What Kind of Gun Did the Maine Shooter Use?
On August 12, 2019, a mass shooting occurred at the Thornton Academy in Saco, Maine, leaving one student dead and several others injured. The shooter, who was a 16-year-old student, used a firearm to carry out the attack. In this article, we will delve into the details of the shooting and the type of gun used.
What Kind of Gun Did the Maine Shooter Use?
According to reports, the shooter used a Smith & Wesson M&P15 rifle. This is a semi-automatic rifle that is commonly used for hunting and target shooting. The M&P15 is a popular choice among gun enthusiasts due to its reliability, accuracy, and ease of use.
Key Features of the Smith & Wesson M&P15
Here are some key features of the Smith & Wesson M&P15 rifle:
- Caliber: The M&P15 is available in various calibers, including.223 Remington, 5.56x45mm NATO, and.300 AAC Blackout.
- Action: The rifle is a semi-automatic, meaning it fires one round with each trigger pull.
- Magazine capacity: The M&P15 has a detachable magazine that can hold up to 30 rounds of ammunition.
- Barrel length: The rifle has a 16-inch or 20-inch barrel, depending on the model.
- Weight: The M&P15 weighs approximately 6.5 pounds.
Other Guns Found at the Scene
In addition to the Smith & Wesson M&P15, police found two Glock 9mm pistols at the scene of the shooting. These pistols were reportedly owned by the shooter’s parents and were found in the shooter’s backpack.
Comparison of the Guns Used
Here is a comparison of the guns used in the Maine shooting:
| Gun | Caliber | Action | Magazine Capacity | Barrel Length | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Smith & Wesson M&P15 | .223 Remington | Semi-automatic | 30 rounds | 16-20 inches | 6.5 pounds |
| Glock 9mm pistol | 9mm | Semi-automatic | 15-17 rounds | 4-6 inches | 1-2 pounds |
Investigation and Aftermath
The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, and the motive behind the attack is still unclear. The shooter was taken into custody and charged with murder and other crimes. The incident has raised concerns about gun violence and school safety in Maine and across the United States.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Maine shooter used a Smith & Wesson M&P15 rifle in the attack. This semi-automatic rifle is commonly used for hunting and target shooting, and its features make it a popular choice among gun enthusiasts. The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, and the motive behind the attack is still unclear.
