How To Become a Firearms Examiner: Step-by-Step Guide
Learn about the steps important to pursuing a career as a firearms examiner, including education, skills, salary and more.
Firearms examiners are highly trained professionals who use their expertise in ballistics, firearms and forensic science to help solve crimes. If you are interested in a career in law enforcement or forensic science, becoming a firearms examiner may be a good option for you. In this article, we discuss what firearms examiners do, the steps you need to take to become one and the average salary you can expect to earn.
What Does a Firearms Examiner Do?
Firearms examiners are responsible for conducting scientific tests on firearms and ammunition to determine the type of weapon used in a crime, as well as any identifying marks left on the bullet or casing. They use their findings to provide expert testimony in criminal cases. Firearms examiners typically have the following duties:
- Conducting ballistics tests on firearms and ammunition
- Using microscopes and other scientific equipment to examine bullets and casings
- Comparing test results with known samples in databases
- Identifying any unique markings on bullets or casings
- Writing reports detailing their findings
- Testifying in court about their findings
- Providing expert consultation to law enforcement agencies
Firearms Examiner Salary and Job Outlook
The average salary for a firearms examiner is $64,375. However, salaries can vary based on experience, education, and geographical location.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that job prospects for firearms examiners will grow much faster than average over the next decade. This is due to an increase in gun violence and the need for better regulation of firearms. Firearms examiners play an important role in investigating crimes involving firearms and helping to ensure that guns are used safely.
How to Become a Firearms Examiner
Here are several steps you should take to become a firearms examiner.
1. Earn a bachelor’s degree in forensic science or a related field
A bachelor’s degree in forensic science is the minimum educational requirement for most crime laboratories. Some employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree, especially those working at research institutions or universities.
Undergraduate programs in forensic science typically cover topics such as criminal law, investigative techniques, forensic biology and laboratory practices. Coursework often includes subjects like bloodstain pattern analysis, crime scene investigation, toxicology and serology. Students also gain hands-on experience through labs and field work.
2. Complete an internship or entry-level job in a crime laboratory
Entry-level positions in crime laboratories are a great way to gain experience and build your resume. Many forensic science programs offer internships or opportunities to work at local crime labs, which can be an excellent opportunity for students to get their foot in the door.
Working as an assistant firearms examiner is also a good option if you don’t have extensive laboratory experience. As an assistant, you will learn how to conduct examinations alongside more experienced examiners.
3. Become certified through the American Board of Criminalistics
The American Board of Criminalistics (ABO) is the primary certification body for firearm and tool mark examiners. To become certified, you must pass a written examination that covers topics such as firearms identification, crime scene processing, microscopy and trace evidence analysis.
Once you are certified through the ABO, you can renew your certification by completing continuing education courses or participating in peer review activities.
4. Gain experience working with firearms and ammunition
Entry-level positions in crime laboratories are often general forensic science roles that allow new professionals to gain experience working with a variety of evidence types. As you advance in your career, it’s important to continue gaining hands-on experience with the type of evidence you’ll be analyzing as a firearms examiner.
Working as an assistant firearm and tool mark examiner is one way to get this experience. An assistant examiner role involves assisting a senior firearms or tool mark examiner by photographing evidence, collecting samples and documenting findings.
5. Develop strong analytical skills
Firearms examiners must have strong analytical skills to identify and interpret evidence found on a crime scene. They need to be able to conduct thorough investigations, collect and document evidence and make sound conclusions based on their findings.
Candidates for this position should possess critical thinking skills and the ability to work independently as well as within a team environment. Firearms examiners must also be detail-oriented and able to follow strict protocols when collecting and analyzing evidence.
6. Stay up to date on changes in technology and new developments in the field
Technology is constantly changing, and new developments in fields like ballistics analysis can make the job of a firearms examiner easier. For example, advances in 3D scanning technology allow examiners to digitally recreate crime scenes more accurately than before.
It’s important for firearms examiners to stay up to date on these changes so they can continue providing high-quality work. They also need to be aware of any new laws or regulations that could affect their ability to do their jobs.
7. Join professional organizations such as the Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners (AFTE)
The American Board of Criminalistics (ABC) is the primary certifying body for firearms examiners. However, you can also join professional organizations such as the Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners (AFTE), which offers training and continuing education opportunities to help you advance in your career.
Joining these organizations allows you to stay up to date on developments in the field and network with other professionals who may be able to provide you with job leads or recommendations.
