Difference between revisions of "Sniper (competitive)"

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{{Competitive|generic=Sniper}}
 
{{Competitive|generic=Sniper}}
 
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The '''Sniper''' is a situational [[Standard competitive lineup#Utility|utility]] class sometimes used in the [[standard competitive lineup]], valued for his [[pick]]ing and area denial capabilities.
+
The '''Sniper''' is a situational [[Standard competitive lineup#Utility|utility]] class sometimes used in the [[standard competitive lineup]], valued for his [[pick]]ing and area denial capabilities. He is mostly used as a far ranged class and can be deadly from far away in competitive.
  
 
== Information ==
 
== Information ==
 
=== Health ===
 
=== Health ===
{| class="wikitable grid"
+
{{Class health pack and overheal table|overheal|sniper=yes}}
! class="header" | Health State
 
! class="header" | Max Health
 
! class="header" | Overheal Max
 
! class="header" | Pill Bottle
 
! class="header" | First Aid Tin
 
|-
 
! style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Normal
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | <center>'''125''' hit points</center>
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | <center>'''185''' hit points</center>
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | <center>'''+26''' hit points</center>
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | <center>'''+63''' hit points</center>
 
|-
 
! style="background-color:#fffae7;" | [[Sniper weapons (competitive)#Darwin's Danger Shield|Darwin's Danger Shield]] equipped
 
| style="background-color:#fffae7;" | <center>'''150''' hit points</center>
 
| style="background-color:#fffae7;" | <center>'''225''' hit points</center>
 
| style="background-color:#fffae7;" | <center>'''+31''' hit points</center>
 
| style="background-color:#fffae7;" | <center>'''+75''' hit points</center>
 
|}
 
 
 
 
=== Speed ===
 
=== Speed ===
{| class="wikitable grid"
+
{{class speed table|Sniper}}
! class="header" | Movement State
 
! class="header" | Running
 
! class="header" | Backpedaling
 
! class="header" | Swimming
 
! class="header" | Crouching
 
|-
 
! style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Normal
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | '''100%''' (300 u/s)
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | '''90%''' (270 u/s)
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | '''80%''' (240 u/s)
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | '''33.33%''' (100 u/s)
 
|-
 
! style="background-color:#fffae7;" | [[Sniper weapons (competitive)#Sniper rifle|Rifle]]-Scoped
 
| style="background-color:#fffae7;" | '''26.67%''' (80 u/s)
 
| style="background-color:#fffae7;" | '''26.67%''' (80 u/s)
 
| style="background-color:#fffae7;" | '''21.33%''' (64 u/s)
 
| style="background-color:#fffae7;" | '''1.33%''' (4 u/s)
 
|-
 
! style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | [[Sniper weapons (competitive)#Huntsman|Arrow]]-Drawn
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | '''53.33%''' (160 u/s)
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | '''48%''' (144 u/s)
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | -
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | '''17.77%''' (53.33 u/s)
 
|}
 
''Speeds written in "u/s" refer to in-game units per second. When running in a certain direction causes slowness, rapidly switching between diagonals usually improves speed.''
 
 
 
 
=== Weapons ===
 
=== Weapons ===
 
{{main|Sniper weapons (competitive)}}
 
{{main|Sniper weapons (competitive)}}
{| class="wikitable grid"
+
The Sniper uses his Sniper Rifles to deal huge damage on headshots, and otherwise deal large damage at long range.
! class="header" | #
+
{{class weapons table sniper primary}}
! class="header" | Weapon
 
! class="header" | Damage
 
! class="header" | [[Critical hits|Critical]] Damage
 
! class="header" | Function Times
 
! class="header" | Special
 
|-
 
! style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" rowspan="6" | 1
 
! style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | [[Sniper weapons (competitive)#Sniper rifle|Sniper Rifle]] <br>[[Image:Sniper rifle.png|link=Sniper weapons (competitive)#Sniper rifle|70x39px]]
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Uncharged: 50 <br>Charged: 150
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Critical, Uncharged: 150 <br>Critical, Charged: 450 <br>Mini-Crit, Uncharged: 68 <br>Mini-Crit, Charged: 203
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Attack: 1.5s <br>Afterscope Delay: 0.2s <br>Charge Delay: 1.0s <br>Full Charge Time: 4s
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Has no damage falloff or ramp-up. <br>After scoping, headshots won't work for 200ms. <br>The first 1 sec. of charge doesn't increase damage.
 
|-
 
! style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | [[Sniper weapons (competitive)#Huntsman|Huntsman]] <br>[[Image:Huntsman.png|link=Sniper weapons (competitive)#Huntsman|80x49px]]
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Uncharged: 51-53 <br>Charged: 120
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Critical, Uncharged: 153-159 <br>Critical, Charged: 360 <br>Mini-Crit, Uncharged: 69-72 <br>Mini-Crit, Charged: 162
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Attack: 1.94s <br>Inaccuracy Delay: 5.0s <br>Full Charge Time: 1.0s
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Has no damage falloff or ramp-up. <br>Uses target's projectile hitbox. <br>Becomes inaccurate after 5 seconds of charging. <br>Useless underwater; chargeable but not fireable mid-air. <br>Arrows can be ignited by friendly [[Pyro (competitive)|Pyro]] for [[Pyro weapons (competitive)#Afterburn|Afterburn]].
 
|-
 
! style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | [[Sniper weapons (competitive)#Sydney Sleeper|Sydney Sleeper]] <br>[[Image:Sydney Sleeper.png|link=Sniper weapons (competitive)#Sydney Sleeper|70x39px]]
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Uncharged: 50 <br>Charged: 150
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Critical, Uncharged: 150 <br>Critical, Charged: 450 <br>Mini-Crit, Uncharged: 68 <br>Mini-Crit, Charged: 203
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Attack: 1.5s <br>[[Sniper weapons (competitive)#Jarate|Jarate]] Delay: 1.06s
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Has no damage falloff or ramp-up. <br>Shots don't [[headshot]], but can inflict Jarate. <br>Jarate effect applied after first jar icon starts fading. <br> Has a 25% faster charging rate
 
|-
 
! style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | [[Sniper weapons (competitive)#Machina|Machina]] <br>[[Image:Machina.png|link=Sniper weapons (competitive)#Machina|70x39px]]
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Uncharged: 50 <br>Charged: 173
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Critical, Uncharged: 150 <br>Critical, Charged: 518 <br>Mini-Crit, Uncharged: 68 <br>Mini-Crit, Charged: 233
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Attack: 1.5s <br>Afterscope Delay: 0.2s <br>Charge Delay: 1.0s <br>Full Charge Time: 4s
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | 15% extra damage for a fully-charged shot, making it the most powerful.<br>Fires tracer rounds that give the player away more easily.<br>Must be scoped in order to fire.
 
|-
 
! style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | [[Sniper weapons (competitive)#Bazaar Bargain|Bazaar Bargain]] <br>[[Image:Bazaar Bargain.png|link=Sniper weapons (competitive)#Bazaar Bargain|70x39px]]
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Uncharged: 50 <br>Charged: 173
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Critical, Uncharged: 150 <br>Critical, Charged: 518 <br>Mini-Crit, Uncharged: 68 <br>Mini-Crit, Charged: 233
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Attack: 1.5s <br>Afterscope Delay: 0.2s <br>Charge Delay: 1.0s <br>Full Charge Time (0 heads): 5.26s<br>Full Charge Time (7 heads): 1.78s
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | 20% decreased charge time at 0 headshots, or "heads".<br>Each scoped headshot increases the charge time in 10% increments, adding a head.<br>A bodyshot or a miss reduces the bonus by one head.<br>Unscoped shots do not affect the counter.
 
|-
 
! style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | [[Sniper weapons (competitive)#Hitman's Heatmaker|Hitman's Heatmaker]] <br>[[Image:Hitman's Heatmaker.png|link=Sniper weapons (competitive)#Sniper rifle|70x39px]]
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Uncharged: 40 <br>Charged: 140
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Critical, Uncharged: 150 <br>Critical, Charged: 450 <br>Mini-Crit, Uncharged: 68 <br>Mini-Crit, Charged: 203
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Attack: 1.5s <br>Afterscope Delay: 0.2s <br>Charge Delay: 1.0s <br>Full Charge Time: 4s
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Has no damage falloff or ramp-up. <br>After scoping, headshots won't work for 200ms. <br>The first 1 sec. of charge doesn't increase damage. <br>Gain Focus on kills and assists <br>Focus activates on Fire when Focus meter is full <br>In Focus: +25% faster charge rate and no unscoping <br>Headshot kills cause decapitation
 
|-
 
! style="background-color:#fffae7;" rowspan="5" | 2
 
! style="background-color:#fffae7;" | [[Sniper weapons (competitive)#SMG|SMG]] <br>[[Image:SMG IMG.png|link=Sniper weapons (competitive)#SMG|70x39px]]
 
| style="background-color:#fffae7;" | Point-Blank: 12 <br>512u: 8 <br>1024u+: 4
 
| style="background-color:#fffae7;" | Critical: 24 <br>Point-Blank Mini-Crit: 16 <br>512u+ Mini-Crit: 11
 
| style="background-color:#fffae7;" | Attack: 0.1s <br>Reload: 1.1s
 
| style="background-color:#fffae7;" | If unfired in the past 1.25 seconds, shot has perfect accuracy.
 
|-
 
! style="background-color:#fffae7;" | [[Sniper weapons (competitive)#Jarate|Jarate]] <br>[[Image:Jarate cropped.png|link=Sniper weapons (competitive)#Jarate|70x39px]]
 
| style="background-color:#fffae7;" | N/A
 
| style="background-color:#fffae7;" | N/A
 
| style="background-color:#fffae7;" | Effect Duration: 10s <br>Refill Time: 20s
 
| style="background-color:#fffae7;" | Victims suffer Mini-Crits from all attacks during effect. <br>Splash goes through doors and grates. <br>Extinguishes [[fire]] on teammates. <br>Reveals Spies (can't be removed by [[Spy weapons (competitive)#Dead Ringer|DR]], unlike fire). <br>Jarate removed by full immersion in water.
 
|-
 
! style="background-color:#fffae7;" | [[Sniper weapons (competitive)#Razorback|Razorback]] <br>[[Image:Razorback.png|link=Sniper weapons (competitive)#Razorback|70x39px]]
 
| style="background-color:#fffae7;" | N/A
 
| style="background-color:#fffae7;" | N/A
 
| style="background-color:#fffae7;" | [[Spy (competitive)|Spy]] Lockup: 2s
 
| style="background-color:#fffae7;" | Passive, uses Secondary Weapon slot.<br>Spy in lockup can't switch weapons or attack. <br>Only restocks on respawn or resupply.
 
|-
 
! style="background-color:#fffae7;" | [[Sniper weapons (competitive)#Darwin's Danger Shield|Darwin's<br> Danger Shield]] <br>[[Image:Darwin's Danger Shield.png|link=Sniper weapons (competitive)#Darwin Shield|100x69px]]
 
| style="background-color:#fffae7;" | N/A
 
| style="background-color:#fffae7;" | N/A
 
| style="background-color:#fffae7;" | N/A
 
| style="background-color:#fffae7;" | Passive, uses Secondary Weapon slot.<br>Grants wearer +25 max health, thus having 150 total health.
 
|-
 
! style="background-color:#fffae7;" | [[Sniper weapons (competitive)#Cozy Camper|Cozy Camper]] <br>[[Image:Backpack Cozy Camper.png|link=Sniper weapons (competitive)#Cozy Camper|100x69px]]
 
| style="background-color:#fffae7;" | N/A
 
| style="background-color:#fffae7;" | N/A
 
| style="background-color:#fffae7;" | N/A
 
| style="background-color:#fffae7;" | Passive, uses Secondary Weapon slot.<br>No flinching when aiming.<br>Knockback reduced by 20% when aiming.<br> Move speed slowed by 80% when aiming.
 
|-
 
! style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" rowspan="6" | 3
 
! style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | [[Sniper weapons (competitive)#Kukri|Kukri]] <br>[[Image:Kukri IMG.png|link=Sniper weapons (competitive)#Kukri|70x39px]]
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Melee: 65
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Critical: 195 <br>Mini-Crit: 88
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Attack: 0.8s
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Completely standard melee weapon.
 
|-
 
! style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | [[Sniper weapons (competitive)#Tribalman's shiv|Tribalman's Shiv]] <br>[[Image:Tribalman's shiv.png|link=Sniper weapons (competitive)#Tribalman's shiv|70x39px]]
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Melee: 42 <br>Bleed: 4/hit
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Critical Melee: 127 <br>Mini-Crit Melee: 57 <br>Mini-Crit Bleed: 5/hit
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Attack: 0.8s <br>Bleed Hit: 0.5s <br>Bleed Duration: 6.0s
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Inflicts [[Bleeding]] on hit; total bleed damage 48 (Mini-Crit 60). <br>Bleed effect purged by [[ÜberCharge (competitive)|Über/Kritz]].
 
|-
 
! style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | [[Sniper weapons (competitive)#Bushwacka|Bushwacka]] <br>[[Image:Bushwacka.png|link=Sniper weapons (competitive)#Bushwacka|70x39px]]
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Melee: 65
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Critical: 195
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Attack: 0.8s
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Crits whenever it would Mini-Crit. <br>Gives 20% fire vulnerability while equipped.
 
|-
 
! style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | [[Sniper weapons (competitive)#Shahanshah|Shahanshah]] <br>[[Image:Shahanshah.PNG|link=Sniper weapons (competitive)#Shahanshah|70x39px]]
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Melee: {{tooltip|49|Greater than or equal to 50% Health}} / {{tooltip|81|Less than 50% Health}}
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Critical: {{tooltip|146|Greater than or equal to 50% Health}} / {{tooltip|244|Less than 50% Health}} <br>Mini-Crit: {{tooltip|57-76|Greater than or equal to 50% Health}} / {{tooltip|94-126|Less than 50% Health}}
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Attack: 0.8s
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | +25% increase in damage when health is less than 50% of max. <br>-25% decrease in damage when health is more than 50% of max.
 
|-
 
! style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | [[Sniper weapons (competitive)#Saxxy|Saxxy]] <br>[[Image:Saxxy.png|link=Sniper weapons (competitive)#Saxxy|70x39px]]
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Melee: 65
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Critical: 195 <br>Mini-Crit: 88
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Attack: 0.8s
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Limited item from [[Replay Update]].<br>Statistically identical to [[Sniper weapons (competitive)#Kukri|Kukri]].<br>Enemies killed by weapon turn gold on death instead of ragdolling.
 
|-
 
! style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | [[Sniper weapons (competitive)#Conscientious Objector|Conscientious Objector]] <br>[[Image:Conscientious Objector.png|link=Sniper weapons (competitive)#Conscientious Objector|70x39px]]
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Melee: 65
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Critical: 195 <br>Mini-Crit: 88
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Attack: 0.8s
 
| style="background-color:#FFF4CC;" | Statistically identical to [[Sniper weapons (competitive)#Kukri|Kukri]].
 
|}
 
:''"u" stands for "units of distance." "+" stands for "or more." "s" stands for "seconds." "Reload Start" refers to how long it takes for 1 ammo to be reloaded after beginning to reload, and "Reload More" refers to how long it takes for each additional ammo to reload after the first. Damages and times are approximate and determined by community testing.
 
 
 
 
== Usage ==
 
== Usage ==
 
The role of the Sniper is simple: Kill key enemy targets. Every [[pick]] that a Sniper makes will reduce the enemy's numbers by one, which is significant in competitive Team Fortress 2 due to the role that every team member plays. The enemy [[Medic (competitive)|Medic]] will always be the highest priority target for Snipers. A fully charged [[Sniper Rifle]] bodyshot and an uncharged [[headshot]] are the preferred methods of killing Medics, as both shots deal exactly 150 damage. A team that runs a Sniper will generally swap out a [[Scout (competitive)|Scout]] for one, though on specific maps where Scouts are important, the roaming Soldier may change to Sniper instead.
 
The role of the Sniper is simple: Kill key enemy targets. Every [[pick]] that a Sniper makes will reduce the enemy's numbers by one, which is significant in competitive Team Fortress 2 due to the role that every team member plays. The enemy [[Medic (competitive)|Medic]] will always be the highest priority target for Snipers. A fully charged [[Sniper Rifle]] bodyshot and an uncharged [[headshot]] are the preferred methods of killing Medics, as both shots deal exactly 150 damage. A team that runs a Sniper will generally swap out a [[Scout (competitive)|Scout]] for one, though on specific maps where Scouts are important, the roaming Soldier may change to Sniper instead.
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*'''Immediate threats''': Any target immediately trying to kill you (generally a Scout), and particularly enemy Snipers.
 
*'''Immediate threats''': Any target immediately trying to kill you (generally a Scout), and particularly enemy Snipers.
 
*'''Medics''': A fully charged bodyshot will work just as well as a headshot in taking out the most important class on the enemy team.
 
*'''Medics''': A fully charged bodyshot will work just as well as a headshot in taking out the most important class on the enemy team.
*'''[[Demoman (competitive)|Demomen]]''': Snipers can cripple the enemy's damage output by killing their Demoman. A pick on him is also an efficient way of removing his [[sticky bombs|stickies]].
+
*'''[[Demoman (competitive)|Demomen]]''': Snipers can cripple the enemy's damage output by killing their Demoman. A pick on him is also an efficient way of removing his stickies.
 
*'''[[Soldier (competitive)|Soldiers]] and [[Heavy (competitive)|Heavies]]''': Big heads and slow movement speeds make Soldiers and Heavies rather vulnerable to the Sniper Rifle. A pick on these players is important due to their ability to tank damage.
 
*'''[[Soldier (competitive)|Soldiers]] and [[Heavy (competitive)|Heavies]]''': Big heads and slow movement speeds make Soldiers and Heavies rather vulnerable to the Sniper Rifle. A pick on these players is important due to their ability to tank damage.
 
*'''[[Engineer (competitive)|Engineers]] and their buildings''': Usually, a team's Demomen or Soldiers can easily take care of Engineers and their Sentry Guns, but a Sniper can work just as well, killing the Engineer with a single headshot or charged bodyshot.
 
*'''[[Engineer (competitive)|Engineers]] and their buildings''': Usually, a team's Demomen or Soldiers can easily take care of Engineers and their Sentry Guns, but a Sniper can work just as well, killing the Engineer with a single headshot or charged bodyshot.
*'''Scouts''': A fully charged bodyshot is probably the most reliable way of taking an enemy Scout out of the game. A pick on them takes pressure not only off the Sniper himself, but also off his team's Medic and Demoman.
+
*'''Scouts''': A fully charged bodyshot is probably the most reliable way of taking an enemy Scout out of the game. A pick on them takes pressure not only off the Sniper himself, but also off your team's Medic and Demoman.
 
*'''Other [[Utility|Utilities]]''': Another player dead on the opposing team is always good. Snipers should target the more important players first before spending the time and effort to kill other utilities.
 
*'''Other [[Utility|Utilities]]''': Another player dead on the opposing team is always good. Snipers should target the more important players first before spending the time and effort to kill other utilities.
 
*'''Stickies''': If the Demoman is absent, a Sniper can safely remove his sticky bombs from a control point and possibly allow a [[back-capping|back-cap]]. This is particularly useful on the last points of 5-CP maps, which cap very quickly.
 
*'''Stickies''': If the Demoman is absent, a Sniper can safely remove his sticky bombs from a control point and possibly allow a [[back-capping|back-cap]]. This is particularly useful on the last points of 5-CP maps, which cap very quickly.
Line 194: Line 36:
 
Attack/Defend maps are where Snipers can truly shine. [[Gravel Pit (competitive)|Gravel Pit]] is really the only Attack/Defend map that sees a good amount of competitive play, and relatively long sight-lines at points B and C allow both attackers and defenders to get the most out of running a Sniper.
 
Attack/Defend maps are where Snipers can truly shine. [[Gravel Pit (competitive)|Gravel Pit]] is really the only Attack/Defend map that sees a good amount of competitive play, and relatively long sight-lines at points B and C allow both attackers and defenders to get the most out of running a Sniper.
  
In particular, if an attacking team moves on to attack B via the rooms from point C, a Sniper can take advantage of the long open area around B and get a few picks. In general, Snipers defending on Attack/Defend maps should have an easier time than they do on 5-CP maps. Sticking behind the team allows a Sniper on Defense to safely charge up a shot, without too much harassment from [[Scout (competitive)|Scouts]], especially if their team is using an Engineer, as the Sentry Gun provides a fine defense against enemy Scouts.
+
In particular, if an attacking team moves on to attack B via the rooms from point C, a Sniper can take advantage of the long open area around B and get a few picks. In general, Snipers defending on Attack/Defend maps should have an easier time than they do on 5-CP maps. Sticking behind the team allows a Sniper on Defense to safely charge up a shot, without too much harassment from [[Scout (competitive)|Scouts]], especially if their team is using an Engineer, as the Sentry Gun provides a fine defense against enemy Scouts. Hiding in buildings and behind  props the map has can also help a sniper make an essential kill. If the enemy team does not see a sniper, they are more likely to be vulnerable and careless.  
  
 
One tactic that may be useful for defending Snipers is attempting to get a pick at the very beginning of a round, right when setup time ends. Defending Snipers have the option of placing themselves so that they can see the gates from the BLU spawn area to point A and can potentially score a pick in the first seconds of the match. While this strategy may be a major boon to the defending team if the Sniper manages to kill the enemy [[Medic (competitive)|Medic]] and deprive attackers of an [[ÜberCharge (competitive)|ÜberCharge]], it is also incredibly dangerous for the Sniper, and will most likely result in his death. This can be problematic if the attacking team decides to push on B first, while the defending team is at a numerical disadvantage, lacking one of their utility players.
 
One tactic that may be useful for defending Snipers is attempting to get a pick at the very beginning of a round, right when setup time ends. Defending Snipers have the option of placing themselves so that they can see the gates from the BLU spawn area to point A and can potentially score a pick in the first seconds of the match. While this strategy may be a major boon to the defending team if the Sniper manages to kill the enemy [[Medic (competitive)|Medic]] and deprive attackers of an [[ÜberCharge (competitive)|ÜberCharge]], it is also incredibly dangerous for the Sniper, and will most likely result in his death. This can be problematic if the attacking team decides to push on B first, while the defending team is at a numerical disadvantage, lacking one of their utility players.
  
=== Capture-the-Flag Strategies ===
+
== Anti-Sniper Classes ==
Due to his tendency to get [[pick]]ed easily while advancing, a Sniper may prove more useful defending his own team's [[intelligence]] than he will attacking the enemy team's, but he shouldn't hesitate to move up and pick a key player when his team pushes into the enemy Intelligence room.
+
 
 +
===The Scout===
 +
 
 +
It is difficult for a sniper to hit a Scout with a sniper rifle, due to their high speed. They can also drink Bonk! Atomic Punch to protect themselves from headshots, making it easier to close the distance between the two of them. They can also counter the Sniper’s jarate with Mad Milk.
  
If the Sniper happens to pick up the enemy intelligence himself when there is a teammate nearby, it may be wise to have him drop the intelligence (default key "l") and allow the friendly player to take it back to the Intelligence room, due to the ease with which enemies can kill a fleeing Sniper.
+
===The Spy===
  
When defending his own team's intelligence, a Sniper should remain in a safe area where he can see the intelligence and most incoming threats. This way, he will be able to charge up a shot without being attacked and bodyshot a Scout or Medic going for the intelligence, killing them before they reach it. This is easier in a Capture-the-Flag game than in other game types, due to the long, unobstructed hallways and relatively open center area in [[Turbine (Competitive)|Turbine]], the most played competitive CTF map.
+
As a Sniper does not normally pay attention to what is going on behind them, it is not difficult for a Spy to backstab them. This can be countered by the Razorback, but a Spy is capable of headshotting a Sniper, just as Snipers themselves can. However, if alerted to their presence, the Sniper can nullify a Spy’s cloak with Jarate. They can also spy check players with the Tribalman’s Shiv.
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==

Latest revision as of 19:33, 27 April 2023

Sniper.png
This article is for competitive play, based on the standard community competitive format. For the generic article on this topic, see: Sniper.
The community competitive scene changes frequently. Some or all info may be outdated.

The Sniper is a situational utility class sometimes used in the standard competitive lineup, valued for his picking and area denial capabilities. He is mostly used as a far ranged class and can be deadly from far away in competitive.

Information

Health

Class Health Overheal Quick-Fix Overheal
Leaderboard class sniper.png Sniper 125 185 158

Speed

Condition Normal Backward Crouched Swimming
Leaderboard class sniper.png Sniper
100 %
90 %
33 %
80 %
With any Rifle, except the Classic, zoomed in
27 %
27 %
9 %
21 %
Charging the Classic at either zoom level
27 %
27 %
9 %
21 %
With the Huntsman drawn
53 %
53 %
18 %
N/A

Weapons

Main article: Sniper weapons (competitive)

The Sniper uses his Sniper Rifles to deal huge damage on headshots, and otherwise deal large damage at long range.

Primary

Weapon Kill icon Ammo
Loaded
Ammo
Carried
Damage Range Notes / Special Abilities
Sniper Rifle
Stock
Sniper Rifle
Killicon sniper rifle.png 25 N/A Base:
50150

Headshot:
150450

Pictogram info.png Charges while zoomed.

Pictogram plus.png Critical hits are guaranteed for headshots.
Pictogram minus.png No random critical hits.

Killicon sniperriflehs.png
AWPer Hand
Promotional / Craft
AWPer Hand
Killicon sniper rifle.png
Killicon sniperriflehs.png
Huntsman
Unlock
Huntsman
Killicon huntsman.png 1 12 Base:
50120

Headshot:
150360

Pictogram info.png Bullets replaced with an arrow projectile.

Pictogram info.png Hold primary fire to draw (and charge) the arrow; press secondary fire to retract the arrow.
Pictogram plus.png Critical hits are guaranteed for headshots.
Pictogram plus.png No laser pointer indicator.
Pictogram plus.png Friendly Pyros can light arrows to add fire damage.
Pictogram plus.png -70% maximum charge time.
Pictogram plus.png +96% charging movement speed (total of 53% movement speed while charging)
Pictogram minus.png -20% maximum charge damage.

Pictogram info.png Base damage unchanged.

Pictogram minus.png -48% total ammo.
Pictogram minus.png No random critical hits.
Pictogram minus.png Arrows can be reflected, shot down, and vaporized.
Pictogram minus.png Arrows lose their accuracy if the bow is drawn for more than 5 seconds.
Pictogram info.png Arrows can pin enemies to a wall upon being killed (purely cosmetic feature).

Killicon huntsmanhs.png
Killicon flaming huntsman.png
Killicon flaming huntsman afterburn.png
Fortified Compound
Promotional
Fortified Compound
Killicon huntsman.png
Killicon huntsmanhs.png
Killicon flaming huntsman.png
Killicon flaming huntsman afterburn.png
Sydney Sleeper
Craft
Sydney Sleeper
Killicon sydney sleeper.png 25 N/A Base:
50150
Pictogram info.png Charges while zoomed.

Pictogram plus.png On scoped hit, applies Jarate effect to the target for 2 to 5 seconds based on amount charged.
Pictogram plus.png Charge rate increased 25%.
Pictogram plus.png Nature's Call: Scoped headshots always mini-crit and reduce the remaining cooldown of Jarate by 1 second.
Pictogram plus.png Scoped shots extinguish flames on wielder and allied players.
Pictogram minus.png Headshots do not crit.
Pictogram minus.png No random critical hits.

Bazaar Bargain
Craft
Bazaar Bargain
Killicon bazaar bargain.png 25 N/A Base:
50150

Headshot:
150450

Pictogram info.png Charges while zoomed.

Pictogram plus.png Critical hits are guaranteed for headshots.
Pictogram plus.png Each scoped headshot kill increases the weapon's charge rate by 25% up to 200%.
Pictogram minus.png No random critical hits.
Pictogram minus.png -50% base charge rate penalty.

Killicon sniperriflehs.png
Machina
Promotional / Craft
Machina
Killicon machina.png 25 N/A Base:
50173

Headshot:
150518

Pictogram info.png Charges while zoomed.

Pictogram plus.png Critical hits are guaranteed for headshots.
Pictogram plus.png Fully charged shots deal +15% damage.
Pictogram plus.png Fully charged shots penetrate players and damage enemies behind them.
Pictogram minus.png Only fires when zoomed.
Pictogram minus.png Shots leave a bright, easily traceable team-colored line behind them.
Pictogram minus.png No random critical hits.

Killicon sniperriflehs.png
Killicon machina penetrate.png
Killicon machina penetratehs.png
Shooting Star
Uncrate
Shooting Star
Killicon shooting star.png
Killicon sniperriflehs.png
Killicon machina penetrate.png
Killicon machina penetratehs.png
Hitman's Heatmaker
Craft
Hitman's Heatmaker
Killicon hitman's heatmaker.png 25 N/A Base:
40120

Headshot:
150450

Pictogram info.png Charges while zoomed.

Pictogram info.png Shots are more quiet.
Pictogram plus.png Critical hits are guaranteed for headshots.
Pictogram plus.png Gain Focus on kills and assists.
Pictogram plus.png Press 'Reload' to activate focus.
Pictogram info.png When Focus is active:

Pictogram info.png Doesn't unscope between shots.
Pictogram plus.png +25% faster charge rate.
Pictogram minus.png Shots leave a bright, easily traceable team-colored line behind them.

Pictogram minus.png -20% damage penalty on body shot.
Pictogram minus.png No random critical hits.
Pictogram info.png Headshot kills cause decapitation.

Killicon sniperriflehs.png
Classic
Craft
Classic
Killicon classic.png 25 N/A Base:
45135

Headshot:
50450

Pictogram info.png Does not automatically start charging when zoomed.

Pictogram info.png Hold down fire button to charge, release to fire.
Pictogram info.png Doesn't unscope between shots.
Pictogram plus.png Critical hits are guaranteed for headshots.
Pictogram plus.png Can charge without zooming.
Pictogram minus.png Cannot headshot unless fully charged.
Pictogram minus.png -10% damage penalty on body shot.
Pictogram minus.png Shots leave a dim, clear line behind them.
Pictogram minus.png No random critical hits.
Pictogram info.png Charged shots will gib victims.

Killicon sniperriflehs.png

Usage

The role of the Sniper is simple: Kill key enemy targets. Every pick that a Sniper makes will reduce the enemy's numbers by one, which is significant in competitive Team Fortress 2 due to the role that every team member plays. The enemy Medic will always be the highest priority target for Snipers. A fully charged Sniper Rifle bodyshot and an uncharged headshot are the preferred methods of killing Medics, as both shots deal exactly 150 damage. A team that runs a Sniper will generally swap out a Scout for one, though on specific maps where Scouts are important, the roaming Soldier may change to Sniper instead.

Common Tactics

The kill order in competitive TF2 is slightly different from the kill order in casual play.

  • Immediate threats: Any target immediately trying to kill you (generally a Scout), and particularly enemy Snipers.
  • Medics: A fully charged bodyshot will work just as well as a headshot in taking out the most important class on the enemy team.
  • Demomen: Snipers can cripple the enemy's damage output by killing their Demoman. A pick on him is also an efficient way of removing his stickies.
  • Soldiers and Heavies: Big heads and slow movement speeds make Soldiers and Heavies rather vulnerable to the Sniper Rifle. A pick on these players is important due to their ability to tank damage.
  • Engineers and their buildings: Usually, a team's Demomen or Soldiers can easily take care of Engineers and their Sentry Guns, but a Sniper can work just as well, killing the Engineer with a single headshot or charged bodyshot.
  • Scouts: A fully charged bodyshot is probably the most reliable way of taking an enemy Scout out of the game. A pick on them takes pressure not only off the Sniper himself, but also off your team's Medic and Demoman.
  • Other Utilities: Another player dead on the opposing team is always good. Snipers should target the more important players first before spending the time and effort to kill other utilities.
  • Stickies: If the Demoman is absent, a Sniper can safely remove his sticky bombs from a control point and possibly allow a back-cap. This is particularly useful on the last points of 5-CP maps, which cap very quickly.

5-CP Push Strategies

The Sniper's inability to defend himself is one of his key impediments to seeing regular use in competitive play. This is especially evident on 5-CP maps, where it is somewhat difficult to stay far enough behind the team to safely eliminate key players while keeping up closely enough to prevent getting picked by enemy Scouts as they run off completely unharmed. Utility players should make sure that they chose the right time and place to switch to Sniper, because if a team decides to push forward quickly or desperately hold an area, it may be doing so without the help of one of its Scouts.

If attacking the final point, Snipers should not hesitate to use their Sniper Rifle to eliminate sticky bombs covering the point. If the enemy is unaware, this could easily lead to a back-cap by a friendly Scout. This is especially useful on maps with enclosed final points such as Badlands. The Sniper is often used to get a pick when the team is pushing the enemy's last point: this makes it easier for them to cap due to the sudden player advantage. Even if the Sniper doesn't manage to kill anyone he can still force the enemy team to adapt and ensure that they play more passively in order to reduce the risk of getting sniped.

Attack-Defend Strategies

Attack/Defend maps are where Snipers can truly shine. Gravel Pit is really the only Attack/Defend map that sees a good amount of competitive play, and relatively long sight-lines at points B and C allow both attackers and defenders to get the most out of running a Sniper.

In particular, if an attacking team moves on to attack B via the rooms from point C, a Sniper can take advantage of the long open area around B and get a few picks. In general, Snipers defending on Attack/Defend maps should have an easier time than they do on 5-CP maps. Sticking behind the team allows a Sniper on Defense to safely charge up a shot, without too much harassment from Scouts, especially if their team is using an Engineer, as the Sentry Gun provides a fine defense against enemy Scouts. Hiding in buildings and behind props the map has can also help a sniper make an essential kill. If the enemy team does not see a sniper, they are more likely to be vulnerable and careless.

One tactic that may be useful for defending Snipers is attempting to get a pick at the very beginning of a round, right when setup time ends. Defending Snipers have the option of placing themselves so that they can see the gates from the BLU spawn area to point A and can potentially score a pick in the first seconds of the match. While this strategy may be a major boon to the defending team if the Sniper manages to kill the enemy Medic and deprive attackers of an ÜberCharge, it is also incredibly dangerous for the Sniper, and will most likely result in his death. This can be problematic if the attacking team decides to push on B first, while the defending team is at a numerical disadvantage, lacking one of their utility players.

Anti-Sniper Classes

The Scout

It is difficult for a sniper to hit a Scout with a sniper rifle, due to their high speed. They can also drink Bonk! Atomic Punch to protect themselves from headshots, making it easier to close the distance between the two of them. They can also counter the Sniper’s jarate with Mad Milk.

The Spy

As a Sniper does not normally pay attention to what is going on behind them, it is not difficult for a Spy to backstab them. This can be countered by the Razorback, but a Spy is capable of headshotting a Sniper, just as Snipers themselves can. However, if alerted to their presence, the Sniper can nullify a Spy’s cloak with Jarate. They can also spy check players with the Tribalman’s Shiv.

See also