Associated with this is another mark that occurs on all three of the positions, however not in any particular relationship to the group of lines, and perhaps not as definitive. And it was on the basis of the match of these patterns that I would conclude that this cartridge had been introduced into a chamber at least three times prior to its final firing. So that this would represent, you might say, a practice or dry-run loading the gun and unloading it for purpose of either determining its—how it functions, or whether it was in proper function, or just for practice.
Mr. Eisenberg. Just to review this testimony, Mr. Nicol, this is a mark which occurs on the base of the cartridge case, is that correct?
Mr. Nicol. That is correct.
Mr. Eisenberg. And are you able to say definitely whether it is an extractor or an ejection mark or a chambering mark?
Mr. Nicol. It appears to me to be an extractor mark, although I was not able to identify this as similar to any extractor mark or any other marks on either Q-7 or 544 or any of the tests, 557.
Mr. Eisenberg. Did extractor marks appear on those other cartridge cases?
Mr. Nicol. Yes, sir.
Mr. Eisenberg. And when you say you were not able to identify them, do you mean that they were not identical to or——
Mr. Nicol. They were absent.
Mr. Eisenberg. They were absent?