Journal Published Online: 01 October 1986
Volume 31, Issue 4

Copper and Nickel Detection on Gunshot Targets by Dithiooxamide Test

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

Identification of a hole or mark as one produced by a bullet and characterization of the type of bullet are often important in reconstruction of shooting incidents. Dithiooxamide is used for the visual detection of copper and nickel deposited on a bullet hole periphery by the passage of a jacketed bullet through target material. The discrimination of jacketed and nonjacketed ammunition can be made on the basis of target analysis alone. This technique may be used in conjunction with the Modified Griess Test and the sodium rhodizonate test for detection of bullet holes and muzzle-to-target distance determinations. The test for copper and nickel can also be used at a crime scene to determine the type of bullet producing a mark in a variety of target materials.

Author Information

Lekstrom, JA
Forensic Science Research Group, FBI Laboratory, FBI Academy, Quantico, VA
Koons, RD
Forensic Science Research Group, FBI Laboratory, FBI Academy, Quantico, VA
Pages: 9
Price: $25.00
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Details
Stock #: JFS11907J
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS11907J