Oswald’s Marine Training
Oswald underwent standard Marine marksmanship training, including sighting, aiming, trigger manipulation, dry firing, and live fire on the rifle range at distances up to 500 yards. In December 1956, he scored 212, qualifying as a sharpshooter (two points above minimum). In May 1959, he scored 191, qualifying as a marksman (one point above minimum). Marine Corps records also documented his familiarity with the Browning Automatic Rifle, .45 caliber pistol, and 12-gage riot gun. Major Anderson characterized Oswald as a good shot—better than or equal to the average Marine—and good to excellent compared to an untrained civilian. Sergeant Zahm concluded that Oswald’s training would have enabled him to sight in and fire the scoped rifle competently.
Oswald’s Rifle Practice Outside the Marines
Oswald continued firearms practice after leaving the Marines. He hunted with his brother Robert using a .22 bolt-action rifle on multiple occasions, displayed average proficiency, and obtained a Soviet hunting license, joining a hunting club and hunting approximately six times. After purchasing the Mannlicher-Carcano, he told Marina he practiced with it, and she observed him taking the rifle from their home concealed in a raincoat. George De Mohrenschildt reported that Oswald said he went target shooting with the rifle. Marina also observed Oswald on their New Orleans porch at night, practicing with the telescopic sight and bolt. Cartridge case examination on the sixth floor indicated prior loading and ejection, suggesting Oswald practiced bolt operation.
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