ISSN: 0022-1198
CODEN: JFSCA
Page Count: 8

A New Field Kit for Bullet Hole Identification
Steinberg, M
Associate professor, Hebrew University,

Tassa, M
Scientific officer and deputy head, Criminal Identification Division, Israel National Police Headquarters,

Leist, Y
Scientific officer and deputy head, Criminal Identification Division, Israel National Police Headquarters,

(Received 16 December 1982; accepted 7 June 1983)

Abstract

The identification of bullet marks and holes is very often essential in criminal cases. The common methods for the determination of trace metals around bullet holes are used in the laboratory and not at the scene of the crime. The application of atomic absorption spectrophotometry and the spot test technique for the determination of lead and copper is reported. Data obtained by test firing a variety of weapons, indicated that the spot test technique can be adapted successfully for the identification of bullet holes. Subsequently, a new kit was developed that facilitates a simple, reliable, and sensitive method for identifying these holes and other suspected marks at the scene of a crime by nonscientific field personnel.

Keywords:
criminalistics, field kits, chemical analysis, gunshot residues, bullet holes, spot tests, atomic absorption spectrophotometry

Paper ID: JFS11648J
DOI: 10.1520/JFS11648J
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