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Using a comparison
microscope, striation
marks from a test tool
can be compared to
the suspect tool.
Collection
The entire object or part of the object
bearing the tool mark should be
collected.
Otherwise, photograph or cast the tool
mark impression, though clarity of
details may be obscured.
Do not try to fit the suspect tool into the
tool mark impression, this will alter or
damage the impression.
Other Impressions
Different kinds of impressions can be found at
a crime scene:
Shoe print
Tire tracks
Fabric impression
Collecting Impressions
Primary consideration in collecting impressions is
the preservation for later examination.
Before any impression is moved or cast, it must be
photographed with a scale to show all observable
details as well as the relation to the overall crime
scene.
When the impression is on a readily recoverable
item, such as glass, paper or floor tile, the item
should be transported to the lab in tact.
Collecting Impressions
When the surface of the impression cannot be
transported to the lab, several other methods
may be used.
Fingerprint lifting
Electrostatic lifting eg. Pathfinder
Casting