The manufacturing process uniquely marks firearms, meaning that individual guns can leave distinct marks on any bullets and cartridges fired from them. These marks make it possible to link such evidence back to the originating weapon.
Scientists in the Firearms Unit conduct ballistics examinations to tie ammunition and related components to particular firearms. For example, many valuable items manufactured today, including firearms, have serial numbers die-stamped for identification. When serial numbers are removed and/or obliterated, forensic scientists in the Firearms Unit can utilize a variety of techniques to restore the original serial number.
BCI’s new NIBIN units ready for local law enforcement
BCI participates in the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network – commonly known as NIBIN – which is overseen by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF). NIBIN is a computer-assisted ballistics imaging database used by firearms examiners to compare images of the unique markings registered on cartridge cases after a weapon is fired.
The bureau recently added five NIBIN stations to three of its labs throughout the state. To learn more about this expansion, keep reading below.
/firearms-photo.aspx?ext=.&width=500 "Firearms and Toolmarks Unit")