comments?
Unfortunately, we are down on the waiting list and yet to be briefed on the new rifle.
The existing one (AI L96) does the job. Even though the stated effective range says 1000m, harrassing fire is further. Higher magnification is always a plus.
Look forward to having a play!!!
To be honest, Having looked at it I have mixed feelings on it. A big part of sniping is the ‘stalk’, moving and observing, looking for the fire position that provides the best concealment with routes of escape, and that also allows for comms. It is ‘personal’ soldiering at its most intense.
Yes, it is a great accolade to bang on a target at more than a mile out, but there may be an undermining of the other skills that a sniper must possess. At the distances that some sniper rifles are now effective to, you may as well stick up watchtowers in camps, to place a sniper/spotter.
Snipers are now used more and more as a ‘back up’ attachment for rifle platoons. Agreed that this isn’t an abuse of the sniper role as its always nice for taking the sting out of any assault on your position.