For decades, ballistic experts and forensic laboratories have relied on large water tanks and sand traps to recover bullets for evidence analysis. While these methods have proven useful, they come with notable limitations—excessive space requirements, complicated cleanup procedures, and risks to both evidence integrity and operator safety. Enter Trace, a cutting-edge bullet recovery chamber that promises a more efficient, precise, and user-friendly experience for law enforcement agencies and crime labs.

One of the main issues with traditional water tanks is their sheer bulk. These large, heavy tanks require significant floor space and often need special drainage systems, making them a logistical challenge to install and maintain. By contrast, Trace offers a compact design that can be easily maneuvered or relocated as needed. This reduced footprint not only frees up valuable lab space but also simplifies routine maintenance, saving agencies time and money.

Sand traps, another long-standing solution, come with their own set of problems—chief among them being the risk of bullet fragmentation. When a bullet enters a sand-filled container at high velocity, it can deform or shatter, damaging key ballistic markings crucial for forensic comparisons. Trace, on the other hand, employs a controlled water-based system with a specialized sealing mechanism that captures bullets intact, preserving essential striations and ballistic fingerprints. This results in higher-quality evidence, aiding investigators and forensic examiners in building stronger cases.

Safety is another critical factor that sets Trace apart. Traditional methods can pose splash hazards (in the case of water tanks) or create dust and debris when sand is disturbed. Trace integrates robust safety mechanisms, such as pneumatic lifts, shock absorbers, and an automated control system that alerts operators to any irregularities in real time. These features protect both users and the integrity of the sample, ensuring each test shot is conducted under optimal conditions.

Finally, Trace’s ergonomic setup and automation reduce user strain while speeding up bullet recovery—often completing the process in seconds. This swift turnaround is especially beneficial for agencies that handle multiple firearms daily or have a high volume of cases. By minimizing downtime and streamlining the workflow, departments can focus on what matters most: delivering accurate, court-admissible ballistic evidence and resolving cases faster.

In short, Trace stands as a modern, safer, and far more efficient alternative to cumbersome water tanks and sand traps. Its compact design, reliable bullet preservation, and integrated safety features make it an excellent investment for any police department or crime lab seeking to enhance the quality and speed of its forensic procedures.