Martin Pegler's book covers the history of the American rifleman by starting with a history of the rifle itself and the various means by which it was made more accurate. Initially, these weapons were too large and bulky to be aimed as we know it today and were fired from the waist. Accuracy was not the best and it wasn't until more advanced metallurgy allowed for stronger and lighter weapons. The problems with the smoke emitted by the powders used was also a problem and it is from this that the term 'fog of battle' grew, as many of these powders produced 300 times their volume in smoke when ignited. Of course, if firing from a concealed location, this would be a dead giveaway after the first shot.

In the early years of European colonization of North America, many relied on their rifle to bring home game and so it was only natural that frontiersmen would not only demand a more accurate rifle, but become quite adept at its use. It is from these men that the first American sharpshooters came into service during the Revolutionary war. As it was seen how effective a few well trained marksmen were to disrupting the enemy, more and more of these men were brought into service.

From there, the book goes into the various other conflicts the US has been involved with including the Civil War and the many events of the 20th and 21st century. This includes the development of weapons, ammunition and the many aids to accuracy that have been attached to these weapons. This includes information on the current use of trained snipers in today's conflicts.

Overall, a fascinating look at a subject that is somewhat shrouded in mystery. It makes for a great read and is one that I believe you will thoroughly enjoy reading.

March 2009

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