- 01: Introduction
- 02: History
- 03: Propellants, Firearms, and Ammunition Development
- 04: Modern Firearms Manufacture
- 05: Small Arms Ammunition
- 06: Evidence Handling Procedures
- 07: Equipment and Instrumentation
- 08: Examination of Firearms
- 09: Cartridge and Shotshell Examination
- 10: Characterization and Evaluation of Fired Projectiles
- 11: Bullet Comparison and Identification
- 12: Gunshot Residue and Distance Determination
- 13: Toolmark Identification
- 14: Communicating Results
- Resources
Introduction
Home > Bullet Comparison and Identification > Introduction
The comparison and identification of fired bullets as having been fired from a particular firearm is the most important type of examination in the field of forensic firearms. This technique is performed when two bullets bear consistent general rifling characteristics (GRCs). This module introduces the student to the basic techniques used to perform bullet comparisons at the microscopic level.
In summary, this module addresses the essential request made of a firearm examiner: “Was this bullet fired by this firearm?”, and provides the basis for answering it to the extent allowed by the physical evidence.
