The Art of Sniper Marksmanship: 5 Longest Shots Ever Made
Sniper marksmanship is an art that requires precision, patience, and skill. Snipers are trained to make shots from a distance, often in high-pressure situations. Over the years, there have been several recorded instances of snipers making incredibly long shots, pushing the boundaries of what is thought possible. Here are 5 of the longest shots ever made with a sniper rifle:
1. Craig Harrison - 2,475 meters (8,120 ft)
In 2009, British sniper Craig Harrison made the longest confirmed sniper shot in history, hitting a target 2,475 meters (8,120 ft) away in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. Harrison, a Corporal of Horse in the Blues and Royals, used a.338 Lapua Magnum rifle to make the shot. This feat earned him a place in the Guinness World Records.
2. Rob Furlong - 2,430 meters (7,972 ft)
Canadian sniper Rob Furlong made the second-longest confirmed sniper shot in 2002, during the War in Afghanistan. Furlong, a master corporal in the Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, hit a target 2,430 meters (7,972 ft) away using a.50-caliber McMillan TAC-50 rifle.
3. Arron Perry - 2,310 meters (7,579 ft)
In 2014, British sniper Arron Perry made a record-breaking shot in Afghanistan, hitting a target 2,310 meters (7,579 ft) away. Perry, a lance corporal in the 4th Battalion, The Rifles, used a.338 Lapua Magnum rifle to make the shot.
4. Jim Gilliland - 2,250 meters (7,382 ft)
American sniper Jim Gilliland made a notable shot in 2004, during the Iraq War. Gilliland, a sergeant in the US Army, hit a target 2,250 meters (7,382 ft) away using a.50-caliber Barrett M82 rifle.
5. Nick Irving - 2,200 meters (7,218 ft)
In 2009, American sniper Nick Irving made a record-breaking shot in Afghanistan, hitting a target 2,200 meters (7,218 ft) away. Irving, a staff sergeant in the US Army, used a.338 Lapua Magnum rifle to make the shot.
🔍 Note: The accuracy of sniper shots can be affected by various factors, including wind, temperature, and humidity. These shots were made in combat situations, and the distances were confirmed by multiple sources.
| Sniper | Distance | Rifle | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Craig Harrison | 2,475 meters (8,120 ft) | .338 Lapua Magnum | 2009 |
| Rob Furlong | 2,430 meters (7,972 ft) | .50-caliber McMillan TAC-50 | 2002 |
| Arron Perry | 2,310 meters (7,579 ft) | .338 Lapua Magnum | 2014 |
| Jim Gilliland | 2,250 meters (7,382 ft) | .50-caliber Barrett M82 | 2004 |
| Nick Irving | 2,200 meters (7,218 ft) | .338 Lapua Magnum | 2009 |
These shots demonstrate the exceptional skill and precision of snipers, who must consider various factors, including wind, distance, and terrain, to make accurate shots. The art of sniper marksmanship requires dedication, training, and experience, and these individuals have proven themselves to be among the best in the world.
Without a doubt, these remarkable shots have pushed the boundaries of what is thought possible with a sniper rifle, inspiring future generations of snipers to strive for excellence.
What is the longest sniper shot ever recorded?
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The longest confirmed sniper shot was made by Craig Harrison in 2009, hitting a target 2,475 meters (8,120 ft) away in Helmand Province, Afghanistan.
What rifle was used to make the longest sniper shot?
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Craig Harrison used a.338 Lapua Magnum rifle to make the longest confirmed sniper shot.
What are the key factors that affect sniper accuracy?
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The key factors that affect sniper accuracy include wind, temperature, humidity, distance, and terrain.
