The Effect of Time on Rusted Firearm Identification
Since the development of early firearms in the mid-1200s, the best material for making critical parts for weapons has been iron-based metal. While iron and steel (an alloy metal that contains iron) are popular materials due to their strength and resilience, they are susceptible to chemical reactions when interacting with the environment. The most common chemical reaction of concern is corrosion or rust, which causes metal to deteriorate or dissolve. Corrosion and chemical reactions most often occur in wet and humid conditions. If firearms are not properly cared for or are left in these conditions, it could have adverse effects on the firearms’ operability and could affect the firearms’ individual characteristics.
While past research has been performed on the possibility of identifying characteristics on rusted firearms after they have been restored, there is little research on how long a firearm can be left to rust before an identification is no longer possible. Potential identification comparisons were performed on cartridge cases and projectiles after they were test fired through firearms that were left to rust for certain periods of time. This project evaluates the effects of rust on the common working surfaces of Glock and Smith & Wesson Sigma firearms that firearm examiners use to make an identification. The unpredicted data suggests that Glocks cannot be identified past three months of rusting while Sigmas can be identified at six months and possibly even longer.
Detailed Learning Objectives:
Upon completion of this webinar, attendees will learn:
- The adverse effects of corrosion and rust on a firearm’s operability and individual characteristics.
- The length of time a firearm, both with conventional and polygonal rifling, can rust before individual characteristics are altered or changed enough to where an identification can no longer be made.
- Whether the amount of time a firearm has been rusting can be estimated based on the condition in which it was found.
Note: You need to register a account at the Forensic Technology Center of Excellence to Enroll in the webinar.
Contact: Forensic Technology Center of Excellence
Link: If you have questions about this course, contact the FTCoE
Registration Dates: November 12, 2021 – January 6, 2022
Registration Status: Open
Eligibility: Free and open to all.
Credits: Certificate of completion
Organizer
The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (FTCoE) is committed to improving the practice and strengthening the impact of forensic science through rigorous technology corroboration, evaluation, and adoption; effective knowledge transfer and education; and comprehensive dissemination of best practices and guidelines to agencies dedicated to combating crime.
The Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (FTCoE), led by RTI International, is supported through a Cooperative Agreement from the National Institute of Justice (NIJ), Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice (awards 2016-MU-BX-K110 and 2011-DN-BX-K564). The FTCoE supports the implementation of new forensic technology and best practices by end users and is dedicated to elevating the status of forensic science through advancing technology, sharing knowledge, and addressing challenges. The FTCoE bridges the gap between the scientific and the justice communities.
Advancing Technology | The FTCoE manages the testing and evaluation of emerging technologies applicable to forensic science. By identifying and removing the potential barriers that often derail the implementation and acceptance of new and innovative technologies, the FTCoEplaces promising technical innovations in the hands of forward-thinking practitioners, stakeholders, and policy makers. This is achieved through technical evaluation, technical assistance, and guidance resources.
Sharing Knowledge | The FTCoE provides knowledge transfer and integration which strengthens the connection between forensic discovery and forensic process using a blended learning environment consisting of web-based presentations, workshops, specialized events and discussions panels. The FTCoE provides knowledge transfer and integration which strengthens the connection between forensic discovery and forensic process using a blended learning e`nvironment consisting of web-based presentations, workshops, specialized events and discussions panels.
Addressing Challenges | The FTCoE is an established leader in the expeditious transition of research into the hands of practitioners. We understand the user needs, and through our support of the NIJ’s Research and Development (R&D) portfolio, we identify and employ the requirements necessary to drive the adoption of research and development outcomes. To learn more about how the FTCoE supports the NIJ’s R&D portfolio and provides technology transition support.
