Ballistics

What does Ballistics study?

The behavior of projectiles, including firearms and bullets.

What is a Firearm?

A weapon capable of firing a projectile using a confined explosive.

What can Ballistics tell us about a shooting?

Type of firearm used, caliber of bullet, angle of impact, number of bullets fired, and the shooter’s location.

What are Handguns?

Weapons that can be fired with one hand, classified into semi-automatic and fully automatic.

What is a Caliber?

The diameter of a bullet.

What is Gunshot Residue (GSR)?

A collection of tiny particles released when a firearm is discharged.

What is a Cartridge?

A unit of ammunition that consists of a projectile, casing, primer, and gunpowder.

What is the difference between Semi-automatic and Automatic firearms?

Semi-automatic fires one bullet per trigger pull; automatic fires multiple bullets per trigger pull.

What are Striations in firearms?

Scratch marks left on bullets by the unique markings of the firearm that fired them.

What does a Shotgun fire?

Pellets or a slug.

What does the Wad do in shotgun ammunition?

Separates the pellets from the gunpowder inside the cartridge.

What is a Projectile?

Any object thrown from a weapon, typically a bullet.

What are the components of a Cartridge?

Bullet, casing, gun powder, and primer.

What is a Slug?

A very heavy projectile used in shotguns.

What are Breach Marks?

Marks left on fired cartridges by the weapon.

What is unique about every firearm?

Every firearm leaves its own unique markings on bullets and cartridges.

What are Long Guns?

Firearms that require two hands to operate, such as rifles and shotguns.