Pattern of findings in injuries caused by "survival knives" |
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Authors: | S Pollak |
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Affiliation: | Institut für gerichtliche Medizin, Universit?t Wien. |
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Abstract: | Survival knives are designed as multi-purpose tools. Most models have a broad single-edged fixed blade, like a trail-knife or Bowie-knife. The back of the blade normally has saw teeth set either in single line or double crossed line. This adds a third function, sawing, to the two standard functions of the knife (stabbing and cutting). The saw edge leaves characteristic scrape marks on the skin; bony structures are grooved or completely severed. A case of homicide is taken to demonstrate that the pattern of injuries may indicate the use of a survival knife. |
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