ABSTRACT
When a bullet penetrates biological tissue, energy is transferred from the missile to the tissues, which generates a destructive force. The available energy depends upon the mass and velocity (E=½MV2). The amount and rate of energy transfer, which cause the soft tissue damage, depends on other factors which include both the type of weapon, the distance from the victim and type of missile. Generally, high velocity weapons (>2000 ft/sec) do more extensive damage. Different types of weapons have a varying muzzle velocity (velocity as the missile leaves the barrel):
• Low velocity (<1000 ft/sec): hand guns. • Medium velocity (1-2000 ft/sec): magnum handguns and shotguns. • High velocity (>2000 ft/sec): hunting rifles and military weapons.
