Introduction to 3D-printing toolmarks - Part 2

This is the second session, intended for students who took part 1 of the course or is already familiar with 3D-printing. We will look at finished 3D-printed items as they relate to firearms. The items examined will be actual examples and there will be a discussion as to their functionality and durability. The primary focus will be a case study of a hybrid, parts-completion kit, semi-automatic pistol from start to test-firing. The final sections will cover the potential for trace evidence and toolmarks present on 3D-printed items. There will be a discussion on how these items of evidence can be used to potentially locate manufacturers of 3D-printed items.

Introduction to 3D-printing toolmarks - Part 1

This is part 1 of a potential two part class, intended for a practitioner that has not done any 3D-printing themselves. This course will cover the basics a forensic practitioner needs to know when investigating 3D-printing in relation to a crime. The introduction will cover the basic anatomy of a 3D-printer to know what to look for on scene, but also to know what to collect, how to collect it, and where trace evidence and toolmarks can be located. The next section will cover how to 3D-print a part. This section will cover the basics of initial printer set-up, some websites where 3D-printed designs are located, and the 3D-printing process. Once the 3D-printing process is complete, there are finishing steps that can create other usable items of evidence that should be considered and could be used for probable cause.