[1] Prior to 1969, police and civilian firearm and tool mark examiners regularly met during annual meetings of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) to discuss concerns specific to their field.

The primary purpose of the annual seminars is to provide for the interchange of information as it relates to all aspects of the science of firearm and tool mark identification.

The current membership of AFTE includes approximately 850 members, technical advisors and subscribers that represent over 40 countries from around the world.

Honorary Membership may be conferred upon individuals in recognition of distinguished service to the Association or to the field of firearm and/or tool mark examination.

Technical Advisor status is conferred to designated employees of manufacturers of products used or encountered in the investigation of firearm or tool mark evidence or specialists in closely related fields, whose area of expertise would be beneficial to the Association.

Included are Advisory, Board of Admissions, Bylaws, Certification, Editorial, Ethics, Historical, Research and Development, Scholarship, Standardization/Training, Technical Advisors as well as Website Committees.