Exhibitions

weapons

The Border Patrol Museum features two different exhibits dedicated to the weapons. One exhibit features all duty carry weapons issued to Border Patrol Agents or Inspectors throughout its history. Initially, Patrol Inspectors were required to provide their own weapons, some of which are displayed in the Duty Carry exhibit. In this exhibit all known weapons issued to Border Patrol Officers are on display, with the exception of the Beretta 92D Model, the first semi-automatic hand gun issued to Agents, and the current model, which is a Hechler and Koch P200, .40 caliber.  Also on display in this exhibit are most of the long guns issued to Border Patrol Inspectors or Agents throughout its 91-year history.  A Colt AR-15, and a Thompson sub-machine gun are two examples of the long guns displayed.

The second exhibit in the Weapons Collections exhibit is the seized weapons exhibit. Included in this exhibit are various bladed weapons, saps, ice picks, and other hand weapons that were seized by Border Patrol Agents. The second part of the exhibit, showcases handguns and long guns seized from criminals. They include an AK-47, a Tec-9, an Uzi, modified shotguns, rifles and a homemade shotgun capable of firing a 12guage round.  Above the exhibit, a sign reads, “awareness is survival” and serves as a reminder that the border can be a dangerous place. These guns are a definite testament to the dangers that the Border Patrol faces each and every day. At the same time, the Seized Weapons section is also a clear proof of the effectiveness and the dedication of the people who are doing this difficult and dangerous job.

The Border Patrol Museum, the only one in the United States, receives no federal funds and relies on donations to keep our doors open. If you are able, please consider donating to help sustain your museum.