But Phillip Thomas says he was able to identify Daniel Paul Bell, 40, as the man who first tried to shoot him in the stomach before blasting him in the buttock at Muswellbrook on April 21, 2017, because of the masked figure's "demeanour" and "body language".

Mr Bell is facing a trial in Newcastle District Court and has pleaded not guilty to shoot at with intent to murder, discharge firearm with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and assault with intent to rob.

Mr Thomas gave evidence for a second day on Thursday, telling the jury he had gone to a house in Anzac Parade, Muswellbrook, on April 21, 2017, to buy two "balls" - about seven grams - of methylamphetamine.

He had a "shot" of ice while waiting for the drugs and left the house after completing the transaction.

But about 20 minutes later he was called back to the Muswellbrook house by someone who told him he had taken the wrong bags.

After returning to the house he got out of the car and was confronted by the gunman.

Mr Thomas said the gunman tried to shoot him "point blank" but the gun misfired. The gunman then reloaded and shot him in the buttock as he tried to flee.

As he was lying on the patio bleeding, Mr Thomas said people came out of the house and grabbed the drugs and cash out of his pockets.

Under cross-examination from defence barrister Michael Coroneos, Mr Thomas acknowledged it was dark, the lighting was poor and the man who shot him was wearing a balaclava over his face.

But he said he was able to identify the shooter as "Danny Bell" due to his "demeanour" and "body language".

"Can I just ask you a question; have you been shot before?" Mr Thomas asked Mr Coroneos. "I'll shoot you and see if you remember me. I'm pretty sure you would."

The trial, before Judge Peter Whitford, SC, continues on Friday.

While you're with us, did you know the Newcastle Herald offers breaking news alerts, daily email newsletters and more? Keep up to date with all the local news - sign up here.

IN THE NEWS