AFTE Store - A Low-Cost, Alternative Method for Bullet Comparison with Single Castings

Bullets or cartridge cases are usually compared by the standard technique of comparison microscopy. Every laboratory has a comparison microscope, but not every laboratory has the financial capabilities to afford an electronic system (Evofinder(R), BalScan(TM), IBIS). This paper presents a low cost alternative to compare bullets by single castings. Just like original bullets, single castings can also be examined by comparison microscopy. The castings are of a homogeneously coloured, nonreflecting material and have the benefit of an even surface, easy lighting and a quicker overview of all surface marks compared to the original bullet. The technique presented can be applied for bullets but also for any other cylindrical objects.