What is the typical range considered short for ballistics investigation?

In ballistics investigation, the term "short range" typically refers to distances where the trajectory of a bullet can be significantly affected by environmental factors and where distinct ballistic characteristics can be examined directly. A range of 6 to 8 inches is considered short because it aligns with the practical limitations of how close a shot can be accurately assessed while still obtaining pertinent information such as bullet impacts, potential soot, or blast patterns.

At this distance, the effects of velocity and energy transfer are pronounced, which can help forensic analysts draw conclusions about the circumstances of the shooting. These analyses can be crucial for determining details surrounding an incident, including the position of the shooter and the dynamics of the bullet’s impact on the target. Distances outside this range may fall under different classifications, such as intermediate or long range, where different ballistic principles apply and the evidence gathered could lead to varied forensic interpretations.