The Mystery of the Suppressed Semi-Automatic Gun: How the Shooter Overcame Malfunctions
Recently, the shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson has caused widespread speculation, particularly regarding the alleged shooter's use of a semi-automatic handgun. The lethal accuracy and the apparent non-jamming nature of the gun have raised questions among experts in the field of firearms. In this article, we will explore the technicalities behind the alleged shooter's method, explaining why a semi-automatic gun might have been used and how it was managed to clear potential malfunctions without compromising its effectiveness.
Understanding the Basics of a Semi-Automatic Handgun
A semi-automatic handgun functions by cycling a portion of the energy from the fired cartridge to extract and eject the spent case while chambering a new round. This mechanism is powered by the force generated by the expanding gases from the burning propellant in the cartridge. By examining the sequence of events in the shooting of Brian Thompson, we can analyze the conditions under which the semi-automatic gun was used and the modifications, if any, that may have been made.
Distinguishing Between Handgun Types
Three main types of handguns have been discussed in relation to the alleged shooter: bolt-action, revolver, and semi-automatic. Each type operates differently, and understanding these differences can help us determine which type was most likely used in the shooting.
Bolt-Action
A bolt-action handgun requires the shooter to manually move the bolt back to eject a spent cartridge and then forward to chamber a new round. Video 1 demonstrates this process, showing that the alleged shooter did not use such a method. The fact that the alleged assassin ejected spent cartridges from the side of the gun (videotaped as in Video 2) points to a different mechanism, likely a semi-automatic.
Revolver
A revolver chambers and fires a round from one of a series of chambers in its cylinder. It does not have the same cycling mechanism as a semi-automatic handgun. In the case of a revolver like the Colt Grizzly, spent cartridges remain within the cylinder, which typically holds between five and nine rounds. Video 3 clearly shows the exhaust gas and smoke from a semi-automatic handgun, further ruling out the revolver as the weapon in question.
Semi-Automatic
A semi-automatic handgun is by far the most likely weapon used by the alleged shooter. Semi-automatics cycle automatically after each shot, ejecting the spent cartridge and chambering a fresh round. While they are more prone to jams, the alleged shooter managed to clear any potential malfunctions without causing noticeable failures. This complexity highlights the agility and preparedness of the alleged assassin.
Addressing the Malfunctions
One common issue with semi-automatic handguns is the jamming of the slide, which can occur when the spent cartridge does not fully exit the chamber. This can lead to the failure to properly chamber a new round. However, the alleged shooter in the UnitedHealthcare CEO shooting appeared to have overcome this problem. Several factors suggest that the gun used in the shooting was either modified or handled in a way that minimized jams.
Gun Modifications and Functionality
The alleged shooter likely used a semi-automatic handgun that was not only designed for use with subsonic cartridges but also possibly modified to ensure proper ejection of spent cartridges. Figure 5 provides a visual guide to the parts of a semi-automatic handgun, highlighting the trigger, hammer, slide, and magazine. For video demonstrations, refer to Videos 1 and 2 for a detailed explanation of the operation and the shooting sequence.
Subsonic Cartridges and Jams
Subsonic cartridges, which exit the muzzle below the speed of sound, might have insufficient energy to cycle the mechanical parts of a semi-automatic gun, leading to jams. However, the alleged shooter managed to clear any such jams without removing the magazine. A stovepipe jam, as shown in Figure 6, occurs when the spent cartridge is not ejected, and clearing it requires manual intervention. Video 2 demonstrates that the alleged shooter did not follow this procedure when the gun malfunctioned, suggesting a method of clearing the jam without removing the magazine.
Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) Bullets
The use of full metal jacket (FMJ) bullets, which are characterized by a solid metal core, was also speculated in the shooting of Brian Thompson. According to the quote from [source], FMJ bullets can provide increased penetration and better reliability, especially in smaller calibers. If the energy level of the bullet was low due to subsonic speeds, FMJ bullets could offer deeper penetration, potentially increasing effectiveness. This further supports the theory that the alleged shooter had a well-prepared and organized approach to achieving his objective.
Conclusion
The shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson presents a case where the alleged shooter managed to overcome the potential malfunctions of a semi-automatic handgun in a highly prepared and possibly modified manner. The technical details and the apparent organization of the alleged assassin suggest a high level of expertise in firearms usage and handling. Understanding the mechanics and potential modifications behind the alleged weapon sheds light on the sophistication of the incident and the capabilities of the alleged shooter.