How to Train to be an Air Force Sniper

Those looking to become snipers in the United States Air Force should take certain steps prior to enlisting to better their chances of getting into the field.

The United States Air Force is known best for its aircraft and flying missions. However, the USAF isn't all about supersonic flight, dropping bombs and dogfighting. The Air Force also employs an increasing number of ground troops, including snipers for use on the battlefield. Becoming an Air Force sniper requires military training that isn't available in the civilian world. There are some things that potential candidates can do, however, to improve their chances of making it to sniper school.

Instructions

1. Get in shape. Enlisting in the USAF requires that candidates be able to pass basic fitness standards in a test administered on a bi-yearly basis and multiple times during Basic Military Training. While passing this test is enough to stay in the Air Force, snipers must often be in even better shape than the minimum standard due to the physical nature of their profession. Start by getting in shape now so that meeting these standards is easier down the road.

2. Practice shooting and become familiar with the use of firearms. While it may seem obvious, shooting a gun is the primary responsibility of all snipers. The Air Force will teach its snipers the basics of firing a sniper rifle, however basic familiarity with firearms will only help candidates as they progress through training.

3. Score well in school and score well on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery. While grades in high school beyond those required to graduate are inconsequential in Air Force enlistment, good study habits will help candidates perform well on the ASVAB. This test will decide what jobs candidates will be eligible for upon enlistment. All Air Force snipers are chosen from the Security Forces field, which requires a minimum general ASVAB score of 33. The better the ASVAB score, the better the chance the enlistee has of getting the job of his choice.

Tips & Warnings

• Becoming a sniper in the Air Force is a dangerous profession that involves potentially killing or being killed by enemy combatants. Those wishing to become snipers should only enlist after considering all the risks that accompany the profession.

References

• United States Air Force: AFI10-248 (Physical Fitness Standards)
• Military.com: ASVAC and Air Force Jobs
• United States Air Force: Security Forces Brochure