Author: James E. Hamby

James Hamby received a Master's degree from Michigan State University and completed his Ph.D. in forensic science from the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow, Scotland. A firearm examiner for thirty-seven years, Dr. Hamby received his training at the U.S. Army Crime Laboratory in Georgia and has worked in Federal, state, and county crime laboratories. He is a past-president of the Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners (AFTE) and edited the AFTE Journal for twelve years. Dr. Hamby currently directs the International Forensic Science Laboratory and Training Centre in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Introduction

Firearm and toolmark identification has evolved from visually matching class characteristics to microscopic identification of individual characteristics. The science of firearm and toolmark identification has continued to advance through the application of new and developing technologies. These advancements have led to the ability to link cases within and across jurisdictional boundaries.

This module highlights important events and developments in the history of firearm and toolmark identification. The information can be viewed in the following web pages. Additional reference information is available on the Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners (AFTE) website.

Objectives

At the conclusion of this module, the student should be able to

• describe the major scientific and technological events in the history of firearm and toolmark identification and examination,
• list the major agency and organizational developments in the history of firearm and toolmark identification and examination,
• describe training advancements throughout the history of firearm and toolmark identification and examination,
• discuss the major legal precedents in the field of firearm and toolmark identification and examination.

AFTE Knowledge and Ability Factors

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