Identifying Characteristics Distance Rifled weapons Muzzle abrasion point blank Gases present in victim's clothing, etc 1 - 3 in. Tattooing and abrasions ensue from the above. Wadding in wound 79 - 236 in. Exit wounds are usually irregular without an abraded perimeter. All such injuries are well demarcated with sharp edges.
Blunt trauma Consider the occupant of a motor vehicle.
This is dissipated very rapidly in a collision. Injury is sustained because of the development of pressure waves radiating from the points of impact through the victim. They are typically irregular in outline with edge abrasions. Nerves and vessels may bridge wound. Abrasions are usually secondary to being dragged.