AFTE Store - Change in Position of Firing Pin Impression of 7MM Bolt Action Rifles

During a forensic firearms identification case, it was observed after careful examination that the firing pin impression of a 7mm bolt action rifle may change its position on the primer of a cartridge case due to the firing pin’s axial movement within the bolt housing. This change may deceive the firearm examiner into making a false elimination. The typical firing pin of a bolt action rifle is spring loaded, and because of its potential movement in the bolt housing, its impact position on the primer of a cartridge case may change; however, its shape and individual characteristics will still allow for identification. This paper highlights the importance of the examination of the individual characteristics of firing pin impressions from 7mm bolt action rifles, despite apparent changes in the position of the firing pin impression on the primer, particularly in instances where breech face marks are of poor quality.