The Forensic Scientist who undertakes explosives residue analysis in the 1980's must not only be a skilled analyst, but also a skilled student, educator and consultant. The subject is multi-disciplinary, the scope is international, and the keywords are ‘‘experimentation'’ and ‘‘communication''. This paper expands on each area, drawing illustrations from recent Canadian experience which includes visits to major Forensic Laboratories on three continents. Specific emphasis is given to reviewing current literature on explosives analysis and considering the criteria which must be met by a new method in order for the Forensic Scientist to add it to his routine scheme for systematic analysis of explosives residues.