ballistic fingerprinting
noun
Meaning
The forensic practice of identifying a specific firearm by analyzing the unique microscopic markings left on fired bullets and cartridge cases.
Examples
- Investigators used ballistic fingerprinting to link the weapon found in the suspect's car to the scene of the crime.
- Advances in ballistic fingerprinting have significantly increased the rate at which police can solve gun-related offenses.
Synonyms: ballistics analysis, firearm identification, forensic ballistics, toolmark analysis