The Record-Breaking Shot: A New Benchmark in Sniper Accuracy
The world of sniper shooting is one of precision, skill, and patience. Snipers are trained to take out targets from a distance, often in high-pressure situations. Over the years, we’ve seen numerous records set and broken in this field, but none as impressive as the world’s longest sniper shot, which stands at an astonishing 2.2 miles. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the details of this record-breaking shot, the team behind it, and what makes it so remarkable.
The Team Behind the Record
The record for the world’s longest sniper shot was set by a team of two Canadian snipers, Corporal Rob Furlong and Corporal Craig Harrison, who are both part of the British Army’s 1st Battalion, The Parachute Regiment. The shot was taken in 2002 during the War in Afghanistan, where the team was deployed as part of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF).
The Rifle and Ammunition Used
The rifle used to set this record was a McMillan TAC-50, a high-powered, bolt-action rifle chambered in.50 BMG (12.7x99mm). The TAC-50 is a favorite among military and civilian sniper teams due to its accuracy, reliability, and range.
The ammunition used was a Hornady A-MAX.50 BMG, a high-performance cartridge designed for long-range shooting. The A-MAX features a polymer tip and a copper jacket, which provides excellent expansion and penetration upon impact.
The Shot Itself
On March 2, 2002, Corporal Furlong and Corporal Harrison were on patrol in the Shah-i-Kot Valley in eastern Afghanistan. Their mission was to provide overwatch for a coalition forces operation. As they were scanning the area, they spotted an enemy machine gun team approximately 2.2 miles (3,540 meters) away.
The shot was taken from a prone position, with Corporal Furlong acting as the shooter and Corporal Harrison as the spotter. The rifle was supported by a bipod, and the team used a laser rangefinder to accurately measure the distance to the target.
After taking aim, Corporal Furlong squeezed the trigger, and the bullet struck the target with devastating effect. The shot was so accurate that it hit the enemy machine gunner right in the chest, killing him instantly.
Verifying the Record
To verify the record, the team used a combination of GPS and laser rangefinding technology to measure the distance to the target. The measurement was confirmed by multiple sources, including the coalition forces’ command center and an independent observer.
The record was officially recognized by Guinness World Records in 2003, and it remains the longest confirmed sniper shot in history.
What Makes This Shot So Remarkable?
So, what makes this shot so remarkable? Here are a few factors that contributed to its success:
- Distance: 2.2 miles is an incredibly long distance for a sniper shot. At that range, even the slightest breeze or temperature change can affect the bullet’s trajectory.
- Accuracy: The team’s accuracy was exceptional, with the bullet striking the target right in the chest.
- Equipment: The McMillan TAC-50 and Hornady A-MAX ammunition used by the team are top-notch, providing excellent performance and reliability.
- Training: Both Corporal Furlong and Corporal Harrison are highly trained snipers, with years of experience in the field.
Important Factors to Consider When Attempting Long-Range Shots
If you’re an aspiring sniper or simply interested in long-range shooting, here are some important factors to consider when attempting long-range shots:
- Wind: Wind is a major factor in long-range shooting. Even a slight breeze can affect the bullet’s trajectory.
- Temperature: Temperature changes can also affect the bullet’s trajectory, as well as the rifle’s performance.
- Elevation: Changes in elevation can also impact the bullet’s trajectory.
- Ammunition: Using high-quality ammunition is essential for long-range shooting.
- Rifle: A high-powered, accurate rifle is essential for long-range shooting.
Conclusion
The world’s longest sniper shot is a remarkable achievement that showcases the skill, patience, and dedication of the team involved. The record set by Corporal Furlong and Corporal Harrison will likely stand for a long time, and it serves as a benchmark for sniper teams around the world.
What rifle was used to set the record for the world’s longest sniper shot?
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The rifle used to set the record was a McMillan TAC-50, a high-powered, bolt-action rifle chambered in.50 BMG (12.7x99mm).
What ammunition was used to set the record?
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The ammunition used was a Hornady A-MAX.50 BMG, a high-performance cartridge designed for long-range shooting.
What was the distance of the record-breaking shot?
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The distance of the record-breaking shot was approximately 2.2 miles (3,540 meters).
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