Simple question

[Sweetbriar]

I know that snipers keep logs or records of their shots, and that early in marksmanship training, one is taught or required to keep records, but what actually is the rule and practice? Do you have to keep a log of Everything in training? Do snipers Always record the details later on? I know you wouldn't in the heat of battle, but what kind of records would be standard elsewhere?

[jcollettusa]

You mainly log your shots in because of things such as weather and wind, and how it effects your shot at known distances. You want to shoot in all weather conditions so that you learn how your rifle is going to respond in the changing conditions. You also want to pay attention to what is called your "cold barrel" shot and where it hits, because sometimes a cold barrel shot will be different than the rest of your group. I think this depends on the rifle and how clean you keep it.

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Semper Fi

[Sweetbriar]

Thanks. So then no one is coming up behind you to check your log? Its used only as a tool for you to learn your rifle and your own skill?

[Linus]

Yep.

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Honestas supra omnis

[YTDEVIL]

It is a necessity.

[Gunny Hicks]

Have we forgotten that we call it a Data Book ? And that for Qualifying on a Range, any PMI or Coach that knows his stuff, would kick a shooter that failed to utilize one. By analyzing a well kept Data book, the PMI/Coach or the knowledgeable shooter, can really improve his shooting.

The same is true for the Sniper when shooting. The Data book is an effective tool, but only if the uiser knows how to 'call' 'plot' and analyze his data in the book.

The Data is good, not only for the effects of weather and wind, but also for recording the settings of your sights/scope at different renages, while firing in different positions. Also factors such as firing in the High kneeling, versus the low kneeling or a high supported versus a low supported position. These will have influences on consistncy in shot placement.

[Overland]

This is going to sound really stupid, but I will ask anyway.

Assuming all rifles shoot differently (due to minute differences beyond control factors)(do they all shoot differently?) is it safe to assume one would keep the same rifle througout their time in service?

If not, how long does a qualified shooter need to adjust himself to the intricacies of a new weapon? Or is his data book an accurate enough tool that the shooter would feel comfortable picking up another long range weapon (of the same caliber, of course)?

Thanks,

Overland

[jcollettusa]

I don't think the rifles are all that different, but the shooters techniques behind the trigger. Everyone has their own style of shooting, therefore, everyone is going to have a different way to shoot from the different positions. For example, some shooters may jerk the trigger and others may aniticipate recoil or whatever, but if they are consistent and they don't over do it they still can be good marksman.

As far as keeping the same rifle, it all depends, it is very possible, but only if you stay in the same Battalion. The rifles belong to your Battalion armoury, therefore, when you check out of the Battalion you turn in your rifle card. However, some Marines have been known to stay in the same Battalion for their entire enlistment, therefore, they keep their same rifle.

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Semper Fi

[STN]

Guy,

It's funny how when things go to hell they dust of the latest equipment and send it to us on the front line? Were they afraid we might have broken it in training?

[PMI]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by jcollettusa:
[B]I don't think the rifles are all that different, but the shooters techniques behind the trigger. Everyone has their own style of shooting, therefore, everyone is going to have a different way to shoot from the different positions. For example, some shooters may jerk the trigger and others may aniticipate recoil or whatever, but if they are consistent and they don't over do it they still can be good marksman.

If a rifle is zeroed properly, pretty much anyone should be able to shoot it relatively accurately. I can't tell you how many times at the range you'd have a recruit complain about his weapon, only to have a Coach, PMI, Range Officer, etc; take the same weapon and have no problem hitting the black. If you are soundly grounded in the fundamentals of marksmanship, and you are firing a properly functioning weapon with a good zero, you should have no difficulty with accuracy.

[YTDEVIL]

AND HOW !!!!!!!!