MANUEL V GALLEGO

FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
EDUCATION
FORENSIC BALLISTICS

Vision
:
MVGFCI is the only professional institution in the region committed to uphold the vision of its
founder to achieve a better life by providing full opportunities where every graduate and
member of the MVGFCI community are transformed into competent and morally upright
professionals dedicated towards the development of a better society.

Mission:
:
In pursuit of its vision, MVGFCI shall provide full opportunities and support to ensure and
sustain quality instruction, research, community extension, student affairs and support
services.

Desired Students’ Learning Outcomes

The Graduates Manifest the Attributes of A “Gallegan” Which Are as Follows:

1. Professionally Competent
2. Effective Communicator
3. Critical Thinker
4. Strong Interpersonal and Collaborative Skills
5. Responsible and Accountable
6. Ethical
7. Lifelong Learner Course

Course Title: Forensic Ballistics

Course Code: PSCI 416
Pre-requisite: None
Course Unit: 3 Units
Instructor: Col. Epitacio D. Domingo
Contact Info: [email protected]

Course Description: This course provides scientific study of firearm identification with the
use of laboratory examination. The subject gives emphasis on the study of ammunitions,
projectiles, gunpowder, primer and explosives, including the use of the bullet comparison
microscope. It also deals with the principles in the microscopic and macroscopic
examination of firearm evidence and the preparation of reports for legal proceedings in the
solution of cases involving firearms.
Course Learning Outcome:
At the end of the semester the learners are expected to:
1. Review and analyze the principles of firearm identification and its significance in the
solution of cases involving firearms.
2. Demonstrate the uses of firearm laboratory equipment in connection to evidence and
criminal procedure
3. Utilize the laboratory equipment and tools used in the examination of ballistics exhibits in
aid to report writing and case presentation in court.
No. of Meetings Module Title Sub-Topics

Two (2) Virtual Module 1. Orientation Getting to know

Meetings via Part 1 Leveling of expectations
Zoom Brief journey to the:
*VMG of MVGFCI
*VMG of the ICJE Program
Understanding the Policies,
Guidelines and Requirements

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
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 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
EDUCATION of the Course (to include the
Grading Systems and House
rules during the on-line
meetings)

Module 1. History of Brief History in the study of

Part 2 Forensic Forensic Ballistics
Ballistics

Module 2 Branches of Internal Ballistics

One (1) Virtual Part 1 Ballistics External Ballistics
Meetings via Terminal Ballistics
Zoom Forensic Ballisctics

Classification of
Firearms

Basic Parts of
Bullet
Ammunition Cartridge
Primer
Gunpowder
PRELIMINARY EXAMINATION

Five (5) Virtual Module 3. Class and Class characteristics of

Meetings via Part 1 Individual firearms
Zoom Characteristics Individual Characteristics of
firearms markings

Part 2 Preparation of
Questioned and
Standard
specimen

Module 4. Acquiring Test

Part 1 Bullets or
Cartridge case

Part 2 Crime Scene

Processing for
Firearms and its
accessories in
the crime scene

Marking of
Evidence and test
fired
bullet/cartridge
case
MIDTERM EXAMINATION
Module 5 Forensic
Eight (8) Virtual Part 1 Ballistics
Meetings via instrument
Zoom
Part 2 Presentation of
Evidence in Court

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
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 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
FINAL EXAMINATION
EDUCATION

Expectations from Students

Students are held responsible for meeting the standards of performance established for the
course by the faculty. Their performance and compliance with the course requirements are
the bases for passing or failing in each course, subject to the rules of the MVGFCI. The
students are expected to take all examinations on the date scheduled, read the assigned
topics prior to class, submit and comply with all the requirements of the subject as
scheduled, attend each class on time and participate actively in the discussions.

Furthermore, assignments such as reports, reaction papers and the like shall be submitted
on the set deadline as scheduled by the faculty via email. Extension of submission is
approved for students with valid reasons like death in the family, hospitalization, and other
unforeseen events. Hence, certificates are needed for official documentation. Likewise,
special major examination is given to students with the same reasons above. Attendance
shall be checked every Class meeting will be done face to face and on-line to be advised by
the faculty in charge.

In the case of face to face meeting, students are expected to strictly follow the health
protocols issued by the IATF/Department of Health. For the online meeting using the
facilities of MVGFCI, strict observance of the safety and security protocols of MVGFCI IS
HIGHLY EXPECTED. Students shall be expected to be punctual in their virtual and face to
face classes. Observance of classroom decorum is required as prescribed by latest MVGFCI
Student Handbook.

General Rule:

1. Assignment and reports will be given throughout the semester. Such requirement will
be announced a week before the scheduled virtual meeting.
2. Academic honesty should always be practiced. Any evidence of copying or plagiarism
in any course work will result in a failing grade for all parties involved
3. Reporter should be ready to orally present their assignments’ on scheduled date of
presentation. No show or no report means a grade of 5.0 in that area.
4. Withdrawal and dropping of subject should be done in accordance with existing
MVGFCI policies and guidelines.
5. As student, everyone is expected to be resourceful enough in looking for additional
reading materials and references to be able to come up with scholarly assignments’
and papers.
6. Students are expected to attend 90% of the virtual class meeting and should be able
to complete the whole session the following house rules for virtual class meeting.

Observance of Academic Honesty and Professionalism

It is the mission of MVGFCI to train its students in the highest levels of professionalism and
moral value. In support of this, academic integrity is highly valued, and violations are
considered serious offenses. Examples of violations of academic integrity include, but are
not limited to the following:

1. Plagiarism – using ideas, data, or language of another without specific or proper

acknowledgment. Example: Copying text from the Web site without quoting or properly citing
the page URL, using crib sheet during examination. For a clear description of what
constitutes plagiarism as well as strategies for avoiding it, students may refer to the Writing
Tutorial Services web site at Indiana University using the following link:
http://www.indiana.edu/~wts/pamhlets.shtml. For citation styles, students may refer to
http://www.uwsp.edu/psych/apa4b.htm.

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
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 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
2. Cheating – using or attempting
EDUCATIONto use unauthorized assistance, materials, or study aids
during examination or other academic work. Examples: using a cheat sheet in a quiz or
exam, altering a grade exam, and resubmitting it for a better grade.

3. Fabrication – submitting contrived or improperly altered information in any academic

requirements. Examples: making up data for a research project, changing data to bias its
interpretation, citing non-existent articles, contriving sources. (Reference: Code of Academic
Integrity and Charter of the Student Disciplinary System of the University of Pennsylvania at
http://www.vpul.upenn.edu/osl/acadint.html).

Policy on Absences

1. A student who incurs two (2) unexcused absences in any scheduled meetings shall be
given a mark of “FA” or “failure due to absences” as his/her final rating for the semester,
regardless of his performance in the class. Students are expected to be present during the
entire duration of the virtual class or present at least 75% of the virtual class time, otherwise
he/she will be marked absent for that class meeting.

2. Attendance is counted from the first official day of regular classes regardless of the date
of enrolment. Students who miss a test or assignment for reasons entirely beyond their
control (e.g. illness) may submit a request for special consideration. Provided that
notification and documentation are provided in a timely manner, and that the request is
subsequently approved, no academic penalty will be applied.

3. In such cases, students who miss a test or assignment for reasons entirely beyond their
control (e.g. illness) may submit a request for special consideration. Provided that
notification and documentation are provided in a timely manner, and that the request is
subsequently approved, no academic penalty will be applied in such cases.

Required Readings

The main readings are the guide questions and suggested references indicated in the
different modules. Lecture notes, short cases, and power point presentations may be
provided by the faculty in charge However, as college students, they are expected to be
resourceful enough to look for additional related materials to guide them in their assignments
and research works. Journals and most recent reading materials are suggested. News
clippings and video clips may also be considered. Getting references from internet may also
be done PROVIDED students get their references from RELIABLE sources only and article
and photos/ clipart’s copied MUST be properly cited including the date when the material
was accessed.

Evaluation and Grades

Performance of students will be assessed based on how well he or she has good
understanding and application of the course materials.

1. Class participation/ recitation (no separate grade for attendance as active class
participation already means your attendance)
20%
2. Average short quizzes 20%
3. Individual research paper 20%
4. Average Long Exams (prelim, midterm, and finals 40%
100%

HOUSE RULES DURING THE ONLINE CLASS MEETINGS

1. Be prepared
 Check your internet connection, your audio and video 30 minutes before the start of the
class.

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
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 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
 Run the zoom test: https://zoom.us/test
EDUCATION to check that your system is set up adequately
for participating in the event.
 Have your course design and module and other related materials for the class within
your reach.
 Check your area in a room almost similar to a class- room, with enough ventilation and
light, free from any form of disturbance during the entire class session.
 Wear decent tops (like when you go to school. If you used to go to school in uniform-
then wear your uniform with your ID. Remember this is a class meeting
 Have proper lighting so that your face is recognizable and can be seen clearly.
 Microphones must be turned on during the entire class.
 There should be no profanity or anything of the sort displayed in the background.

2. Be punctual.
 The class will start on time. Log in at least 20 minutes before the time. The faculty in
charge will start admitting students 15 minutes before the time.

3. Be an active participant in class activities.

 Provide inputs and reactions and express your views during the discussion.

4. Be respectful.
 Respect by listening to the discussion. If you want to share your thoughts or ask
question or engage in the discussion, use the chatbox or raise your hands by putting on
the video. Wait for the teacher in charge to acknowledge you.

5. Be interested in the class.

 Your punctual and complete attendance is one good indication of your interest in the
class.
 Don’t leave the meeting room unless with permission from the faculty in charge or unless
he/she advised you to leave as classes has already ended.
 Class photo will be taken as indication of your attendance. Take interest by participating
in this.

Rubrics for Grading the Written Works (Assignments and Written Papers)

Scoring Guide:
4 = Excellent 3 = Very Good 2 = Good 1 = Needs Improvement

Criteria Score Weight Equivalent Grade

QUALITY OF WRITING
- Brief but clear, logical, and coherent
presentation of ideas/opinions, well-
organized and written answer and
reflects college level quality of written
work.
QUALITY OF DISCUSSION
- Contents is comprehensive showing full
understanding of the issues and lessons
learned the subject; scholarly written;
application and integration of principles,
concepts learned from the course with
references from authoritative sources
and properly cited.
COMPLETENESS OF ANSWERS

- All parts of the questions/issues needed

to be answered or resolved are
thoroughly answered/addressed. More
focused and direct to the point

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
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 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
answer/discussion.
EDUCATION
Total Maximum Score
Highest Equivalent Rate

Transmutation Table

Score from the Grade Equivalent Score from the Grade Equivalent
written paper from the score written paper from the score
1 53 11 78
2 55 12 80
3 58 13 83
4 60 14 85
5 63 15 88
6 65 16 90
7 68 17 93
8 70 18 95
9 73 19 98
10 75 20 100

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
Page 6 of 34
 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
EDUCATION

MODULE 1. HISTORY OF FORENSIC BALLISTICS

I. INTRODUCTION: This module will introduce the BS Criminology students to the history of
forensic ballistics. After studying this module, the learners’ shall have a broad and coherent
knowledge in ballistics.

II. INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOME

At the end of the module the learners are expected to:

1. Explain the evolution of forensic ballistics and its impact to field of criminology.
2. See the development of forensic ballistics and how this development is applied in the law
enforcement setting.

III. COURSE CONTENT:

Brief history of Ballistics -

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=15-haf7i41I

Ballistics (gr. ba'llein, "throw") is the science that deals with the motion, behavior, and effects
of projectiles, especially bullets, gravity bombs, rockets, or the like; the science or art of
designing and hurling projectiles so as to achieve a desired performance. A ballistic body is
a body which is free to move, behave, and be modified in appearance, contour, or texture by
ambient conditions, substances, or forces, as by the pressure of gases in a gun, by rifling in
a barrel, by gravity, by temperature, or by air particles.

It is a science in itself because it evolved from systematized knowledge, research and

development, training, experience and education of those who pioneered in this field.

Technically speaking, it refers to the "science of fire¬arms identification which involves the
scientific examination of ballistics exhibits such as: fired bullets; fired shells; firearms; and
allied matters, used in crime.

Legally speaking, ballistics is the microscopic examination of fired cartridge cases and
bullets together with the recording and presentation by means of photography of what is
revealed by the microscope

Firearm ballistics information is used in forensic science. Separately from ballistics

information, firearm and tool mark examinations involve analyzing firearm, ammunition, and
tool mark evidence in order to establish whether a certain firearm or tool was used in the
commission of a crime.

FORENSIC BALLISTICS

It is the study of Firearm Investigation and Identification of firearms by means of ammunition

fired through them. This is the real branch of the science which the police use as their guide
in field investigations. This includes the following:

1. Field Investigations - conducted by the first officers on the case in the field when they
investigate a case or cases wherein firearms have been used. This is a routine job of the
investigating officers, and this involves recognition, collection, marking, preservation, and
transmittal of ballistics exhibits like fired bullets, fired shells, firearms and allied matters.
2. Technical examinations of the ballistics exhibits - This is the job performed by the
firearms examiners in the laboratory. It involves marking of the evidence firearms, test

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
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 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
firings of evidence firearms to obtain test bullets and test shells for comparative purposes,
EDUCATION
photomicrography under the bullet comparison microscope, preparation of comparative
charts, and the making of reports on the findings and observations of the firearms
examiners.
3. Legal proceedings - Court Trials - wherein the ballistics report of the firearm examiner
and the ballistics exhibits are presented during the trial of the case in a court of justice.

Take Note:

FORENSIC - As applied to ballistics, or to any other subject, suggest a relationship to Courts

of Justice and legal proceedings.

FORUM – It is a Latin word from which forensic was derived, meaning a marketplace, where
people gather for "public disputation" or "public discussion". Thus, the title "Forensic
Ballistics" aptly describes the subject under consideration - the science of investigation and
identification of firearms and ammunitions used in crimes. The terms "Ballistics", Forensic
Ballistics" and "Firearms Identification", have come to mean one and the same thing in the
minds of the public, and they can be used interchangeably.

Studies concerning Forensic Ballistics

 1835 - Henry Goddard. In one of his case in England, where a homemaker was shot
and killed, he was able to identify the mold mark – the mold is used to manufacture lead
balls from molten leads – on the field projectile. He was the bullet, which could be traced
back to the mold. He also examined the paper patch – the paper patch provides the seal
between the ball gunpowder firearms – was able to identify it as having been torn from a
newspaper that was found on the room of the guilty servant.
 Paul Jesrich. He took photomicrographs of two bullets to compare, and subsequently
individualize them through the minute differences.
 1905 - Mr. Kockel. He published an article entitled “The Expert Examination of Fired
Bullets”.
 1912 - Professor V. Baltahazard. He devised a series of procedures to identify fired
bullets to the firearms from which they were fired. He studied the firearms by taking an
elaborate series of photographs of test fired bullet from the firearms as well as evidence
bullet. He also applied these same specilalized photographic techniques to the examination
and identification of cartridge casings using firing pin, breech face, ejection and extractor
marks.
 1913 - Professor Balthazard. Published the first article individualizing bullet markings.
 1922 - Mr. C. Williams. He wrote an article entitle “Fingerprints on Bullets” which
appeared in Outdoor Life magazine.
 1920 - R.E. Herrick. He published an article entitled “Ballistics Jurisprudence”.
 November 1924 – Dr Sydney Smith. He wrote an article concerning the details of the
investigating that appeared in the British Medical Journal in January 1926. He relates that he
believes that scientific examination of firearms and projectiles in Great Britain had its
beginning as a result of the publication of his report on the case.
 1920 - COL CALVIN H. GODDARD (M.D., U.S. ARMY) pioneered the introduction
of this science in Criminology courses in the different universities.
 1947 - Col Goddard came to the Philippines when Gen. Castaneda was ambushed
together with his aid, Col Salgado in Kamias, Quezon City, both died.
 1924 – Captain Edward C. ‘Ned’ Crossman. A well-known shooter and sports writer,
examined firearms evidence for the Los Angeles County Sheriff in April 1925, in New York
City, New York (USA), THE Bureau of Forensic Ballistics was established by C.E. Waite,
Major (later Colonel) Calvin H. Goddard, Philip O. Gravelle and John H. Fisher.
 1934 - Major Sir Gerald Burrard. He wrote a book entitled “The Identification of
Firearms and Forensic Ballistics”, which discussed many early cases that occurred
throughout the British Empire.

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
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 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
 1935 Major JulianEDUCATION
S. Hatcher. He wrote and published; “Textbook of Firearms
Investigation, Identification and Evidence” together with the “Textbook of Pistols and
Revolvers.”
 1944 – John E. Davis. He joined the Police Department in Oakland, California
establishing its first criminology laboratory.
 Derechter and Mage. They wrote an article entitled “Communication on the
Identification of Fired Bullets and Shells”.
 Arthur Lucas. He published an article entitled “The Examination of Firearms and
Projectiles in Forensic Cases”.
 Jack D. Gunther & Professor Charles O. Gunther. They published the entitled “The
Identification of Firearms”, which provided additional information about the principles of
firearms identification with approximately one-half of the book discussing in great detail the
Sacco-Vanzetti case to include reprinting large portions of the actual court transcript. They
also discussed the need for the science of firearm identification to utilize the scientific
methodology.
 1958 – John E. Davis. An eminent criminals and Director of the Oakland Police
Department (CA) Criminalistics Section (Crime Lab) wrote a book titled “An Introduction to
Tool Marks, Firearms and the Striagraph”. In his book, Davis provided excellent information
about the examination and identification of firearms and tool mark evidence.
 1996 – Tom A. Warlow. He published a text on firearms identification titled “Firearms,
the Law and Forensic Ballistics”. Warlow has written a useful text that contains excellent
information for firearm and toolmark examiners.
 1997 – Brian J. Heard. He published a text on firearms identification titled “Handbook
of Firearms and Ballistics Examining and Interpreting Forensic Evidence”.

IV. ASSESSMENT: Research

Gather related literature about the evolution of forensic ballistics. Give a synthesis of the
related review and analyze its impact in the field of criminology.

MODULE 2 BRANCHES OF BALLISTICS

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
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 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
I. INTRODUCTION: This module are the Presentation of the Branches of Ballistics. After
EDUCATION
studying this module, learners shall have an understanding and knowledge on the branches
of Ballistics.

II. INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOME: The student are expected to:

• Demonstrate and differentiate the Branches of Ballistics

III. COURSE CONTENT:

Video- Branches of Ballistics
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-mXftKjsvgM
• These are the actions of the firearm and ammunition from the time it was loaded to the
firearm and the bullets hits the target.
1. Interior (internal) Ballistics
• It refers to the properties and attributes of the projectile while still inside the gun. It
covers from the time; the firearm is loaded with the cartridge, the explosion and the
movement of the bullet from the breech to the muzzle of the gun.
ATTRIBUTES OF INTERIOR BALLISTICS

•Firing pin hitting the primer

•In order that the primer should explode, the firing pin should hit such. This is due to the
theory of friction wherein there is a resistance to motion created by the firing pin.
•Ignition of the priming mixture
•Priming mixture is made up of very sensitive material that is commonly located in the
center portion of the cartridge case. In order to ignite the priming mixture, it must
be live and potent and must be devoid of any moisture.
•Combustion of the gunpowder
•As the primer crushed and ignited, the flash passes through the vent towards the
gunpowder that provides the combustion of gunpowder.

•Expansion of the heated gas

•There will be equal expansion of heated gas inside the cartridge, after the combustion
of gunpowder. The gas expanded in the different direction that tends the bullet and
shell to separate from each other in the cartridge.
•Pressure developed
•When the heated gas created by the burning powder charge is developed, a
tremendous pressure is produced in the chamber of the firearm.
•Energy generated
•Energy refers to the fatal equivalent of a bullet compared to a pound that is drops from
a certain height.
•Recoil of the gun
• The recoil of the gun is due to the Newton’s third law of motion (law of interaction)
which states that in every action is always equal and opposite reaction. The
forward movement of the bullet after the explosion results to backward movement
of the cartridge case. Recoil of the gun is affected by several things such as
tightness with which the firearm is held, height of the bore above the center of the
stock line of wrist for pistols, shape and design of the butt plate or the pistol’s grip,
weight of the firearm and the physical and mental condition of the shooter.
•Velocity of the bullet in the gun

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
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 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
•The bullet will travel the bore of the barrel depending on the powder load of the
EDUCATION
cartridges, since it is the powder load that will propel the bullet in the bore of the
barrel of the firearm.
•Rotation of the bullet in the barrel
•When the bullet is driven by the heated gas by tremendous pressure towards the
muzzle end, the bullet will rotate following the riflings inside the gun barrel. But if
the firearm does not have riflings inside the barrel, the bullet (shot) would just
move forward without rotating inside the bore of the barrel until the bullet left the
gun muzzle.
•Engraving of the cylindrical surface of the bullet
•The riflings starting from the breech end up to the muzzle end of the barrel will
engraved in the body of the bullet, depending on the number of lands and grooves
as part of the class characteristics of the firearm.

2. EXTERIOR (EXTERNAL) BALLISTICS

•It refers to the attributes and movements of the bullet after it has left the gun muzzle,
which includes the condition of the bullets’ movement and flight up to the target.

ATTRIBUTES OF EXTERIOR BALLISTICS

•Muzzle blast – it is the noise created at the muzzle point due to sudden escape of the
expanding gas coming in contact with the surrounding atmosphere. Due to this
sound at the muzzle end of the gun, a silencer was invented to minimize the
sound, which the criminal took advantage to conceal the crime.
•Muzzle energy – it is an energy generated at the muzzle point, whenever the cartridge
explodes from a firearm.
•Trajectory – actual curve path of the bullet during its flight from the gun muzzle to the
target. There are three stages of trajectory namely, straight horizontal line,
parabola like flight and vertical drop.
•Range – straight distance from the muzzle to the target. It is classified into:
1.Accurate /maximum effective range – it is the distance within a shooter has
control of his shots.
2.Absolute maximum range – it is the farthest distance that a projectile can be
propelled from a firearm. It is based upon the intrinsic accuracy of the firearm
and ammunition, size of the target, marksmanship ability of the shooter, the
ability to discern the target, knowledge of the ballistics characteristics of the
ammunition, and the level of power needed to be delivered to the target.
Velocity – rate of speed per unit time.

•Air resistance/aerodynamic drag – resistance encountered by the bullet during its flight
which reduces its speed. There are three parts of drag bullet, the bow resistance,
skin friction and the base drag.
•Pull of gravity – downward reaction of the bullet towards the center of the earth, due to
its weight. The pull of gravity will apply only, starting from the parabola, then to the
maximum range and to the final vertical drop. However, in the effective range, the
bullet could withstand the pull of gravity due to its velocity and gyroscopic stability.
•Penetration – depth of entry on the target based on the power and velocity of the
bullet.

3. TERMINAL BALLISTICS

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
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 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
• It refers to the effects of the impact of the projectile in the target. The knocking
EDUCATION
power of particular powder load of the cartridges which makes a devastating
lesion, caused by the bullet.

ATTRIBUTES OF TERMINAL BALLISTICS

•Terminal accuracy – it is the size of the bullet grouping on the target.
•Terminal energy/striking energy – it is energy of the projectile when it strikes the target.
This refers to the fatal equivalent of a bullet when it struck the victim.
•Terminal velocity – it is the speed of the bullet upon striking the target.
•Terminal penetration – it is the depth of entry of the bullet in the target.

4. FORENSIC BALLISTICS
•It refers to the investigation and identification of firearms by means of ammunition fired
through them. This is the real branch of the science which the police use as their
guide in field investigators.

ATTRIBUTES OF FORENSIC BALLISTICS

•Field investigations – it is conducted the first responders when they investigate a case
wherein firearms have been used.
•Technical examinations of ballistics exhibits – it is conducted by the firearms examiners
in the ballistics laboratory to determine the value of firearms exhibits in the solution
of the case.
•Legal proceeding – it includes making of ballistics report and presentation of the result
of the examination conducted before the court.

5. SHOT BALLISTICS
• It is the study of shotgun ammunition including its characteristics spread and
trailing.
6. Wound Ballistics
It refers to the study of the effects of a projectile on a target and the conditions that
affect them

IV. ASSESSMENT:
Video Viewing https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-mXftKjsvgM
View the video entitled “Branches of Ballistics”,and in not less than 300 words explain
how each Branches of Ballistics utilizes in the examination of firearm and fired bullets, or
fired cartridge cases by the examiner and further utilized in the preparation of ballistics
technical reports.

MODULE 2 - PART 2 CLASSIFICATION OF FIREARMS

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
Page 12 of 34
 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
EDUCATION
I. INTRODUCTION: This module talks about the classification of firearms wherein we could
identify and discuss the use of firearms,the caliber of the projectiles propelled, the
mechanical and gun barrel construction.

II. INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES:

1. Explain the classification of firearms and its significance in the law enforcement setting.
2. Analyze the classification of firearms according to the caliber of projectiles propelled, the
mechanical and gun barrel construction and its impact to the firearm laboratory examination
for court presentation.

III. CONTENT:
A. Definition of firearms
The term “firearm” has two definition – legal as well as technical.
 Legal definition – it may be found in Section 877 of Revised Administrative Code as well
as in Section 290 of National Internal Revenue Code and this runs as follows:
Firearms or arms are herein used, includes rifles, muskets carbines, shotguns, pistols,
revolvers and all other deadly weapon from which bullets, balls, shots, shells or other
missiles may be discharged by means of gunpowder or other explosives. This term also
includes air rifles except such as being of small caliber and of limited range use as toys. The
barrel of any firearms shall be considered a complete firearm for all purposes thereof.
While Republic Act 10591, it is define as:
Firearm refers to any handheld or portable weapon, whether a small arm or light weapon,
that expels or is designed to expel a bullet, shot, slug, missile or any projectile, which is
discharged by means of expansive force of gases from burning gunpowder or other form of
combustion or any similar instrument or implement. For purposes of this Act, the barrel,
frame or receiver is considered a firearm.
 Technical definition – a firearm is an instrument used for the propulsion of projectiles by
means of expansive force of gases coming from the burning gunpowder.
B. CLASSIFICATION OF FIREARMS

Video - Classification of firearm

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fYHjA9w6o0g

B.1 ACCORDING TO GUN BARREL INTERNAL CONSTRUCTION

1. Rifled Bore Firearms - those that contain riflings inside the gun barrel. Riflings refers the
lands and grooves such as the following: Rifle – Pistol - Revolver

2. Smooth Bore Firearms – those that have no riflings inside the gun barrel for the breech end
up to the muzzle of the firearm. Such as the following: Shotguns - Muskets

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
Page 13 of 34
 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
EDUCATION
SHOTGUN – it is smooth bore firearm designed to shoot a number of lead pellets one
discharge.
GAUGE – as applied to shotgun indicates that the bore diameter is equal to the diameter of
lead ball weighing in pounds.

B.2 MAIN TYPES OF FIREARM (according to caliber of projectile)

1. Artillery – propelled projectile is more than one inch in diameter.
Ex. Cannons, mortars, bazookas

2. Small Arms – propelled projectile is less than one inch diameter.

Ex. Machine guns, shoulder arms and handguns/arms

B.3 TYPES OF FIREARMS ACCORDING TO MECHANICAL CONSTRUCTION

1. Single Rifle Firearms – type of firearm designed to fire only one shot for every loading.
Example: Pistol, Rifle, Shotgun
2. Repeating Arms – type of firearm designed to fire several shots in one loading. Example:
Automatic pistols, Revolvers, Rifles, Shotguns
3. Bolt Action Type – reloading is done by manipulation of the bolt. Examples: Rifles,
Shotguns.
4. Automatic Loading Type – after the first shot is fired, automatic loading or feeding of the
chamber takes place. Examples: Rifles, Shotguns
5. Slide Action Type (Trombone) – loading takes place by back and forth manipulation of the
under forearm of the gun. Examples: Rifles and Shotguns.
6. Lever Type (Break-type) – loading takes place by lever action on the firearm. Examples:
Rifles, Shotguns.

B.4 TYPES OF FIREARMS ACCORDING TO USE

1. Military Firearms
a. Pistols d. Shotguns
b. Revolvers e. Machine guns
c. Rifles
2. Pocket and Home Defense Firearms

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
Page 14 of 34
 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
a. Pistols c. Rifles
EDUCATION
b. Revolvers d. Shotguns
3. Target and Outdoorsman known as Sporting
a. Pistols b. Revolvers c. Rifles

B.5 UNUSUAL/MISCELLANEOUS TYPES – those that are unique in mechanism and construction.
a. Paltik pistols b. Paltik rifles c. Paltik revolvers d. Paltik shotguns

B.6 CLASSIFICATION OF FIREARMS ACCORDING TO ITS POWER PURSUANT TO R.A. 8294

Section 1. Unlawful Manufacture, Sale, Acquisition, Disposition or Possession of Firearms or

Ammunition or Instruments used or intended to be used in the Manufacture of Firearms or
Ammunitions. The penalty of prision correctional in its maximum period and a fine of not less than
Fifteen thousand pesos (P15,000.00) shall be imposed upon any person who shall unlawfully
manufacture, dealt in, acquire, dispose or possess any low-powered firearm, such as rimfire
handgun, .380, .32 and other firearm of similar firepower, part of firearm, ammunition or machinery,
tool or instrument used in the manufacture of any firearm or ammunition: provided, that no other
crime was committed.

The penalty of prision mayor in its minimum period and a fine of thirty thousand pesos
(P30,000.00) shall be imposed in the firearm is classified as high powered firearms which includes
those with bore bigger in diameter than caliber .38 and 9mm such as caliber .40, .44, .45 and also
lesser caliber firearms but considered powerful such as caliber .357 and caliber .22 center fire
magnum and other firearms with firing capability of full automatic and by burst of two (2) or three (3):
Provided, however, that no other crime was committed by the person arrested.

B.7 THREE MAIN PARTS OF FIREARMS

1. Revolver 3. Rifle – Cal. .30

a. barrel assembly a. barrel assembly
b. cylinder assembly b. magazine assembly
c. frame or receiver c. stock group

2. Pistol 4. Shotgun
a. barrel assembly a. barrel assembly
b. slide assembly b. magazine assembly
c. frame or receiver c. stock group

A. DETAILED PARTS

1. Revolver 2. Pistol
1. Barrel Assembly a. Barrel Assembly
(1) breech end (1) breech end
(2) muzzle end (2) muzzle end
(3) bore (3) bore
(4) riflings (4) riflings
(5) front sight (5) chamber
(6) make (6) interlocking ribs
(7) barrel lug
(8) barrel link
(9) barrel link pin
(10) barrel lead (leed)

2. Cylinder assembly b. Slide Assembly

(1) chambers (1) front sight
(2) extractor (2) top strap
(3) extractor rod (3) ejection part
(4) racket (4) rear sight
(5) cylinder grooves (5) breech block
(6) yoke (6) breech face
(7) cylinder locking notches (touch holes) (7) extractor
(8) firing pin
(9) firing pin stop
(10) serrations
(11) trademark

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
Page 15 of 34
 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
(12) model
EDUCATION
(13) interlocking lugs

3. Frame or Receiver c. Frame or Receiver

(1) top strap (1) ejector
(2) rear sight (2) hammer
(3) breech face (3) spur
(4) hammer (4) grip safety
(5) spur (5) disconnector
(6) thumb latch (6) thumb safety
(7) side plate (7) back strap
(8) back strap (8) butt
(9) firing strap (9) lanyard loop
(10) butt (10) front strap
(11) front strap (11) magazine well
(12) trigger guard (12) right side stock
(13) trigger (13) left side stock
(14) cylinder lock (14) trigger
(15) right side stock (15) trigger stock
(16) left side stock (16) modes
(17) trade mark (monogram) (17) plunger
(18) serial number (18) serial number

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
Page 16 of 34
 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
EDUCATION
B.8 AUXILIARY PARTS (ACCESSORIES)

The following parts must be removed first before disassembly of the weapon:
- recoil plug - recoil spring - barrel bushing - recoil spring guide - slide stop pin

B.9 ADVANTAGES

4. Revolver

 almost everyone knows something about how to handle it.

 safer for inexperienced people.
 the mechanism allows the trigger pull to be better.
 a misfire does not put the revolver out of action.
 Can handle satisfactory old or new or partly deteriorated ammunition which reduces velocity.

5. Automatic pistol

 has a better grip, fits the hand and points naturally

 more compact for the same fire power
 easier to load, easier to clean
 barrel when worn or corroded can be replaced without sending the gun to the factory
 gives greater number of shots
 gives greater fire power and greatest ease in firing
 no gas leakage during firing

B.10 DISADVANTAGES

6. Revolver

 bulkier to carry
 grip or handle is generally not as good as that of pistol
 hard to clean after firing
 slower to load
 harder to replace worn out parts – it’s a factory job
 worn out or poorly made weapon is subject to variable accuracy to improper lining up of
cylinder

7. Automatic Pistol

 ammunition must be perfect – it causes jam

 misfire stops the functioning of gun
 when kept loaded for long period of time – magazine spring is under tension
 has poorer trigger pull
 magazine requires jacketed bullet
 more dangerous to handle especially for inexperienced people
 usually not adopted for reloading
 possible ejection of empty shell towards the face of the firer causing flinching
 throws out empty shell on the ground to remain as evidence
 cannot be fired from the pocket without jamming

IV. ASSESSMENT
Instruction:
a. Watch the video on classification of firearms. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fYHjA9w6o0g

b. Read the articles https://mikethegunguy.files.wordpress.com/2016/07/measuring-gun-

lethality.pdf
Guide questions:
1. From the videos above, analyze the caliber of each firearm and explain its impact to the process
of laboratory examination.
2. Explain the characteristics used to measure the lethality of the firearms.

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
Page 17 of 34
 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
EDUCATION

MODULE 3 CLASS AND INDIVIDUAL CHARACTERISTICS

IV. INTRODUCTION: This module talks class and individual characteristics of a firearms.

V. INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOME: The student are expected to:

 Discuss the class and individual characteristics and its importance in firearm
identification.

 Distinguish the class and individual characteristics of a firearms as a basis of firearm

identification.

III. COURSE CONTENT:

TWO (2) GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS REGARDING FIREARMS IDENTIFICATION

1. CLASS CHARACTERISTICS – are those characteristics which are determinable
even before the manufacture of the firearm. It is categorized into the following:

a. Number of lands and grooves – the number of lands is always equal with the number of
grooves.
b. Width of lands – it is the remainder of the circumference after subtracting the groove
width.
c. Direction of twist – it cause the bullet to rotate as it passes through the barrel for the bullet
to have gyroscopic motion during its flight.
d. Depth of groove – measured on the radius of the bore as seen in cross section. It is equal
to the height of the side of a lands.
e. Pitch of riflings – it is the twist of lands and grooves. It also refers to the distance
advanced by the riflings in a complete run.

Type of Riflings
1. Steyr Type – 4RGL
2. Smith and Wesson Type – 5RGL
3. Browning Type – 6RG2X
4. Colt Type – 6LG2X
5. Webley Type – 7RG3X
6. Army Type – 4RG3X

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS OF DIFFERENT FIREARMS

a. Colt Type ---------------------------------------- .45 6L G2X

b. Grease Gun ------------------------------------- .45 6R G+
c. Smith and Wesson Rev. ---------------------- .45 6R GL
d. Smith and Wesson Rev. ---------------------- .38 5R G=L
e. Colt Revolver ---------------------------------- .38 6L G+
f. Colt Pistol Super-------------------------------- .38 6L G+
g. Colt Revolver ----------------------------------- .32 6L G+
h. Colt Pistol --------------------------------------- .32 6L G+

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
Page 18 of 34
 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
i. Colt Pistol ---------------------------------------
EDUCATION .25 6L G2X
j. Colt Revolver ----------------------------------- .22 6L G2X
k. Colt Revolver ----------------------------------- .357 6L G2X
l. Smith and Wesson Rev. ---------------------- .32 5R G=L
m. Smith and Wesson MRF Rev. ---------------- .22 6R G=L
n. Enfield Revolver -------------------------------- .38 7R G2X
o. US Carbine -------------------------------------- .30 4R G3x
p. Browning Pistol --------------------------------- 9mm 6R G=L
q. Star Pistol ---------------------------------------- .380 6R G+
r. Llama Pistol ------------------------------------- .380 6L G+
s. Beretta Pistol ------------------------------------.32 6R G2X
t. Astra Pistol -------------------------------------- .32 6R G2X
u. Arminius Revolver ------------------------------ .22 6R G2X
v. Burgo Revolver --------------------------------- .22 8R G+
w. Marlin M57 Rifle -------------------------------- .22 2OR G+

3. INDIVIDUAL CHARACTERISTICS – are those characteristics which are determinable

only after the manufacture of the firearm. They are characteristics whose existence is
beyond the control of man and which have a random distribution. Their existence in a
firearm is brought about by the tools in their normal operation resulting through wear, tear,
abuse, mutilations, corrosion, erosions and other fortuitous causes. These are the
irregularities found on the inner surface of the barrel and on the breech face of the
breechblock of the firearms as a result of the failure of the tool beyond the control of the
manufacturer to make them smooth as a mirror..

Corrosion and Erosion also developed individual characteristics

 Corrosion - the chemical wear and tear of the inside of the gun barrel due to rust
formation or chemical reactions by the products of combustion after firing
 Erosion - the mechanical wear and tear of the inner surface of the gun barrel due to
mechanical abrasion or sliding friction.

7 Problems of Firearm Identification

 Given a bullet; to determine the caliber and type firearms used.
 Given a cartridge case; to determine the caliber, name of manufacturer and the type of
fire arm used.
 Given a bullet and firearm, to determine whether or not the bullet was fired from
suspected firearm submitted.
 Given a fired cartridge case and a suspected firearm, to determine whether or not the
cartridge case was fired from the suspected firearm submitted.
 Given two or more bullets, to determine whether or not the bullets were fired from only
one weapon.
 Given two or more fired cartridge cases, to determine whether or not the cartridge cases
were fired from only one weapon.
 Given a firearm, to determine whether it is serviceable or not.

PRINCIPLES GOVERNING FIREARMS EXAMINATION

1. BULLET IDENTIFICATION
a. No two barrels are microscopically identical as the surface of their bores all
posses individual characteristics markings.

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
Page 19 of 34
 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
b. When a bullet isEDUCATION
fired from a rifled barrel, it becomes engraved by the riflings and
this engraving on a bullet fired from one barrel will be different from that on a
similar bullet fire from another barrel. And conversely,. The engraving on bullet
from the same barrel will be the same.
c. Every barrel leaves its “thumbmark” on every bullet which is fired through it, just as
every breech face leaves its “thumbmark” on the base of the fired cartridge case.

2. IDENTIFICATION OF FIRED BULLETS AND CARTRIDGE CASES

a. The first thing to do in the examination of bullets is to conduct a visual examination
of the bullets in order to familiarize with all markings appearing on it.
b. Conduct examination of the bore of the firearm.
c. Determine the conspicuous characteristics appearing on the bullet or any
markings appearing therein.
d. Markings appearing on the test bullet No. 1 and does not appear on the
succeeding test bullet such markings should be disregarded. Consequently, such
markings are called accidental markings which came from foreign substances.
e. If the bullet is undersized or the bore of the firearms is badly worn out there will be
a cylindrical passage of the expending gas will appear dark or black in the picture.
WHAT TO COMPARE?
1. Evidence Bullet
2. Test/Standard Bullet

Before proceeding in the examination of the firearm by means of the fired

bullets, first identify the particular firearm through the class characteristics appearing
on the cylindrical surface of the bullet.

Manufacturers of firearms make certain marks which may distinguish firearms

manufactured by them from that of other manufacturers. Each manufacturer makes
specific number of spiral grooves and direction of the twist of rifling. A bullet
recovered at the crime scene or from the body of the victim may show those marks
and on examination, the examiner may presumptively state from what make of
firearm it came from, thus, if one examination or recovered bullet, it was found out
that there are six (6) grooves and the rifling marks are twisted to the left, then it is
possible that it came from a Colt firearm. Smith and Wesson manufacturer has five
(5) lands, five (5) grooves and with right hand twit of rifling. Other class
characteristics varied from one manufacturer to another.

3. SHELL Identification

a. The breechface and the striker of every single firearm leave microscopically
individualities of their own. The firearm leaves its “fingerprint” or “thumbmark” on
every cartridge which is fires.
b. The whole principle of identification is based on the fact that since the breechface
of every weapon must be individually distinct, the cartridge case which it fires is
imprinted with this individuality.

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
Page 20 of 34
 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
c. The imprints onEDUCATION
all cartridges fired from the same weapon are the same and those
cartridges fired from different weapon must always be different.
Marks found on Fired Bullets:
 Landmarks – depressed portion caused by lands.
 Groovemarks – raised or elevated portions cause by the grooves.
 Skidmarks – due to worn out barrel
 Slippage Marks – marks cause by oily barrel or slightly over-sized barrels
 Shaving Marks – marks due to a poor alignment of the cylinder with a bore
IMPORTANCE OF FIRED BULLET IN FIREARMS IDENTIFICATION
a. By means of fire bullet you can determine the particular barrel of firearm used.
b. Recovered bullet can tell the type, caliber and make of firearm from which it was
fired.
c. Can determine also the condition of the firearm use.
FIREARM CARTRIDGE CASE
Before proceeding in the examination, conduct a preliminary examination on the
cartridge case having a visual examination on the condition of such cartridge case.
Determine whether or not it came from a revolver or from an automatic pistol and sub-
machine guns. Examine those markings that are present on the base portion, the
breechface marks, firing pin impression, the location of the extractor and ejector markings.
Check also the markings caused by the chamber of the firearm. The magazine and the
ejector port markings must also be taken into consideration particularly those cartridge
cases from guns having full automatic mechanism.

MARKINGS APPEARING ON A FIRED CARTRIDGE CASE

1. Breechface marks
2. Firing pin impression
3. Ejector mark
4. Extractor mark
5. Chamber mark

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
Page 21 of 34
 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
EDUCATION

TWO TYPES OF MARKINGS (individual)

1. Impression type – those markings caused by direct pressure contact. (ex.
Breechface mark)
2. Striated mark – those markings caused by sliding contact. (ex. Minute striations on
the cylindrical surface of the bullet)

Take Note:
 Abrasion (in the bore) – Scratches caused by using improper cleaning materials, or
by firing ammunition with bullets to which abrasive material was adhering. Normal
enlargement of the bore and wearing away of lands due to the abrasive action of the
bullets.
 Accidental Characteristics - Those ate characteristics or marks left by some
individual gun that occurred on that particular shot and may or may not reproduced on
any other shots. For example, a grain of send of shaving of steel happened to be in
the barrel when a shot was fired.
 Ballistician – Person whose knowledge in firearms identification is accepted by the
courts and other investigation agencies.

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
Page 22 of 34
 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
 Definitive Proof –EDUCATION
after the gun is finally completed, it is again fired with a heavy
charge to ensure against accident. This is the definitive proof and guns passing this
test are stamped with still another marked.
 Expert - As used in courts includes all witnesses whose opinions are admitted on
grounds of specialized knowledge, training and experience.
 Fouling - The accumulated of a deposit within the bore of a firearm caused by solid
by-products remaining after a cartridge of is fired.
 Heavy Rusting - Usually called corrosion rather than fouling.
 Proof Marks – It is the examination and testing of firearms by a recognized authority
according to certain rules and stamped with a mark to indicate that they are safe for
sale and used by the public.
 Provisional Proof – the testing of the rough gun barrels and fired with a heavy
charge of powder to see if they are strong enough to be finished and assembled into
gun. This provisional proof and a certain stamp are placed on barrels so tested.
 Secondary Firing Pin Impression – Is a mark on the side of the regular impression
usually found in pistols.
 Shaving Marks – a shaving on the ogive portion of the fired bullet due to poor
alignment of the cylinder with the barrel. This shaving is often found in the revolver.
 Skid Marks – When the bullet first starts forward without turning, that before the
bullet can begin to turn, it moves forward a small distance and this makes the front of
the groove in the bullet wider than the rear part. This skidding is more pronounced in
revolvers.
 Slippage Marks – Scratches of the fired bullet due to badly worn rifling or when the
bullet is small or too soft for the velocity used, there is a tendency for it to go straight
forward without turning and it jumps the rifling or slips.
 Stripping Marks – scratches on the fired bullet due to worn out barrel.
VI. ASSESSMENT:
1. Read the articles “CLASS AND INDIVIDUAL CHARACTERISTICS OF FIREARMS”
https://forensicyard.com/characteristics-of-fire/ and answer the following questions:
1. In not less than 100 words, explain the difference between the class and
individual characteristics and give its importance in firearm identification.
2. What did you learned from the articles?

2. Assuming that you recovered a fired bullet from a crime scene, how would you determine
what kind of firearm fired that bullet? Justify your answer in not less than 200 words.

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
Page 23 of 34
 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
EDUCATION

MODULE 3 CLASS AND INDIVIDUAL CHARACTERISTICS

Part 2 - Preparation of Ballistics Report

INTRODUCTION: This module talks about the preparation of ballistics report. This will help
the students in preparing ballistics report when they become part of the law enforcement
setting.

INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOME:

At the end of this topic,the students are expected to:
1. Review the ballistics report and analyze its use in law enforcement setting
2. Create a report using the format of ballistics report.

CONTENT:
INTRODUCTION
Ballistics report writing is significant to the success and failure of the case in the court.
The objective of the ballistics report is to prosecute and precisely to convict the accused and
to give justice to the victim. Hence, it would be fatal on the side of the prosecution, if there is
a blatant irreconcilable, inconsistencies or error committed by the forensic firearms
examiner, whose testimony is repugnant or it contradicts to his findings and conclusion.

Ballistics report is typewritten report after a critical study of specimen, physical

examination and observation of striations through the bullet comparison microscope. Report
writing is a basic activity in a police work, thus for every police action there must be a
corresponding report reaction.

Preparation of a Report

The forensic firearms examiner, before preparing ballistics report in report writing, he
should have already an idea, to include the familiarization of six points of investigation. One
of this is to ascertain whether a particular firearm submitted for ballistics examination in
working condition. This includes also the examination of the said firearm, whether it was
recently fired, and is subject to the examination by the Chemistry section.

When a firearm is submitted for examination, it is important to know whether the

condition of the firearm is serviceable. It is also important that in misfired ammunition, it
should be compared with the test fired ammunition, since there is firing pin tip marked
created in the misfired cartridge, while there are static or exerted force marks on the test
cartridge case.

In a fragmented bullet, a part of it is submitted to the forensic firearms examiner, to

determine if that fragment is part of the bullet. At the same time, take note of the individual
characteristics of the firearm and compare it with the recognized standard.

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
Page 24 of 34
 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
EDUCATION
Format for Ballistics Report

Republic of the Philippines

Department of the Interior and Local Government
Philippine National Police
REGIONAL CRIME LABORATORY OFFICE 7
Camp Sotero, Cabahug, Gorordo Ave., Cebu City

BALLISTICS REPORT NO. FAIB -659-2007

CASE: “HOMICIDE” SUSPECT/S: “JUAN TAMAD”

VICTIM/S: “MARIA TAMAD”

TIME AND DATE RECEIVED: 1402 Hours, 22 March 2007

REQUESTING PARTY/UNIT: Chief of Police

Toledo City Police Station
Brgy. Pakos, Toledo City

SPECIMEN SUBMITTED:
1. One (1) caliber .38 homemade revolver, Smith and Wesson, nickel plated, without serial
number
marked “CRV”.
2. One (1) fired cartridge case of caliber .38 marked “CRV-1”.
3. One (1) fired bullet of caliber .38 marked “CRV-2”.

PURPOSE OF LABORATORY EXAMINATION:

To determine whether or not, specimen marked “CRV-1” and “CRV-2” were fired from
the above-mentioned firearms marked “CRV”.

FINDINGS:
Microscopic examination and comparison of specimen marked “CRV-1” and “CRV-2”
revealed the same individual characteristics with the test cartridge cases fired from the
above-mentioned firearm marked “CRV”.

CONCLUSION:
The specimen marked “CRV-1” and “CRV-2” were fired from the above-mentioned
firearm marked “CRV”.

REMARKS:
The original copy of this report and the specimen submitted are retained in this
Laboratory for future reference.

EXAMINED BY:
ZOSIMO AMPOLOQUIO DUYOGAN
Police Superintendent
Forensic Firearms EXAMINER

APPROVED

NOTED:
NESTOR APARECIO SATOR
Police Superintendent
Regional Chief

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
Page 25 of 34
 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
EDUCATION
Important parts of Ballistics Report Writing

1. Ballistic Report Number – this represents the number of cases examined and the year the
case was examined. Ex. FAID-120-10. FAID refers to office symbol or initial. The number
120 refers to the last case number, the forensic firearms examiner, had examined. The
number 10 refers to the year the case was submitted and examined.

If the number of the case and the year number had a discrepancy, the forensic
firearms examiner might be declared incompetent by the court, and his testimony might be
inadmissible as evidence if it can’t be reconciled through re-direct examination.

2. Time and Date Received – this is the date actually, the letter request and the physical
evidence was received by the forensic firearms examiner, from the chemistry personnel, that
is if the evidence is a firearm or from the personnel on duty, if the evidence is only a bullet or
shell was submitted.

The date and time received should be reflected at the back of the letter request, and
have the duty personnel signed. So that when the defense counsel will ask, who turn over
the firearm? The forensic firearms examiner can extemporaneously answer the question.

3. Time and date completed – refers to the time and date the examination and ballistics
report was accomplished. The forensic firearms examiner should be careful about the date
received and dated completed, because if it is interchanged with the date received and the
date completed, the ballistics report is biased.

4. Specimen Submitted – the specimen should tally with the actual specimens itemized, and
those specimens reflected in the letter request, otherwise a problem will crop up, as to the
where about of some specimens. To avoid this, there should be a proper chain of custody,
so that, if the specimen is actually lost, the responsible person can easily be pinpointed.

5. Findings – this is actually the result of what the forensic firearms examiner observed on
the evidence and the test, mounted in the stage plate of the bullet comparison microscope,
whether it is positive or negative result.

The result is positive, when the evidences and test specimens have congruency of
striations, meaning, they are fired from one firearm. Negative result, when the evidence and
the test have different individual characteristics.

6. Conclusion – this is an inference, wherein, it passes already the three stages in the
examination. First, the preliminary examination, second, the confirmation and the third, is the
conclusion. The conclusion should be derived from the findings as the basis therein.
Actually, these three stages are based on the three standard cartridges for test firing.

The first test fired cartridge case will be compared with evidence, to determine if they
have the same striations, the second comparison is for the confirmation by comparing the
evidence and second test fired cartridge case, to find out if the individual characteristics are
still consistent. The case and the evidence. If both the test and evidence have the same
striations, then the conclusion would be made and the report will be prepared.

ASSESSMENT:
Below is a shooting incident scenario wherein the Chief of Police, Cabanatuan City Police
Station, Cabanatuan City requested for appropriate laboratory examination.

That on or about 1700H, 07 October 2021, a shooting incident was transpired along
national hi-way, Brgy H. Concepcion, Cabanatuan City wherein the victim who died
instantaneously was identified as Pedro Santos y dela Cruz, 30 yo, single and a resident of
Brgy Accfa, Cabanatuan City. Recovered from the crime scene were three (3) pieces of
cal .45 fired bullets and two (2) pieces of cal .45 fired cartridge cases. The suspect who fled

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
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 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
away after the incident was arrested by the responding policemen at his residence at Brgy
EDUCATION
Aduas Sur,Cabanatuan City on or about 2100H, same date and was later identified as Juan
Garcia y Bernal, 29 yo, married. Recovered from his possession and control was one (1)
cal .45 colt pistol with serial number 987654 and one (1) empty magazine for caliber .45
pistol. The Chief of Police, Cabanatuan City Police Station submitted the collected pieces of
evidence to Nueva Ecija Provincial Crime Laboratory Office, Cabanatuan City for
appropriate laboratory examination.

ICOW the above scenario, prepare a Ballistics Report utilizing the above
sample/format of said report.

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
Page 27 of 34
 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
EDUCATION
PROCEDURE IN THE CONDUCT OF BALLISTICS EXAMINATION

INTRODUCTION:

Solving a crime that involves firearms often depends on the scientific examination of
evidence by a qualified examiner at the crime laboratory. The laboratory examination may
show that a projectile or expended cartridge case was fired from a specific weapon. Testing
the mechanical condition of the weapon may show that an accidental discharge was
possible. Other tests may show the presence or absence of gunpowder residue in the barrel
of a weapon. A fired bullet or cartridge case may show the caliber and type of weapon that
fired it. It may also tell the manufacturer of the ammunition. Tests may show the distance
between the muzzle of the weapon and the point of contacts. They may also show the point
of entrance and/or exit of a projectile in clothing, wood, glass, or metal.

Investigators do not perform firearms identification tests in the field. The firearms
examiners do the identification and test at the crime laboratory and give result to the
investigator in the field. They also give expert testimony in court when needed. But while
expert testimony may be given only by a qualified laboratory examiner, the solving of a crime
involving firearms may depend on how you, the investigator collect and preserve firearm
evidence.

PROCEDURES IN REQUESTING FOR LABORATORY EXAMINATIONS

1. Letter requests for examinations - should be addressed to the Director, Crime

Laboratory (D, CL), attention: Chief, Firearms Identification Division (C, FAID).

The requests must contain the following information:

a. The submitting contact person’s name, agency, address, and telephone
number.
b. Nature and the basic facts of the case.
c. The name(s) and descriptive data about the individual(s) involved (subject,
suspect, victim, or a combination of those categories) and the unit-assigned case
identification number, if there is any.
d. List of the evidence being submitted or under separate cover.
2.Physical examination of the evidence being referred to for examination

Explanation of the Letters Engraved in the Evidence

A – refers to the name of the victim or investigator

P – refers to the middle name of the victim or investigator
A – refers to the family name of the victim or investigator
1, 2 and 3 – refers to the number of evidences as their identity each
1/10/10 – refers to the date of recovery, January 10, 2010

The most important part of the job of the investigator, is the engraving of secret
marking in each physical evidence in the portion of which, only the investigator
knows the location and it should be reflected in the small notebook as reference in the
future court proceedings.

The sketch and marking of physical evidence is just a preparation, wherever

the defense counsel will invoke reconstruction of evidence in the crime scene,
including the position of the victim’s body. In this particular idea, the investigator is not

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
Page 28 of 34
 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
caught unaware ofEDUCATION
the strategy of the defence counsel in court proceedings, he is
ready to overcome all possible predicament.

Then, the investigator should preserve the physical evidence by keeping it in a

plastic pack, brown envelope or any container with cover, to preserve and retain the
evidentiary value from the time it was recovered until it is presented in court. The last,
will be the preparation of letter request for examination from the crime laboratory, then
it will be transmitted by the investigator or any personnel handling the case.

Examination of physical evidence by the forensic firearms examiner

This is the role of the ballistician or forensic firearms examiner in the field of
science.
First, the forensic firearms examiner will receive all physical evidence shells and
evidence firearms and other allied items related to the use of firearms. Check all the
itemized evidence embodied or written in the letter request and compare with the
actual evidence if they tally with the actual physical evidence submitted. Then
proceed to check the engraved makings in the physical evidence, if all, have each
physical identity.

If the marking of the investigator is wrong, then, the forensic firearms examiner
will make his own markings, with corresponding information send to the investigator
for adjustment of the defect or discrepancy in order to reconcile the error if any.

Different Markings of Cartridge for Test Firing

a. Original/Genuine firearm
b. Homemade or paltik firearm without serial number

For firearm

Below is the example on how to engrave in the body of the cartridge case and
bullet of the cartridge. Whatever engraved in the shell of the cartridge should be the same
marking with the bullet.

T-28-1
T-28-2
T-28-3

T – refers to Test
28 – refers to the last 2 digits of the serial number of original firearm
1, 2 and 3 – refers to the number of cartridge to be test with serial number

P-29-1
P-29-2
P-29-3

P – refers to test paltik firearm with serial number

29 – refers to the last 2 digit of paltik firearm with serial number
1, 2 and 3 – refers to the number of cartridge to be test fired

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
Page 29 of 34
 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
For homemade or paltik firearm without serial number
EDUCATION

T-P-1
T-P-2
T-P-3

T – refers to test for homemade firearm without serial number

P – refers to the substitute of the suppose last 2 digit of serial number
1, 2 and 3 – refers to the number of cartridge to be test fired.

3.Referral of the evidence to other Technical divisions:

a. Fingerprint Division - for possible recovery of latent prints.
b. Photography Division – for documentation through
photography.
c. Medico Legal Division - for possible Serology on evidence
firearms.
d. Physical Identification Division – responsible in the examination
of allied examination, like; Bullet Trajectory Analysis and Serial
Number Restoration
e. Chemistry Division – for Gunpowder Residue Analysis

4.Test firing of evidence firearm.

Purpose of Three Cartridges for Test Firing

a. For preliminary examination- to determine whether the

individual characteristics in the evidence are appearing also
in the test.

b. For confirmation- to observe and confirm whether individual

characteristics are still same.

c. For conclusion- based on the two finding of the first and second
tests, the third test is the finding that will be the deciding point to
arrive in a conclusion without iota of doubt.

5. Microscopic examination of the evidence bullet/cartridge cases utilizing

Bullet Comparison Microscope

Bullet comparison microscope is a piece of optical equipment frequently

used by firearms identification expert or forensic firearms examiner. This
instrument is especially designed, for use by the forensic firearms examiner to
examine and compare two fired bullets or two fired cartridge cases mounted in
separate stage plate, simultaneously observing the merge magnified image in
the eyepiece of the bullet comparison microscope.

When observed through the eyepiece of the bullet comparison

microscope, the forensic
firearms examiner can observe the test bullet in one stage plate and the
evidence bullet in the other stage plate. These two stage plate when you

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
Page 30 of 34
 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
observed through the eyepiece, is divided by what we called it prism or
EDUCATION
dividing line that separate the objects mounted one in the right side.

The forensic firearm examiner can either apply the two position in
comparing the evidence bullet and test bullet, either; 1) Intermarriage, or 2)
Juxtaposition. It can be applied also in comparing evidence shell and test
bullet.

Intermarriage – is the position of both evidence bullet or cartridge

case and test bullet or cartridge case wherein half of the same image of
evidence bullet or fired cartridge case and half of the same image of the test
bulletor test cartridge case of the same direction, the same magnification and
the same level or plane, are merged into one image. In this position the
forensic firearm examiner will try to look for the congruency of striation or the
same marking created by the tools of the firearm, like for example lands
and grooves of the barrel of the firearm. In comparing or examining the
evidence shell/bullet and test shell/bullet, the following should be considered:

Congruent breech face marks

Juxtaposition – is the critical side by side comparison of evidence

bullet and test bullet or evidence fired cartridge case and test cartridge
cases, through the bullet comparison microscope, to find the same
feature, structure of striations or markings from the base portion, up
to ogive or nose portion of the fired bullet,or base portion of the fired
cartridge cases created by the same tools of firearms. If
all the portion of evidence bullet and test bullet or evidence fired cartridge
cases and test cartridge cases are the same, then they
have congruency of striations, and therefore, it is fired by one
and the same suspected firearm.

6.Preparation of Laboratory/Ballistic Technical Report

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
Page 31 of 34
 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
Ballistics report is typewritten report after a critical study of specimen,
EDUCATION
physical examination and observation of striations through the bullet comparison
microscope. Report writing is a basic activity in a police work, thus for every police
action there must be a corresponding report reaction.

Important parts of Ballistics Report Writing

1. Ballistic Report Number – this represents the number of cases examined and
the year the case was examined. Ex. FAID-120-10. FAID refers to office symbol
or initial. The number 120 refers to the last case number, the forensic firearms
examiner, had examined. The number 10 refers to the year the case was
submitted and examined.

If the number of the case and the year number had a discrepancy, the forensic
firearms examiner might be declared incompetent by the court, and his testimony
might be inadmissible as evidence if it can’t be reconciled through re-direct
examination.

2. Time and Date Received – this is the date actually, the letter request and the
physical evidence was received by the forensic firearms examiner, from the
chemistry personnel, that is if the evidence is a firearm or from the personnel on
duty, if the evidence is only a bullet or shell was submitted.

The date and time received should be reflected at the back of the letter request,
and have the duty personnel signed. So that when the defense counsel will ask,
who turn over the firearm? The forensic firearms examiner can
extemporaneously answer the question.

3. Time and date completed – refers to the time and date the examination and
ballistics report was accomplished. The forensic firearms examiner should be
careful about the date received and dated completed, because if it is
interchanged with the date received and the date completed, the ballistics report
is biased.

4. Specimen Submitted – the specimen should tally with the actual specimens
itemized, and those specimens reflected in the letter request, otherwise a problem
will crop up, as to the where about of some specimens. To avoid this, there should be a
proper chain of custody, so that, if the specimen is actually lost, the responsible person
can easily be pinpointed.

5. Findings – this is actually the result of what the forensic firearms examiner
observed on the evidence and the test, mounted in the stage plate of the bullet
comparison microscope, whether it is positive or negative result.

The result is positive, when the evidences and test specimens have congruency
of striations, meaning, they are fired from one firearm. Negative result, when the
evidence and the test have different individual characteristics.

6. Conclusion – this is an inference, wherein, it passes already the three stages

in the examination. First, the preliminary examination, second, the confirmation and
the third, is the conclusion. The conclusion should be derived from the findings as the

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
Page 32 of 34
 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
basis therein. Actually, these three stages are based on the three
EDUCATION standard
cartridges for test firing.

The first test fired cartridge case will be compared with evidence, to determine
if they have the same striations, the second comparison is for the confirmation by
comparing the evidence and second test fired cartridge case, to find out if the
individual characteristics are still consistent. The case and the evidence. If both
the test and evidence have the same striations, then the conclusion would be
made and the report will be prepared.

Format for Ballistics Report

Republic of the Philippines

Department of the Interior and Local Government
Philippine National Police
REGIONAL CRIME LABORATORY OFFICE 7
Camp Sotero, Cabahug, Gorordo Ave., Cebu City

BALLISTICS REPORT NO. FAIB -659-2007

CASE: “HOMICIDE” SUSPECT/S: “JUAN TAMAD”

VICTIM/S: “MARIA TAMAD”

TIME AND DATE RECEIVED: 1402 Hours, 22 March 2007

REQUESTING PARTY/UNIT: Chief of Police

Toledo City Police Station
Brgy. Pakos, Toledo City

SPECIMEN SUBMITTED:
1. One (1) caliber .38 homemade revolver, Smith and Wesson, nickel plated, without
serial number
marked “CRV”.
2. One (1) fired cartridge case of caliber .38 marked “CRV-1”.
3. One (1) fired bullet of caliber .38 marked “CRV-2”.

PURPOSE OF LABORATORY EXAMINATION:

To determine whether or not, specimen marked “CRV-1” and “CRV-2” were fired from
the above-mentioned firearms marked “CRV”.

FINDINGS:
Microscopic examination and comparison of specimen marked “CRV-1” and “CRV-2”
revealed the same individual characteristics with the test cartridge cases fired from the
above-mentioned firearm marked “CRV”.

CONCLUSION:
The specimen marked “CRV-1” and “CRV-2” were fired from the above-mentioned
firearm marked “CRV”.

REMARKS:

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
Page 33 of 34
 MANUEL V GALLEGO
FOUNDATION
COLLEGES, INC.
FORENSIC BALLISTICS INSTITUTE OF PSCI 41
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
The original copy EDUCATION
of this report and the specimen submitted are retained in this
Laboratory for future reference.

EXAMINED BY:

ZOSIMO AMPOLOQUIO DUYOGAN

Police Superintendent
Forensic Firearms EXAMINER

NOTED:
NESTOR APARECIO SATOR
Police Superintendent
Regional Chief

7. Retrieval of related laboratory reports

8. Turn-over of evidence to the evidence custodian for safekeeping
9. Release of laboratory report.
10. Preparation for Court Trial

The forensic firearms examiner will prepare the copy of Ballistics Report, the
photomicrograph and other pieces physical evidence such as fired bullets, fired
cartridge cases and evidence firearms and necessary document related to the
physical evidence. It is mandatory on the part of the forensic firearms examiner, to
predict and review all probable questions.

Confer and rehearse with the prosecutor before trial, to iron out and
to avoid inconsistencies that might occur during the trial proper.

Early arrival in the court is a must, for the witness to relax and look
fresh with impressive attire. The parable says “the first impression last”

References

Duyogan Zosimo A., Forensic Ballistics Guide for Criminal Lawyers, Police Officers,
Students and Reviewees
Del Rosario Domingo R., Forensic Ballistics Book
Criminal Investigation Manual, Police Operational Procedure (PNPM-DO-DS-3-1) March
2010, PNP CL SOCO Manual,

AUTHOR:
COL. EPITACIO D. DOMINGO
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