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Muzzle-loading weapons discharging spherical lead bullets: two case studies and experimental simulation using a

Markus Große Perdekamp¹, Roland Braunwarth, Jan Kromeier

¹Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Freiburg, Albertstraße 9, 79104 Freiburg, Germany. markus.perdekamp@uniklinik-freiburg.de

International Journal of Legal Medicine

|December 20, 2012

Summary

Fatal injuries from black powder firearms are rare. Close-range shots show intense gunshot residue (GSR) deposition and unique wound characteristics, including large tissue destruction from spherical projectiles.

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Area of Science:

Forensic pathology
Ballistics
Trauma analysis

Background:

Fatal injuries from black powder firearms are uncommon in forensic practice.
Black powder firearms differ significantly from modern smokeless powder weapons in terms of projectile characteristics and injury patterns.

Observation:

Close-range shots from black powder guns exhibit intense gunshot residue (GSR) deposition, including soot and powder particles.
Wads of felt may be found within the wound channel.
Spherical projectiles cause maximal tissue damage at the entrance site, characterized by cone-like cavitations.

Findings:

Two cases of fatal injuries from muzzle-loading weapons are presented: a suicide with a miniature cannon and a homicide with a percussion pistol.
Test shots with black powder revealed significant bullet velocities and kinetic energies.
CT evaluation of test shots demonstrated deep penetration and cone-like cavitations consistent with spherical missiles.

Implications:

Understanding these unique injury patterns is crucial for accurate forensic interpretation of black powder firearm incidents.
The study highlights the distinct ballistics and wound characteristics associated with historical firearms.
This research contributes to the forensic science knowledge base regarding less common firearm types.