Media Contact: Georgia Seltzer, (202) 822-8200 x104, gseltzer@vpc.org
Campaign Research Notes – March 28, 2025
In this industry update, we look at a new VPC study released earlier this month detailing the devastating impact of U.S. 50 caliber sniper rifles illegally trafficked to Mexico.
Long Range Terror: How U.S. 50 Caliber Sniper Rifles Wreak Havoc in Mexico documents the prevalence of U.S.-sourced 50 caliber sniper rifles illegally trafficked to Mexico and how these weapons are used by cartels to terrorize civilians and attack and undermine government authorities. The study and press release are available in both English and Spanish (see bottom of update).
Fifty caliber sniper rifles are used by militaries around the world and can penetrate armor plating and shoot down aircraft on take-off and landing, but can be purchased under federal law in the U.S. as easily as a single-shot hunting rifle.
The study details the history of the Barrett, manufactured in Murfreesboro, Tennessee and the original 50 caliber sniper rifle, the gun’s unmatched combination of firepower and range, and the use of it and other 50 caliber rifles in numerous attacks and assassinations by Mexican cartels.
Data contained in the study reveal that from 2010 to February 2023, the majority of 50 caliber sniper rifles (519 of 831) recovered by Mexican authorities were Barretts. Barrett and other 50 caliber sniper rifles have also been obtained by terrorists around the world, including Al Qaeda. In addition, the study:
- Cites numerous reports and research warning of the terror threat posed by the easy accessibility of 50 caliber sniper rifles, including: compromising command and control via assassination; the threat to aircraft (including civilian airliners); and, infrastructure.
- Offers numerous examples of terrorist and other criminal acts, including assassination, involving 50 caliber sniper rifles in Mexico, the U.S., and around the world.
- Details how the use of armor-piercing rifle rounds can further magnify the power – and the threat – of these deadly weapons.
- Includes profiles of companies manufacturing 50 caliber sniper rifles.
The study also puts forth policy recommendations including a federal ban in the United States of these uniquely destructive firearms.
Click here to see the study in English.
Click here to see the study in Spanish.
Click here to see the press release in English.
Click here to see the press release in Spanish.
Click here to see additional VPC research on the threats posed by 50 caliber sniper rifles.
The Campaign for Gun Industry Accountability is an ongoing project of the Violence Policy Center.