Wideband Audio Recordings of Gunshots: Waveforms and Repeatability

For the purposes of audio forensics research we have obtained multi-channel acoustical recordings of gunshots under controlled conditions for several firearms. The recordings are made using an elevated platform and an elevated spatial array of microphones to provide quasi-anechoic directional recordings of the muzzle blast. The consistency and repeatability of gunshot sounds are relevant to many areas of forensic analysis. This paper includes a description of the recording process and a summary comparison of the acoustical waveforms obtained from ten successive shots from the same firearm by an experienced marksman. Practical examples and applications are presented.