Barrett M82 semi-automatic rifle - 'weapon of war'

The U.S.-made M82 semi-automatic rifle is increasingly favored by Mexican drug cartels. The Barrett .50 cal M82 can easily penetrate bulletproof vests, concrete walls and even tanks. M82s, often fitted with a scope to act as sniper's weapon, can fire 70 rounds per minute with a maximum range of 2,500 meters. First manufactured in the 1980s, the M82 rose to prominence during the first Gulf War when it was adopted by the U.S. military. It's now used by more than 70 security agencies across the world. It retails for around $10,199.99.

In 2019, a record 68 such weapons were captured.

For cartels, the M82 has become a status symbol. Gangs that want to project power post photos on social media of their members toting M82s and the latest military gadgets, mimicking the style of special forces units.

The raw power of the rifle was displayed in 2020 during a military-style assassination attempt on Mexico City's police chief's armoured car.

See ----->Narco Tanks, Narco weapons