Handbook of Firearms and Ballistics: Examining and Interpreting Forensic Evidence, 2nd Edition

by Brian J. Heard

• ISBN13: 9780470694596
• ISBN10: 0470694599
• Format: eBook
• Copyright: 2009-02-01
• Publisher: Wiley

Summary

The updated second edition of Handbook of Firearms and Ballistics includes recent developed analytical techniques and methodologies with a more comprehensive glossary, additional material, and new case studies. With a new chapter on the determination of bullet caliber via x-ray photography, this edition includes revised material on muzzle attachments, proof marks, non-toxic bullets, and gunshot residues. Essential reading for forensic scientists, firearms examiners, defense and prosecution practitioners, the judiciary, and police force, this book is also a helpful reference guide for undergraduate and graduate forensic science students.

Table of Contents

Developments in Forensic Science.

Acknowledgements.

Foreword

Firearms.

A Brief History of Firearms

Weapon Types and Their Operation

Proof Marks

Further Reading

Ammunition.

A Brief History of Ammunition

Ammunition Components

Non-toxic Shot

A Brief History of Propellants

Priming Compounds and Primers

Headstamp Markings on Ammunition

Ballistics.

Internal, External and Terminal Ballistics

Internal Ballistics

External Ballistics

Terminal Ballistics

Forensic Firearms Examination.

A Brief History of Forensic Firearms Identification

Rifling Types and Their Identification

Fluted, Annular Ringed, Helical, Perforated and Oversized Chambers

Basic Concepts of Striation Matching

Basic Methodology Used in Comparison Microscopy

Mathematical Proof of Striation Matches

Accidental Discharge

Identification of Calibre from the Bullet Entry Hole

Ricochet Analysis

Bullet Penetration and Trajectory through Glass

Range of Firing Estimations and Bullet Hole Examinations

Introduction

The Use of X-ray Photography

Range of Firing Estimations for Pistols and Rifles

Chemical Tests for Range of Firing Estimations and Bullet Entry/Exit Hole Identification

Range of Firing Estimations for Shotguns

Gunshot Residue Examination.

Introduction

Formation of Discharge Residue

Distribution of GSR Particles

Identification of GSR Particles

The Use of the SEM for GSR Detection

Sample Collection

GSR Retention

Conservation of GSR Particles on the Hands

GSR Distribution on the Hands

Identification of Type of Ammunition, Country of Origin from GSR Analysis

Environmental Contaminants

Sources of Elements Commonly Found in Lead-Based GSRs

Extending the Recovery Period for GSR

Gun-Handling Tests.

Introduction

Methodology for Ferrozine Use

Case Notes

Restoration of Erased Numbers.

Introduction

Methods Used for Removal of Serial Numbers

Theory behind Number Restoration

Non-recoverable Methods of Number Removal

Practice of Number Restoration

Chemical Methods of Restoration

Reagents Used for Various Metals

Electrolytic Methods of Restoration

Reagents Used

Ultrasonic Cavitation for Restoration

Magnetic Particle Method for Restoration

Other Methods of Restoration

Laser-Etched Serial Numbers and Bar Codes and Their Restoration

Qualifying the Expert and Cross-Examination Questions.

Introduction

General Background Questions

Comparison Microscopy

GSRs

Ferrozine Test

Standard of Review: æDaubert TrilogyÆ

Classification of Firearm-Related Death.

Multiple-Shot Suicides

Glossary

Appendix 1 Important dates in the History of Firearms from 1247

Appendix 2 GSR results for Chinese and USSR ammunition

Appendix 3 Primer content of some cartridge-operated nail guns

Appendix 4 Commercial and General Abbreviations for Bullet Configurations

Appendix 5 Trade Names

Appendix 6 Gun Marks

Appendix 7 Powder Burn Rate

Appendix 8 Hearing Loss

Appendix 9 General Firearms Values Conversion Table

Index.

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