Title: The Ruger Mini-14: The "Poor Man's Assault Rifle"

Publication Date: July 2011

What does it say?

Based on a review of the Norway shooter's writings and gun industry marketing materials, researchers expose the shooter's logic in choosing the Ruger Mini-14 assault rifle for his attack.  The shooter appears to have selected this particular assault rifle for its military provenance and low cost.  U.S. shooters have likewise employed Sturm Ruger guns to kill large numbers of people.

Consistent with insurrectionist rhetoric popular among some gun owners in the U.S., the shooter's writings reveal a belief that shooting people is a form of legitimate political expression and an awareness that firearms can be as efficient as explosives in killing mass numbers of people.

How can I use it?

Use the report to advocate for reinstating the U.S. assault weapons ban, including a ban on high capacity ammunition magazines.  Military-style assault pistols and rifles have no place in the civilian market.

Citation

Rand, Kristen, The Ruger Mini-14: The "Poor Man's Assault Rifle," Washington, DC: Violence Policy Center, July 2011