Sniping: Books, Videos

This long-awaited sequel to The Ultimate Sniper reveals the cutting edge in sniping tactics and technology, including night sniping, suppressed sniper weapons, .50-caliber rifles, winter sniper warfare and advanced sniper fieldcraft.

The most accomplished sniper of the Vietnam War and the founder of the USMC sniper school tells in his own words how snipers outthink and outshoot their prey. In this entertaining and informative video, Hathcock talks about observation, target selection,shot placement and much more.
$19.95
DVD-R 805966 055534 55 minutes

With almost 400 photos, this comprehensive volume documents the chronological development of the U.S. Army and Marine Corps sniper arms from the Civil War era through Vietnam, where first-class sniper training clearly demonstrated the value of precision marksmanship.

The late Peter R. Senich was recognized as one of the world's foremost authorities on the history of modern weapon systems and their applications. He was also a leading military historian and the author of nine books on military sniping and small arms.
$45.00
Softcover 978-1-58160-610-2 288 pages 8.5" x 11" photos, illust.

The Vietnam War marked the first time that the U.S. military brought together trained snipers, custom rifles, telescopic sights, special ammunition and sound suppressors, and employed them successfully in combat. This work focuses on a small but significant aspect of modern military history: the army sniper program, the fielding of the XM21 sniper rifle and the Adjustable Ranging Telescope, and the combat application of sound suppression devices for rifles and special carbines.

The late Peter R. Senich was recognized as one of the world's foremost authorities on the history of modern weapon systems and their applications. He was also a leading military historian and the author of nine books on military sniping and small arms.
$45.00
Softcover 978-1-58160-609-6 280 pages 8.5" x 11" photos

This highly sought manual - until now available only to this elite cadre of specially trained SEALs - contains the complete program by which SEAL snipers train, equip and operate. Included are precise instructions and exclusive, clear photos for target sighting, aiming, trigger control, aircraft takedown, range estimation, helo insertion, ship boarding, stalking, marksmanship and more.
$40.00
Softcover 978-0-87364-683-3 320 pages 8.5" x 11" photos, illust.

NEW! Here is the single greatest volume ever published about Civil War sharpshooting, from the expert perspective of world-renowned sniping and shooting authority John L. Plaster.

Comprehensive in scope, this book details how sharpshooters were recruited, trained, and organized. Plaster fully explores their armaments, their tactics and techniques, and how they operated (sometimes decisively) in battle. Discover dozens of accomplished and colorful but forgotten sharpshooters who, until now, had faded into the past.

Exhaustively researched and profusely illustrated, these pages contain more than 160 rare photos, along with original artwork.

Excerpted from Plaster's epic History of Sniping and Sharpshooting, this book is a must-have for historians, reenactors, and students of the American Civil War.

Major John L. Plaster served three tours in the top-secret unconventional warfare group, Studies and Observations Group, in Vietnam. As a long-range reconnaissance leader, he led tiny intelligence-gathering teams behind enemy lines in Laos and Cambodia before leaving SOG in late 1971. He was decorated for heroism four times and retired from the U.S. Army as a major.
$19.00
Softcover 978-1-58160-703-1 166 pages 8.5" x 11" photos, illust.

This 1994 edition shows sniper training tactics and techniques as taught by the U.S. Army. Chapters cover equipment, marksmanship, field techniques, mission preparation, sniper operations, field communications, tracking/countertracking and sustained training skills. Also includes an in-depth look at sniper weapons of the world and the M21 Sniper Weapon System.
$30.00
Softcover 978-0-87364-829-5 352 pages 5.5" x 8.5" illustrations

Find out why today's professional snipers still read Ion Idriess, the Australian guerrilla warfare specialist who distills the field experience of snipers from World Wars I and II, the Boer War, the British bush wars on the Indian and Afghanistan frontiers, and elsewhere into a highly readable and instructive guide. This classic on the art and science of military sniping provides instruction in such essential skills as hiding in the bush, remaining immobile to blend in to the environment, "freezing" to avoid detection by the enemy, applying camouflage to make yourself virtually invisible, learning to be adaptable to all types of situations, and more.
$12.00
Softcover 978-0-87364-104-3 102 pages 5.5" x 8.5"

Nowhere is the subject of using the big guns covered in more detail than in The Complete .50-Caliber Sniper Course. Before SFC Dean Michaelis (Ret.) wrote this comprehensive book on sniping, he wrote a first-of-its-kind program of instruction for the Special Operations Target Interdiction Course (SOTIC) at the 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne). A member of the 1st Special Forces Group, Michaelis and two other instructors taught students everything they needed to know about .50-caliber rifles and hard-target missions. Now he brings that information to you, covering every aspect of the sniper's art: the history, the equipment and the skills. Also included are reproducible forms, a military-issue .50-caliber cartridge tip color guide, and the author's exclusive Program of Instruction for Special Operations Hard-Target Interdiction Course. This book is an invaluable resource for military and civilian shooters alike.
$70.00
Softcover 978-1-58160-068-1 576 pages 8.5" x 11" photos, Illust.

The complete story of Germany's sniping arms development through both World Wars. Presents more than 600 photos of Mauser 98s, Selbstladegewehr 41s and 43s, optical sights by Goerz, Zeiss, etc., plus German snipers in action. An exceptional hardcover collector's edition for serious military historians everywhere.

The late Peter R. Senich was recognized as one of the world's foremost authorities on the history of modern weapon systems and their applications. He was also a leading military historian and the author of nine books on military sniping and small arms.
$79.95
Hardcover 978-0-87364-223-1 468 pages 8.5" x 11" photos

Thirty-six months in combat. Twenty-four years as a sniping instructor. Twenty years of exhaustive research, including decades spent seeking out hundreds of historic volumes long out of print, test-firing historic firearms, walking Revolutionary and Civil War battlefields with a laser rangefinder, and visiting military museums in the United States and Europe. Only Major John Plaster, author of the highly acclaimed The Ultimate Sniper, has the background and knowledge to bring you this authoritative history of sniping and sharpshooting – the first such book from a combat rifleman's unique perspective.

In The History of Sniping and Sharpshooting, John Plaster has assembled the most comprehensive combat history ever published on the subject. It begins in the 15th century, with the first use of "precision" musket fire in Europe and continues into the 21st century with the significant role sniping is playing the Iraq and Afghanistan and the global War on Terror. Detailing major engagements and minor skirmishes over five centuries of warfare, Plaster has unearthed hundreds of incidents where calculated precision rifle fire has changed the course of battles – and, sometimes, history. He fittingly addresses well-known sharpshooters and snipers – Hiram Berdan, Vasili Zaitsev, Carlos Hathcock – but also pays tribute to forgotten riflemen such as John Burns, Benjamin Forsyth and Arthur Wermuth, to name but a few. He also explains how the evolution of firearms and optical technology has intertwined with sniping on the battlefield and how it has influenced tactics, organizations, and capabilities – a subject that has never before been address adequately.

Major John L. Plaster served three tours in the top-secret unconventional warfare group, Studies and Observations Group, in Vietnam. As a long-range reconnaissance leader, he led tiny intelligence-gathering teams behind enemy lines in Laos and Cambodia before leaving SOG in late 1971. He was decorated for heroism four times and retired from the U.S. Army as a major.
$89.95
Hardcover 978-1-58160-632-4 704 pages 8.5" x 11" photos, illust.

For the special ops warrior, hunter or outdoorsman, the ghillie suit is the ultimate in camouflage, allowing the wearer to literally "melt" into the surrounding foliage. This video teaches you how to make four different types of ghillie suit for a fraction of the cost of expensive commercial suits. Plus learn the secrets of making custom concealment accessories to produce a state-of-the-art camouflage kit.

Tom Forbes, an avid outdoorsman, survival expert, and backyard builder, is a member of the National Guard in South Dakota.
$29.95
DVD-R 805966 054131 60 minutes

The three-dimensional camouflage of the famed ghillie suit is unparalleled in its ability to conceal the outdoorsman. But preassembled suits are expensive, and kits can be both costly and time-consuming. Tom Forbes, author of the best-selling PVC Projects for the Outdoorsman book and The Invisible Advantage video, has come up with an alternative. Using simple procedures and economical, easily found materials, Forbes guides readers through the manufacture of several different kinds of ghillie suit, including the garment used by the British military during World War II. This handy workbook contains tips on materials and techniques used in ghillie suit construction, as well as valuable information on stalking methods.

Tom Forbes, an avid outdoorsman, survival expert, and backyard builder, is a member of the South Dakota National Guard.
$15.00
Softcover 978-1-58160-310-1 76 pages 5.5" x 8.5" 32 photos

This book is a long-overdue account of, and a well-deserved tribute to, the Marine Corps sniper program in Vietnam. It documents the circumstances behind training and employment, the equipment chosen for use, the transition from the M700 sniping rifle to the M40A1 and the extreme effectiveness of the Vietnam-era sniping effort overall.

The late Peter R. Senich was recognized as one of the world's foremost authorities on the history of modern weapon systems and their applications. He was also a leading military historian and the author of nine books on military sniping and small arms.
$59.95
Softcover 978-0-87364-867-7 384 pages 8.5" x 11" photos, illust.

This updated and expanded edition of The Ultimate Sniper includes cutting edge sniper rifles, scopes, ammunition and equipment, the latest tactics and techniques from the frontlines of the War on Terror, analysis of evolving technologies, detailed ballistics and trajectory data for sniper ammunition, an all-new chapter on countersniping "lessons learned" in Iraq and Afghanistan and an up-to-date listing of U.S.-based sniper training programs.

While at the 2009 SHOT Show in Orlando, Florida, Major Plaster was approached by a U.S. Army civilian intelligence analyst from Iraq, who told him that "many, many soldiers and Marines owed their lives to The Ultimate Sniper."

Major Plaster recently received a letter from a GI sniper in Iraq who told him about how much the snipers in that war depended on The Ultimate Sniper:

"Major Plaster,

I just wanted to thank you personally for all the great work you have compiled and made so easy to study. I am currently a Sniper in Iraq with the Big Red One out of Ft. Riley and the RTO/Security guy in my team has your book, The Ultimate Sniper. I went to Sniper School in 2007 and was in my battalions sniper Section a few months before I went. I've been a shooter for my team ever since. I appreciate the book and as a section we review it often and even give 'Sniper tips of the day' from it.

Thank you so much and God bless,
SPC. Andrew Wiscombe"

"Just finished reading The Ultimate Sniperand wanted to thank you for a fantastic book. I have read lots of books on shooting and sniping but have never enjoyed or gotten more from a book."

C.W., via Internet

Major John L. Plaster served three tours in the top-secret unconventional warfare group, Studies and Observations Group, in Vietnam. As a long-range reconnaissance leader, he led tiny intelligence-gathering teams behind enemy lines in Laos and Cambodia before leaving SOG in late 1971. He was decorated for heroism four times and retired from the U.S. Army as a major.
$60.00
Softcover 978-1-58160-494-8 584 pages 8.5" x 11" photos

With the help of this sniper's bible, the famed U.S. Army snipers killed 1,187 Vietcong in one five-month period. Only 1.37 rounds were expended per kill. An excellent source of information for hunting, target or sniping work, this manual covers camouflage, shooting techniques and positions, map and compass reading and necessary equipment for survival in the field.
$25.00
Softcover 978-0-87364-120-3 196 pages 11" x 8.5" illustrations

Here is the official manual used by the U.S. Army to train snipers in support of Special Operations Forces (SOF) missions. It covers loads of information specific to the unique requirements of SpecOps, including special mission equipment; troubleshooting the Sniper Weapons System; engagement of moving and snap targets; sniper tactics for unconventional warfare, direct action, counterterrorism, combat search and rescue and countersniper situations; tricks of the trade in urban environments; battlefield recovery of ammunition; and much more.
$59.00
Softcover 978-1-58160-043-8 560 pages 11" x 8.5" illustrations

Used by the Marksmanship Training Unit of the Marine Corps Development and Education Command in Quantico, Virginia, this manual is packed with lessons on every aspect of the art and science of sniping. Valuable to the instructor and student alike, this volume also includes sample score cards, observation logs and range estimation score sheets. A must for every serious student of the art of sniping.
$27.95
Softcover 978-0-87947-094-4 192 pages 8.5" x 11"

The culmination of 20 years' research, this is the most thorough account ever published of the training, equipment and combat experience of the scout-sniper during this important chapter in the history of U.S. Marine Corps sniping. Includes rare combat and training photos of scout-snipers in action.

The late Peter R. Senich was recognized as one of the world's foremost authorities on the history of modern weapon systems and their applications. He was also a leading military historian and the author of nine books on military sniping and small arms.
$30.00
Softcover 978-1-58160-527-3 240 pages 5.5" x 8.5" photos, illust.

Learn the art of sniping from two masters. Major John L. Plaster instructs you in all areas of sniping fieldcraft, marksmanship and tactics, and famed USMC sniper Carlos Hathcock recounts some of the field-tested tactics he used to rack up 93 confirmed kills in Vietnam. Covers optics, weapons, shooting drills, cammo, stalking, hides, countersniping, range and wind estimation and more.

Major John L. Plaster served three tours in the top-secret unconventional warfare group, Studies and Observations Group, in Vietnam. As a long-range reconnaissance leader, he led tiny intelligence-gathering teams behind enemy lines in Laos and Cambodia before leaving SOG in late 1971. He was decorated for heroism four times and retired from the U.S. Army as a major.
$29.95
DVD-R 805966 052632 90 minutes

'As a sniper, I've killed more than a few Nazis. I have a passion for observing enemy behaviour. You watch a Nazi officer come out of a bunker, acting all high and mighty, ordering his soldiers every which way, and putting on an air of authority. His henchmen would follow his will, his wishes, and his caprices, to the letter. The officer hasn't got the slightest idea that he only has seconds to live.'

–Vassili Zaitsev–

When Vassili Zaitsev arrived in Stralingrad in October 1942 the average life expectancy of a Red Army soldier was only 24 hours. This figure improved gradually during the battle, partly due to the success of a determined group of snipers, the greatest of whom was Zaitsev. He was also one of the lucky ones; he fought at Stralingrad and lived to tell his tale.

Vassili Zaitsev was born in 1915, and spent his early life as a hunter in the Urals. He joined the Russian navy in 1937 and volunteered for Stalingrad after hearing about the appalling losses. Zaitsev's mastery as a sniper became legendary and he was awarded several times for his skills, including the coveted gold star of the Hero of the Soviet Union.
$32.95
Hardcover 978-1-84832-565-4 208 pages 10" x 9"

Join sniper commander, and 2008 Snipercraft first place champion, Sgt. Josh Crews, for one of the most fascinating and comprehensive instructional DVDs on sniper fundamentals. Simple Sniper: Sniper Fundamentals features the latest in sniper tactics, techniques, optics, and equipment. Sgt. Crews' step-by-step demonstrations clearly explain some of the most cutting edge and up to date techniques employed by snipers from around the world.

In this DVD you will learn:

• How to select and create effective urban hides
  
• The latest in lightweight ghillie suit technology and camouflage
  
• How to setup and utilize a vehicle as a sniper hide
  
• The latest in state-of-the-art sniper rifles and optics
  
• Proper shooting fundamentals for snipers
  
• Creative woodland hide selection
  
• How to train for shooting moving targets

And much more!
$49.95
DVD-R 705105 071800 70 minutes

Sniper Specific Workout and Interview with a Sniper in association with Shadow Consulting, LLC Paladin Press, is pleased to offer this two-disc set on the art and craft of sniping.

Simple Sniper: Sniper Specific Workout is the first-of-its-kind workout specifically for snipers. Dr. Craig Sainz, master military fitness trainer, presents his comprehensive workout specifically designed to improve a sniper's hand-eye coordination and breath control. This video will improve your accuracy and focus your body and mind on the skills necessary for sniping.

Interview with a Sniper takes you inside the minds of military and law enforcement snipers. Never before has such a collection of interviews been collected and offered to the public. These uncensored interviews probe deep into the training and personal experiences of one of the most specialized groups in the world.
$19.95
DVD-R 705105 071404 105 minutes 2-Disc Set

"This manual is a necessity for any unit attempting to combat piracy or undertake any maritime operation."
–Chief Chris Kyle, former Navy SEAL sniper/instructor

"I strongly recommend adding this book to your training resources."
–Sgt. Major Mark Spicer, retired British Army sniper instructor

For the professional sniper, engaging a target on the high seas is one of the most challenging assignments of all. Erratic movement introduced by waves, vessel speeds, and engine vibrations; short, sudden windows of opportunity; and a host of unique environmental factors make the shot that much more demanding for even experienced marksmen.

Now, master sniper Fredrik Jonsson has written what is destined to become the classic manual on precision fire from seaborne platforms. Jonsson combines his vast experience in sniping deployment and instruction, specialized operations in troubled waters around the world, and competitive shooting to instruct dozens of specialized skills, including:

• timing shots for wave harmonics
  
• firing from one moving vessel at targets on another moving vessel
  
• firing through shipboard glass
  
• determining range and reading the wind in the tricky ocean arena
  
• establishing a suitable shooting platform on a vessel at speed
  
• conducting sniper-specific training at sea
  
• maintaining weapons and optics in the harsh saltwater environment

The maritime sniper plays a vital role in combating piracy, providing cover for vessel- and GOPLAT-boarding teams, protecting high-value vessels, and many other missions. To hope that the sea will be calm the day you will have to take that crucial shot is simply not an option. Master the skills of seaborne sniping with Maritime Sniper Manual, called by John Plaster, author of The Ultimate Sniper, the "best thing out there on this subject."