Automating Firearms Examination

How 3D Imaging and Virtual Comparison Microscopy Change Firearms Examination and What Defenders Can Do About It

In the past, firearms examiners used microscopes to compare toolmarks on bullets or cartridge casings to determine whether two bullets or casings were discharged from the same gun. Today, virtual comparison microscopy and companion 3D scanners use algorithm-driven technology to create, modify, and compare computer-generated images of the surface of bullets and cartridge casings. What danger does forensic technology pose?