Problems of ballistic examination of 3D printed weapons

The article examines some practical aspects of conducting ballistic examination in the study of firearms made by 3D printing. At present, the Russian Federation has not yet shown a tendency towards an increase in the detection of crimes in the field of illicit trafficking in weapons and ammunition manufactured using such technology. However, this negative phenomenon occurs in other countries, including developed countries of the West. Despite the low level of such crimes in Russia, law enforcement agencies must be prepared for this. In addition to legal and organizational measures on the part of the state aimed at countering the growth of illegal trafficking in weapons made using three-dimensional printing, it is necessary to develop elements of forensic support, which should include, among other things, the development of recommendations for expert research. At the same time, in conditions of insufficient empirical material in domestic law enforcement practice, it is advisable to study foreign experience. This kind of path was chosen by the authors of the article to obtain positive results that can be used as the basis for the development of methods for conducting ballistic expert studies, taking into account the specifics of the properties possessed by firearms manufactured by 3D (additive) printing.