The research resulted from recognition of that examinations of firearm victims need to determine whether shots could have been self-inflicted, either intentionally or accidentally. The study used the PVAL method due to its advantage of embedding all particles, foreign bodies, and stains on the surface of the shooter’s hand in exact and reproducible topographic residue. The study had exclusively scientific objectives and did not contribute to evidence analysis. The researchers prepared the PVAL hand casts after the autopsies of 10 individuals whose cases allowed a clear classification as suicide, homicide, or accident. Five cases involved intentionally self-inflicted wounds, three cases involved accidentally self-inflicted wounds, and two homicide cases served as negative controls. Results of the analysis verified that the PVAL technique does not include factors that inhibit successful PCR typing. Thus, the PVAL method can be recommended as a combination technique to secure and preserve inorganic and biological traces at the same time. Tables, photographs, and 20 references (Author abstract modified)