Examination Challenges

Colt .357 Magnum

Courtesy of Forensic Technology Inc.

The three types of fired cartridge case and shotshell case comparisons can be complicated by a number of practical challenges.

These challenges may be encountered in examination of the following:

Cartridges
- Inappropriate interchangeability
Cartridge cases
- Reloading toolmarks
- Manufacture/assembly factors
Firearms
- Use of adapters
- Substitution of parts
- Modifications
- Manufacturer-related factors