AFTE Store - Reproducible Satellite Holes from Pistol Powders in T-Shirts as an Aid to Determine Muzzle to Garment Distance

Recent case work indicated that certain high velocity pistol cartridges would yield smaller, satellite holes around the periphery of the primary bullet hole in certain types of fabrics, specifically t-shirts. These holes were shown to have some reproducibility using similar material, but did not occur at all in cotton twill jean material commonly used in distance tests. Using 38 Super, 9mm Luger, 357 SIG, 40 S&W, and 45 Auto ammunition, tests were made in both 100% cotton and 50% cotton/50% polyester t-shirts, 100% cotton ribbed tank tops, cotton muslin, and cotton twill jean. Tests indicated that satellite holes were reliably produced in all of the clothing types, but neither with cotton twill jean or cotton muslin, the two media traditionally used for distance determinations. Satellite holes, when present, were created by a muzzle to garment distance of less than 12. This effect is reproducible, but the distribution, pattern size, and number of holes is not consistent. While not absolute, satellite holes in lightly woven materials are an additional indicator to assist in determining a muzzle to garment distance. Satellite holes indicate the use of a relatively high velocity cartridge, and can be reproduced given appropriate test media.