In a gun, where does the bullet exit?
the barrel
10.1C- Where on the bullet can you identify it's calliber?
The headstamp
10.1D- Why are markings on cartridge casings helpful in a forensic investigation?
Each gun leaves a unique mark on the bullet. Therefore, if a gun is found that marks a bullet in the same way, that gun had to have been used in the crime.
10.1G- What is the difference between entry and exit wounds?
Entry-smaller, may show GSR residue (if gun was close to victim when the trigger was pulled)
Exit-larger than entry wound, no GSR residue
10.2A/B- What is bullet trajectory?
The path of a bullet once it leaves the barrel of the gun.
What is the difference between how ammo is contained in Pistols vs. Revolvers?
Pistols- Ammo is contained in a magazine
Revolvers- Ammo is contained in a revolving cylinder
10.1B- What is the basic shape and function of a wadcutter bullet?
Shape- rounded rectangle (flat front)
Function- used for close range target practice (stamps paper target without making large tears)
10.1D- What tool can be used to analyze bullets up close?
Comparison Microscope
10.1G - If a person does not have any GSR stains on hands, clothing, or processions, does that exonerate them as a suspect for a crime?
No, a person may still be guilty of the crime. For instance, they may have been wearing gloves when they pulled the trigger.
10.2A- Whats the difference between internal and terminal ballistics?
Internal ballistics refers to the study of processes within a firearm, while terminal ballistics refers to the study of a firearm in relation to its target.
What is the difference between pistols and revolvers regarding how the bullets are contained?
Pistols- Ammo is contained in a magazine
Revolvers- Ammo is contained in a revolving cylinder
10.1B- Where on the bullet can you find it's brand?
The headstamp
10.1G- Whats the difference between land and groove marks on a gun?
Lands are the raised pieces of metal inside the barrel that help improve the accuracy.
Bullets are the indented pieces of metal inside the barrel that help improve the accuracy.
10.1G- What does the GSR pattern look like at contact and at 36 inches?
At contact-heavy soot, may burn skin
At 36 inches- little to no residue
10.2B- How do you find the angle of impact of a bullet?
opposite refers to vertical distance and adjacent refers to horizontal distance
Describe how single-action firearms operate.
2. each pull results in only one round of bullets
10.1B- What type of bullet causes the most damage?
A hollow point semi jacketed bullet
10.1D- What is the difference between a centerfire impression and a rimfire impression?
A centerfire impression isis is located in the center of the headstamp, while a rimfire impression is located on the edge of the headstamp.
10.1F- What makes GSR residue good forensic evidence?
GSR contains mostly lead and magnesium (which are both medals) and stain extremely easily. Therefore, it is not easy to wash off.
10.2B- How do you find the trajectory of the bullet?
opposite refers to vertical distance and adjacent refers to horizontal distance
When the trigger is pulled, the firing pin hits the cartridge and ignites the primer powder. What happens next?
The chemical reaction between the spark and the primer powder creates a spark, causing the gunpowder to explode, forcing the bullet down the path.
10.1B- Where is a headstamp located and what is the purpose of one on a bullet?
Located- at bottom of cartridge
Purpose- identifies the caliber (size) and the manufacturer of bullet
10.1E- How can twist marks on a bullet indicate what type of gun was used?
While some guns spin the bullets towards the left, others spin the bullets towards the right. Depending on which way the marks on the bullet show, it limits the possibility of which guns could have been used.
10.1F- As the trigger is pulled in a loaded gun, what causes the GSR to be expelled from the cartridge?
As the bullet is released from the cartridge, excess gun powder and primer stay behind.
If a bullet hole is found 3 meters above the floor and found 7 meters away from the suspected shooter, what is the angle of impact of the shooter?
0.2