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Experimental arrow wounds: ballistics and traumatology
B Karger1, H Sudhues, B P Kneubuehl
1Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Münster, Germany.
The Journal of Trauma
|September 29, 1998
Summary
Arrow ballistics and wounding potential were studied using various bows and arrows. All arrow wounds are potentially lethal, with severity depending on the target area and arrowhead type.
Area of Science:
- Forensic ballistics
- Wound ballistics
- Experimental biomechanics
Background:
- Understanding arrow ballistics and wounding mechanisms is crucial for forensic and trauma analysis.
- Evaluating experimental models for simulating arrow injuries is essential for research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the ballistics and wounding potential of arrows fired from different weapons.
- To assess the suitability of gelatin and soap as simulant media for experimental arrow wounds.
Main Methods:
- Arrows from a longbow, compound bow, and crossbow were fired into pig carcasses, gelatin, and soap.
- Arrow velocities were measured, and wound tracts were examined.
- Penetration depths and organ damage were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Arrow velocities ranged from 45 m/s to 67 m/s.
- Penetration depth in soft tissue varied from 17-60 cm, influenced by velocity and arrowhead type.
- Arrows readily penetrated body cavities and non-thick bone, causing significant injury.
Conclusions:
- Gelatin and soap are unsuitable for simulating experimental arrow wounds.
- All arrow wounds possess lethal potential, contingent on the impact site and arrowhead design.
- Careful extraction of arrowheads from bone is necessary.