Abstract
The interpretation of GSR/PA (gunshot primer residue particulate analysis) results in an alleged firearm violation of bow hunting regulations is complicated by the theoretical presence of contaminant GSR from prior legitimate shooting incidents. A total of 120 samples representing field collections from thirty Oregon and Washington bow hunters were analyzed for the presence of particulate gunshot residue in order to assess the level of contamination that may be present in this population. Of the bow hunters sampled, 50% stated that they shoot guns; 80% of the shooting group stated at the time of the GSR field collection that they were wearing the same outer clothing or driving the same vehicle, or both, when they last handled and fired a weapon. Analysis of the 120 samples resulted in the detection of one tricomponent particle of GSR.