26-year-old Luigi Mangione, accused of killing a UnitedHealth executive in New York, was captured in Pennsylvania with a “ghost gun” in his backpack, raising concerns about the rise of these untraceable firearms.
Ghost guns, assembled from parts bought online or 3D-printed, lack serial numbers and bypass traditional firearm regulations. Owners can avoid background checks, making them difficult to trace.
Here’s a quick look at the debate surrounding ghost guns:
What are they? Ghost guns are self-assembled firearms with no serial numbers, often sold as kits that include drill bits and jigs for easy assembly.
Legal loopholes: Frames, or “receivers,” can legally be sold 80% complete, requiring minimal effort to make operational.
Biden administration’s push: In 2022, President Joe Biden introduced rules to curb ghost guns, arguing they are designed for crime. Legal challenges have delayed enforcement, but the Supreme Court recently hinted at support for regulation.
Also read: ‘Luigi Mangione planned perfect crime, but … ‘: What CEO killer got right — and fatally wrong
Second amendment argument: Advocates argue these guns are a hobbyist’s tool and a constitutional right, sparking a fierce debate over personal freedoms versus public safety.
3D printing concerns: These weapons can also be made using 3D printers, often with removable metal inserts that bypass federal screening laws.