Report of the President's Commission on the Assassination of President John F. Kennedy

Ownership and Possession of Assassination Weapon

This opening section frames the chapter’s core examination of the Mannlicher-Carcano rifle used in the presidential assassination, laying the foundation for all subsequent evidence related to the weapon’s connection to Lee Harvey Oswald.

Purchase of Rifle by Oswald

Details the complete documented record of Oswald’s purchase of the 6.5mm Mannlicher-Carcano assassination rifle, including records of the mail-order purchase made under an alias, delivery to a post office box in his name, and payment tied to his personal funds.

Oswald’s Palmprint on Rifle Barrel

Presents key forensic evidence: a unique palmprint belonging to Lee Harvey Oswald was recovered from the underside of the assassination rifle’s barrel, confirming his physical handling of the weapon.

Fibers on Rifle

Documents forensic analysis of fibers found embedded in the stock and other parts of the assassination rifle that match the fabric of Oswald’s clothing, providing a tangible physical link between Oswald and the weapon.

Photograph of Oswald With Rifle

Introduces authenticated photographic evidence showing Oswald posing in his backyard with the Mannlicher-Carcano rifle, along with other items consistent with the assassination, corroborating his possession of the weapon prior to the shooting.

Rifle Among Oswald’s Possessions

Details the recovery of the assassination rifle from the garage of Ruth and Michael Paine, where Oswald stored his personal belongings, confirming the weapon was in his possession in the weeks leading up to the assassination.