AFTE Store - Effects of Wind on Distance Determination

Research was conducted to study the potential effect wind has on muzzle-to-target distance determination examinations. Test
patterns were created while exposed to various wind speeds and wind directions. Examinations commonly used for muzzleto-target distance determinations were conducted, including visual observations, processing with the Modified Griess Test,and processing with the Sodium Rhodizonate Test. The test patterns produced in various wind conditions were compared to patterns not produced in wind. Patterns exposed to extremely high head and tail wind directions at close distance appear different from close distance shots with no wind. While it is common practice for examiners to report a minimum and a
maximum range of distances, it may be necessary to expand the range when wind is a factor.