[The possibility of inflicting injuries by shots from a gas weapon at close range]

Two cases from practical forensic medical expert evaluation are presented, connected with injuries inflicted by point-blank shots from gas pistols of 8 and 9 mm caliber. These two examples demonstrate the difficulties in expert evaluation, which are explained by the absence of scientifically-based methodology. The authors emphasize the necessity of comprehensive studies in this field to develop methods for the differential diagnosis of injuries inflicted by gas weapons and those inflicted by blank cartridge gunshots.