Although these models have been developed over a long period of time, there has been no systematic or comprehensive review of all seven models; indeed, two very significant models have escaped the attention of contemporary investigators altogether. The present work compares and contrasts these various models. Each of the models that has been proposed is described and discussed critically in relationship to the fingerprint comparison process. None of the models previously advanced is found to incorporate the essential features of fingerprint comparison. These essential features are summarized in the context of a quantitative fingerprint individuality model. (Author abstract)