ISSN: 0022-1198
CODEN: JFSCA
Published Online: 1 April 1974
Page Count: 6

Firing Distance Determination by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry
Krishnan, SS
The Centre of Forensic Sciences, Ontario

(Received 11 June 1973; accepted 13 September 1973)

Abstract

A determination of muzzle-to-target distance is often required in criminal cases involving shooting. The conventional method using Walker's test [1] or visual examination of test firings may not be sufficiently accurate under certain circumstances. In other circumstances the maximum distance to which such tests are effective may not be adequate. In such cases the neutron activation analysis (NAA) method [2], which is effective to greater distances, can be used. However, the drawbacks of this method could be the expense and the possible long analysis time. The NAA method of firing distance determination is based on the concentration pattern of antimony around bullet holes. This method is not effective in analyzing for lead, which is present around bullet holes.

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Paper ID: JFS10182J
DOI: 10.1520/JFS10182J
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