The Residue and Burns: Understanding What Happens After Firing a Revolver

Introduction

Firing a revolver, whether for sport, law enforcement, or self-defense, can leave visible and invisible traces on the shooter's hands and clothing. This article explores the nature of these residues and explains why it's important to understand the potential for burns or residue after shooting a revolver.

Understanding the Residue

When a revolver is discharged, a significant amount of powder residue and gases are expelled from the barrel/cylinder gap, as well as through the barrel itself. This residue can include a combination of unburned or partially burned powder particles, gunpowder gases, and other particulates. The residue is not only visible but can also be absorbed into the skin, clothing, and nearby surfaces.

It's important to note that while the heat and flame from the firing are brief, the subsequent residue can stay on the shooter's hands and other parts of the body. A trained forensic examiner can detect even trace amounts of this residue, which can provide valuable evidence in criminal investigations.

Visible and Invisible Residues

Visible Residue

Visible residues from firing a revolver include soot and powder marks. These marks can be seen on clothing, shoes, and even skin in severe cases. A metallic silhouette handgun match is a prime example, as mentioned by a Squadron Commander from the Fort Knox firearms practice session. He wore pants that had a large black stripe from the cylinder gap residue.

Invisible Residue

Invisible residues include the chemical and particulate matter remaining on the shooter's hands. These residues can include gunpowder particles, metals, and other materials. Even slight contact with the firearm can transfer these residues. These residues can also be transferred to clothing, making it possible to detect them through various forensic tests.

The Potential for Burns

Flash and Cylinder Gap Residue

During the firing of a revolver, a flash occurs at the cylinder gap. This flash is the result of gases escaping from the gap before the bullet travels down the barrel. It's this flash that can cause burns, especially if the shooter's hands or any part of their anatomy is in the immediate vicinity. The flash is similar to a gas torch in intensity and can cause burns to the skin and underlying tissue.

Precautions and Safety Measures

To avoid burns and residue, it's crucial to wear appropriate protective gear, such as gloves and goggles.

Always keep your distance from the cylinder gap when firing. If you are in a shooting range, maintain a safe distance from other shooters to avoid accidental contact with residue or burns.

After shooting, thoroughly clean your hands, clothing, and any other surfaces that came into contact with the firearm to prevent the transfer and detection of residues.

Casualty of Plume: The Photo and Reality

It's worth noting that thephoto in the coffee table book “The Peacemakers” showing a cowboy TV star with a black smudge under his holster does highlight the reality of residue transfer. The photographer captured the immediate aftermath of the star discharging his revolver, which resulted in a visible smudge of residue under his holster.

This photo provides a real-world example of the immediate residue that can accumulate after firing a revolver. It's a testament to the fact that even a single shot can leave significant residues that can be detected by forensic experts.

Conclusion

Firing a revolver can leave both visible and invisible residues. These residues can provide important clues in forensic investigations and should be handled with care to avoid any potential burns or health issues. Understanding the nature of these residues is crucial for anyone who regularly handles firearms.

Keywords: residue, revolver, powder burn