In a stunning showcase of precision and skill, the world of sniping has witnessed some of the most extraordinary long-range shots in military history. As conflicts rage on, the art of the sniper has evolved dramatically, with marksmen achieving kills from jaw-dropping distances. Today, we delve into the top 10 longest sniper shots ever recorded, a testament to human capability and the relentless pursuit of excellence in warfare.
Kicking off our list at number 10 is U.S. Navy SEAL Chris Kyle, whose remarkable 2008 shot from 1,920 meters during the Iraq War took down an insurgent sniper targeting U.S. forces. Following closely is U.S. Army Sergeant Nicholas Randstad, who set a record in Afghanistan with a kill from 2,092 meters using a Barrett M82A1. The tension escalates further with a South African special forces sniper, who eliminated a target from an astonishing 2,125 meters during a UN mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
As we move up the ranks, the legendary Carlos Hathcock of the U.S. Marine Corps made history in Vietnam with a 2,286-meter kill in 1967, showcasing the raw power of the M2 Browning machine gun. The stakes soared even higher when Sergeant Brian Kramer achieved a kill from 2,300 meters in Iraq in 2004, followed by Canadian Master Corporal Aaron Perry, who shattered records with a 2,310-meter kill in Afghanistan.
The intensity peaks with Corporal Craig Harrison’s incredible 2,475-meter shot against a Taliban machine-gun team in 2009. But the ultimate record belongs to an unnamed Australian special forces sniper, who executed a breathtaking kill from 2,815 meters in 2012. Finally, the crown for the longest confirmed sniper shot goes to a Joint Task Force sniper from Canada, who took down an ISIS terrorist from a staggering 3,540 meters in 2017, a feat that underscores the lethal efficiency of modern warfare.
These extraordinary feats not only highlight the evolution of sniper technology but also the relentless spirit of those who serve on the front lines. The legacy of these marksmen will undoubtedly inspire future generations as they continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in combat.