After reading this chapter, you should be able to:

• Recognise the forensic value of the examination of firearms and firearms-related physical evidence.
• Describe the essential characteristics of the common types of firearm and ammunition encountered during forensic investigation.
• Understand the terms internal, external and terminal ballistics.
• Discuss the key types of information that may be obtained by the examination of suspect firearms, spent cartridge cases, projectiles and other ejecta, and appreciate how such information can be gained.