AFTE Store - The Categorization of Toolmarks and Tool Types

The forensic examination process of comparing two toolmarks to determine if they have a common origin, commonly referred to as pattern matching, begins with a taxonomical study of the most general (class) characteristics, progressing through to the most distinctive (individual) characteristics. During the initial phase of such a study, questioned toolmarks and suspect tools are classified and characterized according to their characteristics.

The development of a more robust tool/toolmark classification system was recommended over thirty years ago. This article proposes a classification delineation system that includes terms and descriptions for toolmarks and tool actions that are intended to augment those found in the pre-existing literature in order to encourage the use of a more standardized format
when working on these types of forensic examinations.