After the shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk, one of America’s top snipers has broken down how the attack happened and revealed the mistake that gave away the shooter’s lack of real training.
Sergeant Nicholas Ranstad, known for holding a record-breaking kill in Afghanistan, studied footage of the shooting and explained the weapon, setup, and key details that showed careful planning.
However, he also pointed out a critical error that could help police track down who carried out the deadly attack.
Elite Sniper Analyzes Charlie Kirk Shooting Setup
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Sergeant Nicholas Ranstad, who once set a U.S. record with a 6,778-foot kill in Afghanistan, told the Daily Mail that Kirk’s shooting was carefully planned but not perfect.
He said the rally at Utah Valley University was like a “fish bowl” for any sniper, with open space and high ground from nearby rooftops.
“That’s a buffet for someone who wanted to kill someone,” he said, noting the lack of serious security and the easy angle for a shooter. Ranstad explained that the 200-yard distance was simple for even an average marksman.
Calm winds outside the city made the shot easier.
“Any bloke can go to the range three or four times and make that shot,” he added, suggesting police look at gun range visitors.
Still, the sniper said details of the attack showed the killer wasn’t a professional soldier, even though the shot was deadly.
Ranstad Says Kirk’s Killer Didn’t Use An AR-15
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Right after the attack, many thought the weapon used was an AR-15, which has been linked to several mass shootings.
However, Ranstad said that wasn’t true. After reviewing the sound and video of the moment Charlie Kirk was shot, he insisted it was a stronger rifle.
“It sounded like a high-powered rifle, possibly bolt action,” he explained, saying it may have been a .308 bolt action or 7.62 caliber weapon.
The sergeant revealed that AR-15s make a sharp cracking sound, but the shot that killed the activist had a deeper echo.
This detail showed the shooter picked a gun built for long-range accuracy instead of speed.
For Ranstad, that choice showed the attack was not random but planned out.
The assassin wanted precision and had likely thought about every step before firing the single fatal bullet.
Charlie Kirk Shooter Made Critical Neck Shot Mistake
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Even with all the planning, Ranstad spotted one big mistake that proved the shooter wasn’t fully trained.
Kirk was hit in the neck, but Ranstad believes the killer was aiming at his head.
“He was probably aiming for the head but didn’t take into consideration the wind, and the bullet pulled a bit,” he explained.
The trained sniper added that the shooter didn’t properly adjust for the bullet’s drop or the firing angle.
Video also suggested a bad trigger pull from a right-handed shooter, which Ranstad said was another sign of inexperience.
For a skilled sniper, hitting the wrong area by inches would be unlikely. To him, the neck shot showed nerves and adrenaline were involved.
He even suggested the killer was probably just an “internet shooter,” someone with practice at a range but without the discipline of a trained soldier.
Chaos As Kirk’s Rally Turns Into Tragedy
Republican National Convention via CNP / MEGA
Thousands of people watched in horror as Charlie Kirk collapsed. Graphic videos showed him jerk back as blood poured from his neck. Panic followed immediately, with crowds screaming and running for safety.
According to Ranstad, the wound gave the father of two little chance of survival.
“In my opinion he was dead on the spot,” he said. “I’ve seen arterial bleeds like that and you have seconds.”
Security rushed to act, but the open amphitheater gave little cover. The shooter fired just one bullet and vanished, setting off a huge manhunt.
FBI agents and local police stormed the area, briefly detaining two men before letting them go.
Ranstad said that the fact that the shooter fired just one shot showed how planned and deliberate the attack was.
“Normally, it’s crazy people who shoot 30 rounds. This was one shot, that was it. In my opinion, they had a plan,” he noted.
Tributes Pour In As Nation Mourns Charlie Kirk
Ron Sachs – CNP / MEGA
As police search for answers, America continues to grieve the sudden loss of Kirk at only 31 years old.
The Turning Point USA founder leaves behind his wife, Erika, their daughter, and their young son. The couple had just marked their fourth wedding anniversary.
President Donald Trump honored him on Truth Social, calling Kirk “The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk.”
Trump praised him as a leader who understood young Americans better than anyone else. He also ordered flags flown at half-staff until Sunday evening to mark Kirk’s passing.
Ranstad, who lowered his own flag, also said the death struck him deeply. “I pray for Charlie,” he shared.
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