Gun That Killed Charlie Kirk Was a Century-Old, Potentially Untraceable Rifle

Gun That Killed Charlie Kirk Was a Century-Old, Potentially Untraceable Rifle

The rifle Tyler Robinson allegedly used to assassinate Charlie Kirk was so old it predates federal serial number requirements, making it untraceable. The weapon, a Mauser Model 98, was German-made and saw use in both World Wars. Robinson referred to it in texts as “grandpa’s rifle,” and the rifle had been in circulation long before laws mandated firearms be marked with unique, traceable numbers.

Authorities say millions of such vintage rifles exist in private homes across the U.S., raising concerns about their potential misuse. The bolt-action 30-06 caliber rifle, slightly smaller than 8 millimeters, must be reloaded between shots. Robinson allegedly discarded it wrapped in a towel in a wooded area near Utah Valley University shortly after using it to kill Kirk during an outdoor event. DNA recovered from the weapon matched Robinson, according to court filings.

Text messages suggest Robinson was aware the gun could not be traced to him. “IDK if it has a serial number but it wouldn’t trace to me,” he wrote to his roommate after the killing. Investigators also noted he expressed little remorse and made references to Kirk’s “hatred” as a motive.

Experts warn there is virtually no practical defense against attacks using untraceable firearms like this outside high-security environments. The case highlights ongoing concerns over vintage weapons in civilian hands, many of which were brought home by soldiers after the world wars and later circulated through gun stores, pawn shops, and gun shows.