FIREARMS

Always treat the firearm as if it is loaded.

Always keep the firearm pointed in a safe direction.

Always keep your finger straight, off the trigger and outside of the trigger guard.

Always assume that a firearm is not cleared unless you have cleared it yourself.

Always transport firearms unloaded.  If you are unable to clear a firearm, transport it inside a bulletproof case to prevent injury from misfires.

Inspect the surface for the presence of trace evidence and/or ridge detail.  Carefully collect any trace evidence observed. Photograph any ridge detail observed with one-to-one photography.

Take detailed photographs of the firearm.  Refer to the below links for more guidance on what photographs to take:

Revolvers

Pistols

Long Guns

Swab areas that have potential DNA present.  For more guidance on swabbing, refer to this resource: DNA Collection.  Consider swabbing the following areas:

Trigger

Grip

Slide

Site

Magazine (area at top where cartridges are loaded in)

Prior to processing, use a forensic light source to inspect the surface of the item for trace evidence and/or latent print impressions.  For more guidance on what light source to utilize, refer to this resource: Forensic Light Sources.  Photograph any ridge detail observed with one-to-one photography.

Fume items of evidence with Cyanoacrylate Ester Fuming and Vacuum Chamber.  Photograph any ridge detail observed with one-to-one photography.

Use a forensic light source to visualize any latent print impressions that have developed.  For more guidance on what light source to utilize, refer to this resource: Forensic Light Sources.  Photograph any ridge detail observed with one-to-one photography.

Apply one of the following to the surface:

Ardrox

Basic Red

Basic Yellow

MBD

MRM 10

Nile Red

RAM

RAY

Rhodamine 6G

Safranin O

Photograph any ridge detail observed with one-to-one photography.

Use a forensic light source to visualize any latent print impressions that have developed.  For more guidance on what light source to utilize, refer to this resource: Forensic Light Sources.  Photograph any ridge detail observed with one-to-one photography.

Apply one of the following to the surface:

Standard Powder

Magnetic Powder

Fluorescent Powder

Photograph any ridge detail observed with one-to-one photography and/or collect with a latent print collection technique.