BALLISTICS – It is better be described as an applied ignites and such action is known as

physics for it study the motion of the projectile such as “PERCUSSION ACTION”.
trajectory, velocity, power resistance to the air, c.) COMBUSTION OF THE GUN POWDER/
approximate range and other circumstances that affects POWDER CHARGE PROPELLANT – after the
their travel. ignition of the priming mixture the ignition
will be imparted to the gunpowder by
MOTION – It refers to the mobility or movement of
passing through, the event, or flash hole
projectile from the time it leaves the shell empty, leaves
thus burning the gun powder and converts
to the gun muzzle and until to reach its target or fail to
it into an expanded hot gas.
the ground.
d.) EXPANSION OF HEATED GAS – powder
PROJECTILE – it refers to the metallic or non-metallic charge once burned will be converted into a
ball which propelled from a firearm. heated gas, which has a more elastic
property for its particles are far apart, this
DIRECT MOTION – Is the forwarded motion of the bullet will then fill the entire container (shell).
or shots out of the shell by the action of expansive force e.) PRESSURE DEVELEOPE – Outward push of
of gases from the burning gunpowder. the gasses to the burned powder pressure is
ROTARY MOTION – is the action of the bullet passing developed due to the great amount of gas
through a riffled bore barrel firearm which is either that is expanding within the shell causing
twisted to the left or to the right. the withdrawal of the bullet from the shell.
f.) ENERGY GENERATED – is the measure of
TRANSLATION – is the action of bullet once it hits a and force in foot – pound necessary for an
subsequently ricocheted action.
ORIGIN OF THE WORD BALLISTICS g.) RECOIL OF THE GUN – is the equal and
opposite reaction of the gun against the
It is derived from the two Greek words. “Ballo” and forward movement of the bullet upon
word “ballein” the term also said to have been derived explosion. The backward or rearward
from the roman war machine called “Ballista”, a gigantic movement of the gun in relation to the
catapult that was used to furl missiles or large object at forward movement of the bullet may be
distance like stone, dead animal, or even dead person. divided into two division: 1st which occur
while the bullet is still inside the barrel, and
BRANCHES OF BALLISTICS
which is relatively small in intensity. 2nd
- AT THE EARLY AGE IT IS DIVIDED INTO 3 DIVISIONS which occurs just after the bullet leaved the
 INTERIOR BALLISTICS – it treats of the motion muzzle of the gun and this is a much violet
of the projectile while it is still inside the firearm backward impulse when the hot gases rush
(chamber/barrel) which extends from the up-out of the muzzle and set against the
breech to the muzzle. gun. Another reason and which of greatest
The conditions attributed to internal ballistics influence in the recoil of the gun is has
are as follows: something to do with the firing mechanism
a.) FINGER PIN HITTING THE PRIMER – Upon of the gun such as the gas operated, recoil
the squeeze of the trigger, the hammer will operated and the blowback type.
be released which, cause the firing to be AMONG THE THREE it is the BLOWBACK
pushed and hit the base portion of the type that has the lesser recoil, and this can
cartridge be observed in pistol.
b.) IGNITION OF THE PRIMING MIXTURE – The h.) JUMP – is another portion of recoil action
priming mixture (composing of the KCLO3, characterized as the backward and upward
sulfur and carbon) located either at the movement of the takes place before the
cavity rim or at the center of the primer bullet leaves the muzzle.
upon the striking effect of the firing pin will i.) VELOCITY OF THE BULLET INSIDE THE
BARREL – It is the relative speed of the
 bullet per unit of time while it is still inside j. AIR RESISTANCE - refers to the force of the
the barrel expressed in feet per second. air encounter by the bullet in its flight.
j.) ROTATION OF THE BULLET INSIDE THE  TERMINAL BALLISTICS – is that branch of
BARREL – it refers to the twist of the bullet ballistics which deal with the effect of the
caused by the cylindrical grooved portion of impact of the projectile on the target.
the barrel of most firearms. i. TERMINAL ACCURACY – it refers to the
k.) ENGRAVING OF THE CYLINDRICAL SURFACE size of the bullet grouping on the target.
OF THE BULLET – Once the bullet passed ii. TERMINAL ENERGY – is the energy or
though the barrel of any firearm whether force of the projectile when it strikes
rifled or not will leave its mark to the the target same as striking energy.
cylindrical surface of the bullet serving as its iii. TERMINAL VELOCITY – is the speed of
thumbprints. the bullet upon striking the target.
 EXTERNAL OR EXTERIOR BALLISTICS – treats of iv. TERMINAL PENETRATION – is the depth
the attributes or movement of the projectile of entry of the bullet in the target.
after leaving the gun muzzle - From the time gun was fired until reach the target
a. MUZZLE BLAST – is the noise created at the and have its maximum effect
muzzle point of the gun due to the sudden - At present ballistics is a branch into 4 and this is due
escape of the expanding gas and its contact to its subsequent used in solving firearms and
with the air? ammunition which is termed as Forensic Ballistics
b. MUZZLE ENERGY – energy generated at the
muzzle point measured in foot-pound.  FORENSIC BALLISTIC – is defined as the study of
c. TRAJECTORY – refers to the parabola-like the motion of the projectile as applied to law or
flight of the projectile from the time it simply the science of firearm identification by
leaves the muzzle until it hits the target. It is means of ammunition fired.
also described as the actual curve path
taken by a bullet during its flight from the I. FIELD INVESTIGATION – this is the
gun muzzle to the target. It has three primary routine job of an
stages: the straight travel, the curving of the Investigating officer including
bullet and its drop to the ground due to its recognition, collection, markings,
weight. prevention, packing and transmittal
d. RANGE - refers to the imaginary straight of ballistics exhibits.
distance between the muzzle of the gun and II. BALLISTICS TECHNICAL
the target. EXAMINATION OF THE EXHIBITS –
e. ACCURATE RANGE – the distance within it is extended to markings of
which the shooter or gunner has control of evidence, test-firing (to obtain test
his shots. bullets and test shells for
f. EFFECTIVE RANGE – this distance within comparison) photomicrography
which when the bullet was fired it is still under the bullet comparison
capable of inflicting fatal injury. microscope, preparation of the
g. MAXIMUM RANGE – the distance that a comparative chart, and final
projectile can be propelled from a firearm. reports on the fingers and
The farthest distance the bullet could travel. observations of the firearms
h. VELOCITY - Refers to the rate of speed of examiners.
the bullet (during its flight) per unit of time III. LEGAL PROCEEDING – it is the most
usually express is feet per second (ft/sec.) critical part in the field of firearm
i. PULL OF GRAVITY – it is the downward identification for herein the
reaction of the bullet towards the earth examiner will go to court and
surface due to its weight. testify as an expert witness
regarding the ballistics report he
 had prepared as well as the ELISHA KING ROOT = Designed the machinery for
ballistics exhibits which he has making colt firearms
examined in the laboratory.
HORACE SMITH – Founded the great from of SMITH
AND WESSON and pioneered in making breech loading
rifles

THE EVOLUTION OF FIREARMS EUGENE STONER – Designed the U.S. M16 Armalite
under licensed by Colt Company from July 1959
MAN BEHIND FIREARMS
LC SMITH – Developed shotgun bearing his name now
JOHN M. BROWNING – wizard of the modern firearms
the Ithaca Gun Company
and pioneered the breech loading single shot rifled
which was adopted by Winchester. JOHN T. THOMPSON – developed during WW1 the
Thompson M1A1 and model of 1928 A1 (USA).
SAMUEL COLT – patented the first practical revolver
Pioneered the making of Thompson sub-machine gun.
and maker of the colt peace maker, a famous revolver in
the history. DANIEL B. WESSON – Associates of Horace Smith in the
making of Revolver.
ALEXANDER JOHN FORSYTH - Father of the percussion
powder. DAVID “CARBINE” WILLIAMS – Maker of the first
known Carbine.
HENRY DERINGER – Gave him name to a whole class of
Rifles and pistols. CARL WALTER – Designed Walther MP38

MAJOR UZIEL GAL – An Israeli army who designed UZI OLIVER WINCHESTER – One of the earliest rifle and
(Israel) in the year 1950 pistol maker.

COL. CALVIN H GODDARD – father of modern Ballistics 1242 A.D. – Roger Bacon published the “De Mirabili
Potestate Artis et Nature” (On the Marvelous Power of
JOHN C. GARAND – Designed and invented the semi -
arts and Nature), which noted Black powder formula
automatic U.S. rifle cal. 30. M1 garand
1200 – Roman Candle. A hallow tube, strengthened
GEORGE HYDE – A well-known expert in the field of
with wire or shrunken rawhide, and loaded with
SMG, (also known as grease gun) developed in 1941.
alternate charges of power and balls of tallow wrapped
M3A1 (USA)
in cloth. It is ignited at the muzzle. Chinese reference
GORDON INGRAMS – invented the ingrams (USA) used of Roman Candle is said to be at mid of 1200’s

MICHAEL KALASHNIKOV - Designed the AK (automat 1326 AD – The oldest authenticated illustrations of gun
Kalashnikov) 47 (Soviet Union) adopted by the Russian powder used to hurl projectile in cannons was
army in the year 1951 demonstrated in Walter de Millimete’s manuscript. In
the same period “The metrical life of Robert the Bruce”
GEORGE LUGER – designed the LUGER MPO8 by John Barbour also indicates the used of cannon by
(Germany) Edward III at Crecy. Although not completely
JOHN WOLFE MARLIN - Founder of Marlin Firearms authenticated.
Company 1343 AD – Cannon locks were used in military as
PTER PAUL MAUSER - invented and designed Mauser depicted in the Italian Frescoes by Neri.
M1912 (Germany) CODEX GERMANICUS – Translates “directions for
JAMES WOLFE RIFLEY - Stimulated the development of preparation of Gun Powder” How to load the gun and
the model 1855 rifle discharge them.

ELIPHALET REMINGTON - One of the early rifle makers.

1450 – The Evolution of the Match Lock Ignition Winchester, through the effort of Tyler Henry
developed a 44-cal rim fire cartridge of Henry Rifle.
1450 – 1500 SERPENTINE LOCK was used to modify the
Conventional match lock, using an S-shaped instead of 1846 – SMOKELESS POWDER was discovered. It was
C-shaped piece with the bottom portion serve as the used in shotgun first in the year 1864 by Capt. Eschultze
trigger of Russian Army and in Rifle by the year 1884 by M.
Vielle of France.
1469 – A drawing from an English manuscript show a
“Ribauldegium”, a multi charged cannon lock weapon. 1857 – The first patent grant on a center fire cartridge
was issued in France. Later developed the Snider
1498 – INTRODUCTION OF RIFLING AND SIGHTS was
Conversation. The Morse cartridge was also developed.
becoming better, and breech loaders were attempted
although never succeeded yet even multi shots arms 1873 – COLT PEACE MAKER, model 1873, 45 cal. The
due to lack of good ignition system. most famous revolver in history and legend was
manufactured.
1500’s THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE WHEEL LOCK,
operated in the same principle as the modern -day 1884 – Automatic Machine Gun. Hiram Maxim
cigarette lighter. At mid-off 1500’s “snaphaunce” was developed the first fully automatic gun.
developed.
1937 – M1 GARAND was developed by the American.
1575 – PAPER CARTRIDGE was developed. Ball and
1960 – BILL RUGER produced his RUGER SINGLE SHOT,
powder charged were wrapped in chemically treated
which was followed by CLERKE’S DESIGN and Christian
paper to allow the carrying of numerous pre-measures
Sharp’s dropping block system, one of the earliest and
charges or preloaded rounds.
most successful of the breech loading designs. The
1750 – THE DEVELOPMENT OF BREECH – LOADING Christian Sharp’s design is where the term
FIREARMS leading to the making of FERGUSON RIFLE of “SHARPSHOOTERS” was derived.
Major Patrick Ferguson, COLLIER RIFLE, which is a flint
lock repeating rifle operated on a revolving principle
and, the HALL RIFLE, patented in 1811 by Col. John Hall FIREARMS OR ARMS
and was the 1st breech loader adopted by the U.S. Army.
(LEGAL DEFINITION) As herein used, includes rifle,
1805 – The Percussion System. Alex Forsyth discovered muskets, carbines, shotgun, pistol, revolvers, and all
a compound that would ignite upon blow they would other deadly weapons, to which a bullet, ball shot, shell,
ignite the powder charge. In 1840, it replaces the or other missiles maybe discharge by means of gun
flintlock ignition and was adopted in 1838 by the British powder or other explosives.
and in 1842 by the American.
(TECHNICAL DEFINITION) is an instrument used for the
1835 – The first real cartridge was developed; THE propulsion of projectile by means of the expansive force
FLOBERT CAP” same as the BB and was considered the gases coming from burning gun powder.
forerunner of 22. Short cartridge.
CLASSIFICATION OF FIREARMS
1835 – SAMUEL COLT – patented the first revolver and
marketed in 1872, a breech loading revolver. SMOOTH BORE FIREARMS – Firearms that have no
rifling (land and grooves) inside their gun barrel.
1836 – PIN FIRE CARTRIDGE was developed by Le ex. Shotguns and Musket
Faucheux. A much real pin fire cartridge was also
developed in the same year by HOUILLER. RIFLED BORE FIREARMS – Firearms that have rifling
inside their gun barrel
1845 – RIM FIRE CARTRIDGE, Flobert developed the BB ex. Pistols, Revolvers, and other modern weapons
(Bullet Breech) cap, which was considered the
forerunner of the 22 cal cartridge. In the same year.
New Havens Arms Company owned by Oliver F.
 rearward and completed the opening cycle. The
spring will return the various parts to their
closed position and cycle will be repeated for
MAIN TYPES OF FIREARMS the next shot.

1. ARTILLERY – refers to those type of firearms  SUB MACHINE GUN – is a light, portable form of
that propels projectile with more than one inch machine gun, utilizing a pistol size ammunition,
diameter. Ex: CANNONS, MORTARS, having a shoulder stock that may or may not be
BAZOOKAS folded and designed to be fired with both
hands. Basically, there are two types of this
2. SMALL ARMS – are firearms that propels firearm according to mechanism.
projectile with less than one inch diameter, and
it can be handled, moved, and operated by one i. Is having a bolt operated by trigger sear
man. Ex: Machine gun, shoulder arms and causing the cartridge to be fired in open
handguns. bolt and other is fired with a closed
bolt.
 Machine Guns is a type of firearm that is
primarily designed for military use. Ever in  SHOULDER ARMS – are those types of firearms
investigation of shooting cases done in the city, that were normally fired from the shoulder
it is not usual or common to encounter this type RIFLES – a shoulder weapon designed to fire a
of firearm having been used. It can be grouped projectile with more accuracy through a long-
in three generals. rifled bore barrel, usually more than 22 inches.
Just like any other type of gun, rifles appear in
3 GENERAL TYPES various forms.
RECOIL OPERATED – a type of machine gun
devised with a recoil spring that is responsible 1. Single shot rifle – this is the simplest and
for forcing the breech block to move forward yet of many types. Some with breechblock
causing another cartridge to be loaded only opened closed by hand etc.
after the breech block moves rearward and 2. Repeating Rifles – A type of rifle loaded
empty shell is extracted upon firing. with several cartridges at one time and
carries and cartridge into the chamber
GAS OPERATED – Is a type of machine gun when it is ready to be fired, rather than for
equipped with gas part at the anterior portion the shooter to do it by hand. This can be
of the barrel. When a cartridge is fired, and the further divided into: Bolt action type, lever
bullet reach the gas part some high-pressure type, slide action type and automatic type.
gas will move to the gas cylinder causing piston
to move to the near moving or pulling the
 BOLT ACTION TYPE – the chamber will open;
breech block to the rear. At this time, the
loading will follow and then closed again before
pressure in chamber has dropped to safe limits
firing. The Swiss army called Schimdt-Rubin is a
and the position by the action of the spring
good example of this type.
around the piston.
 LEVER TYPE – after the lever is pullback to
closed position moving the cartridge to the
COMBINED RECOIL AND GAS OPERATED – in
chamber and putting the breechblock in place,
this type of machine gun the gas operation
ready for firing. Ex: WINCHESTER MODEL 91
merely serve to unlock the breech block by the
pressure moving the gas port, passing through
 SLIDE ACTION TYPE – The operation is simply
the gas cylinder, and causing the piston to move
done by pulling the slide backward to open the
the rear, moving the cam to raise the lock
breech and forward to move the cartridge from
through a stud. Once this is completed, recoil
the magazine to the chamber at the same time
action caused the breech block to move
 cocks the hammer and locks the breechblock - There are so called cylinder bore type in which the
ex: REMINGTON MODEL 700 bore is the same thought out the barrel and the
other designed with a diminishing or reducing bore
 AUTOMATIC TYPE – it is a type of rifle in which diameter type towards the muzzle.
firing can be made continuously by a single - This type is designed to cause and effect to the
press of the trigger and while the trigger is travel of the shots.
pressed. - It makes the shots travel longer before it spreads.
- This type of shotgun is otherwise known as “choke
CARBINE – A short barrel rifle, with its barrel rifle,
bore” gun.
measuring not longer than 22 inches. It fires a single
- Still in a very rear occasions another type of shotgun
projectile though a rifle-bore either semi- automatic or
can be observed to be having rifling only a few
fully automatic, for every press of the trigger.
inches from its muzzle points. Such type is known as
MUSKETS – Is an ancient smoothbore and muzzle the “paradox gun”
loading military shoulder arms designed to fire a shot or
a single round lead ball. HANDGUNS – type of firearms that are designed or
intended to be fired using one hand.
SHOTGUN – A smoothbore and breech loading shoulder Ex: PISTOL AND REVOLVERS
arms designed to fire several lead pellets or a shot in
one charge (FBA Manual). PISTOL – in early firearm history, all handguns are
- With a smoothbore barrel designed to fire several generally called as pistols. There were three classes
lead pellets in a single charge, of pistols in the period. The single shot pistol, the
semi-automatic and the revolving pistols now
 SINGLE BARRELED SHOTGUN – Similar to a known as the revolver.
single shot rifle, it is loaded with a single - THE SINGLE SHOT PISTOL – Is operated by
shotgun cartridge, closed, and fired to be depressing the lever causing the barrel to be
reloaded manually by the shooter. This is unlatched and tipped upward. In this position the
common in a break type, breech -loading cartridge is inserted to the chamber and locked. The
shotgun. hammer is pulled rearward to cocked and ready
fire.
 DOUBLE BARRELED SHOTGUN – it is a shotgun - THE SEMI AUTOMATIC PISTOL – is the type of pistol
that has individual trigger pull or with single most common in existence. This is loaded through
trigger pull causing two hammer and firing pin the magazine, a slide action is taken to the first load
to fire at same time. cartridge to the chamber, upon firing the empty
shell will be extracted and ejected from the firearm
 PUMP ACTION SHOTGUN – Also known by the at the same time another cartridge is automatically
name “slide action” type. In this type of a load to the chamber without the gunner exerting
shotgun the hammer is completely built inside additional effort. Thus, firing can be made
the receiver, which makes it unexposed thus, successively for every press of the trigger without
making at known also as “hammerless again and again reloading.
shotgun”. Operation is done by back-and-forth
manipulation of the slide by the shooter. REVOLVER – Type of firearm designed to position
cartridge into position for firing with the aid of a
 AUTO-LOADING SHOTGUN – This type of a rotating cylinder serving as its chamber.
shotgun has a mechanism similar to auto- TWO TYPES OF REVOLVERS ACCORDING TO ITS
loading or self-loading rifles that permits MECHANICAL FIRING ACTION. THEY ARE THE SINGLE
reloading by the action of the recoil without the ACTION.
shooter taking added effort.
- A type of revolver that needs a manual cocking of
the hammer before squeezing the trigger and the
 other is double action, a type of revolver that does manipulation of the under/over forearms of the
not need manual cocking. gun.
- Just press the trigger and it both cocked and Ex: shotgun and pistols.
released the hammer causing a much faster firing.
5. BOLT ACTION TYPE – Type of firearms in which
ANOTHER CLASSIFICATION OF REVOLVER IS ACCORDING
reloading takes place by manipulating both back
TO ITS CONSTRUCTION FOR LOADING AND UNLOADING.
and forth.
- They are EJECTION ROD TYPES, considered as oldest Ex: Rifles, shotguns, and machine guns.
of the classification. It is loaded by an opened
hinged gate at the left side of the gun exposing the 6. LEVER TYPE / BREAK TYPE – loading takes place
chamber and cartridge are loaded one at a time by lever action on the firearms.
while rotating the cylinder. Ex: Rifles and shotguns.
- After firing, a rod at the bottom or under the barrel
is push to the rare to the chambers as the cylinder is ADVANTAGES OF REVOLVER
again revolved by hand.  It is an old standard weapon that its operation is
- ANOTHER TYPE OF THIS EJECTION ROD – is one common and almost everyone knows how to
that has pin through the center of the cylinder that handle it.
is responsible for the compete removal of the  Safer for inexperienced users to handle and
cylinder for loading and unloading. carry than an automatic pistol.
- THE SECOND TYPE IS THE BREAK OPEN TYPE,  Its mechanism allows the trigger pull to be
having a barrel and cylinder hinged with a latch better than an average automatic pistol.
holding the barrel in place when in a firing position.  A misfire does not put a revolver out of action.
Loading is done by swing down of the barrel and  It will handle satisfactorily old and new or
cartridges are inserted to the cylinder and the barrel partially deteriorated ammunition, which gives
is returned to its position for firing. a reduced velocity that, would jam an average
automatic pistol.
THE SAME THING IS OBSERVED IN UNLOADING THE
GUN. DISADVANTAGES OF REVOLVER

- The third type is SOLID FRAME REVOLVER, Cylinder  It is bulkier to carry than an automatic pistol.
swing out with an ejector just as the break open in  its grip or handle is generally not as good as that
removing the cartridge case, although the operation pistol.
is by pushing the extension rod to the rear to unlock  It is slower to load.
and swing out the cylinder.  It is harder to replace worn out or broken part-
it is factory job.
TYPES OF FIREARMS (ACCORDING OF MECHANICAL  It is hard to clean.
CONSTRUCTION)  Worn out or poor made weapon is subject to
1. SINGLE SHOT FIREARMS – Types of firearms variable accuracy due to improper lining of
designed to fire only one shot every loading. cylinder.
Ex: Single shot pistols, Revolvers, and shotguns.
2. REPEATING ARMS – A type of firearms designed ADVANTAGES OF PISTOL
to fire several loads (shot) in one loading.  it has a better grip the points naturally.
Ex: Automatic pistols, revolvers, rifles, and  It is more compact for the same firing power
shotguns  It is easier to load than a revolver.
3. AUTOMATIC FIREARM – Type of firearms that
 In case of worn out or corroded barrel, a new
constitutes a continuous firing in a single press
can be put in at a little expense without sending
of the trigger and while the trigger is press.
the gun to the factory.
Ex: Machine guns and rifles.
 It gives greater number of shots than a revolver.
4. SLIDE ACTION TYPE – Types of firearms in which
 It gives greater firing power and greater case of
loading take place by back-and-forth
firing.
  There is no gas leakage in its operation. HAMMER – strikes the blow that initiated or ignites
primer.
DISADVANTAGES
HAMMER BLOCK – Safety device that prevents hammer
 Ammunition must be perfect otherwise; a jam
blows from the primer.
might experience.
 A misfire stops the functioning of the gun. MAIN SPRING – provides energy to the hammer to
 When kept loaded for long time, the magazine activate firing mechanism
spring is under tension and may deteriorate and
RATCHET – helps the withdrawal of the cartridge or
cause problems.
shells to the chambers of the cylinder.
 It cannot use blank or reduced loads.
 It is as poorer trigger pull. REBOUND SLIDE – returns trigger, activates, hammer
 The magazine requires a jacketed bullet, which block, and locked hammer.
is not as good for practical use.
SIDE PLATE – provides access from the internal parts.
 More dangerous to handle and fire.
 It is not adopted to reloading. SIDE PLATE SCREWS – holds the side plate and yoke in
 Its mechanism ejects empty shell towards the place.
face of shooter causing flinching.
STRAIN SCREWS – controls tension on the mainspring.
 It throws out empty shells on the ground to
remain as evidence. THUMB LATCH – actuates the bolt from release the
 It cannot be fired from the pocket without cylinder.
jamming.
TRIGGER – activates the part necessary to fire the
weapon.

NOMENCLATURE OF FIREARMS AND ITS FUNCTIONS TRIGGER GUARD – guard the trigger to unnecessary
action to avoid accidental firing.
BARRE – Initiates the part of the bullet
TRIGGER SPRING – provides energy from return
BOLT – Disengages center pin from allow opening of
movement or rebound slide.
cylinder and blocks hammer.
TRIGGER LEVEL – contact rebound slide to return trigger
CENTER PIN – serves as locking device for the cylinder
forward.
CENTER PIN SPRING – holds the center pin in a locked
TRIGGER STOP – prevents excessive rearward
position.
movement faster hammer release.
CYLINDER – serves as chamber and magazine (for
YOKE – pivot connection between the frame and
revolver)
cylinder.
CYLINDER NOTCH – helps hold cylinder in the place and
MISCELLANOUS TYPES OF GUNS
aligned for ready firing.
CANE GUN, KNIFE PISTOLS, CELLPHONE GUN, etc. –
CYLINDER STOP – stop and holds the cylinder in
devices principally designed for other purpose to which
alignment for firing.
a gun mechanism is incorporated also called as
DOUBLE ACTION SEAR – built into weapon to allow FREAKISH GUN.
double action firing.
FLARE GUN – designed for tracing or sending signals or
EXTRACTOR – pulls the empty shells to the cylinder locating enemy troops.
simultaneously.
GAS GUN – generally referring to all gun designed from
FRAME – houses the internal parts. firing gas.

HAND (PAWL) – Rotates the cylinder when the hammer HARPOON GUN – refers to a barbed spear in hunting
is locked. large fish
LIBERATOR – US government made smooth bore gun paper. It was about the turn of the 16th century
used in Europe during war designed to fire an automatic that the term “cartridge” comes to use.
colt pistol cartridge caliber .45

MULTI-BARRELED GUN – refers to all types of guns

containing a number of barrels. A. GENERAL TYPES OF AMMUNITION

PARADOX GUN – a type of gun which contains lands a. Dummy – a type of ammunition. It is very
and grooves a few inches from the muzzle point. carefully made replica of a cartridge, usually
of tool steel and carefully dimensioned to be
TOOLS – are those devices which resembles a gun used by weapons instructor, inspector and
designed but are generally used for construction of repairman when checking the functioning of
furniture. weapons.
TRAPS – refers to gun used for trapping animals that are
fired to woods.
b. Drill Ammunition – this type of ammunition
is completely inert, without an explosive and
is use in mill training to practice loading and
manipulation of the gun. Sometimes called
AMMUNITION “dummy” although in the strict sense there is a
LEGAL DEFINITION difference.

Ammunition refers to loaded shell for rifles, c. Black Ammunition – a cartridge without a
muskets, carbine, shotgun, revolvers, and bullet, containing gunpowder that is designed
pistols from which a ball, shot shell or other to generate a loud noise to indicate firing. This
missiles maybe fired by means of gun powder cartridge is used for theatrical performances or
or another explosive. The term also includes filmmaking, training dogs and military training.
ammunition for air rifles as mentioned a. Live Ammunition – is the term applied for
elsewhere in the code. (Chapter VII, Sec.290 of complete unit of unfired cartridge.
NIRC as well as Sec 877 RAC)

B. CLASSIFICATION OF CARTRIDGE (FIG.

Technical Definition 7)

Ammunition refers to a group of cartridges or to I. ACCORDING TO THE LOCATION OF THE

a single cartridge. Cartridge is a complete PRIMER
unfired unit consisting of bullet (ball), primer a. Pin-Fire = is a type of cartridge in which the
(cap), cartridge case (shell) and gunpowder ignition cap (primer) is concealed inside the
(propellant). cartridge case and has a pin resting upon
it. The pin protrudes radially through the side
and the gun chamber has a notch for the pin to
Origin stand when loaded and it will be struck by a
falling hammer.
The word cartridge was derived from the Latin
word “Charta” meaning – a “paper” and from
This type of cartridge is said to have been used
the French word “Cartouche” meaning – a
in France in the year 1830’s in shotgun
rolled paper. This only indicates that the first
ammunition and later revolver and pistol
type of cartridge was made up of a rolled
ammunition. At present, this is no longer use.
b. Rim fire = is a type of cartridge in which the Commonly seen in 6.35 mm, 7.65mm and 9
priming mixture is located at the hallow rim mm. and Browning lone automatic pistol
of the case can be fired if the cartridge is tuck cartridges.
by the firing pin on the rim of the case (cavity
rim). It may be identified easily by the smooth
base of the cartridge case, and which may or c. Rimless type = a type of cartridge with a
may not have a head stump in imprinted on it case having a rim diameter equal to
(1860-1880). At present, this type of cartridge diameter of the body, with an “extraction
is entirely confined to the col.. .22 short, long or groove” cut around the base. The advantage
magnum. of its use is it allows the cartridge to slide
magazine.
This is commonly used in 9mm and cal.45
c. Center fire = it refers to a cartridge in
pistols.
which primer cup (ignition cap) is centrally
placed in the base of the cartridge case and
the priming mixture is exploded by the impact
of the firing pin and with the support of the b. Rebated type = refers to the cartridge with
rimless pattern, but which has a rim diameter
anvil.
smaller than the body of the case.
The flame produces by the thought the vent or
flash hole and which ignites and combust the It is seen in some Oerlikon 20mm cannon
gunpowder. Head stamps are frequently used cartridge and later on some custom-built
consisting of the design or letter imprinting on sporting rifles of unusual calibers.
the shell head. It sometimes contains the
manufacturer or marker, the two-digit numbers.
c. Belted type = a cartridge with a prominent
raise belt around its body just in front of
II. ACCORDING TO RIM DIAMETER the extraction groove. This is used for two
a. Rimmed Case type = a type of cartridge basic purposes: (1) to position the case and the
projectile accurately in the chamber and (2) to
in which the case has a well-defined
strengthen the rear of the case for use with
upstanding rim around the base or simply a
high-powered propelling chargers.
cartridge with rim diameter greater than the
body diameter of the shell.
A common example of this is cal.22 and.38
cal. Used in revolver.

b. Semi-Rimmed type = a cartridge with a

case slightly rimmed. At first look, the cartridge
is a rimless form but with a closer look the
rim is slightly greater than the body
diameter of the case. This was invented by
John M. Browning for an automatic pistol in
1903 for greater fit to the chamber.
III. ACCORDING TO CALIBER
Caliber designation ad their interpretation is
one of the difficult factors to explain to a
Cal. .32 about 7.65 mm for automatic
layman for its inconsistence and varieties. In
pistols and revolvers
English speaking countries, the caliber of the
gun or cartridge use in expressed in one- 39
hundredth (. 01”) or one thousands (. 001”)
of an inch. Thus, we have cal. .22 inches, .25 Cal. .380 about 9 mm- used for pistols
cal, .38 cal., .45 cal., etc. Cal. .357 used in magnum .357 revolvers
Cal. .45 about 11 mm – used in automatic
In countries using the metric system of the pistols
measurements, the caliber is expressed in Cal. .50 used in .50 cal. Machine gun
millimeters, thus we have 6.35mm, 7.62mm,
9mm, 11mm etc.

In cartridges, caliber is generally referred to

the base diameter of the bullet. This is
measured with the use of a caliper. Calibers in
cartridges in inches and their approximate
equivalent in mm and use:

Shotgun Cartridge
Inches MM.
It refers to a complete unit of unfired cartridge
Cal. .22 about 5.59 mm- consisting of the pellets, primer, case,
used in revolver, pistol, and rifles wads, and gunpowder (Fig.9b and 11).

Cal. .25 about 6.35 mm- Gauge of Shotgun

used in pistols and rifles.
Compared with other types of firearms,
shotgun has very unique characteristics in
Cal. .30 about 7.63 mm- terms of its diameter designation both for its
(mauser) – for carbines and firearm and cartridge use. The unit of
other rifles measurement used in shotgun is expressed in
Gauge.

Cal. .30 about 7.63 mm (luger)

This is determined by the number of solid lead copper through electroplating design for
balls of pure lead, each with diameter of the greater strength and elasticity, great resistance
barrel that can be prepared from one pound of to deformation and leading and better pattern.
lead. If for instance we have 12 balls that can
be made out of one pound of lead and each Buck Shot = a large size lead shot for used
ball exactly fitted to the inside of the barrel of a
shotgun, the gun is called a 12- gauge or 12
bore shotgun. Each lead ball for a 12-gauge
should therefore weigh 1/12 of a pound.
Such is applied in almost all type of shotgun
in which the diameter is express in a
thousandth of an inch. At present the 10-
gauge shotgun is considered with the biggest
diameter while the .410 as the smallest one.
Listed below are the equivalents of diameter
in gauge to inch.

Gauge Inch
in shotgun
10 .775 inch
12 .729 inch
BULLET – The word “bullet” was derived from
16 .670 inch French word “Boulette” which means a small
20 .615 inch ball.

28 .550 inch This term is generally used when we are

referring to projectile fired from a small
.410 .410 inch arm, which has a variety or form, especially
during the earlier history.

Types of Shots In a more technical sense, bullet refers to a

metallic or nonmetallic cylindrical ball
1. Soft or Drop Shots = made by pure or propelled from a firearm it is sometimes
nearly pure lead, to which a small amount of called shots or slugs.
arsenic has been added to make it take on the
form of a spherical drop as it falls down the Bullets have various types depending upon
shot tower. their specific nature and purpose. In general
- This type is easy to deform or flattened, bullet can be classified as either Lead or
loose their velocity quicker, low Jacketed.
penetrating power and string out more.
2. Chilled or Hard Shot = is a type of shot GENERAL TYPES OF BULLETS
with a small amount of antimony mixed with
LEAD TYPE – Is a type of a bullet that is
lead to increase hardness. It does no deform
basically composed of lead metal.
easily, better patterns, less string and more
uniform velocity and penetration. - Its used was due to its density; having a
2. Coated or Plated Shot = also called as good weight is a small size and easy for
“lubaloy” shot. A chilled shot coated with thin casting.
- At present it is being mixed with a small  It is constructed by having front of the bullet be
amount percentage of antimony or zinc to filled with while phosphorus, a chemical
add harness and prevent “lead fouling” capable of spontaneous ignition when contacts
air.
- In some cases, lead metal is used as core
for jacketed type of a bullet. 5. TRACER BULLET – A type of military bullet
capable of leaving visible marks or traces while
- Commonly used in revolvers and in in flight giving the gunner the chance to
observe the strike of the shot or make
modern construction having its rear section
adjustments in the event of miss.
jacketed, leaving the lead core exposed.
 It resembles a ball type, although the rare
JACKETED TYPE – Is a type of bullet portion of the core removed and the space
consisting of the regular lead core, coated filled with mixture of magnesium powder,
with a copper alloy to prevent lead fouling barium nitrate and metallic salts to give the
of the barrel, and is generally used in pistols desired color of the flame or smoke.
and other high-power guns.
ACCORDING TO THEIR MAXIMUM EFFECT
TO THEIR TARGETS
1. BALL TYPE – is a type of bullet, which
is intended for anti-personnel and
general use.

2. ARMOR PIERCING – Is a type of

military bullet designed to penetrate
light steel armor.
 Its mechanical construction makes it MISCELLANEOUS TYPES OF BULLETS
capable of penetrating through some
light vehicles. 1. BATON ROUND – is the proper name used
 It is formed by a hard steel core when referring to a “rubber bullet”.
covered with a jacket thus, giving its  This type of bullet was first developed for the
core the optimum power of piercing Hong Kong Police and was made out of wood,
while its shape has the optimum shape due to its ability to split on impact with the
for accurate fight ground thus, possible of inflicting wounds it
 It was first patented in about 1903 by was later replaced by a rubber.
Roth of Vienna, Although, it was largely  This is generally a plain cylindrical rubber or
introduced for snipers countering the plastic used in 12-bore, 26mm or 37mm riot
small armor shields in the year 1914 – gun and fired by a lot of powered charge.
1918.
2. COMPOUND BULLET – A type of bullet
3. EXPLOSIVE BULLET - Is a small bullet containing having its core of defense metal covered
a charge of explosive, which will detonate on with jacket of lighter metal covered with
impact. jacket of lighter metal which does not
bring lead into contact with the rifling on
4. INCENDIARY BULLET – Type of military bullet the weapon and which was designed by
used to cause fire in target, generally designed Major Rubin of the Swiss Army in the year
to used by aircraft armament for the fuel tanks 1880’s.
to ignite.
 3. DISCARDING SABOT – is special type of the members of the home guard anti
bullet in which a solid ball place in a case personal use during World War II.
which separates when the bullet was fired
giving an extra velocity to the bullet. 10. MULTIPLE BULLET – is the term applied to a
number or two (duplex) or three (triplex)
 A bullet of this type was manufactured by bullet formed a cartridge it was patented to
Remington, and it was given the name the early 1990’s by George Luger.
“Accelerator bullet”
11. SOFT POINT – Refers to any of bullet having
4. DUM DUM BULLET – It is a type of bullet its jacket short that have nose in exposed
designed in India in the year 1890’s by thus capable deforming upon the impact
Captain Bertie Clay. and it is common for hunting purpose.

 It consisted of service ball having its nose 12. SPITZER BULLET – is the term to use by the
exposed due to a trimmed jacket to the back. American and British sportsmen when
Now the terms are loosely used in describing referring to a pointed bullet.
any expanding bullet.
13. STREAMLINED BULLET – is a type of bullet
5. FRANGIBLE BALL TYPE – Is a type of a bullet that has front section tapered to a point
designed for training purposes especially and its rear section to as smaller diameter
for aerial targets. thus reducing the base Drag.

 It does not cause any damage to the target

rather leaving a paint mark for purpose of
assessing the gunners.

6. PLECHETTE – A dark – like solid projectile,

stabilized in flight by fins.

 It was in used as early as 1914 and at present

the cartridge for 12 gauges is loaded with 20
steel flechettes.

7. HEEL BULLET – is a type of bullet commonly

used in pistol having its rear portion
reduced in diameter in order to fit into
mouth of the shell, thus making the rest of
its part appears flush with the mouth of the
shell.

8. HALLOW POINT – is a type of bullet in

which the nose is drilled out to the certain
depth leaving a hole.
CARTRIDGE CASE – is the metallic or non-
metallic tabular container usually made of
 The purpose is to be able for the bullet to
brass (70% copper and 30% zinc) designed to
deform upon impact making a “Mushroom”
units the bullet, primer, and the gunpowder
into one unit.
9. LETHAL BALL – British term used when
referring to a single shot used to issue to - It is also known as shell or casing.
 6. SHOULDER - that part of the cartridge case
CARTRIDGE CASE – maker is traditional of brass which support the neck of the cartridge which is
although there are some at present, which are evident in a bottleneck type.
either plastic varnish steel, zinc-coated or even
chemically coated are at use: 7. CANNELURE - is the cylindrical groove in the
outer surface of the cartridge case designed to
secure the shell to the chamber as well as
prevent bullet from being push down to the
powder charge. In some instance it is even being
utilized for identification
FUNCTIONS OF THE CARTRIDGE CASE
8. NECK - is that part of the shell which is occupied
- It locates the bullet properly relative to the bore of
by the bullet. This is obvious in a bottleneck type of
the firearm.
shell but not with the straight type.
- It is used to carry the means of ignition.
- It provides gas seals at the breech against an 9. CRIMP - is the cylindrical groove on the mouth of
unwanted escape of propellant gas upon firing. the shell designed for two purposes:
- Serve as a waterproof container for the propellant
1. Is to hold the bullet and prevent it from being
or powder charge.
pull out from the shell
- Acts as the insulator between the propellant and
the hot walls of the chamber in a rapid firing 2. To offers resistance to the bullet out of the neck
firearm. to ensure burning of the gun powder.
PART OF THE CARTRIDGE CASE 10. VENT OR FLASH HOLE - is 4
1. BASE – the bottom of the cartridge case which PRIMER – is also called CAP, it is the ignition system
contain the head stamp marking on the base of of the cartridge used in a center fire type,
the shell containing the caliber, manufacturer containing a highly sensitive chemical compound
and in some cases including the data, trade that could easily ignite or bursts into flame when
name, and batch number. struck by the firing pin.

2. RIM – is the part of the cartridge designed to It has (2) two types “BERDAN or BOXER” type
limit the forward movement of the cartridge to BERDAN – is a type of primer construction which
chamber. was designed in 1860s by Colonel Hiram S. Berdan
of the U.S Army Ordinance department.
3. EXTRACTING GROOVE – is the circular grooves
near the rim of the shell designed for automatic - The difference of berdan in Boxer primer is that, its
withdrawal anvil forms part of the cartridge case and a number
of flash holes to serve as the passage of ignition
4. PRIMER POCKET - is that part of the shell which usually two (2).
provides the mean for the primer to be put in
the central position. Its function I extended to - This is common in almost all the military
ammunition.
a. Hold the primer in place
b. To provide means to prevent the escape of BOXER – it is developed by Col. Edward M. Boxer of
gas the Royal Laboratory at Woolwich Arsenal in the
c. To provide solid support to primer anvil. year 1866.

5. Body - is the cylindrical part of the shell which - Its anvil was formed separately from the shell and
house the gunpowder. became part of the ignition cap making a single
 flash hole to serve as the passage of ignition. The percussion system was spread and almost totally
replaced the Flintlock in the year 1840.
- Although its manufacture seems to be quite
This led to the making of the famous percussion cap of
difficult, it becomes more popular because of its
JOSHUA SHAW in 1814 and finally adopted by British
adaptability for reloading.
Army in the year 1838 and by the Americans in the year
ORIGIN OF IGNITION SYSTEM 1842.

The term “LOCK” was the one used during the ancient PARTS OF THE PRIMER
time when referring to ignition system.
PRIMER CUP – is the brass gilding metal cup which
contains the priming mixture, the disc, and the anvil.
The earliest of these is the “MATCH LOCK” also
referred to as refined “SERPENTINE LOCK” with S- PRIMING MIXTURE – is the highly sensitive chemical
shaped piece of metal pivoted on the stave, the forward compound which ignites by the mechanical blow of the
end holding the hump fiber treated with saltpeter, firing pin. Also called as PERCUSSION POWDER.
twisted, and tied by a thread to retain the twists to
make it slow burning. ANVIL – is that portion of the primer which provides
solid support and absorbs the blow of the firing pin
It burns at about 3 to 5 inches per hour. causing friction that would initiates ignition.

The matchlock was later superseded by a “WHEEL DISC – is a paper or foil which is pressed over the
LOCK” in the early years of the 16th century. priming mixture to protect it from moisture attack.

This ignition system is comparable to the modem

principle of our cigarette lighters.

A roughened wheel, driven by a spring that needs to be

the first wound up or spanned producing sparks igniting
the priming powder and passed through a touch hole
burning the powder charge. TYPES OF PRIMING MIXTURE COMPOUND
Fifty years later, the “FLINT LOCK” ignition system was CORROSIVE – one containing potassium chlorate which
developed fast known “SNAP LOCK”. In this system a when ignite produce moisture causing the formation of
simple mechanical fire striking lick called rust in the bore of the firearm. Other components are
“SNAPHAUNCE” replace the wheel mechanism and an Antimony sulfide and mercury fulminate.
iron right-angle pan cover hinged over the priming pan
constituted the flint lock. NON-CORROSIVE – one which is designed by replacing
the potassium chlorate with Barium Nitrate.
The hinged will be stricken by the cock upon release of
the trigger, causing the hinged cover to be thrown back,
exposing, and igniting the priming powder by the sparks
produced by the scraping of flint along the iron.
GUN POWDER – also called as Propellant or Powder
This system was used until the start of the 19th century Charge, it is the mixture of chemicals of various
when the percussion system was finally been compositions designed to propel the projectile by
developed. means of its expansive force of gas when burned.
ALEXANDER JOHN FORSYTH, a minister of Belhelvie in THE DEVELOPMENT OF GUN POWDER
Scotland, known as the Father of Percussion System,
developed a better system of ignition in the year 1805. If there is much of literacy works on firearms
identification, the history of Gunpowder is the most
He devised a formula composing of mercury fulminate controversial of all topics incorporated in this field of
that would easily ignite upon a single struck. study.
Powder explosive are at most times credited to the dated 1643, while experimenting on some powder in a
Chinese and the Arabs, they have had Pyrotechnic cast iron vessel.
composition of sorts- Fireworks long before anything of
He ignited a charge and thus blew off the lid, and from
the kind was known in Europe, but there is no warrant
this deduced the principle of containing a charge in a
for considering that they had invented gun and
tube and propelling a shot (Encyclopedia of
gunpowder.
Ammunition) The engraver dated the scene 1380, and it
The other hand, according to Frop J.k Partington a was evident that well before that date, cannons where
British Chemist, at about 1000 AD, the Chinese knew already in use.
about saltpeter-based gunpowder.
Another person in the year 1325 A.D. makes his own
A question of where it was discovered, who first used it literacy works entitled “D Offices Regnum”, Which
for gun and who invented it is still a mystery. illustrate the firing of a cannon.

Maybe this is caused by lack of proof beyond There is no explanation of the picture, but it is clearly
reasonable doubt as to the claim of various writers as to shown a bulbous tube, with an arrow protruding from
who invented the gun powder and realized its the muzzle, being ignited by a man with a hot iron.
capabilities.
THE BLACK POWDER
Two of the most popular individual whose name is Black powder, the oldest known explosive, was initially
always attached to gunpowder discovery were Roger made from SALTPETER (75%), CHARCOAL (15%) and
Bacon and Berthold Schwartz. SULFUR (10%). This formula varies in percentage and
even in composition in different country throughout the
Let’s take a short description of how their names are
world.
always mentioned in the history
This mixture is being ground into fine dust, called
ROGER BACON (1242 A.D) – A Franciscan Monk, who
“SERPENTINE” which was said to have been used until
wrote the – “De Mirabili Potestate Et Naturae” (On the
the middle of the 16th century.
marvelous power of Arts and Nature) including
anagram. After such form, a “CORNED POWDER” was used to
replace serpentine, for being more stable. But due to its
This anagram was re-arranged and properly punctuated
high sensitivity leading to accidents modifications had
by a British Artillery Officer named Colonel Hime, and it
been made to develop other forms.
read “but of saltpeter takes seven parts, five of young
hazel twig and five of sulfur, and so thou wilt call up Some used Potassium Nitrates while the other used
thunder and destruction of thou know the art”. Sodium Nitrate.

This is Practically a working gunpowder formula. But whatever forms or composition of Black Powder
there is generally great disadvantage of this powder.
Bacon did not make any claim of its discovery but
suggest that by 1226 the gunpowder was already of a It creates a dark smoke and cause fouling. This creates a
common knowledge, and he was merely reporting it as problem not only to the gunner but also to the gun
a fact. itself.

Maybe another reason why he never makes any claim is These problems in the used of black powder was later
due to the prohibition exiting during his time that no remedied with the introduction of the smokeless
forms of an article involving explosives should be made. powder. According to Harrison, Captain E.

If he was to directly print the same, it might even cause Schultze of the Prussian Army made the 1st successful
his life. used of smokeless powder in shotgun in the year 1864.
(Although historically Nitroglycerine compound was first
BERTHOLD SCHWARTZ – real name was CONSTANTIN
discovered in 1846.
ANKLITZEN, a mysterious monk of Freiburg, who
according to legend that is supported by an engraving
The basic ingredient used for smokeless powder is a At this stage, the interior surface of the barrel will
Nitrocellulose that was first produced by adding a nitric bear numerous sears and scratched resulting from
acid to cellulose fiber. the irregular cutting of the drill and the metal chips
which mark the finish.
Later, M. Vieille of French developed the first smokeless
powder for riffle in the year 1884 and named it B. REAMING – In the process some of the scars or
“prouder B” taken after Gen. Boulangers name. scratches left by the drilling operation are
move.
In 1887, Alfred Nobel invented a smokeless powder
The reamer removes metal from the entire
with nitroglycerine (40%) and nitrocellulose (60%) as
surface because it is slightly larger in diameter
the main composition and called it “BALLISTITE”.
than the drill, which completes the bore
In Great Britain, which they called “Lyddite” and in operations. It roughly, finishing, and burnishing
Germany TNT (Tri-nitroleleune) was the one used, more reamer to have a smooth bore barrel.
powerful than picric acid but much difficult to detonate.
C. RIFLING – This process necessary for the making
Also in the year 1889, Prof. Abel, a British War Dept. of the helical groves inside the barrel and such
Chemist developed “CORDITE” a smokeless powder can perform in any of the following methods.
with same composition as Nobel in the form of cords or
sticks.

And in early 1890s smokeless powder had replaced 1. HOOK – cutter system (cutter)
black powder and became uniformly used worldwide by 2. SCRAPE – cutter system (scraper)
the year 1900. 3. BROACHING – system (broach)
4. BUTTON – system (button)

D. LAPPED – This is the polishing operation in

which a lead closely fitting the inside of the
barrel is drawn back and forth on a rod carrying
with is a polishing compound.
This will remove large imperfection on the side
surface of the barrel both to the lands and the
grooves.
What is important about this process is that no
matter how many times we polish or finish large
imperfections maybe eliminated but not the
FIREARMS CHARACTERISTICS minute imperfections making a series of
All barrel irrespective of the type of the weapons for striations that will be impressed on every bullet
which they are made, are manufactured from a solid that will pass through it.
piece of metal. The metal from which the barrel is made This is the basis for which firearms is identified.
is carefully selected for its chemical and metallurgical
properties, thus assuring machine operations and heat THE BREECH FACE – Just like any barrel of every firearm,
treatment are completed. the breech face also bears with it the same important. It
STAGES IN THE MANUFACTURE OF BARREL is that portion of the firearms against which the shell or
the cartridge case and the primer is pressed background
A. DRILLING – a special deep-hole is used through every time that a cartridge is fire in the chamber.
the center of which lubricating oil is forced
under pressure. If these things happen to the base of the cartridge will
be marked by the gun.
This operation results to a comparatively rough hole
of uniform diameter from one end of the barrel to This is due to the fact that every breech face of a
other. firearms just like barrel are made up of a harder metal
than any cartridge case or bullet, thus the principle that right which cause bullet to rotate as it passes
when a softer surface comes in contract with a harder through the bore, in order to ensure gyroscopic
on it as always, the softer surface that characters that stability in its flight.
harder surface has.
6. PITCH OF RIFLING – it is the measure of the
TYPE OF CHARACTERISTICS IN FIREARMS
twisting of the hands and grooves. It refers to
A. CLASS CHARACTERISTICS – are those properties the measure of the distance advance by the
or attributes of a firearms which can be rifling in order to make a complete turn inside
determined even before the manufacturer of the barrel.
the gun. This is true for such characteristics are 7. DEPTH OF THE GROOVES – the grooves depth if
a manufactures designs or specifications and measure on a radius of the bore. Grooves are
security. usually few thousandths of an inch deep, which
equal to the height of the lands.
CLASS CHARACTERISTICS OF FIREARMS

1. BORE DIAMETER (caliber and gauge) – it is B. INDIVIDUAL CHARACTERISTICS – are meant for
diameter to which the bore was reamed. The those characteristics which are being
distance measure between two opposite lands determined only after the firearm has already
inside the bore in a hundredths or thousandths been manufactured.
of an inch. In most express in either caliber in They are the product of machine imperfections
inch or in millimeters such Cal. 22, 25, 30, 32, and some later due to the used of the firearms.
38, 380, 357, 44, 45, 50, etc., Or 55.55mm,
6.35mm, 9mm, 11mm, etc. In shotgun they are TYPES OF RIFLING
either in gauge or in inch, such as in 10-gauge,
12 gauge (.729), 20 gauge (615), 24 gauge (579), 1. STEYER TYPE – is the type of rifling having
30 gauge (.537) 36 gauge (.506) and the four (4) lands and grooves right twist and
smallest which is 410. the width of the land’s grooves.

2. NUMBER OF LAND AND GROOVES – The 2. CARBINE TYPE – rifling having (4) lands and
number of lands and grooves inside the barrel grooves, right twist, the width of the
of a given firearms are always the same or grooves is two (2) times the width of the
equal. It may run from 3-8, but the most in the lands (4RG2X).
modern firearms are five and six.
LANDS – are the elevated portion of the bore of 3. SMITH AND WESSON – Rifling having (5)
the firearm. lands and grooves, right hand twist, the
GROOVES – are the depressed potion of the width of the land and grooves are equal.
bore between the lands. (5RG=L)

3. WIDTH OF THE LANDS – is dependent upon the 4. COLT – Type of rifling having six (6) lands
bore diameter of the gun, grooves, width, and and grooves, left twist, the width of the
number. The lands are the remainders of the grooves is twice (2) the width of the lands
circumference after subtracting all the grooves (6LG2X)
width.
5. BROWNING – type of rifling having (6) lands
4. WIDTH OF THE GROOVES – is measured as the and grooves, right hand twist, the width of
shortest distance between the two dies or edge the grooves is three time larger than the
of a grooves. boarder of the lands. (7RG3X)

5. DIRECTION OF TWIST – rifling inside the barrel 6. WINCHESTER – Rifling having six (6) lands
of the gun is either twisted to the left or to the and grooves, right hand twist, the width of
 the grooves is three time larger the width of the rifling has already been badly worn-out.
the lands. Worn-out in the rifling of the firearms can be
cause by either chemical reaction brought
INDIVIDUAL CHARACTERISTICS IN FIREARMS
about by rust (corrosion) or through excessive
Individual Characteristics in firearms are usually use (erosion)
determined by the test shell that will show the
individuality of its property based on the left 5. SHAVING MARKS – Marks commonly found on
marks on every bullet and shell fired from it. bullet fired from a revolver cause by its forward
movement to the barrel that is poorly aligned to
Such marks are so minute that the use of the the cylinder.
lens with high magnification is necessary to
discover individuality. 6. SLIPPAGE MARKS – Marks found on fired
Marks left on fired shells or fired bullets are bullets passing through either on oily or
generally categorized as to either accidental or oversize barrel.
repetitive. MARSK FOUND ON FIRED SHELLS
Accidental marks are those marks that may bare 1. FIRING PIN MARK – mark generally found at the
some importance to the investigation but are base portion of the cartridge case more
considered of not much value in the specifically near center of the primer cup in a
identification of the particular firearm or center fire cartridge or at the rim cavity of a
weapon since they are not regularly formed in rim-fire cartridge.
the operation of the gun. Considered as one of the most important marks
On the other hand, Repetitive marks are those for identification of firearms using fired shell.
marks, which are very useful in identifying a
firearm. They show ident 2. BREECH FACE MARK – mark found at the base
portion of the shell caused by backward
MARKS FOUND OF FIRED BULLETS movement to the breech face of the block of
1. LANDMARKS – Left on a fired bullet caused by the firearms.
its contact to the elevated portion (lands) of the This is also one of the important marks is shell
bore of the firearm. It appears as slight identification.
depressions or scratches the cylindrical surface
of the fired bullet. 3. EXTRACTOR MARK – mark mostly found at the
This considered as one of the most important extracting groove of the fired cartridge case.
mark found on a fired bullet used for the Cause by its withdrawal from the chamber.
purposes of identification.
4. EJECTOR MARK - mark generally found on
2. GROOVE MARKS – marks found on a fired cartridge case fired from an automatic firearm.
caused by the grooves of the barrel which is the It is located near the rim of the case cause by
same number as that of the landmarks. the throwing of shell from the firearm to the
area of shooting.
3. SKID MARKS – Marks that are generally found
on fire bullet from a revolver. 5. SHEARING MARK – sometimes called
It is located at the anterior portion of the fired “Secondary Firing Pin Mark” found in the primer
bullet due to its forward movement from the near the firing pin mark.
chamber to the barrel of the gun before it
initially rotates. 6. MAGAZINE LIP MARK – marking found at the
two side of the rim cause by the magazine lips
4. STRIPPING MARKS – Marks found on those during the loading of the cartridge into the
bullets fired from a “loose fit” barrel wherein
 magazine for firing. Given: A fired bullet.

Objective: to determine the caliber, type and make of

7. CHAMBER MARK – mark mostly found around
firearm from which it was fired.
the body of the fired cartridge case cause by the
irregularities of nips inside the walls of the PROCEDURE:
chamber.
In fired cartridge case either of the firing pin A. Identify the bullet based on its various features
mark and the Breech Face marks can be used as such as type, shape, and design.
basis for identification, in the absence or none B. Use a caliper to measure the base diameter of
use of these two, both the ejector and extractor the bullets.
marks can be utilized as secondary choice. C. After determining the caliber of the fire bullet,
examined its cylindrical surface for the
landmarks and groove marks. Identity the type
PROBLEMS IN FORENSIC BALLISTICS of rifling by determining the number of lands
and grooves, the direction of twist, the pitch of
This is the reason for which there are certain rifling, the width of the lands and grooves and
manuscript in our country, which refers to this the depth of landmarks.
as the SEVEN TYPES OF PROBLEMS as listed PROBLEM NO. 2
below as the summary of the work objectives in
the field of firearm identification. Given: A fired shell/cartridge case

Objective: to determine the caliber, type and make

This serves as a general guide to every firearm of firearm from which it was fired.
examiner in determining the course of action to
be taken to serve the ends of identification. Procedure:

a. Determine the caliber of the shell utilizing the

1. Given a fired bullet to determine the
caliper to measure its body diameter or the
caliber, type; make of firearm from which it
diameter of the mouth of the shell or match the
was fired.
fired shell with a standard shell.
2. Given a fired shell to determine the caliber,
b. Check on the base of the fired bullet for the
type, and make of firearm from which it was
head stamp. This part of the shell will give the
fired.
examiner information as to the caliber, the
3. Given a fired bullet and suspected firearm,
maker, and at certain case even the date of its
to determine whether or not the fired bullet
manufacture.
was fired from the suspected firearm.
4. Given a fired shell and a suspected firearm. PROBLEM NO. 3
5. Given two or more fired bullets, to
Given: A fired bullet and a suspected firearm.
determine whether they were fired from
Objective: To determine whether the fired bullet
one and the same firearm.
was fired from the suspected firearm.
6. Given two or more fired shell/cartridge
case, to determine whether they were fired Procedure:
from one and the same firearm.
a. Examine + the fired bullet as to its caliber, type
7. Given a suspected firearm, to determine
and make applying the procedure in problem
where it is serviceable or not.
no. 1
b. Examine the suspected firearm as to its
condition and basic characteristics as to
DISCUSSION ON THE PROBLEMS IN FORENSIC
whether there is probability of it being the one
BALLISTICS
used in the fired bullet. (Verify the type of
PROBLEM NO. 1 rifling.)
c. Test-fire the suspected firearm using the bullet extractor and ejector marks can be utilized as a
recovery box. Use at least (3) cartridges with secondary choice.
the same caliber and make as the fired bullet.
Make sure to mark the cartridge with letter T1,
T2, and T3” as the case maybe plus the last two PROBLEM NO. 5
digit of the serial number of the suspected
firearm. Given: Two or more fired bullets
d. Get the test bullet from the recovery box and Objective: to determine whether or not they were
identify its general characteristics to determine fired from one and the same firearm.
probability with the fired bullet.
e. Match the fired bullet with the test bullet using Procedure:
the bullet comparison microscope of forensic a. Identify those bullets as to their caliber, type
comparator microscope. and make applying the principle in problem no.
f. If similar individual marks (striations) were 1 (don’t forget to mark the fired bullets)
observed on each bullet, then we can conclude b. Bullets of the same caliber, type and make
that the fired bullet was fired from the should be compared at the bullet comparison
suspected firearm. Otherwise, another firearm microscope.
was used in the discharged. c. Those fired bullets that show a magnified image
PROBLEM NO. 4 of similar characteristics will be considered fire
from one and the same firearm, while those
Given: A fired shell and a suspected firearm. that would not match positively were fired from
Objective: to determine whether or not the fire different firearm.
shell was fire from the suspected firearm.

Procedure: PROBLEM NO. 6

a. Examine the fired shell as to its, caliber, type Given: Two or more fired shell.
and make.
b. Examine the suspected firearm as to its Observe: to determine whether they were fired
conditions and rifling characteristics. from one and the same firearm.
c. Test-fire the suspected firearm using the bullet Procedure:
recovery box. Used at least three (3) cartridges
with letter” T1, T2 and T3” as the case maybe a. Identify each fired cartridge case or shell as to
plus the last two digit of the serial number of their caliber, type and make applying the
the suspected firearm. procedure in problem No. 2 (don’t forget to
d. Get all the test shell and identify its general mark each fired shell.)
characteristics to determine probability with b. Compare each fired shell of the same caliber,
the fired shell. type and make using bullet comparison
e. Match the fired shell with the test shell using microscope. Those fired cartridge case having
the bullet comparison microscope or forensic similar individual marks (striations) will proved
comparator microscope. that they were fired from one the same
f. If similar individual mark, (striations) were firearms and non-identity of their individual
observed on the breech face or firing pin marks, marks would consider them to have been from
then we can conclude that the fired bullet was different firearm.
fired from the suspected firearm. Otherwise,
PROBLEM NO. 7
another firearm was used in its discharged. If
problem will be encountered as to the use of Given: A suspected firearm.
breech face or firing pin marks, combined
Objective: to determine whether it is serviceable
or not
 Procedure: 1. The breech face and striker (or firing pin) of
every single firearm have microscopic
A. Examine the suspected firearm, its caliber,
individualities.
type and make and its condition.
2. Every firearm leaves its “fingerprint” of
B. Check its serial number and records of its
thumbprint” on every cartridge it fires.
identification.
3. The whole principle of identification of shells is
C. Marked the suspected firearms for further
based upon the fact that since the breech face
reference.
of every weapon must be individually distinct,
the cartridge cases that is fires are imprinted
with this individuality. The imprints of all
BASIS OF FIREARM IDENTIFICATION cartridge cases fired from the same weapon are
1. Firearm identification is actually refined tool the same, and those on cartridge cases fired
marks identification. It means that the basis of from different weapon are different.
identification of firearm is based on minute INVESTIGATION OF BALLISTICS CASE
imperfection cause by final polishing of the PROCEDURE AT THE CRIME SCENE
tools involved.
2. The natural wear and tear of the tools involved.  In investigating criminal cases, procedure at the
Every firearm is not permanent for they are scene of the crime play a very significant phase.
subject to deterioration or won out. In most cases, it is in this phase that the success
3. When the softer surface comes in contact with or failure of the investigation can be predicted
the harder surface, it is always the softer in same extent.
surface that will be engraved or marked by  It is very important for any person - in charge of
whatever impression or marks present on the the crime scene to have an open mind and be
harder surface. This is true in a sense that every lenient in all decisions and action undertaken.
firearm is made up of harder material than any  It is very important also for any peace officers
bullet or shell of the cartridge. on case to work systematically and should
4. The fact that no two things are absolutely follow a certain standard of procedures in a
identical or alike. There can be some sort of logical pattern
similarity in general properties but not on the  The following procedures are mandated by less
individuality or minute imperfections. than the PNP investigate manual with certain
modifications due to some changes in our
PRINCIPLES INVOLVED IN BULLET IDENTIFICATION system of investigation.
1. No two barrels are microscopically alike or  At present the Philippine National Police has
identical as to the internal bore construction; all established a modified system of scientific
barrels possess individuality or characteristics crime investigation with the creation of the
marks of their own. Scene of the Crime Operation (SOCO)
2. When a bullet is fired from a rifled gun barrel, it  The SOCO was envisioned for the
becomes engraved by the rifling characteristics establishments a proper scene of operation
of that barrel with varying minute details. It based ion scientific method of investigation
means that bullet fired from one barrel will geared towards the indetification and successful
have an engraving different from that of prosecution of the responsible person.
another bullet fired from another firearm and The works of the SOCO has been divided into two:
conversely, bullets fired from same firearm will
bare same engraving as those that can be found 1. Field Laboratory Work
on the barrel. 2. SOCO Assistance
3. Every barrel leaves its “thumbprint” on every The field Laboratory works are those service that
bullet fired on it. the SOCO can offer on case in which no need for
PRINCIPLES OF SHELL IDENTIFICATION bringing the specimen to the Crime Laboratory
instead the SOCO team will proceed to the place
and conduct the examination either on the a) Record the data and time of arrival including
immediate place or on the nearest laboratory such the weather condition (if information was
as: obtained through telephone call, note
accurately the time the call was received and
 Paraffin examination of suspects or victims of
who reported the incident before leaving).
shooting incidents who are confined in hospitals
b) Look for living person immediately at the place,
 Conduct of qualitative or quantitative
(witness, victim, suspect, if possible.)
examination of face products in collection of
c) If an injured person is at the scene, arrange for
urine samples for drug test:
medical attention, identification and removal.
 Collection of paint fragments, fibers and glass
The scene should be disturbed only to extent
and debris in relation to arson cases: bullets
necessary to have medical aid rendered to the
trajectory examination of motor vehicles at the
injured or to have a doctor examine a deceased
crime scene;
victim. Each alteration should be accurately
 Macro-etching examination of the requesting
recorded.
party.
 Conduct of autopsy at the PNP Accredited In case of the person conscious of an impending
funeral parlors. death, better asked immediately as to: who
 Exhumation of cadavers to determine the cause committed the offense? “For a possible dying
of death. declaration. if the person survives, it will form part
 Conduct of document examination or of the res gestae.
fingerprint examination in the place of the
d.) If the offender is at the scene, apprehend him
requesting unit.
 Photographing cases and other forensic fields e.) If the scene is not fully protected ensure its
where the physical evidence could b not be protection by using other policemen or other
removed or brought out of the office; responsible persons to keep witnesses, suspects and
 Lifting of latent prints in relation to victim who are present from disturbing the scene.
qualified/simple the cases and robbery.
 Polygraph examination of suspects/s in the I. It may be necessary to re-route traffic, to
office of the investigator if the name of the prohibit employees from entering their
suspects is highly confidential place of employment, or to take other
 Withdrawal of tired bullet embedded in the wall action to prevent a disturbance of the scene
of a car or a building found at the crime scene until a complete examination is made. The
after the crime scene processing. body of a deceased victim (if there is any)
 Bringing of bulky evidence in court; and bringing should both be covered until thoroughly
of important office communication to other processed for evidence (such as photograph
private or government offices. was taken).
II. Early action if taken to protect items of
CASES FALLING UNDER THE SOCO CATEGORY possible evidentiary value that may be
destroyed by rain; fire or other cause before
A. MURDER
collection can be affected. For example, a
B. HOMICIDE
raincoat or piece of canvass may be used to
C. RAPE WITH HOMICIDE
cover compressions on the ground that is
D. ARSON
exposed to rain. items that will melt should
E. ROBEERY WITH HOMICIDE
be shielded from the sun or other heat
F. OTHER HEINOUS/SENSATIONAL CASES AS
sources. Objectives such as food and blood
DIRECTED BY HIGHER HEADQUARTERS
should be covered to protect them from
AND OTHER CASES WHERE SOCO
contamination. (Photograph should
ASSITANCE IS NECESSARY.
properly be taken for record purpose.)
1. STEPS TO BE FOLLOWED UPON ARRIVAL AT
III. Determine and record the names of those
THE SCENE OF THE CRIME
person at the scene who may be witnesses
 and separate them. These persons should B. In room, building, and small outdoor areas
be removed from the immediate area of the systematic search of evidence is initiated,
scene as soon as practicable. (In the interest of uniformity, it is
IV. Conduct as preliminary questioning of recommended that the clockwise
witnesses, suspects and victim/s to movement be used. The investigator
determine in general the extent of the examines each item encountered on the
incidents or crime, floor, walls ceiling to locate anything that
V. Note the names of all persons officially may be evidentiary value.
present. Those present within the YOU SHOULD.
immediate area of the scene should be only I. Give particular attention to fragile evidence that
the minimum numbers needed to assist the may be destroyed or contaminated if it is not
investigator. It may be necessary to request controlled when discovered
other policemen or officials present to II. If any doubt exists as to the value of an item,
refrain from examining or disturbing objects treat it as evidence until proven otherwise.
or aspects of the scene. III. Ensure that the item or area where latent
2. RECORDING fingerprint may be present is closely examinate
 The investigator begins the process of and that action is taken to develop the prints.
recording pertinent facts and details of the IV. Carefully protect any impression of evidentiary
investigation the moment he arrives at the value in surfaces conducive to making cast or
scene of the incident )of course, he has to molds. If possible, photograph the impression
record the time and date when he was and make a cast or mold (utilizing casting
initially notified and who notify him prior to materials such as plaster of Paris)
his arrival.) V. Note stains, spots, and pools of liquid “within
 He writes down the identification of person the scene and treat them as evidence.
involved and what he initially. He also drew VI. Treat as evidence all other items, such as hairs,
a basic sketch of the crime scene and takes fibers and earth particles, foreign to the area in
the initial photographs (general, medium which they are found- for example, matter
close-up view and extreme close-up view found under the victim’s fingernails and others.
should be taken if a photographer is VII. Proceed systematically and uninterruptedly to
available.) the conclusion of the processing of the scene.
 This is to secure that the image of the crime The search for evidence a thorough
scene is properly recorded before any examination for the scene, the rough sketch,
further occurrence would disturb the scene. necessary photographs and investigate has
 As a rule, do not touch, alter or remove returned to the point from which the search
anything at the scene until the evidence has began. Further search may be necessary after
been processed through notes, sketches the evidence and the statements obtained have
and photographs, with proper been evaluated.
measurements.
c.) In large outdoor areas, it is advisable to
3. SEARCH OF EVIDENCE
divide the area into strips about (40 feet wide. The
A. Each crime scene is different according to
policemen may first search the trip on his left as he
the physical nature of the scene and the
faces the scene and then the adjoining strips.
crime of offense involved. Consequently,
the scene is processed in accordance with d.) It makes advisable to make a search beyond
the prevailing physical characteristics of the the area considered to be the immediate scene of the
scene is always made, however, to note the incident or crime. For example, evidence may indicate
location of obvious traces of action, the that a weapon or tool used in the crime was discorded
probable entry and exit point used by the or hidden by the offender somewhere within a square
offender/s and the size and shape of the are mile area near the scene.
involved.
 e.) After completing the search of the scene, the four methods can be used. This method is very practical
investigator examinees the object or person actually in outdoor shooting or in cases of running gun battles.
attached by the offender. one researcher may be assigned a search zone.

For example: a ripped open or a room from IV.) COLLECTION OF EVIDENCE

which items have been stolen would be processed after
a) All articles that are or may at some future dates
the reminder of the scene has been examined for traces
would be of significance to the case.
of the offender.
b) Generally, evidence consist of the following:
 In homicide case the position of the body, the 1. Any evidence or physical object that may tend to
victim should be outlined with a chalk or any show that a crime was not committed and (direct
other suitable marking materials before the evidence)
body is removed from the scene. 2. Anything that may connect some particular person
 If the victim has been pronounced dead by the with the crime or crime scene (indirect evidence)
doctor or is obviously dead, it is usually
In case of shooting incident, the following physical
advisable to examine the body, the clothing and
evidence are common to be observed:
the area under the body after the remainder of
the scene has been searched.  The lethal weapon of fatal weapon
 This is to enable the policeman/investigator to  fired bullet/s
evaluate all objects of special interest in the  fired shell/s
light of all other evidence found at the crime  metal fragments
scene.  broken glass or those allied item or obejcts
 holster
f.) Method of Crime Scene Search - different
 magazine/s
methods search have been derived depending upon
 cartridge/s
the nature or circumstances surrounding the scene
 glove/s
of the crime. The following are some of the
 mask/s
prescribed methods in searching for evidence.
 and all other firearms accessory
1.) Strip Method - Applicable when the shooting
c.) When possible, designed one of the
incident took place in a small closed area. This is done
investigating men to collect all evidences.
by one, two or three numbers of searchers standing
side by side from the entrance to the end of that path. 1. This makes the introduction of the exhibits in
court simpler.
2.) Double Strip Method – Applicable when the
2. One officer usually keep better records, and
shooting incident took place in a bigger area.
remember when, where, and what was
Considered as one among the ideal methods of search
collected much better than that if several men
in closed area. In this method the rectangular area is
have handled the same exhibits.
traversed first parallel to the baseline and then parallel
to the side. d.) In collecting physical evidence precautionary
measure should be made in order maintain the
3.) Wheel Method – the researcher gather at the
collection of the evidence when it was discovered.
center and proceed in outward radii and pokes. This
General rule said not to “MAC” the physical
procedure should be follows or repeated several times
evidence.
depending on the size of the area.
“M” (MUTILATE) Mutilation or cutting of physical;
4.) Spiral Method – the researcher follow each
evidence is highly prohibited for it will greatly affect
other in the path of a spiral beginning from the outside
the nature of the evidence and source of such
and then spirally in toward the center.
evidence can be of question
5.) Zone method – If the incident tool place in a
“A” (ALTER) In no case should an investigator
bigger area, this method can be used. The area is
change the very nature of the evidence either by
divided into zones, and each zone any one of the first
 additional or removal of anything that makes up the will tend to loss chances of detecting and taking of
evidence when it was discovered. If changes had latent prints, which is very important in determining
occurred accidentally, such as should be noted in his possible identity of the perpetrator.
record including the immediate cause of said
3.) The use of a handkerchief of a string straw to be
change/s
inserted at the trigger guard of the firearm (make sure
“C” (CONTAMINATE) Evidence are not supposed to that the muzzle of the gun is not pointed to anyone)
be mixed. it is better that each evidence to be and putting it in the hard paper envelope or a plastic
treated with great care. Different evidence requires bag. See to it that the firearm specially in the case of
different method of collection and preservation revolver should not be left “full-cocked” in such case
depending on their way of nature make use of a crumpled paper, carton or a handkerchief
to be place immediately in front of the hammer and
e.) Photographing and sketching are very necessary
press the trigger to avoid accidental firing.
before anything at the scene of the crime be touch,
move of taken for it will serve as a record of the 4.) Information as to location of the gun when
evidence and later be a proof showing the origin or discovered, caliber type and make, serial number and
source of the evidence in court. whether it is loaded or not and how the loads were
arranged should be noted and tag to the firearm.
f.) Note taking is likewise very important in the
source of collecting physical evidence. All pertinent h.) When bullet/s is found at the scene of the crime.
information regarding the condition, location, the following should be observed
nature of the evidence and others should be
1. Bullet inside the body of the victim should not
recorded properly for the investigator cannot just
be dig by the investigator only authorized
rely on his memory regarding all things that
person such as medico legal officer should do
transpired during the investigation and at the same
the digging,
time it will serve as his guide in preparing his case
2. Bullet/s the penetrate walls, wood, furniture/s
and later testifying in court.
or tree should be treated with care not to alter
g.) When firearms is found at the scene of the crime or cut a tree, split open the tree and let the
of the incident, the investigator should take note of bullet freely fall into hands. If it should be
important matters regarding its discovery and difficult to do so, cut a portion of the object
condition. The following precaution should be taken where the bullet penetrated and bring it to the
into consideration in collecting suspected firearm/s laboratory.
3. Bullet should be picked up and wrapped
1.) The use of steel rod, pencil or any other object to be
individually using cotton, tittle or paper but it in
inserted at the bore of the firearms is not advisable.
an enveloped, pillbox or any appropriate
This method would only cause three possible problems.
container. Sealed properly and faced or tag
a) Introduction of foreign materials to the necessary information such as, caliber, type,
bore of the firearm causing contamination: shapes or form, place and date of recovery and
b) Disturbance or removal of some powder the recovering officers. Als includes the name of
fouling inside the bore that bears significant the suspect and the victims if applicable.
importance for chemical analysis in 4. Collect metal fragments (bullet fragment) as
determining whether the gun was recently much as possible. Those metal fragments, if
fired or not and; possible, of lifting together can be if importance
c) Alteration of the internal bore construction to the case.
due to added scratches that would create  When fired cartridge case is found at the scene
confusion in the identification of the said of the crime. Collection should be mad
firearms. individually just like in bullet
 Information as to the numbers of shells, caliber,
2.) The use of a handkerchief to pick up firearm at its type and make, place and date of recovery
handle or its barrel is also prohibited. Such procedure should be noted.
 V. MARKKING of EVIDENCE 3.) Put the mark on the surface of the evidence that
 Marking of the physical evidences such as fired would not in any way alter its very nature.
bullet/s shell/s, firearm/s and other objects 4.) Make a complete record of the mark used, where it
which have some bearing to the case is very is placed and other distinctive marks that the
important for the investigator. evidence has.
 Time and again he will be called upon the 5.) It tags are to be used to make the necessary entry,
witness stand and be required to testify attached it securely before putting on the evidence
regarding the case issue. bag or container. (Mark the container or the
 In the presentation of evidences in court, evidence bag for proper entry)
identification and termination of the source of 6.) Keep a complete record of the chain of possession
the evidence is very necessary before ant of the ballistics evidence.
evidence can be finally accepted in court.
VI PRESERVATION OF PHYSICAL EVIDENCE
 All efforts of the investigator will be style and
useless in collecting those physical evidence if  Physical evidences have varied of form and nature
they not be identified and be accepted in the that ways they are to be preserved also call for
court some specification, precaution and even extreme
 Even if they will be accepted in court to care. in ballistics evidence such as fired bullet, fired
properly identify such as evidence will render it shell and firearm. (Most common)
no evidentiary value at all.  Preservation is not so delicates compared to
 And it is of public knowledge that cases in our bloodstain, fibers seminal stains and others. Fired
court involving shooting incidents, took a long bullets and fired shells should be wrapped with
year of trial before they will be finally be tissue individually.
properly adjudicated and solved.  Place it in a pillbox, matchbox vial or any suitable
 Cases being handled by an investigator in container, but not too big for evidences) Container
months or year/s not one, two or three but should be sealed in such way that it cannot be easily
even more. It will be very impractical for any be open without breaking the seal. Label properly
investigator to just rely on his mind. the sealed container or box and marked with initials
 Evidence also needs protection from possible and dated of recovery.
attempt at concealing the case. In most cases  In case the suspected firearm, proper tag should be
defense counsel even requires the establishing made together with vital information such as the
of the chain of possession or custody of the type and make of firearm, the caliber, load in the
ballistics exhibits in such was a complete note cylinder (in case of a revolver) or load in the
taking and marking will be great used. chamber or in the magazine, date of recovery name
of the victim and the suspect and the serial number.
RULES IN MARKING PHYSICAL EVIDENCE
(BALLISTICS EXHIBITS)

1.) Make use of hand pointed instrument called stylus

in marking ballistics evidence such as
metallic/plastic cartridge case, bullet and firearm. In
cases of proper cartridge case or shell a fountain,
pen will be better one to be used for marking.
2.) Used distinctive marks such as initials of the
investigator, victim or suspects if identified plus the
date of recovery. it is more advisable to use the
victims “initials for easy distinction between
evidence of one case to another. Do not make use
of the mark “X” for such marks is considered
universal that almost everybody is in us of it.