Research Topics
General Areas for Additional Research
The listings below are general topic areas within the firearm/toolmark discipline. Additional research within any of these areas would be beneficial for all examiners. This list is not all inclusive, but is provided in an attempt to stimulate ideas and interest. It is intended to provide a starting point for those who may desire to do a research project. The names of the individuals listed below the various topics are intended to be mentors and resource people who can be an excellent source for guidance in the research endeavor. They have agreed to assist individuals in varying capacities during the research process. Please feel free to contact them directly.


Bullets
Standard vs. Polygonal Rifling Impressions
Construction

Cartridge Cases
Breechface
Firing Pin
Chamber Marks
Anvil Marks
Extractor Marks
Ejector Marks
Ejection Port
Feed/Loading Marks
Nancy McCombs
nancy.mccombs@doj.ca.gov
559-294-4026

Fracture Match/Physical Fits
Bruce Moran
moranb@saccounty.net
916-874-9240

Gunshot Residues
Distance Determination
Composition of Material to Identify as GSR
Jack Dillon
jhdillonjr@comcast.net
703-791-5559

General/Miscellaneous Topics
Jim Hamby
jimhamby14@aol.com
317-327-3670
Dom Denio
ddenio@leo.gov
703-632-7380


Serial Number Restoration
Greg Klees
Greg.Klees@atf.gov
240-264-3852



Toolmarks
Wood
Bunter Marks
Jerry Miller
Gerald.Miller@atf.gov
404-417-2716
Bone and Cartilage
Richard Ernest
rernest@e-gunlab.com
817-228-6526