Lee Harvey Oswald Rifle

Oswald's Carcano Rifle: Ownership and Controversy

The Weapon in the Kennedy Assassination

Carcano Fucile di Fanteria Mod. 91/38

The 6.5 mm Carcano rifle used by Lee Harvey Oswald in the assassination of President John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963, has been a subject of extensive examination and debate.

Ownership Dispute

After Oswald's death, his widow, Marina Oswald, claimed ownership of the rifle. However, in 1969, a jury ruled that Oswald had abandoned the weapon in 1963, denying her any claim to it.

Evidence of Oswald's Involvement

Despite some theories questioning Oswald's role, forensic evidence strongly suggests his involvement:

1. Oswald purchased the rifle used in the assassination under a fake name.

2. Oswald's palmprint was found on the rifle in a position consistent with handling it.

Unveiling of Sealed Files

In 2022, the National Archives released a final batch of sealed files related to the assassination. While experts did not anticipate definitive proof of a conspiracy, these documents potentially shed new light on the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.