One of the prime needs of a sharp shooter is a stationary platform from which to fire, especially at the distance we’re talking about here. I doubt the deck of a destroyer, even in relatively calm seas, is stable enough to afford a decent shot.
I get very antsy when I see how long this is taking. But then I realize that as bad as it is for all of us it must be really tough on the pirates, not to mention the captain.
I am sure that the delay works to the good of the captain, tough as it is on those of us watching from afar, praying for his safe return!
“One of the prime needs of a sharp shooter is a stationary platform from which to fire, especially at the distance we’re talking about here. I doubt the deck of a destroyer, even in relatively calm seas, is stable enough to afford a decent shot.”
That’s only half the equation. The targets are bobbing up and down and probably partially obscured in a lifeboat. Even in calm sea states, a lifeboat will be moving with the swells. Not an easy shot for even the best shooter.