Ballistics Expert Witness for Firearm Reports

A core task for a Ballistics Expert Witness is to determine what type or make of gun could have fired a recovered bullet. If a bullet is removed from a victim or found at a crime scene, it can be examined to establish its calibre and rifling characteristics. This general “class characteristics” determination narrows down the possible weapons. When a suspect firearm is available, the expert conducts microscopic comparisons of both class and individual characteristics to determine whether the bullet was or was not fired from that particular gun. Their evaluation may support charges, identify alternative suspects or exonerate the accused.

Ballistics isn’t limited to bullets. Each Ballistics Expert Witness is trained in tool‑mark comparison. An expert in tool‑mark analysis may examine markings left on or by other tools, such as screwdrivers, pry bars or pliers, and give an opinion on whether a specific tool made the marks. This type of analysis can connect burglary tools to forced‑entry marks or match a weapon’s firing pin impression to cartridge cases, providing valuable links between evidence and suspects.

Gunshot residue (GSR) tests, including muzzle‑to‑target distance determinations, help estimate how far the shooter was from the victim when the gun was fired. The firearms identification section compares the pattern of residue on clothing or skin to test patterns produced when the same ammunition is fired from the defendant’s gun at set distances. Because modern ammunition often leaves only a small residue, interpreting these patterns requires experience and understanding of powder composition. Our Ballistic Expert Witnesses explain both the value and the limitations of GSR evidence in their reports, ensuring that conclusions are not overstated.

In complex shooting scenes, understanding bullet paths is essential. Ballistics Expert Witnesses reconstruct trajectories by examining bullet holes, entry and exit wounds, projectile deformation and ricochet. They consider bullet drop, angle of impact and potential obstructions to determine the shooter’s position, firing angle and number of shots. Where necessary, they collaborate with pathologists for wound‑track analysis; for example, a pathologist may testify about the distance of the gun from the victim, bullet paths and positions of bodies. This comprehensive reconstruction helps courts evaluate witness statements and assess plausibility.

A ballistics report often includes testing the suspected firearm to see whether it is operational. A gun‑function test determines if the weapon works correctly, how much force is required to pull the trigger and whether a malfunction or accidental discharge could have occurred. Such examinations may be critical in cases involving allegations of accidental shooting or mechanical failure. Our Forensic Ballistics Experts also assess magazine capacity and how many rounds can be fired before reloading, providing context for claims about the number of shots fired.

Our Ballistics Expert Witnesses are frequently asked to provide second opinions on previously reported findings. This may involve reviewing the methodology used in bullet comparisons, re‑evaluating gunshot residue interpretations or verifying trajectory analyses. Their impartial input can identify limitations, methodological issues or overstatements in existing reports. When necessary, they may conduct independent testing to corroborate or refute earlier conclusions.