Introduction to Sniper Kills
The art of sniping has been a crucial part of warfare for centuries, with skilled marksmen able to pick off enemy targets from vast distances. In recent years, the development of advanced rifles and optics has enabled snipers to engage targets at ever greater ranges. In this post, we’ll explore five of the longest sniper kills in recorded history, highlighting the skill and technology that made these shots possible.
1. Craig Harrison - 2,475 Meters
In 2009, British Army sniper Craig Harrison achieved the longest confirmed sniper kill in history, striking two Taliban insurgents in Afghanistan from a staggering 2,475 meters (8,120 feet). Harrison, a member of the Household Cavalry, used a .338 Lapua Magnum rifle to make the shot, which was verified by GPS data. The previous record had been held by a Canadian sniper, but Harrison’s shot eclipsed it by over 400 meters.
2. Arron Perry - 2,310 Meters
In 2002, Canadian sniper Arron Perry set the previous record for the longest sniper kill, hitting an al-Qaeda fighter in Afghanistan from 2,310 meters (7,579 feet). Perry, a member of the Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, used a .50-caliber McMillan TAC-50 rifle to make the shot. The target was confirmed by coalition forces, and the shot was recognized as a new world record at the time.
3. Rob Furlong - 2,430 Meters
Also in 2002, Canadian sniper Rob Furlong achieved a remarkable shot, hitting an al-Qaeda fighter in Afghanistan from 2,430 meters (7,972 feet). Furlong, a member of the 3rd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, used a .50-caliber McMillan TAC-50 rifle to make the shot. The target was confirmed by coalition forces, and the shot was recognized as one of the longest in history.
4. Unknown US Sniper - 2,288 Meters
In 2017, an unnamed US sniper achieved a remarkable shot, hitting an ISIS fighter in Iraq from 2,288 meters (7,507 feet). The sniper, a member of the US military, used a .338 Lapua Magnum rifle to make the shot. The target was confirmed by coalition forces, and the shot was recognized as one of the longest in recent history.
5. Harrison’s Second Shot - 2,395 Meters
In addition to his record-breaking shot, Craig Harrison also made another notable shot in 2009, hitting a Taliban insurgent in Afghanistan from 2,395 meters (7,856 feet). This shot, while not as long as his record-breaker, is still an impressive achievement and demonstrates Harrison’s exceptional skill as a sniper.
👊 Note: The exact distances of some sniper kills may be disputed or classified, but these five shots are widely recognized as among the longest in recorded history.
In terms of the technology that enables these shots, advanced optics and high-powered rifles play a crucial role. Snipers use ballistic computers to calculate the trajectory of their bullets, taking into account factors such as wind, temperature, and humidity. They also employ specialized ammunition, such as the .338 Lapua Magnum or .50-caliber rounds, which are designed to maintain their velocity and accuracy over long distances.
| Sniper | Distance | Rifle | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Craig Harrison | 2,475 meters | .338 Lapua Magnum | 2009 |
| Arron Perry | 2,310 meters | .50-caliber McMillan TAC-50 | 2002 |
| Rob Furlong | 2,430 meters | .50-caliber McMillan TAC-50 | 2002 |
| Unknown US Sniper | 2,288 meters | .338 Lapua Magnum | 2017 |
| Craig Harrison | 2,395 meters | .338 Lapua Magnum | 2009 |
To summarize, the longest sniper kills in recorded history are a testament to the skill and technology of modern snipers. These shots, which range from 2,288 to 2,475 meters, demonstrate the exceptional marksmanship and training of these military personnel. By understanding the factors that contribute to these shots, including advanced optics and high-powered rifles, we can appreciate the complexity and challenge of sniper warfare. Ultimately, these remarkable achievements highlight the importance of precision and accuracy in modern military operations.
