The history and science of firearm identification
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Authors
Rudman, Jennifer
Issue Date
2005
Type
Thesis
Language
en
Keywords
Forensic science
Alternative Title
Abstract
The science of firearm identification is a science that has evolved over time with the advent of new technologies and resources. Firearm identification is an investigative science that utilizes both objective and subjective methodologies in an attempt to identify components of a firearm with a suspect firearm. Through the use of various tools and techniques, a firearm examiner may determine whether or not certain components originated from a suspect firearm. The basic concept behind firearm identifications is that each firearm is unique from all other and, therefore, has unique characteristics which will be imparted onto its ammunition upon use, and these unique characteristics may be used to identify a suspect firearm. There are many means by which to examine these different characteristics. There is also a general misrepresentation of this branch of forensic science amid the general public and even amid the forensic communities, and proper education is, therefore, essential.