In the end of the CQB Series, Chris Tolino of 2nd Recon Force Co., described the value of having a sniper as part of the CQB assault team. But in essence, the discipline of the sniper is a tactic distinct and separate from the close-in shooters of the entry team. As such it is only a fitting conclusion that we end the Fundamentals of CQB with a chapter on Sniper Tactics.
Without going into too much detail the following excerpt describes in detail what characteristics and tactics a sniper must use in order to be an effective force in the field. To most military and law enforcement professionals, this chapter will be a perfect review on skills and doctrines of a designated sniper. But to airsoft, paintball and Real Action Marker players, the subsequent text will be the foundation of their own learning on how to become one of the most feared shooters in the field – the team sniper.
Sniper tactics
The Sniper
The sport of airsoft, paintball and simulation shooting offers many different tactics and roles to be played, one of which is the art of sniping. The basic aim with this form of combat, is to engage the enemy at long range whilst avoiding a close confrontation. Airsoft obviously differs from the real thing, whereas targets cannot be engaged at such long ranges, and rifles used are no way near as accurate, but the principle is still the same.
An accomplished sniper could quite feasibly take out an entire team if he/she sticks to some basic guidelines, these are as follows: -
Concealment
There is no substitute for good camouflage, this is considered an art in itself. Learn to blend in with your surroundings, taking note of the type of terrain you will encounter. The role you play within the team will dictate the level of concealment you will require. A sniper who’s primary aim is simply to provide long range fire support to other team members, won’t require as much camouflage as someone who will be taking targets at a closer range, where the chance of being spotted is higher.
As well as making sure that you are suitably covered, any equipment or weapons should also be well hidden. Some people tend to spray their guns with a leaf effect pattern, but this is still distinguishable in forest surroundings. The trick is to break up a shape as much as possible, making sure not too many straight lines are visible. The best way to do this is to purchase a face “scrim” net, and cut it into strips. These can then be tied in place, and held with dark green cotton thread. Another method is to cut the netting into panels and make a “body suit” for the gun, which you can then sew smaller strips onto, or the paper leaves found on camouflage netting.
Movement must also be kept to a minimum. There’s no use in dressing up like a bush, only to let the enemy see it move frantically across the combat zone – bushes don’t have legs. Try to accurately gage the distance to the target, and possible access routes. If the only clear passage to the target is fairly clear of hiding places, then you’ll be crawling a very long way so not to be seen.
Surveillance
Although not so vital in an airsoft game, being in the know will inevitably give you an advantage over the enemy. Typically speaking, your average airsoft game only lasts anything from 30 mins to an hour, so you’ll have to gather intelligence and move quickly. Possibly the best role to play, would be to offer long range fire support to players nearer the target. It won’t take as much time, plus there is no one target, so whom you hit isn’t as critical – so long as it isn’t a member of your team!
A sniper can act as a double sided coin. In order to “snipe” efficiently you must be in an area where you can peer down upon the enemy, but they cannot see you. In this capacity it makes it a good idea for the sniper to relay any information back to the entry teams, whatever will give them the advantage.
A quick note to make. When peering down at the target with a pair of binoculars or rifle scope on a sunny day, you’ll find that the light reflecting on the lens will notify the enemy of your position. Try to use your eyes as much as possible, only using optical aids where necessary, and only taking the cover off the objective lens from the rifle scope, seconds before making the shot.
The Shot Itself
Whether you’re providing covering fire, or its that crucial shot to take out a key person in a game, the moment you pull that trigger, everyone in the area will know you are there. You then have two options. Either retreat as soon as possible, or fight your way out. Remember, you do have an advantage, you can run so far, drop to the ground and hey presto you’re invisible – or you can disappear into the shadows and regroup with team members.
Make sure you take the time to verify the target. Not only does it eliminate the risk of hitting your own team members, but it saves wasting a valuable shot on a player who is not so important.
When firing your weapon, always bear in mind that it can take a second or two for the shot to reach the target, and it may be possible that the victim will hear the shot before it arrives. For this reason, it is always a good idea to keep your gun switched to full auto, (if not a weapon such as the PSG) and fire a small burst whilst slightly moving the rifle. This will ensure a wide area is hit, just in case they decide to duck!
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