An overview describes concepts involved in processing evidence (the nature of identification, identity, and individualization; the meaning of associative evidence). Each major category of physical evidence traces is outlined, including automobiles, tools, machinist dyes, typefaces, weapons, paint chips, and broken glass. The text presents guidelines for writing reports and handling evidence and provides 'hands on' laboratory exercises. Specific exercises address latent, inked, and partial fingerprints; bloody footprints; characteristics of kidnap notes; acoustic patterns; fabric weave and stitching; tire impressions; and tool marks. Laboratory exercises include photomacrographic comparisons of wood cuts and of perforations and cartridge heads, and an evaluation of debris left at the scene of a crime. Laboratory experts' solutions for key cases are appended; there is a glossary, an index to text figures, and a general index. Chapter references and suggestions for further reading are supplied, along with a chart to be used when submitting evidence to the FBI laboratory. Numerous photographs and illustrations are provided throughout.