| Aspect | Details | Significance / Application | Limitations / Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Contact Shots |
– Muzzle in direct contact with target – Characteristic soot and muzzle imprint – Extensive gunpowder residue (GSR) deposition on target |
– Confirms point-blank firing – Useful for identifying close-range shootings |
– May obscure bullet entry characteristics – High tissue damage complicates wound analysis |
| Near-Contact and Close Range Shots |
– Presence of gunpowder tattooing (stippling) around wound – GSR particles embedded in skin or clothing – Soot deposition decreasing with distance |
– Helps estimate shooting distance up to a few feet – Differentiates between contact and intermediate range shots |
– GSR pattern affected by ammunition type and firearm – Environmental factors can disperse residues |
| Intermediate to Distant Shots |
– Absence or minimal GSR and soot on target – Bullet hole characteristics analyzed – Use of Modified Griess Test for GSR visualization (effective up to 3-5 feet) – Analysis of pellet dispersion patterns in shotgun wounds |
– Estimation of firing distance based on residue and pellet spread – Use of test firings for pattern comparison – Mathematical modeling of pellet spread area (πr²) to determine distance |
– Modified Griess test limited by maximum distance – Pellet pattern affected by barrel length, choke, and ammunition – Requires knowledge of firearm and ammunition specifics |
| Bullet Hole and Trajectory Analysis |
– Measurement of bullet hole shape (ellipse axes) – Calculation of impact angle using trigonometric functions – Estimation of shooter position and distance via geometry – Analysis of bullet hole depth and damage in substrates (e.g., wood) |
– Determines angle of fire and shooter location – Complements residue analysis for distance estimation – Useful in indoor shooting reconstructions |
– Accuracy depends on substrate type and bullet caliber – Requires precise measurements and understanding of geometry |
| Test Firing and Comparative Analysis |
– Conducting test shots with the same firearm and ammunition – Comparing GSR patterns, pellet distribution, and bullet holes – Use of comparison microscopes for ballistic matching |
– Provides empirical basis for distance estimation – Validates findings from crime scene evidence – Essential for courtroom evidence and expert testimony |
– Requires access to firearm and ammunition used – Variability in ammunition brands may affect results |
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