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Recommended Guidelines for Developing

a Training Manual

The scientific working group maintains the view that individual laboratories should be

afforded the freedom to formulate their own training programs. This outline is offered to

help guide in the development of a forensic firearm and toolmark training program by

providing elements that are considered essential or recommended. These training guidelines

have been divided into four discrete, though overlapping areas of consideration. Individual

subcommittees were established to provide initial drafts which were then reviewed by the

entire attending body of SWGGUN.

I. New Examiner Training Guidelines

Sub-Committee members: Bill Morris, Ed Robinson, Bob Shem, John Finor, Glenn Deobold,

Bruce Moran

II. Forensic Science Technician/Laboratory Aid (FST/LA)

Sub-Committee members: Carlo Rosati, Greg Scala, James Cadigan, Jim Carr

III. NIBIN Technicians Training Guidelines

Sub-Committee members: Todd Reynolds, Mickey French, Beth Gillis

IV. Continuing Education

Sub-Committee members: Pete Striupaitis, Ron Marrs, Bob Levine, Arnie Esposito, Loren

Sugarman
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Recommended Guidelines for Developing

a Training Manual

1. New Examiner Training Guidelines

1.1. Scope and Use-Laboratory directors are responsible for training and evaluating

staff members. A well-designed training program should provide the information

upon which a competent decision concerning an examiner's qualifications can be

made. A training program should allow for modification so as to suit the

particular needs of the agency and the trainee. It should provide for regular and

frequent evaluation through written and practical examinations, and provide

adequate documentation of the trainee's progress. With these considerations in

mind, the following guidelines for establishing a training program are offered.

1.2. Evaluation and Assessment-Initial evaluation and assessment of the trainee

should be conducted.

1.2.1. A review of previous education, training, and experience will help to

establish a baseline for, and tailor the program to the needs, strengths

and weaknesses of the trainee.

1.3. Modular Program-The modular concept provides a great deal of flexibility in

customizing the training program.

1.3.1. Modular training programs with regular progress reviews.

1.3.2. Ability to eliminate modules based on documented prior training and

experience.

1.3.3. Provides for more efficient expenditure of time and resources.

1.4. Testing-Testing evaluates the trainee's grasp of the subject matter and any need

for remedial training.

1.4.1. Written assessment and testing at the end of each module.

Documentation of the completion of a module should be prepared and

evaluated before the trainee moves to the next module.

1.4.2 Practical competency testing with pass/fail grading.

1.4.3 Competency testing should be reality-based and evaluate the trainee's

ability to examine representative evidence samples.

1.4.4 A comprehensive final examination will demonstrate the trainee's ability

to integrate all of the elements required to perform actual casework.

1.5. Oral Boards-Technical oral boards can be used to evaluate the trainee's verbal

ability to explain the concepts presented in a particular module.
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1.6. Moot Courts-Moot courts provide exposure to the stress of the adversarial trial

and provide a means of evaluating the trainee's knowledge and verbal skills.

1.7. External Training-Opportunities to visit laboratories, manufacturing plants, and

museums should be afforded the trainee. Membership in forensic organizations

and attendance at forensic meetings should be encouraged.

1.8. Research paper-The trainee should be encouraged to prepare a research paper

suitable for publication or presentation.

1.9. Administrative Guide-An administrative guide is designed to document all

training and to provide evidence to certify a trainee as qualified to perform

firearms and toolmark examinations.

1.10. Resource-The Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners (AFTE) Training

Manual is one example of a resource that meets these criteria.

2. Forensic Science Technician/Laboratory Aid

2.1 Scope and Use-The FST/LA assists a court- qualified firearms and toolmark

examiner in the handling, preparation and examination of evidence. Each

individual laboratory will determine the extent of the technician/aid’s

involvement. The FST/LA differs from a court qualified firearms and toolmark

examiner in that he/she works under the direction of the examiner and does not

render written opinions and/or conclusions regarding identifications or exclusions

of physical evidence. This document is not intended as a complete training

program but to provide the FST/LA with the basic knowledge and skills required

to become a productive and competent addition to the discipline. Laboratories

should ensure that adequate time and resources are devoted to properly train

the forensic technician.

2.1.1 At the completion of this course the FST/LA may be able to perform the

following:

2.1.1.1.Receive and return evidence for the Firearm and Toolmark

section.

2.1.1.2. Recognize and document physical evidence.

2.1.1.3. Correctly and accurately document worksheets and/or notes.

2.1.1.4. Prepare solutions, reagents and testing materials required

for casework.

2.1.1.5. Perform firearms safety checks.

2.1.1.6. Test fire firearms safely.

2.1.1.7. Disseminate appropriate information to authorized agencies as

directed.
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2.2 Management Responsibilities-The FST/LA should have clear, written job

descriptions. The job descriptions would include responsibilities, duties and skills

commensurate with their position.

2.2.1 Have a documented training program for all FST/LA to include competency

test(s).

2.2.2 Encourage and support FST/LA to participate in continuing education such

as reading current discipline literature, visiting relevant manufacturing

facilities, attending relevant training courses, professional seminars and

meetings as well as observation of courtroom testimony.

2.2.3 Maintain records documenting the relevant education, training, skills and

experience of FST/LA.

2.3 Evidence Handling-The FST/LA should be trained in the laboratories evidence

control system to ensure the integrity of the physical evidence. Elements in this

training should ensure that:

2.3.1 Evidence is appropriately sealed and marked for identification.

2.3.2 A chain of custody record for all evidence is maintained.

2.4 Operational Procedures-The FST/LA should be instructed in procedures for all

expected duties in the laboratory. Some of the appropriate duties may include,

but not be limited to:

2.4.1 Reagent and standards preparation.

2.4.2 Ordering laboratory supplies and ammunition.

2.4.3 Maintaining standard ammunition file.

2.4.4 Maintaining firearms reference collection.

2.4.5 Instrument maintenance and calibration.

2.4.6 Firearms safety checks.

2.4.7 Evidence audits, call screening and other physical support (i.e. faxing,

copying and mailing).

2.4.8 Give tours

2.5 Competency Testing-Competency testing pertains to FST/LA engaged in the

disciplines of firearms and toolmarks. The laboratory shall have and follow a

written program of competency testing.

2.5.1 Test samples should be of sufficient numbers to ensure competency in

each area of assignment.
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2.5.2 The following records for competency tests shall be maintained and

include:

2.5.2.1 Test identifier.

2.5.2.2 Identity of the employee.

2.5.2.3 Dates of receipts, analysis, and return for each test.

2.5.2.4 Copies of results and all data and case documentation.

2.5.2.5 Results of review by appropriate individual(s).

2.5.2.6 Corrective action, if necessary.

2.6 Administrative Guide-An administrative guide is designed to help document all

training and to provide evidence to certify a trainee as qualified to assist in

firearms and toolmark examinations.

3 NIBIN Technicians Training Guidelines

3.1 Scope and Use-Laboratory directors are responsible for training and evaluating

staff members. A well-designed, training program should provide the

information upon which a competent decision concerning a NIBIN technician’s

qualifications can be made. A training program should allow for modification, so

as to suit the particular needs of the agency and the trainee. It should provide

for regular and frequent evaluation through written and practical examinations,

and provide adequate documentation of the NIBIN technician’s progress. With

these considerations in mind the following guidelines for establishing a training

program are offered.

3.2 Evaluation and Assessment-Initial evaluation and assessment of the NIBIN

technician should be conducted.

3.2.1 A review of previous education, training, and experience will help to

establish a baseline for and tailor the program to the needs, strengths

and weaknesses of the NIBIN technician.

3.3 Modular Program-The modular concept provides a great deal of flexibility in

customizing the training program.

3.3.1 Modular training programs with regular progress reviews.

3.3.2 Ability to eliminate modules based on documented prior training and

experience.

3.3.3 Provides for more efficient expenditure of time and resources.

3.4 Testing-Testing evaluates the NIBIN technician’s grasp of the subject matter

and any need for remedial training.
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3.4.1 Written assessment and testing at the end of each module. Documentation

of the completion of a module should be prepared and evaluated before

the NIBIN technician moves to the next module.

3.4.2 Practical competency testing with pass/fail grading.

3.4.3 Competency testing should be reality based and evaluate the NIBIN

technician’s ability to examine representative evidence samples.

3.4.4 A comprehensive final examination will demonstrate the NIBIN technician’s

ability to integrate all of the elements required to perform actual

casework.

3.5 Oral Boards-Technical oral boards can be used to evaluate the NIBIN

technician’s verbal ability to explain the concepts presented in a particular

module.

3.6 Moot Courts-Moot courts provide exposure to the stress of the adversarial trial

and provide a means of evaluating the NIBIN technician’s knowledge and verbal

skills.

3.7 External Training-Opportunities to visit laboratories, manufacturing plants,

and museums should be afforded the trainee. Membership in forensic

organizations and attendance at forensic meetings should be encouraged.

3.8 Research paper-The NIBIN technician should be encouraged to prepare a

research paper suitable for publication or presentation.

3.9 Administrative Guide-An administrative guide is designed to document all

training and to provide evidence to certify a NIBIN technician as qualified to

perform NIBIN examinations.

3.10 Resource-The following is an example of a modular training program which

might be used:

3.10.1 Introductory Material:

3.10.1.1 Administrative orientation.

3.10.1.2 General Laboratory Safety Training.

3.10.1.3 Familiarization of Laboratory and Department Policies

and Procedures.

3.10.1.4 General evidence handling instruction.

3.10.2 Firearm Safety and Operation-This block of instruction will focus

on:

3.10.2.1 The general safety on the firing range, in the laboratory

range environment, and in any other areas that a
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firearm may be encountered. 2.2 The different types of

firearm actions will be studied. 2.3 The NIBIN

technician will be expected to read literature and

publications pertaining to firearm actions. 2.4 The NIBIN

technician will be expected to demonstrate he/she can

safely operate firearms of all types (actions). 2.5

Exposure to unsafe firing conditions and the use of

remote firing devices.

3.10.3 Operation of Laboratory Equipment-This block of instruction will

focus on the operation of the laboratory equipment, which will be used

during the duties of the NIBIN technician.

3.10.3.1 The NIBIN technician will be expected to read the

instruction manuals of the instruments to be used.

3.10.4 Ammunition-This block of instruction will focus on all types of firearm

ammunition and their components (casings, primers, powder, and

projectiles). The NIBIN technician will be expected to read literature

and publications pertaining to firearm ammunition.

3.10.4.1 The NIBIN technician will be expected to demonstrate he/she

can identify and characterize ammunition and

components.

3.10.4.2 Study of headstamps on cartridges.

3.10.5 Test firing Procedures-This block of instruction will focus on the test

firing of firearms for entry into the ballistic imaging system.

3.10.5.1 The NIBIN technician will be expected to observe and then

demonstrate proper procedure when test firing in all

laboratory conditions.

3.10.6 Comparison of Fired Casings-This block of instruction will focus on

the comparison of test fired and evidence firearm casings. The marks on

fired cartridge casings will be explored and an understanding of class

and individual characteristics will be studied.

3.10.6.1 The NIBIN technician will be expected to read literature and

publications pertaining to firearms comparisons.

3.10.6.2 The NIBIN technician will be expected to demonstrate he/she

can identify class and individual, reproducible and

recognizable characteristics on fired casings (firing pin,

breechface marks, extractor and ejector marks).

3.10.6.3 The NIBIN technician will observe actual comparisons

conducted by firearm examiners.

3.10.7 Comparison of Bullets-This block of instruction will focus on the

comparison of test fired and evidence bullets. The marks on fired bullets
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will be explored and an understanding of class and individual

characteristics will be studied.

3.10.7.1 The NIBIN technician will be expected to read literature and

publications pertaining to firearm and bullet

comparisons.

3.10.7.2 The NIBIN technician will be expected to demonstrate he/she

can identify class and individual, reproducible and

recognizable characteristics on fired bullets.

3.10.7.3 The NIBIN technician will observe actual bullet comparisons

conducted by firearm examiners.

3.10.8 NIBIN Computer System-Representatives of the developer of NIBIN

will conduct this training. It will focus on the computer system and data

entry and retrieval from the system.

3.10.8.1 Study of the “Glossary of Terms” in the NIBIN manual.

3.10.8.2 Understand and be capable of differentiating between 2

and 3 dimensional images 8.3 Includes entry of images

and data into the system, retrieval of images and data

and correlations of images entered.

4 Continuing Education for Trained Examiners

4.1 Scope and Use-Firearm and toolmark examiners need to maintain an

appropriate level of knowledge concerning the many aspects of firearm and

toolmark examination. Emphasis should remain in place for continuing education

throughout an examiner’s career. The tools and techniques involved in

firearm/toolmark component production and forensic analysis are continuously

evolving. The trained firearm and toolmark examiner needs to remain aware of

new product developments and should keep informed about research, new

methods and changing technology in order to enhance effective examination and

comparison of evidence. Firearm and toolmark examiners should work to

develop and maintain professional contacts within the discipline. Several

continuing education resources are recommended to the firearms and toolmark

examiner to maintain a technical awareness within the profession. These may

include:

4.1.1 Participation in professional organizations.

4.1.2 Specialized training programs.

4.1.3 Armorer’s schools.

4.1.4 Industry trade shows.

4.1.5 Manufacturers tours.

4.1.6 Laboratory tours.
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4.1.7 Internal laboratory training.

4.1.8 College coursework, such as graduate or continuing education programs

in forensic science.

4.2 Professional Organizations-Firearm and toolmark examiners should be

encouraged to join and participate in professional organizations that improve

their fields of expertise. Professional organizations may include but are not

limited to:

4.2.1 The Association of Firearm and Toolmark Examiners (AFTE).

4.2.2 Regional firearms and toolmark meetings.

4.2.3 Other identification, criminalistics and forensic organizations.

4.3 Specialized Training-Firearm and toolmark examiners may take advantage of

general training programs or specialized schools that provide a broad

perspective and a balanced training curriculum. This training may be offered by

federal, state and local government, as well as private organizations.

4.4 Armorer Schools-Manufacturer armorer schools and vocational college

gunsmithing programs are recommended to firearms examiners as a means of

providing technical training to improve skills for function examinations and

mechanical failure analysis, and also as specialized training to aid in the safe

handling of recovered firearms. Armorer schools may be provided or supported

by:

4.4.1 Firearms manufacturers that offer courses either on site or as field

schools.

4.4.2 Regional and international meetings such as the AFTE Annual Training

Seminar.

4.4.3 Courses hosted or supported by local law enforcement agencies or

academies.

4.5 Trade Shows-Manufacturers trade shows are strongly recommended venues for

obtaining information and reference literature about new developments and

trends in the firearms and ammunition industry. Additionally, it provides a

mechanism to create industry contacts that can be valuable for casework related

examinations. These may include:

4.5.1 The annual Shooting Hunting and Outdoor Trade (SHOT) Show.

4.5.2 Law enforcement trade shows.

4.5.3 Other specialized trade shows related to firearms, ammunition, tools/tool

manufacturing, locks/security devices, and microscopy.

4.6 Manufacturing Facility Tours-Examiners should strive to remain aware of the

various manufacturing processes used in the production and finishing of
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firearms, ammunition and tools.

4.6.1 Firearm examiners are encouraged to tour/visit manufacturing facilities

that produce firearms, ammunition and related components.

4.6.2 Toolmark examiners are encouraged to tour/visit related manufacturing

facilities to maintain an understanding of the processes that are used for

producing finished surfaces that may be encountered in toolmark case

work.

4.6.3 Visits to machine shops to observe machining methods, metal fabrication

processes and surface finishing techniques are encouraged.

4.7 Laboratory Tours-Firearm and toolmark examiners can gain insight into

alternative examination methods, standards of practice, reporting techniques,

and alternative instrumentation by visiting and touring the laboratories of other

firearm and toolmark examiners.

4.8 Internal Laboratory Training-Laboratories should recognize the need for

firearm examiners to participate in discipline specific training provided by their

department and provide appropriate reference materials such as:

4.8.1 AFTE Journal and other forensic publications.

4.8.2 Publications related to firearms, ammunition and tools.

4.8.3 Industry publications regarding current trends in the use of firearms,

ammunition and tool mark related production.

4.8.4 Training video tapes.

4.8.5 CD-ROM training and reference materials.

4.8.6 On-line education/resources.

4.9 Professional Development-Departmental administration and laboratory

management have the responsibility to provide for the professional development

of their staff in the following areas:

4.9.1 Organized training program attendance.

4.9.2 The annual AFTE Training Seminar.

4.9.3 Regional training seminars.

4.9.4 Armorer schools.

4.9.5 Agency sponsored training sessions.

4.9.6 Inter-agency sponsored training.
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4.9.7 Technical resources maintained by the laboratory.

4.9.8 AFTE journal.

4.9.9 Other forensic firearms related journals and periodicals.

4.9.10 Firearm and ammunition reference collections and updates.

4.9.11 Equipment and technology upgrade training.

4.9.12 Support for new technical developments.

4.9.13 Research and development projects that provide benefit for the

examiner, the laboratory, and/or the forensic community.

4.10 Available Training Time-The SWGGUN does not mandate a specific number

of hours that forensic firearm and toolmark examiners should participate in

continuing education. However, we recommend that laboratories plan to

provide a sufficient amount of time to facilitate effective continuing education

as outlined above.
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Appendix 1- References

1 Anon., “California Department of Justice Firearms/Toolmark Identification Training

Syllabus: Module 7 – Professionalism”, AFTE Journal, 1991 Vol. 23, No. 1 (Winter)

Pgs. 543-613.

2 Anon., “California Department of Justice Firearms/Toolmark Identification Training

Syllabus: Module 7 – Professionalism”, AFTE Journal, 1991 Vol. 23, No. 2 (Spring)

Pgs. 698-757.

3 Biasotti, Al, et al, “California DOJ Training Syllabus- Forensic Firearms and

Toolmark Identification Modules 1 and 2”, AFTE Journal, 1984 Vol. 16, No.1

(Winter), Pgs 30-118.

4 Biasotti, Al, et al, “California DOJ Training Syllabus- Forensic Firearms and

Toolmark Identification Modules 3 and 4”, AFTE Journal, 1984 Vol. 16, No. 2

(Spring), Pgs 29-102.

5 Brundage, David J., “Proficiency Testing In Illinois”, AFTE Journal,1980 Vol. 12, No.

4 (October), Pgs 76 thru 77.

6 Davis, John E., “Firearms Training Notes”, AFTE Journal, 1977 Vol. 9, No. 2 (July),

Pgs. 76 thru 107.

7 Davis, John E., “Reprint: Firearms Training Notes”, AFTE Journal,1989 Vol. 21, No.

2 (Spring), Page 195 thru 215.

8 Felix, Foggy, Lenihan, Quereau, Ryan, Smith, “Technical Report: Florida-Georgia

Firearm Examiners Training Class: An Overview”, AFTE Journal, 2001 Vol. 33, No. 2

(Spring), Page 161 thru 162.

9 Garland, Pat, “Training the Firearms Examiner”, AFTE Journal, 1971 Vol. 3, No. 1

(Feb), Pg 32.

10Hamby, James E., “Availability of Training Courses for Examiners”, AFTE Journal,

1975 Vol. 7, No. 2 (July), Pgs. 19-20.

11Mann, Henson, Stone, Guerra, “Visual Aides for Firearm Training and Courtroom

Testimony”, AFTE Journal, 1994 Vol. 26, No. 4 (Oct.) Pgs. 309-310.

12Matty, Bill, “Cut-A-Way Training Firearms”, AFTE Journal, 1999 Vol. 31, No. 2

(Spring), Page 133 thru 133.

13Murdock, John E., “Some Suggested Court Questions to Test Criteria for

Identification Qualifications”, AFTE Journal, 1992 Vol. 24, No. 1 (Jan.), Pgs. 69-75.

14Rathman, William E., “Training for Firearms Examiner”, AFTE Journal, 1975 Vol. 7,

No. 1 (March), Pgs. 14-17.

15Reich, Joe, “Helpful Hints For Visual Training Aids”, AFTE Journal,1980 Vol. 12, No.

1 (Jan.), Pgs. 21 thru 22.
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16Webster, William H., “Forensic Science Research & Training Center: Training For

Law Enforcement Personnel”, AFTE Journal, 1980 Vol. 12, No. 3 (July), Pgs. 70 thru

71.

Appendix 2- Revisions

Date Section Changes

4/18/12 Added Appendix 1 and 2