Marksman

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Marksman in Afghanistan

CIMIC Joint Training, GER and ITA Army, Capo Teulada, Trident Juncture 15 (22678987186)

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USMC-120506-M-SR181-006

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A British soldier aims his SA80 rifle on a shooting range at Basra, Iraq. MOD 45148015

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110217-G-6349A-480 MSRT Precision Marksmen Observer Team

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Sharpshooter from confederate state

Marksman refers to a person who is skilled in precision shooting, using projectile weapons such as rifles and handguns, at stationary or moving targets. The term is often used in the military and law enforcement, as well as in sports and recreational shooting. A marksman's ability is not solely based on their skill to hit a target, but also their capability to apply their skills under varying conditions, such as distance, wind speeds, and moving targets.

History

The concept of marksmanship has been around for centuries, evolving with advancements in weaponry and shooting techniques. Historically, marksmen were crucial in warfare, providing ranged support for infantry and other units. The development of rifling in gun barrels, which imparts a spin to the bullet, greatly increased the accuracy and range of firearms, leading to the prominence of sharpshooters and snipers in military tactics.

Military and Law Enforcement

In the military and law enforcement, a marksman is often distinguished by their proficiency with firearms. They may serve as snipers or in roles that require precise shooting. Military and police forces typically have qualification standards for marksmanship, and individuals who exceed these standards may be given special recognition or additional training for sniper roles.

Sports

Marksmanship has also been a competitive sport for many years, with various disciplines in both rifle and pistol shooting. Competitions can range from short-range events, such as those seen in the Olympic Games, to long-range target shooting, including disciplines like those governed by the International Practical Shooting Confederation (IPSC) and the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF).

Training

Training to become a skilled marksman involves not only physical discipline, such as steadying one's hand and controlling one's breathing but also mental discipline, such as concentration and stress management. Marksmen learn to calculate variables such as wind speed, gravity's effect on the trajectory, and the distance to the target. Advanced training may also include learning to shoot from various positions and under different conditions to simulate real-world scenarios.

Equipment

The equipment used by a marksman can vary widely depending on the application. For sports shooting, highly accurate, specialized rifles and pistols are used, often equipped with advanced sighting systems like telescopic sights for long-range shooting. In military and law enforcement, the firearms are typically more rugged and versatile, designed for a variety of conditions and distances.

Notable Marksmen

Throughout history, there have been many notable marksmen who have gained fame for their shooting skills. These individuals have often been celebrated in their respective fields, whether in military service, law enforcement, or competitive shooting.

See Also

• Sniper
• Shooting sport
• Firearm
• Rifling
• Ballistics

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