Sniper Rifles: From the 19th to the 21st Century (Weapon)

Excellent book on history of development of precision firearms, from the muskets, customized hunting weapons to modern high powered long range precision rifles.

As we are introduced to weapon development, author also shows ups and downs of troops that are known under different names - Jaegers, Riflemen, sharpshooters, designated marksmen and finally under [most coveted] title of military sniper. It is strange how role of precise shooter was so much looked down upon and forced to reinvent itself during the every major conflict.

While book is very informative for early years (17th to 19th century), crucial technological developments in the 19th century, and finally WW1 and WW2 rifles and combat experiences, as we approach the modern times show more coverage mostly focuses on the Western rifles, trainings and experiences (both training and weapon wise). I am surprised that Chechen Wars and low intensity conflicts in Caucasus were not mentioned in more detail, especially since use of snipers in both open fields and urban environments was very intensive. Also very interesting to me is missing Afghanistan War of 1980's - both from perspective of Soviets but also mercenaries and operators from the West tasked with training and equipping the Mujaheddin troops. Was this omitted because this is more about sniper operations and not about rifles as such? But then war on terror would also be relatively short chapter, wouldn't it? I mean, mentioning Dragunov but not talking about its use in very intensive combat operations is a little bit weird.

Also, anti-materiel, high caliber rifles are only mentioned in context of Korean War and modern day Barrett rifles. During WW2 these were also used to engage not just technical equipment but also personnel, which is something that saw a big come back in current conflict. Also there was no mention of exotic (but widely used nonetheless) high powered sniper rifles in calibers of 20mm. While there is mention of adaptation of M2 Browning MG with sniper scopes it would be interesting to learn more about it (although I do agree that this is maybe out of scope for the book, much more so than 20mm rifles).

Again, considering the size of the book and its purpose, it is well structured and highly informative edition that can be used as and introductory book for anyone interested in the field. For more details there are additional books that can be found in the bibliography section [many of which Mr Martin Pegler is also author, which is a recommendation on its own considering that author writes in a very clear and concise manner].

Highly recommended. show less