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This program is designed for sequential progression from Module 1 through Module 14. However, this order may be customized by the trainer based on student requirements and individual laboratory guidelines. For example, some laboratories may prefer to complete Module 13 (Toolmark Identification) first as this is the general umbrella under which firearm examination is based.

For those who choose to customize the order, it is recommended that the following be considered when developing a training plan:

All trainers and trainees should begin with Module 1.
Module 2 may be completed at any time.
Modules 3, 4, and 5 should be completed sequentially before proceeding.
Modules 6 and 7 are prerequisites to Modules 8 – 13.
Module 10 is a prerequisite to Module 11.

The following shows suggested training program sequences for new examiners, examiners specializing in gunshot residue, and those interested in continuing education or newly hired experienced examiners.

Click here to view suggested customized training program sequences

The core content of the Firearm Examiner Training Program is as follows:
Module	Title	Topics	Notes
1	Introduction to the Firearm Examiner Training Program	Using the training program Course content Trainee roles and expectations Trainer roles and expectations Introduction to e-Learning
2	History of Firearms Identification	Important aspects of the history of firearms identification
3	Propellants, Firearms, and Ammunition Development	Evolution of propellants Evolution of firearms Ammunition	Modules 3, 4, and 5 should be completed sequentially. Successful completion required by all trainees.
4	Modern Firearms Manufacture	Metal forming operations Fine forming operations Rifled barrels Parts fabrication Cosmetic finish Assembly Final steps
5	Small Arms Ammunition	Components Projectiles Cartridge case manufacture Primer manufacture Assembly Centerfire ammunition Ballistic testing Shotshell assembly
6	Evidence Handling Procedures	Types of evidence Associative evidence The crime scene Evidence submission Laboratory evidence handling Case tracking within the laboratory Firearm and toolmark examination considerations	Modules 6 and 7 are prerequisites to Modules 8 - 13.
7	Equipment and Instrumentation	Measuring equipment Microscope equipment Digital support equipment Firing facilities	Modules 6 and 7 are prerequisites to Modules 8 - 13.
8	Examination of Firearms	Cycle of fire Handguns Long guns Examination Procedures	Modules 6 and 7 are prerequisites to this module.
9	Cartridge and Shotshell Examination	Identification process Fired case examination Unfired ammunition Case linkage	Modules 6 and 7 are prerequisites to this module.
10	Characterization and Evaluation of Fired Projectiles	Recovered bullets and projectiles Physical features of bullets Manufacturer determination General rifling characteristics Microscopic marks Fired shotshell components Examination of fired shotshell components	Modules 6 and 7 are prerequisites to this module. Module 10 is a prerequisite to Module 11.
11	Bullet Comparison and Identification	Criteria for identification Conclusions Bullet comparison Case linkage Casting	Modules 6 and 7 are prerequisites to this module. Module 10 is a prerequisite to this module.
12	Gunshot Residue/Distance Determination	Microscopic examination Chemical testing Distance determination	Modules 6 and 7 are prerequisites to this module.
13	Toolmark Identification	Tool manufacture Toolmark identification Protocols	Modules 6 and 7 are prerequisites to this module.
14	Communicating Results	Communication skills Report writing Courtroom testimony

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