COURSE DESCRIPTION

Introduces the role of the firearms examiner in forensic science. Teaches the examination techniques and procedures for identifying firearms, tool-marks, ammunition, projectiles and projectile fragments. Instructs on the topics of determining muzzle-to-target distance, gunshot residue tests, firearms nomenclature, comparative micrography, serial number restoration, and the collecting, handling, and presenting of firearms and tool-mark evidence. Lecture 3 hours per week.
 

GENERAL COURSE PURPOSE

Purpose of this course is to provide the student with a familiarization of firearms and toolmark evidence. The course will include the safe handling of firearms and ammunition.
 
 

ENTRY LEVEL COMPETENCIES

No prerequisite course required
 

COURSE OBJECTIVE

Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:

• Have a clear understanding of firearms and toolmark evidence.
• Understand the evidentiary value of firearm and toolmark evidence.
• Understand the safe handling of firearms evidence.
• Understand the proper collection, preservation and transporting firearm evidence.
• Aware of the features observed in the forensic examination of bullets which permit an association with a particular firearm.
• Aware of the chair of custody requirements involving the care, custody and control of firearm and toolmark evidence.
• Familiar with the importance of trajectory.

EXTRA TOPICS (optional)

Related topics at the discretion of the instructor.