Because the basis for common source determinations lies in the manufacture of tools, it is essential that examiners have a good working knowledge of tool manufacture. Lectures include tool manufacturing fundamentals, manufacture of firearm parts, and subclass characteristics. There are also practical exercises involving subclass characteristics to include: assessment of toolmarks, recognition of tool manufacturing process, and the evaluation of the potential for subclass characteristics. By the conclusion of the module, the trainee will understand the different tool manufacturing processes, the potential for those manufacturing processes to result in subclass characteristics, and the evaluation of tools and toolmarks for the potential of subclass characteristics.
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developed by

Ron Nichols

Ron is widely published with many publications routinely referenced in published court decisions with respect to Daubert and Frye evidentiary hearings. He is the author of Firearm and Toolmark Identification: The Scientific Reliability of the Forensic Science Discipline available through Academic Press and Building a Preventive Crime Gun Strategy available through Ultra Electronics Forensic Technology. He is a contributing author to other texts as well. He is internationally recognized as one of the leading experts in communicating the scientific foundations of the firearm and tool mark discipline to both technical and lay audiences providing training and consultation nationally and internationally, including on behalf of the United Nations.
supported by

Omar Felix

Omar Felix holds a Bachelor's of Science degree in Forensic Science from the University of Central Florida, graduating in 1999. He also holds a Master's of Science in Applied Psychology from Lynn University, graduating in 2017.

Omar has been a Firearms Examiner for 23 years and is a distinguished member of the Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners. He began his training with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement’s Orlando crime lab before moving to South Florida to work for the Palm Beach County Sheriff's office in West Palm Beach. In 2021, he moved to Englewood, Colorado where he currently works as a Firearms Examiner with the Unified Forensic Laboratory. Omar is currently the Chair of AFTE’s Machining and Subclass subcommittee which created a machining and subclass guide for the association’s members.