5 Longest Sniper Shots In History

Snipers have long been a crucial part of military operations, providing precision and stealth in combat situations. Throughout history, snipers have made shots that have been deemed impossible by many, showcasing their skill and expertise. Here are five of the longest sniper shots in history:

In this article, we will delve into the world of sniping, exploring the longest shots made by military marksmen. We will examine the circumstances surrounding each shot, the equipment used, and the impact these shots had on the battlefield.

The Art of Sniping

Sniping is a highly specialized skill that requires patience, focus, and precision. Snipers must be able to remain calm under pressure, analyze situations quickly, and make split-second decisions. They must also possess a deep understanding of ballistics, wind resistance, and other environmental factors that can affect the trajectory of a bullet.

Snipers use a variety of techniques to make their shots, including stalking, hiding, and observing their targets. They must be able to blend into their surroundings, using camouflage and concealment to remain undetected. Once they have identified their target, they must carefully plan their shot, taking into account factors such as distance, wind, and gravity.

5. Gunnery Sergeant Carlos Hathcock - 2,500 Yards (1967)

Gunnery Sergeant Carlos Hathcock was a legendary sniper in the United States Marine Corps. During the Vietnam War, he made a record-breaking shot of 2,500 yards (2,286 meters) using a.50-caliber Browning M2 machine gun. Hathcock was known for his exceptional marksmanship skills, and this shot remains one of the longest confirmed sniper shots in history.

Hathcock's shot was made during a mission to assassinate a high-ranking North Vietnamese Army officer. He and his spotter, Captain John Burke, stalked their target for hours, using camouflage and concealment to remain undetected. When the target finally presented himself, Hathcock took aim and fired, hitting the officer in the chest.

Equipment Used

*.50-caliber Browning M2 machine gun

• M86 scope
• Bipod

4. Corporal Rob Furlong - 2,430 Yards (2002)

Corporal Rob Furlong was a sniper in the Canadian Army during the War in Afghanistan. In 2002, he made a shot of 2,430 yards (2,224 meters) using a.50-caliber McMillan TAC-50 rifle. Furlong's shot was made during a mission to support a team of soldiers who were pinned down by enemy fire.

Furlong and his spotter, Corporal Dave Miller, identified their target using a spotting scope. They then carefully planned their shot, taking into account the wind and other environmental factors. When the target finally presented himself, Furlong took aim and fired, hitting the target in the chest.

Equipment Used

*.50-caliber McMillan TAC-50 rifle

• 16x Leupold scope
• Bipod

3. Corporal Aaron Perry - 2,310 Yards (2009)

Corporal Aaron Perry was a sniper in the British Army during the War in Afghanistan. In 2009, he made a shot of 2,310 yards (2,113 meters) using a.338-caliber L115A3 rifle. Perry's shot was made during a mission to support a team of soldiers who were pinned down by enemy fire.

Perry and his spotter, Corporal Mark Oswell, identified their target using a spotting scope. They then carefully planned their shot, taking into account the wind and other environmental factors. When the target finally presented himself, Perry took aim and fired, hitting the target in the chest.

Equipment Used

*.338-caliber L115A3 rifle

• 16x Schmidt & Bender scope
• Bipod

2. Sergeant Craig Harrison - 2,475 Yards (2009)

Sergeant Craig Harrison was a sniper in the British Army during the War in Afghanistan. In 2009, he made two consecutive shots of 2,475 yards (2,264 meters) using a.338-caliber L115A3 rifle. Harrison's shots were made during a mission to support a team of soldiers who were pinned down by enemy fire.

Harrison and his spotter, Corporal Chris Reynolds, identified their target using a spotting scope. They then carefully planned their shot, taking into account the wind and other environmental factors. When the target finally presented himself, Harrison took aim and fired, hitting the target in the chest.

Equipment Used

*.338-caliber L115A3 rifle

• 16x Schmidt & Bender scope
• Bipod

1. Craig Harrison - 2,800 Yards (2014)

In 2014, Sergeant Craig Harrison made the longest confirmed sniper shot in history, firing a.338-caliber L115A3 rifle at a target 2,800 yards (2,560 meters) away. Harrison's shot was made during a mission to support a team of soldiers who were pinned down by enemy fire.

Harrison and his spotter, Corporal Chris Reynolds, identified their target using a spotting scope. They then carefully planned their shot, taking into account the wind and other environmental factors. When the target finally presented himself, Harrison took aim and fired, hitting the target in the chest.

Equipment Used

*.338-caliber L115A3 rifle

• 16x Schmidt & Bender scope
• Bipod

Gallery of Sniper Shots

Sniper Shots Image Gallery

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the longest confirmed sniper shot in history?

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The longest confirmed sniper shot in history was made by Sergeant Craig Harrison, who fired a.338-caliber L115A3 rifle at a target 2,800 yards (2,560 meters) away.

What is the most common rifle used by snipers?

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The most common rifle used by snipers is the.50-caliber Browning M2 machine gun, which is widely used by military forces around the world.

How do snipers make their shots?

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Snipers use a variety of techniques to make their shots, including stalking, hiding, and observing their targets. They must also carefully plan their shot, taking into account factors such as distance, wind, and gravity.

What is the role of a sniper in modern warfare?

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The role of a sniper in modern warfare is to provide precision and stealth in combat situations. Snipers are used to support infantry units, providing cover and suppressive fire to enemy positions.

In conclusion, the longest sniper shots in history are a testament to the skill and expertise of military marksmen. These shots demonstrate the importance of precision and stealth in combat situations, and highlight the crucial role that snipers play in modern warfare. Whether you're a military enthusiast or simply interested in learning more about the art of sniping, these shots are sure to leave you in awe.