Forensic Firearms Experts & Testing Facilities

 

In the fields of forensic and firearms experts a scientific method of testing the trigger pull is mandatory.

Testing the trigger pull with weights was a proven way to determine the maximum force to actuate the trigger but it will not give any information about the changes in force during the travel of the trigger. To detect an inconsistent releasing trigger was also difficult.

The Trigger Scan System shows multiple graphs of the same trigger within a matter of seconds. Comparing the force vs. travel graph enables the examiner to give a scientifically founded statement about the consistency of the trigger system.

 

Another advantage of the Trigger Scan system over the method with weights is the fact that the firearm is tested in the correct position with horizontal barrel. The difference between a straight or up side down held firearm can also be tested.

With a printed Trigger Scan graphic it is easier to explain a characteristic to a person who is not familiar with firearms (e.i. in court). Especially for the quality control in the forensic science it is important that the Trigger Scan ™ system can be checked and if necessary calibrated for proper accuracy. Forensic laboratories in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Netherlands, Canada and the USA use the Trigger Scan™ system with success.

An energy analysis of a trigger system is now a simple task. While runing a standard test the total energy consumption to actuate the trigger is determined. For example a S&W revolver needs 415 Nmm to activate the hammer in the double action mode. Remove the hammer and the hammer spring as the first energy consuming part and test the firearm again. Discount the two energies and the result is the energy plus the friction used by the hammer. In continuing to do so it is easy to get the energy dispersion in a trigger system. See the following example:

Part Energy [Nmm] Energy [%]
Rebound Spring
101,3 N mm
24,4 %
Cylinder
16,6 N mm
4,0 %
Hammer Spring
292,0 N mm
70,2 %
Safety
5,9 N mm
1,4 %

 

Testing Springs

Another important feature of the Trigger Scan System is the capability to test springs. Springs are critical parts in the firearms. If the characteristics (force, spring constant) are out of tune, they can cause misfires or malfunctions.

With the Trigger Scan System springs can be reliably analysed for its properties and detected or excluded as a cause for a malfunction. Analysing a spring for its physical properties is a matter of minutes with the Trigger Scan System.

 

 

 

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European Distributor for the TriggerScan System

 

 

Axel Manthei

Albrecht-Nützel-Weg 29
D-86916 Kaufering
Germany

Tel. & Fax
+49-(0)8191-66704

E-Mail
info@MANTHEI-MESS-SYSTEME.COM