Gunshot residues of blank firing pistols

Abstract

A blank firing pistol is an instrument or device which is designed to use only blank or tear gas cartridges. Neither in blank nor in tear gas cartridges are projectiles used. Unfortunately, this weapon can be easily converted to a lethal firearm by cutting off and changing the barrel. In cases like this, the weapon is less expensive than regularly rifled firearms and no license is needed. Also, in some cases, without any changes they can function like lethal weapons. In this study, using 9 mm blank ammunitions and a blank firing pistol, experimental shots were done. Gunshot residues on both firing hand and cloth target were examined by scanning electron microscope/energy-dispersive x-ray analysis and sodium rhodizonate test, respectively. The results similar to other experiments were done with regular firearms.