NCJ Number
183947
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 45 Issue: 3 Dated: May 2000 Pages: 722-727
Date Published
May 2000
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article describes the technique of physical match to determine the origin of fragmented bullets.
Abstract
The physical match technique, widely used with materials such as plastic and glass, was used to determine the common origin of fragmented bullets. The more conventional method of tool marks comparison was later used to connect the bullet with a firearm. Sometimes physical match is the only way to establish a connection between a bullet fragment and the firearm from which it was fired. Elemental metal analysis can be performed in conjunction with physical matches. However, in physical matches there is an infinite number of matches all along the fracture (break), and this reduces the importance of metal analysis of the jacket and core (providing family characteristics). Physical matches “...may provide the most incontrovertible evidence possible,” evidence “...so strong as to constitute almost absolute proof.” The biggest advantage of the physical match technique is that one does not need to be an expert to conclude that there is a physical match. Figures, references