DM / Sniper Differences
The DM role differs significantly from that of a specially trained sniper. A sniper is a specialist highly trained in fieldcraft who carries out a range of specific missions independent of others, and more specialized than standard infantry tasks. In contrast, a DM is a soldier who has received some additional marksmanship training. The DM's role is to provide an additional capability to the infantry platoon, which is the ability to engage targets at greater ranges than the other members of the squad or section.
The DM operates as an integral member of the infantry platoon, providing a niche capability contributing to the overall firepower of the platoon in the same way as a grenadier with a rifle-mounted grenade launcher, allowing the team to have a better chance against groups of enemies and armored vehicles; or the machine gunner who employs the squad/section machine gun to lay down suppressing fire for an amount of area denial to the enemy. The DM weapon provides a capability to the infantry platoon in the shape of increased precision at a greater range than that provided by the standard infantry rifle, by virtue of its sighting system and/or larger caliber. By comparison, the sniper role is much more specialized with very comprehensive selection, training and equipment.
Snipers are ordinarily equipped with specialized, purpose-built bolt-action or semi-automatic sniper rifles while DMs are often equipped with accurized battle rifles or assault rifles fitted with optical sights.
Snipers are mainly employed for targets at ranges from 600 metres (660 yd) up to more than 2,000 metres (2,190 yd) using rifles with larger caliber ammunition while DMs are utilized for targets at ranges of up to 600 metres (660 yd) using a rifle chambered with standard-issue rifle ammunition. In addition, snipers often take a fixed strategic position and camouflage themselves (e.g. with a Ghillie suit) while a DM will generally move with his unit and be otherwise equipped in the same way as other members of the infantry platoon.
Read more about this topic: Designated Marksman
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