A Review of Newly Developed Firearms that can Fire Multiple Ammunition Types

Abstract

Firearms have been able to fire multiple calibers and gauges of ammunition for years by means of multiple barrels, switching barrels, switching revolver cylinders, and in some cases firing a limited number of similar ammunition types through a single barrel and cylinder combination. Recently, however, several firearms have been made that can fire a wide variety of relatively dissimilar cartridges without multiple barrels or modifications to the firearm. The most prominent examples of these firearms include the Taurus Judge, the Smith & Wesson 460XVR, and the Smith & Wesson Governor. An awareness of the ability of certain types of firearms to fire multiple ammunition types can benefit a forensic pathologist's ability to interpret gunshot wounds.