The comparison of paper safety matches involves using various aspects of the same type of expertise acquired in other identification disciplines. In the comparison of handwriting, typewriting, latent fingerprints, and tool marks, the goal is to observe and note differences and similarities between the known and unknown in order to determine the origin of the unknown. Paper match comparison similarly attempts to associate a removed match with a source of origin by using a systematic examination approach. The initial step of any paper match comparison is to note such conditions as depth of waxing and head size. If the unknown match cannot be eliminated, the next step is to compare the torn edge of the match to the matchbook. A class characteristic examination can be conducted with infrared and ultraviolet techniques, and a microscopic examination may be necessary in some cases. The examination of luminescent inclusions can be accomplished using the argon-ion laser. While an excellent method, laser examination may not always be available or may not be appropriate for those using simple bench-top methods. As an alternative, a #22 Wrattan filter can be mounted on a microscope and a forensic light source with fiber optics. The use of semidestructive testing to make inclusions more visible and potentially increase the number of identifying characteristic is examined. Experiments based on variations in submersion and silicone rubber casting are also noted. 5 references