barrel due to rust formation or chemical action of the by
products of combustion after firing.

21. CANNELURE (bullet) – A knurled ring or serrated grooved

around the body of the bullet which contains wax for lubrication
in order to minimize friction during the passage of the bullet
inside the bore.

22. CALIPER – an instrument used for making measurement such as

bullet diameter and bore diameter.
23. CHILLED SHOT – shotgun pellets made from lead especially
hardened by the addition of a slight amount of antimony.

24. CLASS CHARACTERISTICS – are those that are determinable

even before the manufacture of the firearm. It is categorized into
caliber or gauge number of lands and grooves, width of land and
grooves, twist of rifling, patch of rifling and depth of grooves.

25. RANGE – the straight distance between muzzle and target.

26. POINT BLANK RANGE – popularity used to indicate the distance

the bullet will travel before it drops enough to require sight
adjustment. A shot fired so closed to the target that no sighting
is necessary for effective aiming.

27. MAXIMUM RANGE – the farthest distance that a projectile can

be propelled form a firearm.

28. GALLERY RANGE – the indoor targets range on properly

constructed indoor ranges, firing maybe conducted with center
fire pistols and revolvers at range of 25 years and 50 years.
Such installation are generally referred to as indoor ranges the
term gallery being applied usually only to short range 22 caliber
installation.

29. EXTREME RANGE – the greatest distance the bullet will travel
the cartridge is fire.

30. EFFECTIVE RANGE – the maximum distance at which a bullet

may reasonable be expected types of live target.

31. ACCURATE RANGE – the distance with in which he shoots has

control of his shots.

32. FOULING - the accumulation of a deposit wit in the bore of a

firearm caused by solid by products remaining a cartridge is
fired.

33. GUM COTTON – a very powerful explosive, like nitroglycerine

which is a chemical compound and not a mixture. This is formed
by the action of nitric and sulfuric acid on cotton or nay other
kind of cellulose.

34. LANDS – the raised portion between the grooves in the interior
surface of the gun barrel.

35. LAPPING – is the smoothening of the inner surface of the barrel.

36. MACHINE REST – a machine used for testing the accuracy of a

firearm.

37. KNOCKING POWER – power of the bullet which believer of a

very paralyzing blow that put the victim down and may then
recover if the wound inflicted upon is not fatal.

38. STOPPING POWER – power of the bullet which put the victim
out of the action instantly. So it should be understood that
stopping power is not necessarily the same thing as killing
power. However, stopping power depends very largely on the
location of the shot.
39. PRIMER – the complete assembly of cup, priming composition,
paper discs and anvil.

40. CARTOUCHE – French word of cartridge which means ROOL

OF PAPER.

41. CHARTA – Latin word for cartridges which means PAPER.

ORIGIN OF FIREARM

13 t h Century – development of firearms followed the invention of

gunpowder in Western Europe.

Berthold Schwartz – a German monk, and Roger Bacon, an English

monk are both credited with gunpowder invention.

-Most reference books credit Roger Bacon, English monk and

Scientist with the invention of gunpowder in 1248 and Berthold
Schwartz, with application of gunpowder to the propelling of a
missile in the early 1300’s. This powder was that we now call
“Black Powder”.

1245 – Gen Batu, The Tartar leader, used artillery in Liegnits when he
defeated the poles Hungarians, and Russians.

- It is also often stated that the gunpowder was first invented by

Chinese, were of gunpowder and its use as propellant long
before its advantages became recognized in Europe.

- It may also assume the Arabs with their advance knowledge of

chemistry at that time.

1247 – One of the earliest recorded uses of firearms in war far was
that of an attack on Seville, Spain.

1346 – Cannons used by King Edward II of England at Crecy.

1335 - Mohammad II of turkey in his famous conquest of

Constantinople.
-First firearms were inefficient, large and heavy and were not
capable of being carried by an individual soldier; hence, the
development of cannons preceded that of small arm weapons by
almost 50 years.

Man never satisfies to himself. He is always trying to improve himself

and his surrounding. He created some rule crude or primitive
weapons which were subsequently developed into sophisticated
firearms of modern times.

The following are the stages of development of man’s weapon:

1. Stones
2. Cubs Knives Spears and Darts
3. Sling shots to hurl objects
4. Bows and arrows
5. Cross – bows
6. Guns
7. Missiles
1. Col. Calvin H. Goddard M.D, OS Army – Father of Modern
Ballistics.

2. Horace Smith – Founded the great firm Smith and Weapon and
pioneered the making of breech – loading regales.

3. Daniel B. Wesson – An associate or partner of smith in revel

verb making.

4. John M. Browning – Wizard of modern firearms and pandered

breech loading single shot rifle.

5. John T. Thompson – pioneered the making of Thompson sub-

Machine.

6. David “Carbine” Williams – maker of first know carbine.

7. Alexander John Forsythe – Father of the percussion system.

8. Elisha King Root – Designed machinery of making colt firearms.

9. Eliphalet Remington – One of the first rifle makers.

10. John Malon Martin – Founder of martin Firearms Company.

11. James Wolfe Ripley – Stimulated the development of the model

1855 riffled – musket.

12. Samuel Colt – (1814-1862) – Produced the first practical

revolver.

13. Henry Derringer – He gave his name to a whole classes of

firearms.

14. John C. Garand – Designed the semi-automatic US Rifle, Cal. 30

15. Oliver F. Wichester – One of the earliest rifles and pistol

makers.

IMPORTANT DATES IN FIREARMS HISTORY

1313 ---Gunpowder as a propellant. Te age of gunpowder began with

outs first use as a propellant for a projective. Such use has been
recorded as early as 1313.

1350 ---Small arms, Gunpowder was first used only in cannons. It was
in the middle of the 14 t h century that portable hand, F.A was
introduced. These guns were ignited by a hand-held wire or lighted
match.

1498 ---Riffling, The first reference to rifled barrels appeared.

Although its important as an aid to accuracy was recognized by some,
it was many years after before rifling was generally used.

1575 ---Cartridges, Paper cartridges combining both powder and ball

were developed. This greatly speeded loading and reduced the
hazards of carrying loose powder.

1807 ---Percussion system, the discovery of Forsythe in 1807 the that

certain compounds detonated by a blow would be used to ignite the
charge in a firearm, for the basis for all later percussion and
cartridges development.

1835 ---Samuel Colt-patented the first practical revolvers in which the

cylinder was rotated by cooking the hammer.

1836 ---Pin fire. Cartridge. Developed by Le Faucheux in 1836, was

probably the first self really the first rim fire cartridge.

1858 ---Center fire Cartridge. The Morse Cartridge of 1858 marked the
beginning of the rapid development of the center fire cartridge.

1884 ---Automatic Machine Gun. Hiran Maxim built the first fully
Automatic gun, utilizing the recoil of the piece to load and fire the next
charge.

1885 ---Smokeless Powder. In Frnece, Veille, Developed the first

satisfactory smokeless powder, a new propellant which not only lacked
the smoke characteristics of black powder, but also more powerful.

1845 ---Rimfire Cartridge. In France, Florbert develop a “bullet”

“breech cap” which was in really the first rimterfire Cartridge.

I. TWO GENERAL CLASSES OF FIREARM (ACCORDING TO Gun

Barrel Internal Construction)

A. Smooth-bore firearms – fire arms the have no rifling (land and

grooves) inside their gun barrel.
Ex. Shot guns and muskets

B. Rifled-the bore Firearms – Firearms that have rifling inside their

gun barrel.
Ex. Pistols, Revolvers, Rifles

II. MAIN TYPES OF .As. (According to Caliber of Projectiles

Propelled)

A. Artillery – Those types of firearm that propel projectiles more

than one inch in diameter.
Ex. Cannons, Mortars, Bazookas

B. Small Arms – Propel Projectiles less than 1 inch in diameter,

Can be operated by one man.
Ex. Machines guns Shoulder arm and hand arms

III. TYPES OF FIREARMS According to Mechanical Construction

A. Single Shot F.A – type of firearms designed to fire only one shot
for every loading.
Ex. Pistols, Rifles, Shot guns – single shots

B. Repeating Arms – Fire several shots in one loading

Ex. Rifles, Shot guns

C. Bolt Action Type – Reloading is done by manipulation of the

bolt.
Ex. Rifles, Shot guns, Machine guns

D. Automatic Loading Type –After the first shot is fired, automatic

loading or feeding of the chamber takes place.
Ex. Rifles, Shot guns
 E. Slide Action Type (Trombone) –Loading takes place by back and
forth manipulation of the under forearm of the gun.
Ex. Rifles, Shot guns

F. Lever Type (Break Type) –Loading takes place by lever action of

the Firearm.
Ex. Rifles, Shot guns

IV.TYPES OF FIREARMS according to USE

A. Military Firearms
Ex. 1. Pistols 3. Rifles
2. Revolvers 4. Machine Guns

B. Pocket and Home Defense F.A

Ex. 1. Pistols 3. Rifles
2. Revolvers

IV. UNUSUAL OR MISCELLENEOUS TYPE

--Those types of fire arm that is unique in mechanism and

construction

1. Paltik Pistols
2. Paltik Revolvers
3. PaltikRifles
4. Paltik Shot Guns

THE THREE MAIN PARTS

REVOLVERS – Cal .38 PISTOL –Cal .45

1. Barrel assembly 1. Barrel Assembly

2. Cylinder Assembly 2. Slide Assembly
3. Frame or Receiver 3. Frame or Receiver

RIFLE – Cal .30 SHOT GUN – Gauge

12

1. Barrel Assembly 1. Barrel Assembly

2. Magazine Assembly 2. Magazine
Assembly
3. Stock Group 3. Stock Group

DETAILED PARTS

REVOLVER .38 AUTOMATIC PISTOL .45

1. Barrel Assembly 1. Barrel Assembly

a. Breech end a. Breech end
b. Muzzle end b. Muzzle end
c. Bore c. Bore
d. Rifling (lands and grooves) d. Rifling (land grooves)
e. Chamber
f. Interlocking ribs
g. Barrel lug
h. Barrel link
i. Barrel link pin
j. Barrel lead (lead)
2. Cylinder Assembly 2. Slide Assembly
a. Chambers a. Front sight
b. Extractor b. Top strap
c. Extractor rod c. Ejection port
d. Racket d. Rear sight
e. Cylinder groove e. Breech block
f. Yoke f. Breech Face
g. Cylinder locking Notches g. Extractor
h. Firing pin
i. Firing pin top
j. Serrations
k. Trade mark
l. Model
m. Interlocking lugs

3. Frame or Receiver 3. Frame or Receiver

a. Top strap a. Ejector
b. Rear sight b. Hammer
c. Breech Face c. Spur
d. Hammer d. Grip safety
e. Spur e. Thumb safety
f. Thumb latch f. Disconnector
g. Side plate g. Back strap
h. Back h. Butt
i. Firing pin i. Lanyard loop
j. Butt j. Front strap
k. Front strap k. Magazine well
l. Trigger guard l. Right side stock
m. Trigger m. Left side stock
n. Cylinder lock n. Trigger
o. Right side stock o. Trigger guard
p. Left side stock p. Model
q. Trade mark (monogram) q. Plunger
r. Serial number r. Serial number

The automatic Pistol-Caliber .45 besides having the main parts

and detailed it has also the so called auxiliary parts (accessories)
which must all be removed before disassembly of the weapon can be
accomplished.

1. Recoil Plug 4. Recoil Spring

2. Barrel Bushing 5. Recoil Spring
3. Slide stop pin

ADVANTAGE OF REVOLVER

1. It is an old standard weapon, every one is used to it, and almost

every one knows something about to handle it.

2. The revolver is safer for inexperienced people to handle and

carry then an automatic pistol.

3. The mechanism of a revolver allows the trigger pull to be better

then that of the average automatic weapon.

4. A misfire does not put revolvers out of action.

5. It will handle satisfactorily old or new or partly deteriorated

ammunition which gives a reduced velocity that would jam an
average automatic pistols.
 DISADVANTAGES OF A REVOLVER

1. It is more bulky to carry than that of an automatic pistol.

2. Its grip on handle is generally not as good as that of pistol.

3. It is hard to clean after firing.

4. It is slower to load.

5. It is harder to replace worn out or broken parts, it is factory job.

6. Worn out or poorly made weapon is subject to variable accuracy

due to improper up of cylinder.

ADVANTAGES OF AN AUTOMATIC PISTOL

1. It as a better grip fits the hand points naturally.

2. It is more compact for the same fire power.

3. It is easier to load than a revolver.

4. In case of worn or corroded barrel a new one can be put in at

little expense without sending the gun to the factory.

5. It gives a greater number of shots than revolvers.

6. It is easier to clean than revolvers.

7. It gives greater fire power and greater ease of firing.

8. There is no gas leakage in its operation.

DISADVANTAGES OF AN AUTOMATIC PISTOL

1. Ammunition must be prefect. Old and deteriorated ammunition

will cause a jam.

2. A misfire stops the functioning of the gun.

3. When the gun is kept loaded for a long period of time, the
magazine spring is under tension and may deteriorate and cause
trouble.

4. The automatic pistol can not use blank or reduced loads.

5. It has a poor trigger pull than the revolver.

6. The magazines require a jacketed bullet which is not as good for

practical use as that of lead bullet.

7. The automatic pistol is more dangerous to handle and fire

especially for inexperienced people due to the fact that after one
shot it is always cooked and loaded.

8. It is not adapted to reloading. It throws away empty shell at

each shot.

9. Its mechanical action ejects empty shell towards the face at

each shot.
10. Its throws out empty shells on the ground to remain as evidence.

11. It can not be fired from the pocket without jamming.

EVERY POLICE OFFICER should frequently check his revolvers for:

1. Obstruction in the barrel.

2. Bulging or swollen barrel.

3. Firing pin protrusion through recoil plate when trigger is in

rearward position.

4. On older revolvers, the imprint of the primer on the recoil plate

in relation to the firing pin hole (to insure blow in center of the
primer).

5. Evidence of “spitting lead” around breech of barrel for

complaints of fellow shooters in the firing line.

6. Tightness of all side plate screws.

7. Tightness of ejector if the weapon is a Smith and Wesson

revolvers.

8. Cleanliness and projective film of oil to prevent rust.

NOMENCLATURE AND FUNCTION

BARREL – initiates the path of the bullet.

FRAME – Houses the internal parts.

YOKE – Connecting pivot between the frame and cylinder.

EXTRACTOR – Pulls the empty shells from the cylinder

simultaneously.
EXTRACTOR ROAD – Activates the extractor and is a locking device.

CENTER PIN – Serves as a looking device for the cylinder.

CENTER PIN SRPING – Holes the center pin in a locked position.

SIDE PLATES – Provides access to the internal parts.

SIDE PLATE SCREW – Hold the side plate and yoke in place.

HAMMER BLOCK – Safety device that prevents hammer blow to

primer.

DOUBLE ACTION SEAR – Built into the weapon to allow double action
fire.

HAMMER – Strikes the blow that initiates or ignites primer.

BOLT – Disengage center prim to allow opening of cylinder and blocks

hammer.

THUMBLATCH – Actuates bolt to release the cylinder.

HAND (pawl) – Rotates the cylinder when the hammer is cocked.

CYLINDER STOP – Stops and holds the cylinder alignment for firing.

TRIGGER – Actuates the parts necessary to fire the weapon.

TRIGGER GUARD – Guards the trigger from unnecessary action to

avoid accidental firing.

REBOUND SLIDE – Returns trigger, actuates hammer block and locks

hammer.

TRIGGER SPRING – Provides energy for return movement or rebound

slide.

TRIGGER LEVEL – Contacts rebound slide to return trigger forward.

MAIN SPRING – Provides energy to the hammer to activate firing

mechanism.

STRAIN SCREW – Controls tension of the mainspring.

TRIGGER STOP – Prevents excessive rearward movement after

hammer the release.

RACKET – Helps in the withdrawal of the Cartridges or shells from the

chambers of the cylinder.

CYLINDER NOTCH – It helps hold the cylinder in place and aligned

ready for firing.

NOMENCLATURE OF CARTRIDGE

1. Bullet – A projectile propelled from a firearm by means of

explosive force of gases coming from burning powder.

2. Cartridge Case – A tubular metallic container for the gunpowder

sometimes called shell.

3. Gun Powder – Is the propellant which when ignited by the primer

flash is converted to gas under high pressure and propels the
bullet or shot charge through the barrel and on the target.

4. Primer – The metal cap containing the highly sensitive priming

mixture of chemical compound which when hit or struck by the
firing pin would ignite, such action is called “PERCUSSION”.

CLASSIFICATION OF CARTRIDGE

A. According to the type of firearms asked

1. Revolver cartridges Used in revolver

2. Pistol cartridges Used automatic pistol
3. Rifles cartridges Used in rifles
4. Shot Cartridges Used in shot gun

B. According to location of primer

1. Pin fire cartridges no longer used (absolute)

2. Rim fire – the primer is located at the rim or the base

portion
-- Use in cal .22, pistol, revolvers and rifles
 3. Canter fire – Priming powder is located at the center
-- Economical can be repealed

a. Rimmed type – Used in revolvers cal .38 and .35

b. Semi-Rimmed – Used in super .38
c. Rimless – Used in 45 pistols, Thompson, grease gun,
submachine gun

A. TYPICAL RIMMED FIRE CARTRIDGES

A – Case
B – Priming mixture
C – Propellant powder/ gun powder
D – Bullet
E – Sensitive Area
B. According to Caliber

1. cal .22 – used in revolvers, pistols and rifles

2. cal .25 – used in pistols and rifles
3. cal .30 – used in carbine and other rifles
4. cal .32 – used in automatic pistols and revolvers
5. cal .380 – used in pistols
6. cal .38 – used in revolvers
7. cal .357 – used in .357 revolvers (magnum)
8. cal .44 – used in magnum revolvers
9. cal .44 – used in automatic pistols
10. cal .50 – used in cal .50 machine gun (not use in
crimes)

Cal .30 bullet is replaceable by the bullet of cal .44

Shot gun Shell

Single unit of ammo. for shot gun

It is usually larger used in smooth bores capable withstanding for
less pressure.
Paper Tube
Metal base
Base rod
Battery cap
Priming cap
Anvil
Priming Powder
Propellant
Over powder wad
Filler wad
Shot
Closing wad

45-70 Cartridge
Contains 70 grains of gunpowder

Cartridge Life – a well made cartridges have a life of 10 years some

have only 5 -6 years.
45 years or more – depend upon the surrounding of the cartridge and
climate, damp, warn, condition.

Bullet / slugs

Is a metallic or non-metallic cylindrical projectile propelled from

a firearm by means of expansive gases coming from burning gun
powder.
 Slugs – laymen’s term – use in court during proceedings

Projectiles propelled from a shot gun are termed shots or

pellets.

Iced Bullet – Super cooled water made as a projectile of solidified

bullets have a life of 3 minutes maximum

History – Bullet derive from a French word Boulette which means small
ball
In Government parlance a cartridges containing bullet is called
Ball-Bullet

Ball – Comes from terminology of bullet

-- The core of the slugs is an alloy of lead, antimony and
sometimes tin.

Armor piercing bullet a core of tungsten chrome steel with continues to

penetrate armor cars after the jackets and the filler have been striped
away by contract with the resistance surface.

CLASSIFICATION

A. According to mechanical construction

1. Lead Bullet – Those which are made of lead alloys of this mental –
lead, tin, antonym—which is slightly harder than pure lead.

2. Jacketed Bullets – Those which core of lead covered by jacket of

harder metal
-- The primary function of the “jacket” in a bullet is to prevent
adherent of metal (lead) to the inside of the gun barrel.

B. According to shape

Flat Base Boat Tailed Square Base Hollow Base

C. According to type/ common bullet type

Solid Lead Solid Hollow point Solid Paper Metal Case point
Patched

Soft Metal case Hollow point Metal point rifled

slug

Metal point Rifled Gaypely Quadraximun Slug

Bullet Bullet

KEY HOLE SHOT – The tumbling of a bullet in its flight and hitting the
target sideways as a results of spinning on its axis. (due to destroyed
barrel or loose barrel)

In generally .0002 sec. explosion of a bullet by means of a tremendous

explosion of burning gases.

RESISTANCE of a .38 is 15,000 to 45,000 m/pound

CONTACT WOUND – 4,8 inches – distance of the fire with gunpowder
without the burning of the tissue means firer is more than 24 inches

Copper nickel ----- 60%

----- 40%

Gliding metal ------ 90%

 ----- 10%
8-4 inches 1-3 inches

Gun powder Gun

Powder
Tattooing Priming powder
Ta powder

PURPOSE OF BULLETS

.38 Bullet --- disability purpose – used by police officers to get

confession
.45 Bullet --- knocking subdue purpose
M16 --- Fatal effect
Garand and Carbine --- penetration, long range shooting
.45 Bullet --- Knowing Subdue Purposes

Rifled Bullets (5 Principal Parts)

1. Ball Bullets
2. Armored Piercing
3. Tracer Bullet
4. Incendiary
5. Explosive (fragmentation)

B. All Bullets --- have soft lead cores inside a jacket and are used
against personnel only.

Armored Piercing --- have hardened steel cores and are a fired against
vehicle and other armored target is general.

Tracer Bullets --- contains a compound at the base usually similar

barium nitrates which is set on fire when the bullet is projected.
--- The flash of the smoke from the burning permits the light of
the bullet to be seen

In Cendiary --- contains a mixture of such phosphorous and other

materials that can be set on fire by impact.
---They are used against target tat will readily burn such as air
crafts or gasoline depot.

Explosive (Fragmentary) --- contains a high changed explosive,

because of their small size it is difficult to make a fuse that will work
reliably in small size ammunition.
For the reason the use of high explosive bullets is usually limited to 20
mm. and above.

Pointed Bullet --- is more effective ballistically than the round ball of
the same weight

Soft Point or Mushroom Bullet --- will expand on striking an object and
there for produce much more serious check, and have corresponding
greater stopping power.

Hollow Point Bullet --- a bullet with a cavity in the nose design to
increase the expansion when it hits the forget.

Metal Cased Bullet --- colonially use to indicate either a metal patched
or full patched bullet.
Metal patched --- any metal patched bullet
Bullet having soft steal jacket often clog or plated with gilding
metal to prevent rusting and reduce frictional resistance in the bore.

CARTRIDGES CASES/ SHELL

-- Is a tabular metallic or non-metallic container which old together the

bullet, gunpowder and primer.
-- The cartridge case is the portion of the cartridges that is
automatically ejected from the automatic firearm during firing and this
remains at the scene of the crime. This is a firearm evidence than can
help trace particular firearms use.

FUNCTION:

1. It serves as a means whereby the bullet, gunpowder and primer

are assembled into a unit.
2. It serves as a waster proof contained for gunpowder.
3. It prevents the escape of the gases to the rear as the sidewalls
of the cartridges cases are forced against the walls of the
chamber by the pressure. It serves as the “gas seal” at the
breech end of the barrel.

PARTS

1. RIM – Serve the purpose of limiting the forward travel of the

cartridges into their chambers and this also limit the clearance.
If any between the heads and the supporting surface of the bolt
or breech block.

2. PRIMER POCKET – Performs tipple function:

a. Holding primer securely in control position
b. Providing or means to prevent the escape of jobs to the
rear of the cartridges.
c. Providing a solid support from primer anvil without which
the latter could not be fired.

3. VENTS OR FLASH HOLE – Is the hole in the web or bottom of

the primer pocket thought which the primer “flash” impart
ignition to the primer charges.
The “opening” or “canal” that connects the priming mixture with
the gunpowder.

4. THE HEAD – THE BODY – constitute the “cork” that plugs the
breech of the barrel against the escape of the gas.

5. NECK – That part of the cartridges case that is occupied by the

bullet.

6. CANNELURES – are the separate grooves that are sometimes

found “rolled” into the neck and bodies of the cases at the
location of the bullets bases to prevent the bullet from being
pushed back or loosened.

7. CRIMP – Is that part of the mouth of the cases tat is turned in

upon the bullet.
a. if aid in holding the bullet in place
b. if after resistance to the movement of the bullet out of the
neck which effects the burning of the powder.

8. BASE – The portion of case which contains:

a. The primer which contains the priming mixture
 b. The shell head which contains the head stamp caliber and
the year of manufacture.

9. SHOULDER – That portion which support the neck.

10. EXTRACTION GROOVE – The circular grooves near the

base of the case of shell designed for automatic withdrawal of
the case after each firing.

mouth
neck
shoulder
shell cannelure
body
gun powder
vent
extracting grooves
rim
primer
shell head

CLASSIFICATION ACCORDING TO CASE SHAPE (3 GEN.

SHAPES)

A. --- straight
--- all rim fire shell and most center fire
revolver cartridges that are new manufactured
have straight cases.

B. --- Tampered
--- is very rare but presently being used in the
so called “magnum jet” cartridges cal .22

C. --- Bottle neck

--- most modern center fire rifle cartridges
case are of bottle neck types. Since this case
form provided the greatest powder capacity
commensurate with over all case length.

STANDARD CARTRIDGES HEAD FORMS ARE:

A. RIMMED – designed to use in revolvers, the diameter of the

base of the cartridges is very much bigger than the diameter of
the body of the cartridges.
-- straight type cartridges
-- found in cal .30 (carbine) .32, .38 and .35

B. SEMI-RIMMED – designed to be used in automatic weapons like

pistols and sub-inactive gums such as super .38 uz1, 9mm.
-- normally found at the crime scene because they
are automatically ejected for easy firing of the
firearm.

C. RIMLESS – case within the diameter of the body of the

cartridges is the same as the diameter of the cartridges case.
-- Use in automatic pistols such as cal .45 thompson Sub-
machine gun and cal .45 grease gun.
-- Automatically ejected like semi-rimmed type.

PRIMERS
 -- Is that portions of the cartridge which consist of the brass
gilding metal-cup containing a highly sensitive mixture of chemical
compound, which when struck by the firing pin would detonate or
ignite. Such action is called Percussion.
-- Use for igniting the gunpowder, a blow from the firing pin on
the primer cup compresses the priming mixture and this causes the
composition to detonate on explodes. This detonating on explosion
produces “flame” which passes through the “event” on “flash hole” in
the cartridges case and this ignites the gunpowder.

ORIGIN
-- 1807 – Alexander John Forsyth
-- First one to conceive the idea of using detonating compounds
for igniting powder charges in small arms by percussion.
-- A scotch Presbytorian minister chemist and hunter.
-- A well known authority on firearms
-- First successful priming mixture was one composed of
Potassium chlorate, charcoal and sulfur in powder form.

PARTS: In a typical center fire cartridges have four parts

1. PRIMER CUP – container of the priming mixture made up of

brass, gliding metal or copper.

2. PRIMING MIXTURE – highly sensitive chemical mixture

contained in the primer cups.

3. ANVIL – that portion of the primer against which the priming

mixture is crushed by a blow from the firing pin. To provide the
resistance necessary to fire the priming mixture.

4. DISC – piece of small paper on disc of the pin, foil which is

pressed over the priming mixture.

Two fold purposes

a. to help hold the priming mixture in place

b. to exclude moisture

1. primer cup 2. priming mixture 3. anvil 4. disc

PRIMING COMPOUNDS: Classes

1. Corrosive primers – e.g Potassium chlorate – if ignited produce

potassium chloride, draws moisture from the air and this
moisture speeds the rusting and corrosion in gun barrel.
Advances in chemistry produce new composition which
potassium chlorate has been eliminated.

2. Non-corrosive – every manufacture has his own formula mixture

of the mercuric primers of 25 years ago.
Ingredients:

- Potassium chlorate (initiator and fuel 45%)

- Antimony Sulfide (elements and fuel 23%)
- Fulminate way came the standard mixture by Frankford
Arsenal known as FH-24 had the following composition:

- sulfur - 21.97%
- Potassium chlorate - 47.20%
- Antimony Sulfide - 30.33%
 - German have their own composition barium nitrate in the
place of Potassium chlorate together with some Picric
Acid to strengthen mixture.
- This formula: Fulmirate of mercury - 39%
Barrium nitrate - 41%
Antimony Sulfide - 9%
Picric Acid - 5%
Ground glass - 6%
- Swiss Army has been using non-corrosive primer since
about 1911. This was base on the formula of a Swiss
inventor named ZIEGLER: Swiss formula.

Fulmirate of mercury -40%

Barrium nitrate -25%
Antimony sulfide -25%
Barrium carbonate - 8%
Ground glass - 4%

GUN POWDER

Is the propellant which when ignited by the primer flash is

converted to gas under high pressure and this propels the bullet or
shot changes through the barrel and on the target.

Class or Composition:

1. BLACK Powder – although if features loss important still

manufactured by the Europeans. In recent time has completely
superseded by smokeless powder.

Ingredients:
Potassium nitrate -75%
Sulfur -10%
Charcoal -15%

Produces grayish smoke and considerable residue is left in the

barrel.
Burns with reasonable great rapidity when ignited.
Block Powder – relies for its explosive properties on 3 quantities
which are typical of all explosives

FIRST – when ignited it will burn by it self without aid from the
outside air.
SECOND – in burning, it gives off a large amount of gas.
THIRD – a considerable amount of heat is evolved.

2. SMOKELESS POWDER – terms smokeless powder is misnomer

for the are neither powder nor they are smokeless. The letters
terms term being applied to them only because they do not give off
huge cloud of white smoke like the black powder.

Two main Classes of smokeless powder

1. SINGLE – BASE PROPELLANT OR NITROCELLULOSE

-- contains only the pure nitroglycerine gelatoriged with
nitrocellulose
2. DOUBLE – BASE PROPELLANT
-- composed of nitrocellulose and nitroglycerine as
their major ingredients according by one more ingredients
such as:
a. Centralize
 b. Vaseline Phthalate esters
c. Inorganic salt

Purpose of minor ingredients

a: Insure stability
b. Reduce flash or flame temperature (or both)
Double – base Propellant are gray green color and the grains are
similar in size and shape to the single – base propellants.
Almost all smokeless powder grains have perfectly definite shape
such as

a. small squares d. strips

b. disc e. pellets
c. flakes f. perforated cylindrical grains

The powder is made in different shapes to obtain certain types of

burning.

SCIENTIFIC EQUIPMENTS GENERALLY USED IN FIREARMS

IDENTIFICATION

1. Bullet Comparison Microscope

A piece of optical equipment frequently employed by firearms
identification expert is the bullet comparison microscope, with
camera attachment.

2. Stereoscopic Microscope
No camera attachment and no photomicrograph can be taken for
court tampered serial number.

3. Shadowgraph
A series of microscopic lenses of different magnification use to
determine class characteristics of fired bullets and shells.
Also for orientation purposes.
It can take phomigrograph of the observations and comparisons
made in the circulation ground glass.

4. CD-6 Comparison Projector

Very much similar with the bullet comparison microscope
No eyestrain because the magnified image appears on the large
screen. What can be seen in the screen can be photographed by
any kind of camera.

5. Bullet Recovery Box

Long box (12” x 12” x 96”) filled with ordinary cotton and
separated into sections by and board partitions.

6. Helixometer
Used in measuring “pitch of rifling”. Distance traveled by the
bullet in one complete rotation.

7. Micrometer
Similar in use as caliper

8. Caliper
Use for making measurements such as bullet diameter barrel
length.

9. Analytical or torsion balance

Use to determine weights of bullets and pellets for possible
determination of type, caliber and make from which fired.
 10. On scope
Small instrument sometimes used in examining the internal
surface of the gun barrel in determining the irregularities inside
the bore of the gun barrel. It has a tiny lamp the terminal portion
and is inserted inside the bore for internal examinations.

11. Taper Gauge

Use primarily for determining bore diameter.

12. Electrical Gun Maker

Used in the laboratory for making fired bullets fired shells and
firearms submitted for examination.

TECHNIQUES OF EXAMINATION

PHYSICAL: Evidence bullets, cartridges cases and suspected firearms

once submitted by the requesting party will be physically examined to
determine its markings or initials will be physically examined to
determine its markings or initials made by the investigators for
identification purposes.

TEST FIRING: The firearms is test fired from a bullet recovery box
in order to obtain test bullets and test cartridges cases for comparison
with evidence bullets and cartridge cases, but before firing the
cartridge will be marked at the side of the case on the nose portion of
the bullet with letter T (test) followed (eg T-77-1 to T-77-3) in their
order of firing to distinguish the number 1 test from 2 and 3. After the
recovery of the test bullets and test cartridges cases, they will be
compared with the evidenced bullet and evidence cartridges cases,
under the bullet comparison microscope to determine whether or not
they have the congruency of striations or the same individual
characteristics.

Under the bullet comparison microscope, the two fired bullets or fired
shells are examine in a JUXTAPOSITION - That is, the two object-
evidence and the test bullet are examined and compared:

1. at the same time

2. at the same place or level
3. at the same direction
4. at the same magnification
5. at the same image

For conclusiveness of findings, there shall be at least 3 test bullets

that should be compared
First 1 for Comparison/ preliminary
Second 1 for confirmation
Third 1 for conclusion

PERIPHERY
These are the sides of the bullet are in contact with the inner
surface of the barrel.

STRIATIONS
A individual characteristics of the cartridges found at the base
portion and of the side of the bullet come in contact with the inner
surface of the barrel.

TEST BULLETS
Are those recovered from bullet recovery box for a comparison
with the evidenced bullets under the bullet comparison microscope.
A fired or evidenced bullets or cartridges cases are those recovered
from the crime scene.

Interconnected or intermarriages 8 or more striations can be accepted

by the court.

3 Points of basic positive identification the markings must be:

1. Prominent
2. Significant; and are
3. Consistent

Means of –test firing, other than the recovery box.

1. Water tank 5. Darak

2. Saw dust with oil 6. Banana trunk
3. Sand 7. Rubber trips
4. Waste threads

PRINCIPLES IN FIREARMS IDENTIFICATION

Two things mark by one and same tool will bear the same markings,
likewise two or more things mark by different tools will have the same
markings.

DEFINITIONS

PISTOL – a hand firearm usually applied to simple sot and automatic

loading.

REVOLVER – a hand firearm in which a rotating cylinder successively

-- places cartridges into position for firing.

SHOTGUN – a smooth-bore weapon designed to shoot a number of

lead pellets in one charge.

RIFLE – a type of weapon designed to be fired from the shoulder.

CARTRIDGE – term used to describe a complete unfired unit

consisting of the bullets, primer cartridges case and powder charge.

BULLET – is a projectile propelled from a charge.

AUTOMATIC – a weapon is automatic when its mechanism is so

arranged that it will fire continuously while the trigger is depressed.

DOUBLE ACTION – weapon in which pressure upon the trigger both

cocks and release the hammer.

SINGLE ACTION – weapon in which pressure upon the trigger release

the hammer that must be manually cocked.

CALIBER – term used to indicate the bore diameter which is measured

between two opposite lands.

GAUGE or GAGE – as applied to shotguns, it indicates that the bore

diameter is equal to the diameter of a lead ball whose weight in
pounds is equal to the reciprocal gauge index.
Ex. bore diameter of a lead ball weighing 1/12 of a pound.
BORE – the cylindrical passage of the barrel through which the
projectile travels.

PITCH OF RIFLING – the distance that the rifling advances to make

one complete turn.

EXPERT – as used in, court includes all witnesses whose opinions are
admitted on grounds of specialized knowledge, training and
experience.

BREECHBLOCK – the steel block which closes the rear of the bore
against the force of charge or that part in the breech mechanism that
locks the action against the firing of the cartridges; the face of this
block is known as the breech face.

CHAMBER – that part of the weapon in which the cartridge is placed

into position for firing.

EJECTOR – that mechanism in a firearm which causes the empty shell

or ammunition to be thrown out from the gun.

EXTRACTOR – that mechanism in a firearm by which the empty shell

or ammunition is withdrawn from the chamber.

GROOVES – the depressed channels cut in the interior of a rifled gun

barrel.

LANDS – that raised portion between the grooves inside a rifled gun
barrel.

VELOCITY – is the forward speed at which the bullet travels measured

in feet per second.

PRESSURE – the outward thrust of the burning powder gases against

the breechblock, chamber and bore normally measured one inch from
the breech and recorded in pounds per square inch.
Ex. 14,000 to 15,000 pounds per square inch for caliber .45 automatic
pistol.

RANGE – the straight distance between the muzzle of the gun and the
target.

PENETRATION – the depth to which a projectile sinks in the tar get.

Ex. 6 inches at 15 yards in white pinewood.

TRAJECTORY – in the actual pattern or curved path of the bullets in

flight.

FIRING PIN – that part of that firearm which strikes the primer causing
the firing of the cartridge.

HAMMER – that part of the firearm controlled by the trigger which

causes the firing pin to strike the primer striking the gun.

CORROSION – the chemical eating away of the bore of an arm due to

rusting or the action of salts deposited from they cap or powder.

EROSION – mechanical wear and tear of the bore of an arm due to

sliding friction when the bullet passes through it.

BERDAN PRIMER – a primer with two flash holes or vents.

BOXER PRIMER – a primer with only one flash hole or vents.

RIM – the projection edge of the base or head of a certain cartridge.

OGIVE – is the technical name of the cylindrical head critic of the

bullets.

BREECH end – the rear end of the bore of an arm where the cartridges
is inserted.