Gunshot Residue Deposition With and Without Firearm Suppressors (Silencers)

Forensic pathologists recognize the importance of estimating the range of fire for gunshot entrance wounds. Classically described ranges of fire include contact, close range, medium (or intermediate) range, and indeterminate (or distant) range. The presence or absence of gunshot residue (smoke/soot and/or gunpowder) and the characteristics of the gunshot residue are evaluated in order to estimate the range of fire. It is well known that interposed targets can block or otherwise alter gunshot residue deposition. In this preliminary study, a comparison is made between gunshot defects produced on targets using firearms with and without an attached suppressor device (so-called "silencer"). Comparisons are made at various distances from the targets, using multiple weapon/ammunition calibers.