ABSTRACT
The terminology surrounding dismemberment and the analysis of indicators of dismemberment can be confusing, and there is a general lack of consistency across different countries and quite extensive variation between practitioners. Tools are simply any implement that may be used to effect an action. Tools are either manual or powered. Manual tools are those operated by the hand of the user, and it is the power of their muscles that generates the force that propels the cutting edge of the blade. Powered tools, whilst they may still be handheld, are not in the main powered by the muscles of the user in the cutting action and were designed for situations where substrate being cut required greater speed or power. A reciprocating or sawing action can be utilized in knives and saws, and is evident in both manual and powered tools. A cut that passes all the way through the bone will leave a dismemberment cut that has an entry point.
