Bullet Caliber and Type Categorization from Gunshot Wounds in Sus Scrofa (Linnaeus) Long Bone

Area of Science:

• Forensic Science
• Ballistics
• Osteology

Background:

• Previous studies suggest bullet caliber can be determined from bone trauma.
• Macroscopic evidence at entrance wounds may indicate bullet type.

Purpose of the Study:

• Validate prior research on bone caliber estimation.
• Assess bullet type determination from macroscopic evidence at entrance wounds.

Main Methods:

• Thirty pork shoulders (humeri) were shot with lead or copper-jacketed bullets.
• Calibers used were 0.22, 9 mm, and 0.38.
• Macroscopic analysis of entrance wounds was performed.

Main Results:

• Findings align with previous research, grouping calibers into 'small' and 'large'.
• Bullet type (lead or copper jacket) was determined by analyzing cortical flaking and deposited materials.
• Evidence from entrance wounds is valuable when no firearm is recovered.

Conclusions:

• Bullet caliber estimation from bone is feasible and can be categorized.
• Bullet type can be identified via macroscopic wound analysis.
• This method aids investigations lacking traditional ballistic evidence.