Sniper marksmanship is an extension of basic rifle marksmanship and focuses on the techniques needed to engage targets at extended ranges. To successfully engage targets at increased distances, the sniper team must be proficient in marksmanship fundamentals and advanced marksmanship skills. Examples of these skills are determining the effects of weather conditions on ballistics, holding off for elevation and windage, engaging moving targets, using and adjusting scopes, and zeroing procedures. Marksmanship skills should be practiced often.

4 Fundamentals

The sniper team must be thoroughly trained in the fundamentals of marksmanship. These include assuming a position, aiming, breath control, and trigger control. These fundamentals develop fixed and correct firing habits for  instinctive application. Every sniper should periodically refamiliarize himself with these fundamentals regardless of his experience.

1) Steady position
2) Aiming ( proper eye relief / sight alignment / sight picture)
3) Breath control
4) Steady trigger squeeze

5 Parts to a steady position

The sniper should assume a good firing position (Figure 3-1, page 3-2) in order to engage targets with any consistency. A good position enables the sniper to relax and concentrate when preparing to fire.

1) Remove non-firing hand
2) Place the butt of the stock in the pocket of the shoulder
3) Firing hand, rearward pressure
4) Elbows in comfortable position
5) Stock weld is consistent

  Proper cheek to stock weld

 

3 Elements for a good position

1) Good bone support
2) Muscular relaxation
3) Natural point of aim
 

4 Integrated phases of firing

1) Prepatory - Clean rifle, torque everything, confirm zero, check ammo
2) Before firing - Relax and get ready, notifies spotter before shot
3) Firing - Breath / relax / aim / squeeze (B.R.A.S)
4) After - Proper follow through, analyze shot

6 Parts of follow though

1) Keep stock weld
2) Keep trigger squeeze all the way to the rear
3) Continue to look through scope
4) Keep relaxed muscles
5) Let barrel reset on target
6) Release trigger after recoil stops and barrel resets