Question

When a bullet is retrieved, how is it marked for identification purposes? What should be avoided?

Answer 1

Answer:

The retrieved bullet is normally marked at the tip or base with the initials of the investigator while ensuring that no markings are placed on the sides of the retrieved bullet. It is required to ensure that the markings made on the bullets does not go over or obscure striations or markings already present on the bullet.

Where the retrieved bullet is mutilated whereby it is impossible to engrave the required markings on it, it should be placed in a marked envelope, container or pill box

Explanation:

It is possible to trace retrieved casings and bullets from crime scene back to the gun from which it was fired or to the suspect's gun. The retrieved casings and bullet, when scrutinized at the crime lab, can reveal the gun model and make from which the casing or bullet was fired. The retrieved bullet or casing could also be traced back to the lot or batch of ammunition in possession of the suspect.