🎯 The Art of Long-Range Shooting: A Closer Look at the World’s Longest Confirmed Kill
Hey there! Gary with Concealed Carry Academy here, bringing you Episode 12 of our Odd Gun Facts series. Today, we’re diving into an unbelievable feat from the world of long-range precision shooting.
Imagine pulling the trigger… and waiting 10 full seconds before your bullet finds its target. That’s exactly what happened in 2017, when a Canadian sniper made history with the world’s longest confirmed kill—a mind-blowing 3,540 meters (over 2 miles!) using a McMillan Tac-50 sniper rifle. 💥🔭
Let’s break down how this record-breaking shot was made, the science behind long-range shooting, and how you can level up your own shooting skills.
🎯 The Unbelievable Shot: A New World Record
The Canadian sniper’s shot was not just luck—it was a masterclass in precision, patience, and skill. Making a shot at over 3,500 meters requires snipers to account for countless factors, including:
✅ Bullet drop – The longer the range, the more gravity pulls the bullet downward.
✅ Wind drift – Even a slight wind shift can push a bullet off course. 🌬️
✅ Atmospheric pressure – Temperature, humidity, and elevation all affect bullet velocity.
✅ Earth’s rotation – At extreme distances, snipers must factor in the Coriolis effect (yes, the Earth’s spin actually changes the bullet’s path!). 🌍
🔹 This wasn’t just a lucky shot—it was the result of years of training and mastering the physics of long-range shooting.
💡 Want to learn how wind and ballistics affect your shots? Check out this ballistics calculator to improve your accuracy:
🔗 Kestrel Elite Weather Meter – A must-have for serious long-range shooters!
🔭 The McMillan Tac-50: A Rifle Built for Extreme Precision
The McMillan Tac-50 is a bolt-action, .50 BMG sniper rifle designed for extreme long-range precision. Originally adopted by military forces, this beast of a rifle has become a go-to for record-breaking shots.
Tac-50 Key Features:
✅ .50 BMG caliber – Known for incredible range and stopping power.
✅ Bolt-action design – Ensures maximum accuracy with each shot.
✅ Heavy-duty build – Built to withstand harsh environments.
✅ Effective range of over 3,500 meters – Making it perfect for extreme long-range engagements.
🎯 The Science Behind Long-Range Shooting
Long-range shooting isn’t just about pulling the trigger—it’s a combination of advanced physics, ballistics, and environmental awareness.
🔬 Key Factors in Long-Range Shooting:
📏 Bullet Drop – Gravity pulls your bullet downward, so shooters must adjust elevation accordingly.
🌬️ Wind Drift – Wind can push the bullet off-course, so shooters must adjust windage before firing.
🌡️ Temperature & Humidity – Hot air is less dense, meaning less bullet resistance. Cold air slows the bullet down.
🌍 Coriolis Effect – At extreme distances, the Earth’s rotation shifts the bullet’s trajectory.
🔹 The Canadian sniper accounted for ALL of these variables—a level of precision that only comes with years of training and the right gear.
💡 Want to upgrade your long-range shooting setup? Check out these must-have tools:
🔗 Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27×56 – One of the best long-range scopes in the world! 🔭
🎯 Training, Experience & Precision: The Key to Long-Range Shooting
Owning a high-end rifle is only part of the equation. Long-range success depends on:
✅ Extensive training – Learning to read wind, adjust for elevation, and calculate bullet trajectory.
✅ Mental focus – Patience and calm under pressure make all the difference.
✅ Practical experience – Real-world practice separates great shooters from the rest.
💡 Want to improve your skills? Try a rangefinder and sniper training book:
🔗 Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 1400 Laser Rangefinder – Get instant distance and ballistic data.
🔗 “The Ultimate Sniper” by John Plaster – One of the best sniper training books available.
🛡️ The Ultimate Protection for Firearm Owners
Whether you’re an avid shooter or a concealed carrier, being legally protected is just as important as training.
🔹 Want to master self-defense and firearm laws? Take an online concealed carry course with Concealed Carry Academy. 🎯 Sign up here.
🔹 Want 30 days of FREE legal protection for gun owners? 🛡️ Join U.S. LawShield today: Sign up here.
The world’s longest confirmed kill was an unbelievable testament to the skill, training, and discipline of the Canadian sniper. Precision shooting isn’t just about having a great rifle—it’s about understanding science, mastering technique, and staying patient under pressure.
🔹 What’s your personal best long-range shot? Let’s talk about it in the comments!
🔔 Like, share, and subscribe for more Odd Gun Facts!