New perspective in the forensic estimation of the time since discharge

In the forensic investigation of firearms-related cases, it is often required to compare marks on questioned bullets/cartridges with those on reference material in order to support the use of a particular firearm during a crime. However, it is not uncommon that the validity of the collected evidence is contested. For example, the defence may state that the empty cartridge found on the scene had been fired long before the commission of the crime. When this kind of allegations is forwarded, estimating the time since last discharge may be particularly useful for investigation.