AFTE Store - An Evaluation of Instant Shooter Identification (ISidTM) Gunshot Residue Kits

Instant Shooter Identification Kits (ISidTM) were evaluated and compared to gunshot residue (GSR) analysis using an adhesive lift on a scanning electron microscopy (SEM) disk. ISidTM swabs and SEM disks were used to collect simultaneous samples from the shooter’s hand at various post-shooting time intervals. These tests demonstrated a lower gunshot residue particle count with ISidTM swabs than simultaneously collected samples with SEM disks. The manufacturer’s screening instructions were followed and all positive results were then prepared for SEM confirmation. All of these samples were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectrometry (SEM/EDS). The ISidTM kits were also evaluated for the ability to confirm a positive nitrate test with SEM/EDS after they had been stored for extended periods of time. Preparation of the ISidTM swabs for SEM/EDS analysis was time consuming and had a higher risk for external contamination. It was determined that the ISidTM kit is not a suitable replacement for the SEM disk collection technique.