Bullet Fingerprinting — Direct Link

: The National Integrated Ballistic Information Network is a federal database used to share digital images of ballistic evidence.

: Microscopic flaws in the manufacturing process or wear and tear from use create a "signature" unique to that specific barrel. 2. Impression Marks (on the casing)

Despite its usefulness, "bullet fingerprinting" is not always a definitive proof of guilt. Several factors can complicate or even invalidate a match. 1. Barrel Evolution bullet fingerprinting

: The hooks and pins that pull the spent casing out and toss it away leave distinct scratches on the rim. The Technology of Tracking

To manage these vast amounts of data, law enforcement uses specialized databases and imaging systems. : The National Integrated Ballistic Information Network is

: The raised parts of the rifling (lands) and the cut-out parts (grooves) leave parallel scratches on the bullet.

: The pin strikes the primer at the back of the casing, leaving a unique indentation. Impression Marks (on the casing) Despite its usefulness,

: The Integrated Ballistic Identification System (IBIS) is the hardware and software used to capture these high-resolution 3D images.