What Are Snipers Called in the Army?
Within the Army, snipers are primarily referred to as snipers. However, their specific roles and the broader context of their duties often lead to other descriptive titles. These titles range from formal military designations to more informal colloquialisms. It’s essential to recognize the nuances and differences to fully understand the various roles associated with precision marksmen in the Army. The primary role of an Army sniper is to deliver precise long-range fire on selected targets, aiming to create casualties, slow enemy movement, and instill fear and confusion within enemy ranks.
Formal Designations and Roles
1. Military Occupational Specialty (MOS)
The most formal way to identify a sniper within the Army is through their Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). While not all soldiers with these MOSs are active snipers, they are the personnel who typically attend and graduate from sniper training. The MOSs include:
- 11B (Infantry Soldier): This is the most common MOS for individuals pursuing sniper training. Infantry soldiers are at the forefront of ground combat operations, and those with exceptional marksmanship skills often become snipers.
- 19D (Calvary Scout): Cavalry Scouts are reconnaissance specialists, and some are selected for sniper roles within scout units.
- 18 Series (Special Forces): Soldiers in Special Forces units may also become snipers as part of their specialized duties and missions.
These MOS designations indicate the foundational skill set that a sniper possesses and the path through which they typically enter sniper training programs. A soldier is required to hold the rank of E3 through E6 to be eligible for sniper training.
2. Designated Marksman (DM)
A Designated Marksman (DM) or Squad Designated Marksman (SDM) is another term closely associated with the sniper role. While both aim at engaging targets at extended ranges, their roles and integration within the squad differ:
- Designated Marksmen are commonly integrated within infantry squads, often using accurized rifles to provide precision fire at medium ranges (beyond the capabilities of standard rifles), not specifically sniper rifles. They are trained to enhance the squad’s overall firepower and accuracy.
- They differ from snipers who operate more independently and are trained to engage targets from much greater distances.
3. Advanced Marksman (AD)
An Advanced Marksman (AD) is another term used, which is very similar to the DM, but can sometimes refer to more experienced DMs who have gone through more advanced training, although not to the extent of a full sniper.
Informal and Colloquial Terms
1. Sharpshooter
The term sharpshooter is a generic term used to describe anyone with exceptional marksmanship skills, but not all sharpshooters are snipers. The word sharpshooter often describes the ability to consistently hit a target with precision, but can refer to a number of roles in a squad.
2. Marksman/Markswoman
Marksman or markswoman is a general term that denotes proficiency in shooting. In a military context, it often refers to an individual who is skilled in using projectile weapons, often specifically a long gun, with accuracy, but can refer to multiple roles.
3. Assassin or Killer
While these terms (assassin and killer) are not official or commonly used within the Army, they may be used colloquially due to the lethal nature of a sniper’s role. These are generally considered informal and are avoided in professional settings, as they carry negative connotations.
The Core Difference
The primary difference between a Designated Marksman and a Sniper lies in their operational methodology and scope:
- Snipers are highly trained specialists, operating independently or in small teams, focusing on long-range engagements, reconnaissance, and strategic target elimination. They often go through an extensive sniper training program.
- Designated Marksmen function within the broader structure of a squad, providing enhanced firepower at medium ranges. Their marksmanship skills are valuable for suppressing enemies and supporting infantry operations.
In essence, while both roles rely on exceptional marksmanship, their training, deployment, and strategic objectives differ significantly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the primary mission of an Army sniper?
The primary mission of an Army Sniper is to provide precise long-range fire on selected targets. This creates casualties among enemy troops, slows their movement, instills fear, lowers morale, and adds confusion to their operations.
2. What are the requirements to become an Army Sniper?
Soldiers must hold the MOS of 11B, 19D, or 18 series in the rank of E3 through E6 to be eligible for the U.S. Army Sniper Course.
3. How long is the U.S. Army Sniper Course?
The U.S. Army Sniper Course is a rigorous seven-week program where soldiers learn fieldcraft and marksmanship skills.
4. What skills are taught in sniper training?
Military sniper training focuses on camouflage and concealment, stalking, observation, map reading, and precision marksmanship in various operational conditions.
5. What kind of math do snipers use?
Snipers use math to calculate windage and bullet drop, which require knowledge of the bullet’s ballistic path and the “zero” of their scope.
6. What weapons do Army snipers typically use?
Snipers utilize bolt-action or semi-automatic rifles fitted with telescopic sights and high-performance centerfire cartridges for extreme accuracy. The M107 semi-automatic long-range sniper rifle is a common choice.
7. What kind of gear do snipers carry?
Snipers carry precision sniper rifles, various optical scopes, specialized ammunition, and camouflage materials. They also carry tools for observation and communication.
8. What are the typical engagement ranges for Army snipers?
Army snipers commonly operate at ranges of 600 to 1,200 meters. At extreme ranges, they may push their weapon to its limits.
9. Where do snipers aim on the human body?
Snipers are trained to aim for two triangular areas: from the chest to the neck and from the hip bones to the pelvis.
10. Can women be snipers in the Army?
Yes, women can be snipers. While the concept is not new (dating back to World War II), it continues to evolve within the modern Army.
11. Is being a sniper a safe position in the Army?
Being a sniper is not considered a safe position due to the inherent risks involved in their missions. Also, both enemies and friendly troops may have a distaste for snipers.
12. How are snipers paid in the US Army?
The average monthly pay for a Sniper in the United States is approximately $1,697. The salary can vary based on rank and experience.
13. What is the difference between a marksman and a sniper?
A marksman is generally skilled in precision shooting, while a sniper is a highly trained specialist operating independently or in small teams with a focus on long-range engagements and strategic target elimination.
14. Which country is considered to have the best snipers?
The article states, based on the provided text, that Canada is often regarded as having some of the best snipers in the world because they have 3 of the 5 longest recorded sniper kills. However, the best sniper can vary based on different criteria.
15. Who is considered the deadliest sniper in history?
Based on confirmed kills, Simo Häyhä is considered the deadliest sniper in history with at least 505 confirmed kills during the Winter War.