How to be a Sniper

A good sharp-shooter makes every shot count

Some players like to play a Rambo-style of paintball, where they shoot at everything that moves (or doesn’t move for that matter). Others prefer to conserve their paintballs by making every shot count. If you’d prefer to set-up shop somewhere and practice your sharp-shooting skills, then I have just the job for you….. sniper! Anybody can be a sniper really, but let’s face it, to be any use to your team you have to be a good one. You need the right attitude and personality along with the right equipment.

Snipers need a gun that has great range and precision. The accuracy part will have to come from you. A lot of snipers prefer pump guns because of their stability and precision; however you can be a good sniper with a semi-automatic. Just make sure the gun is dark and hard to see. You don’t need a long barrel to be a good sniper, as anything up to 14 inches is enough, but you may want to have the barrel ported (drilled with holes) at the end to keep the noise down. Don’t forget your squeegee to keep the barrel clean and more precise. You may want to add a scope to the gun so you can get a clear view of what you’re shooting at.

If you can choose your own paint, then go for top of the line pellets as they’re better shaped and more aerodynamic. Make sure you match the barrel bore size with the paint so the balls won’t break in the barrel and they’ll get maximum range.

A sniper’s mask should have large lenses so you have a wide and unobstructed view, and it should give you good protection so you can low-crawl. And most importantly as a sniper, you need to make sure the mask doesn’t fog up as your about to pick somebody off.

It’s also important to wear the right clothing, so wear camouflage if possible, or clothing that blends into the playing environment. Make sure you’re not wearing any bright, shiny, or reflective jewelry, and that your cell phone doesn’t ring and blow your cover.

A walkie-talkie or radio headset is also ideal for a sniper to keep in touch with team mates and fellow snipers, as they can let you know when the opposition is headed your way. However, as a sniper, make sure you only take along necessary equipment. The more gear you haul around means that louder you’re going to be. It also means less mobility, and more difficulty hiding. You’re out there to pick off the opposition one by one, by taking the fewest possible shots, so don’t load yourself down with paint. You’re going to rely on stealth, range, and accuracy to do the job well.

Remember, you’re still part of a team and have to play that way. Let team mates know where you are, so they can cover you and avoid friendly fire. You may want to use a partner to scout positions for you. You need to be as quiet as possible. and become well hidden in a spot you don’t have to move from. Ditches, trees, bush, and small hills can be good spots.

You don’t want to blow your cover, so don’t shoot at everybody who walks by, especially a large group, and don’t shoot if you have no chance of hitting the target. You may take one or two players out now, but could be taking many more out later on. Make sure you aim before you shoot and don’t leave your position to see if you hit the target. If the enemy does know where you are, get out as quickly as possible and look for another suitable position to hide.