Origins of Forensic Firearms Identification

Origins of Forensic Firearms Identification

• The beginnings of forensic firearms identification are unclear; it is unknown how or when unique grooves in fired bullets were first identified.
• Observations showed that bullets from the same weapon had consistent impressed grooves, unique to that firearm.
• Dr. A.L. Hall's article in the Buffalo Medical Journal in June 1900 represents the first recorded case of bullet identification, noting varied rifling marks among different weapon types.

The First Steps: US Infantry Case

• In 1907, during the Brownsville riots, an identification case emerged involving cartridge cases examined by staff at Frankfort Arsenal.
• Magnified photographs of firing pin impressions were utilized, leading to the identification of 39 cartridge cases linked to four weapons, though six remained unidentifiable.
• Bullets recovered lacked distinctive markings but aligned with rifling characteristics of Krag or Springfield rifles.

Photomicrographs and Advancements

• Victor Balthazard made significant contributions in 1912 by taking photomicrographs of bullet lands and grooves for weapon identification.
• He discovered that rifle markings on bullets were unique due to variations caused during the rifling process, allowing definitive identification of a bullet's firearm source.
• Balthazard's findings established the foundation of modern bullet identification science.

Balthazard's Work and Methods

• Balthazard expanded the scope of identification to cartridge cases, noting unique markings from the firing pin, breech face, extractor, and ejector.
• Each tool used in firearm construction leaves distinctive striations, crucial for identifying the weapon.
• His methods demanded precise photomicrographs, requiring consistent lighting and magnification for accurate comparison.

Research Contributions

• A 1923 paper in Annales de Medicine Legale by De Rechter and Mage advanced the understanding of firing pin impressions for weapon identification.