Forensic analysis of improvised explosive and incendiary devices poses unique challenges. Such devices can incorporate a vast array of components, assembled in configurations limited by only the laws of physics and the creativity of their builder. The job of the device examiner is to determine what components were present in the device and how they all functioned in concert to allow it to function. Device examination spans various technical fields. The process used to interpret the chaos left in the wake of such contrivances is explained with real-world examples used to emphasize critical teaching points.