AFTE Store - Identification of Cartridge Cases Fired in Different Firearms: Pre-Identified Cartridges

Fireanns are replete with microscopic toolmarks that assist the firearm examiner in determining which individual fireann fired certain questioned evidence. The principals among these machined-in toolmarks are breechface, firing pin impression, ejector, and extractor toolmarks. This discussion addresses the need for the examiner to positively recognize fireann class characteristics. This knowledge will empower the examiner to discriminate between toolmarks produced by the fireann and toolmarks that are introduced incident to ammunition manufacture.