This book examines the current state of gunshot residue analysis and wound ballistics, with a focus on cutting-edge research in those fields and the impacts of 3D-printing capabilities.
This book provides addresses the continual advance of technology and forensic disciplines' need to understand the nature of that advancement and its implications on forensic analysis efforts. The book focuses on the field of firearm analysis, which has been impacted by recent technological advancements such as the invention of high-resolution 3D-printing. Forensic scientists have in their toolboxes, several technologies that can meet those technological challenges, including: improvements in instrumental techniques such as Raman Spectroscopy and Mass Spectrometry, simulation capabilities for ballistic wound potential; and the development of entirely new fields of study. The book examines the current state of gunshot residue analysis and wound ballistics, and highlights some cutting-edge research in those areas. The consequences of easier access to 3D-printed firearms are also discussed, with various authors providing their evaluations of new and existing forensic methods on trace analysis of gunshot residue (GSR) and fingerprinting, as well as potential protocol adaptations to better address the unique challenges posed by 3D-printed firearms.