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The
Role of the Sniper
A
sniper is part of the infantry division in a military operation or may be a
police officer. This weapons expert
specializes in shooting from a concealed position over long ranges.
The sniper’s guns are specially designed and adapted for his
surroundings. In order to succeed in
his mission, the sniper must have skill in marksmanship, camouflaging his
appearance and field craft. In war,
the sniper’s mission is to provide detailed reconnaissance from a hidden
position and if possible, reduce the enemy’s resources by shooting at high
value targets.
Though
the military categorizes specialty shooters by the term “snipers”, police
prefer the definition of sharpshooters or marksmen.
This may be because military snipers operate in a very different
environment than police sharpshooters and actually undergo different training
altogether. Police sharpshooters may
be required in a transient hostage scenario.
However, a military sniper must prove himself self sufficient,
comfortable in isolation and very patient in observation.
According to military statistics, the longest range recorded for a fatal
sniper shot was fired 2,430 metres by Corporal Rob Furlong who served in
Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry.
In
training, snipers will shoot thousands of rounds over a short period of time
learning skills of deep concentration, and shooting precisely in a variety of
conditions. Snipers are instructed
to squeeze the trigger straight back with the ball section of their finger, so
they will not inadvertently turn the gun sideways.
The breathing pattern of a sniper is also important, though there are
different approaches to this science. Some
suggest that a sniper should breathe deeply before firing and then hold their
breath while they shoot. Others
teach that snipers should shoot between heartbeats so they can minimize the
motion of the barrel.
In any event,
the sniper plays a vital role in combat strategy, whether in military practice,
law enforcement or even war simulation. |