Intro
Witness the incredible marksmanship of elite snipers who made the longest shots in history. From military conflicts to record-breaking attempts, explore the 7 longest shots ever made by snipers, featuring high-caliber rifles, precision optics, and exceptional skill. Discover the accuracy, distance, and conditions behind these awe-inspiring shots.
The art of sniping is a delicate one, requiring precision, patience, and a steady hand. Over the years, snipers have made some truly remarkable shots, pushing the limits of human capability and the laws of physics. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the longest shots ever made by snipers, showcasing their incredible skill and expertise.
The Challenges of Long-Range Shooting
Before we dive into the longest shots ever made by snipers, it's essential to understand the challenges involved in long-range shooting. Snipers must contend with factors such as wind resistance, bullet drop, and atmospheric conditions, which can affect the trajectory of the bullet. Additionally, the slightest movement or miscalculation can result in a missed shot. To put this into perspective, consider that a bullet can drop by as much as 10 inches over a distance of just 1,000 yards.
7. Craig Harrison's 2,475-Yard Shot
In 2009, British sniper Craig Harrison made headlines with his incredible 2,475-yard shot in Afghanistan. Harrison, a member of the Household Cavalry, used a L115A3 sniper rifle to take out a Taliban machine gunner. The shot was later confirmed by Guinness World Records as the longest recorded sniper shot.
6. Nick Irving's 2,500-Yard Shot
In 2014, American sniper Nick Irving set a new record for the longest shot in Iraq. Using a.50-caliber Barrett M107 rifle, Irving took out a target at an astonishing 2,500 yards. Irving, a former Army sniper, made the shot in the midst of a firefight, demonstrating his exceptional skill and composure under pressure.
5. Carlos Hathcock's 2,500-Yard Shot
Carlos Hathcock, a legendary American sniper, made an incredible 2,500-yard shot in Vietnam in 1967. Using a M2 Browning machine gun mounted on a tripod, Hathcock took out a target at an unprecedented distance. Hathcock's shot was considered one of the most impressive in military history, and he went on to become one of the most celebrated snipers of all time.
4. Vasily Zaitsev's 2,500-Yard Shot
Vasily Zaitsev, a Soviet sniper, made a remarkable 2,500-yard shot during the Battle of Stalingrad in 1942. Using a Mosin-Nagant rifle, Zaitsev took out a German sniper, becoming a hero of the Soviet Union. Zaitsev's shot was all the more impressive given the primitive technology and optics available at the time.
3. Simo Häyhä's 1,500-Yard Shot
Finnish sniper Simo Häyhä, also known as "The White Death," made an incredible 1,500-yard shot during the Winter War in 1939. Using a Soviet Mosin-Nagant rifle, Häyhä took out a Soviet soldier, showcasing his exceptional marksmanship and adaptability in the harsh Arctic environment.
2. Thomas Plunket's 1,000-Yard Shot
In 1809, British sniper Thomas Plunket made a remarkable 1,000-yard shot during the Peninsular War. Using a Baker rifle, Plunket took out a French general, showcasing the effectiveness of British snipers in combat.
1. Gary Gordon's 900-Yard Shot
In 1993, American sniper Gary Gordon made a remarkable 900-yard shot during the Battle of Mogadishu in Somalia. Using a.50-caliber Barrett M107 rifle, Gordon took out a target, showcasing his exceptional skill and bravery in the face of overwhelming odds.
Sniper Image Gallery
What is the longest recorded sniper shot?
+The longest recorded sniper shot is held by Craig Harrison, who made a 2,475-yard shot in Afghanistan in 2009.
What is the most common sniper rifle used in combat?
+The most common sniper rifle used in combat is the M24, which is used by the US military.
How do snipers compensate for wind resistance and bullet drop?
+Snipers use various techniques to compensate for wind resistance and bullet drop, including using wind-deflecting scopes, calculating bullet trajectories, and adjusting their aim accordingly.
In conclusion, the longest shots ever made by snipers showcase their exceptional skill, patience, and adaptability in combat situations. These shots demonstrate the importance of precision, strategy, and quick thinking in the heat of battle. As we continue to develop new technologies and techniques, it will be interesting to see how snipers adapt and push the limits of what is possible.