The Detection of Gunshot Residue (GSR) Particles on the Bottom of Discharged Bullets

Abstract

Abstract The well-established method of gunshot residue (GSR) particle detection using scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive spectrometry (SEM/EDS) is generally employed in both the examination of the suspect and the target area. In the present work, it was demonstrated that GSR particles can be consistently found on the bottoms of discharged bullets, including those severely deformed on impact or having undergone other severe conditions. In addition, a proposed mechanism for this finding was investigated. Because this phenomenon is found useful in several types of cases, it should be well remembered by criminalistic related examiners that the bottoms of discharged bullets contain valuable information not to be overlooked.