Forensic firearm examiners compare and interpret the features on fired bullets and cartridge cases that result from firing a cartridge. They do so to provide information about the source of the samples. We discuss the use of both class characteristics and microscopic features for this purpose and the main interpretation and reporting formats applied. Furthermore, we provide information about the current status and about possible approaches to strengthen the discipline, from both a human-based and technological perspective.

Encyclopedia of Forensic Sciences

Max M. Houck

Academic Press, Incorporated

Morgan Kaufmann Publishers

Brooks/Cole

Third edition, Amsterdam, Netherlands, 2022

United States, United States of America

Elsevier Ltd., [S.l.], 2022

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Encyclopedia of Forensic Sciences, Four Volume Set, Third Edition presents content that is logically built around the following sections and topics, via a taxonomic approach, as opposed to the previous old-style alphabetical mode, thus resulting in far easier navigation for the user. Sections first cover Biological issues, including Anthropology, DNA, Entomology, Genetics, Pathology, Serology, Fingerprints, Biometrics, and more. Next, a Chemical section covers Drugs, Explosives, Fire debris, Materials analysis, Polymers, General chemistry, Microscopy, Instrumental methods, Inks, Development methods (visualization of latent evidence), and more. Thirdly, a section on Physical covers Toolmarks, Firearms, Impression evidence, Documents and handwriting, fracture comparisons, etc. Additional sections cover Digital, including discussion on devices, storage, locations, servers, networks, consumer end-products, and black boxes (vehicles, planes, etc.). A final section covers Professional, with sections on philosophy, ethics, associations, accreditation, certification, licensing, legal issues and admissibility. All chapters in this update have been revised with the latest information in the field. Provides a truly comprehensive resource with current information about forensic science Presents a modern structure that reflects how researchers and professionals actually use the content Includes a global perspective, with emerging issues like genealogical searches and human rights Covers a variety of topics that affect forensic science, like legal issues, ethics and professionalization

"Encyclopedia of Forensic Sciences, Three Volume Set, Third Edition presents content that is logically built around the following sections and topics, via a taxonomic approach, as opposed to the previous old-style alphabetical mode, thus resulting in far easier navigation for the user. Sections first cover Biological issues, including Anthropology, DNA, Entomology, Genetics, Pathology, Serology, Fingerprints, Biometrics, and more. Next, a Chemical section covers Drugs, Explosives, Fire debris, Materials analysis, Polymers, General chemistry, Microscopy, Instrumental methods, Inks, Development methods (visualization of latent evidence), and more. Thirdly, a section on Physical covers Toolmarks, Firearms, Impression evidence, Documents and handwriting, fracture comparisons, etc. Additional sections cover Digital, including discussion on devices, storage, locations, servers, networks, consumer end-products, and black boxes (vehicles, planes, etc.). A final section covers Professional, with sections on philosophy, ethics, associations, accreditation, certification, licensing, legal issues and admissibility. All chapters in this update have been revised with the latest information in the field."--publisher's web page, viewed November 9, 2022