The Longest Sniper Kill in the World Record History
Sniping has been an integral part of military warfare for centuries, with skilled marksmen playing a crucial role in various conflicts throughout history. One record that has garnered significant attention is the longest sniper kill, which is held by a Canadian sniper. In this blog post, we will delve into the details of this remarkable feat and explore the world of sniping.
The Record Holder: Corporal Rob Furlong
On March 2, 2002, during the War in Afghanistan, Corporal Rob Furlong, a Canadian sniper, set the record for the longest confirmed sniper kill. Furlong, a member of the 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, was deployed in the Shah-i-Kot Valley, Afghanistan, as part of Operation Anaconda.
Furlong’s team, consisting of himself and his spotter, Corporal Dave Cloutier, was tasked with providing overwatch for a group of US troops who were pinned down by enemy fire. From a distance of approximately 2,430 meters (2,657 yards), Furlong successfully engaged and killed an enemy combatant, later confirmed to be an al-Qaeda fighter.
The Shot
The shot, which was fired from a McMillan TAC-50 rifle, was an incredible feat of marksmanship, given the distance and the conditions. Furlong has stated that he used a ballistic computer to calculate the trajectory of the bullet, taking into account factors such as wind, temperature, and the rifle’s ballistic characteristics.
The shot was fired at an elevation of 3,500 meters (11,483 feet) above sea level, and the bullet traveled for approximately 6 seconds before hitting its target. Furlong’s spotter, Corporal Cloutier, confirmed the kill through binoculars, observing the enemy fighter fall to the ground.
Confirmation of the Record
The kill was confirmed by US military officials, and the distance was measured using GPS coordinates. The record was officially recognized by Guinness World Records in 2002.
The Rifle: McMillan TAC-50
The McMillan TAC-50 is a high-performance sniper rifle designed for long-range shooting. Chambered in.50 BMG (12.7x99mm), the rifle is capable of delivering accurate shots at distances exceeding 2,000 meters. The TAC-50 features a fiberglass stock, a stainless steel action, and a 29-inch (737mm) heavy barrel.
Sniper Training and Techniques
To achieve such an impressive feat, Furlong and his team underwent rigorous training, honing their skills in marksmanship, ballistics, and tactics. Sniper training emphasizes the importance of patience, attention to detail, and mental toughness.
Snipers use various techniques to estimate distances, including:
- Mil-dot reticle: A specialized reticle that allows snipers to estimate distances based on the size of the target.
- Range estimation: Snipers use visual references, such as trees or buildings, to estimate distances.
- Ballistic computers: Devices that calculate the trajectory of the bullet, taking into account factors such as wind, temperature, and the rifle’s ballistic characteristics.
Conclusion
Corporal Rob Furlong’s record for the longest confirmed sniper kill is a testament to the skill and dedication of snipers worldwide. The record highlights the importance of sniper training, teamwork, and the right equipment. As military technology continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see if this record is ever broken.
💡 Note: The longest sniper kill record is subject to change, as new conflicts and technological advancements may lead to updated records.
What is the longest confirmed sniper kill in history?
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The longest confirmed sniper kill in history is held by Corporal Rob Furlong, a Canadian sniper, with a shot distance of 2,430 meters (2,657 yards) during the War in Afghanistan.
What rifle was used for the record-breaking shot?
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The rifle used for the record-breaking shot was the McMillan TAC-50, chambered in.50 BMG (12.7x99mm).
What techniques do snipers use to estimate distances?
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Snipers use various techniques to estimate distances, including mil-dot reticle, range estimation, and ballistic computers.
