Course Description
This course is designed to introduce students to the concept of toolmarks. It will teach students the basics of analyzing both impressed and striated marks, using a variety of tools and toolmark surfaces. Class time will be split between learning the theoretical basis of the uniqueness of these marks and doing practical comparisons with a comparison microscope. Students will discuss the basics of the comparison process and learn how to create test marks for comparison purposes.
Target Audience
This course is designed for firearms and toolmark examiner trainees to learn the basics of comparing striated and impressed toolmarks and the theories regarding the uniqueness of each. Experienced examiners looking to focus on various tools and toolmarks beyond those found in traditional firearms analysis are also welcome.
Course Logistics
September 7, 2026 - September 11, 2026
Riley Workforce Development Center
1524 MS-19
Meridian, MS 39307
40
$1,000.00
Local Contact
Ron Smith and Associates, Inc.
Lucas Hatcher, Director of Operations
601-626-1100
lhatcher@ronsmithandassociates.com
Course Objectives
The purpose of this course is to familiarize students with both striated and impressed toolmarks. Studies and theories regarding the uniqueness of these toolmarks will be discussed. Additionally, the students will learn and practice the art of performing microscopic comparisons on both impressed and striated toolmarks.
Course Expectations
At the completion of this course, the students should be able to:
- Understand the basic terminology associated with impressed and striated toolmarks
- Understand the theoretical basis behind the uniqueness of both striated and individual toolmarks.
- Learn how to create test marks for toolmark comparisons
- Learn the basics of microscopic comparisons using both striated and impressed toolmarks.
Should be Able to Perform
At the completion of this course, students should understand the basic principles of performing microscopic comparisons on both striated and impressed toolmarks, to include the theoretical basis for the uniqueness of these marks, and the ability to create test marks for toolmark comparison to various non-firearms tools.
Course Schedule
| Duration | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Hour | Introduction and Class Expectations | Test Marks | Impressed Marks -Lecture and Discussion | Test Marks | Toolmark Practice Cases |
| 1 Hour | Striated Marks -Lecture and Discussion | -Lecture and Discussion Microscopic Comparisons -Striated Marks | Microscopic Comparisons -Impressed Mark | ||
| 1 Hour | |||||
| 1 Hour | Discussion and Review | ||||
| 1 Hour | Lunch | Lunch | Lunch | Lunch | Lunch |
| 1 Hour | Striated Marks -Practical | Microscopic Comparisons -Striated Marks | Impressed Marks -Practical | Microscopic Comparisons -Impressed Marks | Written Exam |
| 1 Hour | |||||
| 1 Hour | Striated Marks -Known Match and Known Non-Match Comparison | Impressed Marks -Known Match & Known Non-Match Comparison | Practical Exam | ||
| 1 Hour | Test Review and Follow Up |
Must Bring to Class
- Dress is business casual.
- Pen and Notebook.
- A positive attitude and willingness to learn.
Recommended Reading
Reading recommendations will be published prior to the start of class.
Helpful Lodging Information
Although we cannot endorse any particular hotel property, we have confirmed that the following lodging options are within a reasonable commuting distance to the training site.
Drury Inn & Suites Meridian
112 US-11
Meridian MS 39301