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[Contact shot from infantry weapons with a flash-suppressor]
Markus Grosse Perdekamp1, Roland Braunwarth, Ulrike Schmidt
1Institut für Rechtsmedizin, Universität Freiburg.
Archiv Fur Kriminologie
|September 4, 2003
Summary
Reports on firearm contact shots with flash suppressors are rare. This case study details unique wound characteristics from an AKMS 47 assault rifle, offering insights into shot specifics.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Pathology
- Ballistics
- Firearm Analysis
Background:
- Limited documentation exists on contact gunshot wounds involving firearms equipped with flash suppressors.
- Flash suppressors alter muzzle blast and projectile trajectory, potentially influencing wound characteristics.
Observation:
- A case of suicidal contact gunshot to the forehead using a Kalschnikow AKMS 47 assault rifle was analyzed.
- Morphological examination revealed a distinctive soot pattern, a relatively small powder cavity, and minimal skin tearing due to underlying bone support.
Findings:
- The presence of a flash suppressor significantly impacts the appearance of contact wounds.
- Specific wound features can provide crucial information about the firearm, shot distance, angle, and weapon handling.
Implications:
- Understanding these unique wound patterns is vital for accurate forensic interpretation in cases involving firearms with flash suppressors.
- This research contributes to the forensic science body of knowledge regarding ballistic trauma and firearm identification.