As an expert in military training and operations, I can provide an overview of the sniper training process in the U.S. Army, although the specifics can vary depending on the time and the particularities of the training program. It's important to note that training lengths and methods can evolve over time, but the information I provide will be based on the general structure and duration of sniper training as it's been known up to the knowledge cutoff date. **Sniper Training in the U.S. Army: An Overview** The U.S. Army Sniper School is a prestigious and rigorous training program designed to develop the skills and expertise of soldiers who aspire to become snipers. The training is not just about marksmanship; it encompasses a wide range of skills that are critical for a sniper's role on the battlefield. ### Duration of Training The length of the training at the U.S. Army Sniper School, as mentioned in the reference, was traditionally seven weeks long. This intensive program is designed to push soldiers to their limits and equip them with the necessary skills to operate effectively as a sniper. The seven-week period is packed with theoretical instruction, practical exercises, and field training that cover various aspects of sniping, including but not limited to: 1. Marksmanship: Snipers must be experts in long-range shooting, which involves not only accuracy but also understanding the effects of wind, elevation, and other environmental factors on a bullet's trajectory. 2. Camouflage and Concealment: Snipers learn how to blend into their surroundings to avoid detection, using natural materials and specialized equipment. 3. Fieldcraft: This includes survival skills, navigation, and the ability to move stealthily through various terrains. 4. Observation and Target Detection: Snipers must be adept at spotting targets from a distance, often using advanced optics and sometimes with the naked eye. 5. Stalking: The art of getting into a position to take a shot without being detected. 6. First Aid and Trauma Care: Snipers often operate alone or in small teams, so they need to be able to provide medical care in the field. 7. Communication and Reporting: Effective communication with team members and command is crucial for coordinating actions and relaying vital information. 8. Ethics and Law of War: Snipers are taught the importance of adhering to the rules of engagement and the ethical considerations of their role. ### Eligibility and Selection The U.S. Army Sniper School is open to soldiers from various Military Occupational Specialties (MOS), including those in the Infantry (11 series), Special Forces (18 series), and Cavalry Scouts (19D). Candidates must meet certain prerequisites, which may include physical fitness standards, marksmanship qualifications, and a security clearance. ### Equipment The reference to the XM2010 sniper rifle, which replaced the older M24 Sniper Weapon System, indicates the importance of equipment in a sniper's training. Familiarity with the latest sniper rifles, their maintenance, and their effective use is a critical part of the training curriculum. ### Post-Graduation Upon successful completion of the course, graduates are awarded the MOS of 13B (Infantryman - Sniper) and are prepared to integrate into their units as skilled snipers. They continue to hone their skills through ongoing training and real-world experience. ### Conclusion The U.S. Army Sniper School represents the pinnacle of sniper training, offering a comprehensive program that covers all the skills necessary for a soldier to become an effective sniper. The seven-week training period is just the beginning; the commitment to excellence and ongoing improvement is a hallmark of the sniper community. read more >>

The U.S. Army issued three XM2010s to snipers at the United States Army Sniper School 18 January 2011. The school is seven weeks long and is open to Active Duty, Reserves, and National Guard. Students must be in MOS series of 11 (Infantry), 18 (Special Forces), or 19D (Cav Scout).read more >>