Cartridges and Firearm Identification

Book excerpt: At a time when crime scene television shows are all the rage amongst the civilian population, knowledge of firearm forensics is of paramount importance to crime scene analysts, police detectives, and attorneys for both the prosecution and the defense. Cartridges and Firearm Identification brings together a unique, multidisciplined approach to questions that arise regarding ammunition and firearms within the context of investigation. Supplying essential practical information about firearms and ammunition in a clear, easy-to-follow format, this volume: Defines and depicts photographically all varieties of firearms Presents investigative concerns of firearms evidence from the perspectives of evidence preservation and safe handling procedures Introduces readers to the standards of measurement used to classify ammunition, including the significance of names, adjectives, and other descriptors used in conjunction with ammunition cartridges Categorizes and identifies ammunition head stamps from cartridges produced around the world Provides ammunition manufacturing practices for dozens of nations The text offers a methodology for the identification of unknown firearms as well as ammunition of questioned identity. The author explains the terminology and describes each group of firearms and the aspects that identify the weaponry—including property marks, proof marks, and patent dates. Lavishly illustrated, this comprehensive reference includes case studies to support the text, making it a premier reference for all those responsible for the complicated task of investigating firearms and cartridges.