The World's Longest Sniper Shots: A Record-Breaking Analysis
Sniping is an art that requires precision, patience, and skill. Military snipers and competitive shooters continually push the boundaries of what is possible with a rifle and scope. In this article, we will explore five record-breaking examples of the world’s longest sniper shots.
Understanding the Complexity of Long-Range Shooting
Long-range shooting involves a multitude of factors that can affect the bullet’s trajectory, including wind resistance, temperature, humidity, and air density. Additionally, the shooter must consider the rifle’s accuracy, the scope’s quality, and the bullet’s ballistics. Even with the best equipment and training, long-range shooting is inherently unpredictable.
Record 1: Craig Harrison - 2,475 Meters (8,120 ft)
In 2009, British Army sniper Craig Harrison set the record for the longest confirmed sniper shot in combat. During a firefight in Musa Qala, Afghanistan, Harrison successfully hit two Taliban insurgents from a staggering distance of 2,475 meters (8,120 ft). He used a L115A3 sniper rifle, chambered in.338 Lapua Magnum.
🔍 Note: Harrison's record has been confirmed by Guinness World Records.
Record 2: Rob Furlong - 2,430 Meters (7,972 ft)
In 2002, Canadian sniper Rob Furlong set the previous record for the longest sniper shot in combat. During Operation Anaconda in Afghanistan, Furlong hit an al-Qaeda insurgent from a distance of 2,430 meters (7,972 ft). He used a McMillan TAC-50 sniper rifle, chambered in.50 BMG.
📊 Note: Furlong's record stood for seven years before being broken by Craig Harrison.
Record 3: Ryan Cleckner - 2,300 Meters (7,546 ft)
In 2017, former US Army sniper Ryan Cleckner set the record for the longest sniper shot in a competition. During the NRA’s Extreme Long-Range Challenge, Cleckner hit a target from a distance of 2,300 meters (7,546 ft). He used a custom-built rifle, chambered in.375 CheyTac.
Record 4: J.T. Owens - 2,100 Meters (6,890 ft)
In 2018, former US Army sniper J.T. Owens set the record for the longest sniper shot in a competition. During the Kestrel Precision Shootout, Owens hit a target from a distance of 2,100 meters (6,890 ft). He used a custom-built rifle, chambered in.338 Lapua Magnum.
Record 5: Aaron Perry - 2,000 Meters (6,562 ft)
In 2019, former US Marine sniper Aaron Perry set the record for the longest sniper shot in a competition. During the Sniper’s Hide Cup, Perry hit a target from a distance of 2,000 meters (6,562 ft). He used a custom-built rifle, chambered in.300 Norma Magnum.
| Sniper | Distance | Rifle | Caliber | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Craig Harrison | 2,475 meters (8,120 ft) | L115A3 | .338 Lapua Magnum | 2009 |
| Rob Furlong | 2,430 meters (7,972 ft) | McMillan TAC-50 | .50 BMG | 2002 |
| Ryan Cleckner | 2,300 meters (7,546 ft) | Custom-built | .375 CheyTac | 2017 |
| J.T. Owens | 2,100 meters (6,890 ft) | Custom-built | .338 Lapua Magnum | 2018 |
| Aaron Perry | 2,000 meters (6,562 ft) | Custom-built | .300 Norma Magnum | 2019 |
These five records showcase the incredible capabilities of skilled snipers and the advancements in rifle technology. As the world of sniping continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more impressive records in the future.
To achieve success in long-range shooting, snipers must consider a multitude of factors, including wind resistance, temperature, and humidity. They must also possess a deep understanding of ballistics and be able to make accurate calculations. With the right equipment and training, even the most challenging shots become possible.
As we reflect on these record-breaking examples, it is clear that sniping is an art that requires precision, patience, and skill. Whether in combat or competition, snipers continually push the boundaries of what is possible with a rifle and scope.
What is the longest sniper shot in combat?
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The longest sniper shot in combat was made by Craig Harrison, a British Army sniper, in 2009. He hit two Taliban insurgents from a distance of 2,475 meters (8,120 ft) in Musa Qala, Afghanistan.
What is the longest sniper shot in competition?
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The longest sniper shot in competition was made by Ryan Cleckner, a former US Army sniper, in 2017. He hit a target from a distance of 2,300 meters (7,546 ft) during the NRA’s Extreme Long-Range Challenge.
What factors affect the accuracy of a sniper shot?
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Several factors can affect the accuracy of a sniper shot, including wind resistance, temperature, humidity, and air density. The shooter must also consider the rifle’s accuracy, the scope’s quality, and the bullet’s ballistics.
Related Terms:
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