AFTE Store - Sub Class Characteristics of Sequentially Rifled .38 Special S&W Revolver Barrels

This article illustrates subclass characteristics found in groove impressions on lead bullets that were fired from 10 sequentially manufactured 38 Special, Smith & Wesson revolver barrels. These subclass characteristics were present on some, but not all of the ten sequential barrels and in some but not all of the groove impressions. These barrels were rifted using the step cutting broach-manufacturing process. These subclass characteristics were not found on the land impressions of the fired lead bullets or on the land or groove impressions of the copper-Jacketed bullets.