Mike Levin: “two weeks ago, the Violence Policy Center released a report rebutting a number of assertions made by the Fifty Caliber…”

“two weeks ago, the Violence Policy Center released a report rebutting a number of assertions made by the Fifty Caliber Institute about the civilian sale of .50 caliber anti-armor sniper rifles. The .50 caliber sniper rifle is among the most powerful weapons legally available. According to the Violence Policy Center's report, a .50 caliber sniper rifle is capable of accurately hitting a target over 1,500 yards away, and the ammunition available for the .50 caliber includes armor-piercing, incendiary, and explosive bullets. The report also cites the U.S. Army's manual on urban combat, which states that .50 caliber sniper rifles are designed to attack bulk fuel tanks and other high-value targets from a distance, using 'their ability to break through all but the thickest shielding material.' One of the most disturbing parts of the report quotes a brochure from the leading manufacturer, Barrett Firearms, advertising the .50 caliber sniper rifle. The Model 82A1 is designed to provide extreme accuracy at extended ranges with standard military ammunition. . . . The accuracy of the Model 82A1 makes possible the placement of the shot in the most vulnerable area of the target. The compressor sections of jet engines or the transmissions of helicopters are likely targets for the weapon, making it capable of destroying multi-million dollar aircraft with a single hit delivered to a vital area.”