The Art of Sniping: Unveiling the 5 Longest Shots Ever Made
Sniping is an art that requires immense skill, patience, and precision. Snipers are trained to engage targets at varying distances, but some shots are more remarkable than others. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of sniping and explore the 5 longest shots ever made by a sniper.
Understanding the Factors That Influence a Sniper's Shot
Before we dive into the list, it’s essential to understand the factors that affect a sniper’s shot. These include:
- Distance: The farther the target, the more time the bullet has to drop due to gravity, making it harder to hit.
- Wind: Wind can significantly impact the bullet’s trajectory, and snipers must account for it when taking their shot.
- Altitude: Changes in altitude can affect air density, which in turn affects the bullet’s flight.
- Temperature: Extreme temperatures can impact the rifle’s accuracy and the bullet’s performance.
The 5 Longest Shots Ever Made by a Sniper
Here are the 5 longest shots ever made by a sniper, in no particular order:
1. Craig Harrison - 2,475 meters (8,120 ft)
Craig Harrison, a British Army sniper, holds the record for the longest confirmed sniper shot in combat. On November 2, 2009, Harrison hit two Taliban insurgents in Helmand Province, Afghanistan, from a staggering distance of 2,475 meters (8,120 ft). He used a L115A3 sniper rifle, which is a variant of the Accuracy International AW.
🔍 Note: Harrison's record-breaking shot was confirmed by a third-party witness, making it an officially recognized record.
2. Rob Furlong - 2,430 meters (7,972 ft)
Rob Furlong, a Canadian sniper, made a remarkable shot in 2002 during the War in Afghanistan. He hit an al-Qaeda insurgent from a distance of 2,430 meters (7,972 ft) using a McMillan TAC-50 sniper rifle. Furlong’s shot was notable not only for its distance but also for its accuracy, as he hit the target in the chest.
3. Unknown Sniper - 2,300 meters (7,546 ft)
In 2017, an unknown sniper from the Canadian Joint Task Force 2 made a shot that was reported to be around 2,300 meters (7,546 ft). The shot was taken in Iraq during the Mosul campaign, and while the sniper’s identity remains classified, the shot’s distance and accuracy have been confirmed.
4. Arron Perry - 2,250 meters (7,382 ft)
Arron Perry, a British sniper, made a remarkable shot in 2007 during the Iraq War. He hit an insurgent from a distance of 2,250 meters (7,382 ft) using a L115A3 sniper rifle. Perry’s shot was notable for its accuracy and the challenging environmental conditions, which included high winds and extreme temperatures.
5. Nicholas Irving - 2,100 meters (6,890 ft)
Nicholas Irving, a former US Army sniper, made a shot in 2010 during the War in Afghanistan. He hit an insurgent from a distance of 2,100 meters (6,890 ft) using a MK 13 sniper rifle. Irving’s shot was notable for its accuracy and the challenging terrain, which included a high-angle shot.
Conclusion
The art of sniping requires immense skill and patience, and these five shots demonstrate the extremes of what is possible. While the distances may vary, the one constant is the snipers’ dedication to their craft and their ability to perform under pressure. Whether in combat or in competition, these shots will forever be remembered as some of the most remarkable in the history of sniping.
What is the longest confirmed sniper shot in combat?
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The longest confirmed sniper shot in combat was made by Craig Harrison, a British Army sniper, at a distance of 2,475 meters (8,120 ft) in 2009.
What rifle was used to make the longest sniper shot?
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Craig Harrison used a L115A3 sniper rifle, which is a variant of the Accuracy International AW, to make the longest confirmed sniper shot in combat.
What factors can affect a sniper’s shot?
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Distance, wind, altitude, and temperature are all factors that can affect a sniper’s shot.
