Analysis: Shooter Assault Rifle and US Secret Service Sniper Rifles in Trump Assassination Attempt.

On July 13, 2024, former U.S. President Donald Trump narrowly escaped an assassination attempt during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. This incident, which has since become a major topic of analysis and discussion, involved a shooter who opened fire during the event. The Army Recognition Group has provided a detailed analysis of the weapons used by both the shooter and the U.S. Secret Service during the incident.
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The U.S. Secret Services used a Mk 13 Sniper Rifle equipped with fitted with a Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56 Scope and a RAPTAR range finder to kill the shooter during the Trump assassination attempt. (Picture source: X Account @EvstPalaiologos)

According to the latest reports, the shooter was armed with a high-powered semi-automatic rifle, specifically an AR-15 variant. This weapon, notorious for its use in various mass shootings due to its high rate of fire and considerable stopping power, was the primary tool of the assailant. The analysis suggests that the shooter had modified the rifle with a bump stock, enhancing its firing capability, which underscores the persistent challenge of controlling such modifications despite regulatory efforts.

The AR-15 is a lightweight, air-cooled, gas-operated, magazine-fed, semi-automatic rifle that has become one of the most popular firearms in the United States. Originally designed by Eugene Stoner in the late 1950s for Armalite, the AR-15 was later sold to Colt, who marketed it to military and civilian markets.

The AR-15 is chambered in .223 Remington or 5.56 NATO, which are relatively small, high-velocity rounds. This rifle features a modular design, allowing users to easily customize and configure it with different stocks, grips, sights, and other accessories. Its versatility and ease of use have made it a favorite among sport shooters, hunters, and law enforcement agencies.

One of the main characteristics of the AR-15 is its direct impingement gas system, where gas from the fired cartridge is funneled back into the action to cycle the weapon. This system contributes to the rifle's light weight and simplicity, although it can also result in the buildup of carbon and fouling within the action, necessitating regular maintenance.

In terms of performance, the AR-15 typically has an effective range of around 500 to 600 m for accurate shooting, depending on the specific configuration and ammunition used. It is known for its accuracy, manageable recoil, and adaptability, which have collectively contributed to its widespread adoption and popularity.

Despite its civilian roots, the AR-15's design has been the foundation for many military rifles, including the M16 and M4 carbines, which have seen extensive use by the U.S. military and other armed forces around the world. The AR-15's adaptability, combined with its high rate of fire in its military variants, has also made it a point of controversy in discussions about gun control, particularly in the context of its use in several high-profile mass shootings.

The AR-15 is a lightweight, semi-automatic rifle that is highly customizable and popular for civilian use in the United States. (Picture source Wikimedia)

The U.S. Secret Service, trained for rapid and decisive action in such scenarios, responded promptly. They deployed a sniper team strategically positioned to neutralize threats. In this instance, the sniper used an Mk13 sniper rifle fitted with a Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56 Scope and a RAPTAR range finder.

The Mk13 sniper rifle is a precision long-range weapon used primarily by U.S. military forces, including the Navy SEALs and other special operations units. It is based on the Remington 700 bolt-action rifle, a design renowned for its reliability and accuracy, and has been specifically modified to meet the rigorous demands of military operations.

The Mk13 typically fires the .300 Winchester Magnum (Win Mag) cartridge, which offers superior range and stopping power compared to the standard 7.62mm NATO round. This makes the Mk13 particularly suitable for engagements at extended ranges. The rifle features a heavy, free-floating barrel, which enhances accuracy by minimizing barrel flex during firing. This design choice, along with precision machining, ensures consistent shot placement.

One of the main features of the Mk13 is its advanced optics, which can include night vision and thermal sights, allowing for accurate targeting in various lighting conditions. The rifle is also equipped with a bipod for stability and a suppressor to reduce noise and muzzle flash, making it more effective in covert operations.

The effective range of the Mk13 sniper rifle is typically around 1,100 m (approximately 1,200 yards ), though skilled marksmen can achieve accurate shots at even greater distances. The rifle's design and features make it a formidable tool in the hands of trained military snipers, capable of delivering precise and powerful shots over long distances.

This assassination attempt is not isolated in the context of threats faced by Donald Trump. Historical data shows that Trump has been the target of multiple assassination attempts, both during and after his presidency. These incidents include various unconventional weapons and methods, from a forklift attack in North Dakota to ricin-laced letters mailed to the White House during his term.

The rapid spread of conspiracy theories and false claims about these events, especially through social media platforms and partisan news outlets, has complicated public perception and response. Notably, claims of government-led assassination plots have been leveraged to sow distrust and fuel political divisions, demonstrating the potent combination of misinformation and political violence.

The incident underscores the ongoing and evolving challenges faced by security agencies in protecting high-profile political figures amid a backdrop of increasing political polarization and extremism.