Profiling Toolmarks on Forensic Ballistics Specimens: An Experimental Approach

This paper will discuss an experimental approach for matching toolmark images from the linescan technique and measurements from the profilometry technique of surface mapping. By relating the topography of a region on the surface of a cartridge case and projectile to that region on the unwrapped image from the linescan technique, a potential match may be developed. The application of depth profiling of imperfections on the projectiles and cartridges from the firing of a weapon has the potential to map unique markings on the ballistics specimens from crime scene firearms. The paper will show depth profiles of land marks and groove marks of projectiles, and firing pin marks and breach face marks on cartridges as examples supporting the potential for the profiling technique