Best Sniper Rifles in Battlefield 4 – The Ultimate Guide
Introduction
Sniping in Battlefield 4 can be an extremely lethal and satisfying gameplay style when executed correctly. Mastering sniper rifles in BF4 takes precision, stealth, map awareness and most importantly – finding the right rifle suited for your style.
In this extensive guide, we will be breaking down the top 9 sniper rifles in Battlefield 4 based on key statistics and real in-game performance. For each rifle, we will analyze the raw hard stats, examine nuances that gameplay footage can‘t show, and provide custom loadout and gameplay recommendations to maximize your effectiveness. Let‘s get started!
Rifle Evaluation Criteria
When rating and comparing sniper rifles in Battlefield 4, some important factors we consider are:
Damage Profile – The maximum and minimum bullet damage at different ranges. Higher is better.
Muzzle Velocity – The speed that a bullet travels when fired. Higher velocity means less bullet drop and lead time needed at range.
Rate of Fire – The firing rate, usually measured in rounds per minute (RPM). Generally less important for bolt action rifles.
Recoil Patterns – How much visual kick occurs when firing. Easier patterns improve accuracy for rapid follow up shots.
Accessory Options – Important for customizing and enhancing each rifle‘s capabilities.
Now that we understand the criteria, let‘s get into the detailed breakdown and analysis, starting with number 9 on our list leading up to the top sniper rifle in BF4.
- Scout Elite
A newer rifle introduced later in BF4‘s lifecycle, the Scout Elite offers aggressive & mobile focused capabilities for ptfo recon players. The baseline stats are:
Damage Profile: 80 max / 60 min damage
Muzzle Velocity: 630 m/s
Rate of Fire: 74 RPM
Straight Pull Bolt: Yes
Analyzing the statistics tells a compelling story around the ideal engagement distance and how to properly utilize the Scout Elite based on its ballistic attributes:
Muzzle velocity of 630 m/s is on the lower end of sniper rifles, indicating increased bullet drop past 400 meter range. This is offset by higher than average base damage for its weapon class.
The combination shows the Scout Elite excels under 300 meters for rapid fire chest shot kills. The straight pull bolt enables fast follow up shots on multiple close-medium range targets.
Ideal Engagement Bracket: <300 meters
Positioning: Flank around objectives for short-mid range support
Aim: Centre mass chest shots for quickest TTK
Loadout Tips:
Optic: 3.4x or 4x scope offers clear sight picture for closer moving targets without slowing ADS too much. The lower zoom also helps with target acquisition firing from non-prone positions.
Accessories: Straight pull bolt, laser sight for improved hip fire accuracy
Barrel: Suppressor to avoid minimap detection when being aggressive behind enemy lines
Overall the Scout Elite provides exciting run & gun capabilities paired with the precision of a bolt action sniper rifle. This all-kit utility helps contribute in unique ways compared to traditional long range oriented recon.
Now let‘s move on to cover an underrated option for extreme distance shooting…
- L115
Somewhat forgotten since launch, the L115 brings excellent balanced capabilities to experienced snipers. The core statistics tell a promising story:
Damage Profile: 88 max / 74 min
Muzzle Velocity: 630 m/s
Rate of Fire: 46 RPM
A 630 m/s muzzle velocity combined with a high magnification scope can reliably reach out to enemy targets at long distances thanks to the flat trajectory with minimal bullet drop. The default scope on the L115 provides 20x zoom matched with very clear optics for visualizing human-sized targets at 400+ meters.
While damage over range is middling compared to heavier hitting alternatives, it still provides reliable one hit kills to the chest past 300 meters. This effective damage range paired with fast cycling bolt action allows aggressive follow up shots. Even if slightly missing the mark, clean up shots connect quickly before the target can react.
When you need balanced performance for mid-long range without compromising rate of fire, the L115 is a powerful contender in skilled hands. Dialing in horizontal lead on distant enemies then chaining successive chest shots provides extremely efficient killing potential.
- CS-LR4
Despite being the first sniper rifle unlocked, the CS-LR4 remains viable in skilled hands, especially newer recon players. The balanced statistics indicate versatility:
Damage Profile: 80 max / 60 min
Muzzle Velocity: 620m/s
Rate of Fire: 43 RPM
Default scope optics provide clear sight picture without high magnification tunnel vision. Relatively light recoil eases realigning follow up shots on target. These attributes combine into a smooth, forgiving shooting experience with decent mid range optics.
A 620 m/s muzzle velocity and lower sway intrinsically reward mobile play, tracking laterally moving targets for cleaner snapshots compared to faster bolt action alternatives. Moderate bullet drop dials in familiar trajectory for novices adapting from assault rifles before transitioning to more extreme velocity profiles.
Overall, the CS-LR4 brings accessibility for newer recon fans while maintaining respected performance relying more on precise aiming fundamentals rather than advanced ballistic experience. Use as a stepping stone for easing into sniping then leveling up to heavy-hitting advanced options.
Now onto the top contenders…
- 338 Recon
The 338 Recon dials precision up to 11 with the sharpest shooting experience in Battlefield 4. Let‘s analyze the stats:
Damage Profile: 93 max / 75 min
Muzzle Velocity: 650 m/s
Rate of Fire: 43 RPM
Right away we see a best-in-class 650 m/s round that cuts through wind and drops less over distances compared to alternatives. This allows us to reach out and touch enemies at surprising ranges thinking they are safe. The higher 75 minimum damage also helps finish kills if slightly missing original aim point.
Aiming stability and sway control makes chaining successive shots borderline effortless. Recoil visual disturbance is minimal, keeping reticle right on target for immediate follow ups. These traits combine for arguably the most objectively precise long distance shooting unmatched within typical recon engagement brackets.
Loadout recommendations to further improve the 338 Recon include:
Optic: 20x scope for easily scanning and sampling entire map areas without visible magnification distortion when aiming down sights. Provides clearer situational awareness over 26x+ alternatives losing peripheral vision.
Accessories: Straight pull bolt for keeping eyes peered down scope without losing visuals when cycling next round. Laser pointer improves off-hand hip shooting especially with high power 1 hit kill capability.
The 338 Recon‘s brilliant precision shooting makes reads on adjusting elevation and wind variables intuitive rather than overtly technical. Your effectiveness depends more on positioning and strategy over complex corrections. Excels even for newer players when supporting objectives from hidden vantage points.
- SRR 61
Trusted worldwide by professional military snipers, the SRR 61 upholds its reputation delivering benchrest precision translated into mobile recon combat. The baseline statistics says it all:
Damage Profile: 110 max / 80 min
Muzzle Velocity: 670 m/s
Rate of Fire: 51 RPM
Immediately we see very high damage paired with 670 m/s high velocity rounds for lessened bullet drop, both contributing for immense range. The combination proves extremely lethal at long distances – capable of one hit kills with chest shots nearing and sometimes exceeding 700+ meters based on enemy health/armor.
The straight pull bolt allows minimal time between shots for locking down long lines of sight across the map to support advancing teammates. Even through intense firefights, expert marksmen can zone into the SRR 61‘s optics for clean follow ups rather than fumbling with cycling rounds.
Loadout recommendations:
Optic: 20x or higher depending on engagement distance, 40x for extreme 700m+ shots
Accessories: Straight pull, rangefinder, bipod for stabilization during long scans
The SRR 61 arguably has the best objective ballistic performance combined for 1 hit kills at extreme distances in BF4. Use tall buildings for overwatch and cleanly pick off enemies through narrow strafes and micro corrections. Just be wary as scope glint can attract enemy snipers.
- CS-LR4
While technically a starter rifle, the CS-LR4 remains a formidable tool. The balanced combination of stats indicate versatility across multiple play styles:
Damage Profile: 80 max / 60 min
Muzzle Velocity: 620 m/s
Rate of Fire: 43 RPM
A 620 m/s sweet spot velocity provides predictable bullet lead letting you zone into targets moving laterally across your field of view. The CS keeps recoil minimal which is invaluable for landing successive shots on scattered infantry.
Among top-tier contenders, the CS-LR4 holds its own by being one of the friendliest options to newer players and helps establish fundamentals before moving to more extreme velocity profiles demanding intricate experience calculating adjustments.
The full accessory options let you customize adapting into multiple roles:
Close range: laser sight, 1x holo optic
Mid range: 4x scope, straight pull bolt
Long range: bipod, rangefinder, 12x+ zoom
These example configurations demonstrate the flexibility of the CS-LR4 to contribute in unique ways during intense objective firefights.
Many lifelong snipers in BF4 still main the CS-LR4 since reliably chaining chest shots simply gets results when your team needs support. Consider the CS-LR4 a “Jack of All Trades” – a perfect jumping on point for recon players.
Now for the final 3 podium placements…drum roll please! 🥁
- FY-JS
Criminally underrated by the community since launch, the FY-JS brings excellence in all areas making a strong case for the secret best sniper rifle in BF4. Let‘s analyze the stats:
Damage Profile: 93 max / 75 min
Muzzle Velocity: 620 m/s
Rate of Fire: 52 RPM
The genius of the FY-JS lies in the faster 52 RPM bolt cycling combined with high damage and 620 meter standard velocity. You get all strengths with no weaknesses – a true all-kit sniper rifle.
The 620 m/s speed maintains flat trajectory forgiving slightly misplaced shots while retaining lethal range. Increased peripheral vision from the scope keeps you agile and mobile mid firefight. The high damage + fast fire rate rewards flawlessly chaining headshots to wipe squads.
The straight pull bolt optimization lets you erase groups of enemies pushing objectives faster than they can find cover. With ammo boxes replenishing your rounds quickly, you can provide nearly constant precise fire support.
Overall the FY-JS arguably brings the most pure well-rounded capability set to adapt on the fly. If mastered, few situations on the battlefield can overwhelm an expert FY-JS marksman.
- SR338
Firing the unique .338 Lapua Magnum round, the SR338 changes Battlefield‘s typical deliberate pace with overwhelming semi-automatic fire. The headline statistics says everything:
Damage Profile: 110 max / 80 min
Muzzle Velocity: 570 m/s
Rate of Fire: 74 RPM
The combination of extreme close damage and unprecedented semi-auto ROF exceeds all other rifles on paper. You can aggressively pick apart groups before they recognize where shots originate. The built-in reddot reflex sight also enables shocking accurate hip fire during close quarters.
Superior positioning and strategy separates good SR338 users from GREAT ones however. Flanking tight spaces near contested control points allows locking down corridors through snap corrections between targets neutralizing 8-10 hostiles back to back.
The semi-auto pace also lets you outduel counter-snipers with repeated fire adjusted as you visually confirm bullet trajectory correcting onto target. Overall mobility and maximizing the element of surprise is key.
Custom loadouts further improve the SR338’s run and gun role:
Optic: 1-3.4x holo for clean sight during
Barrel: Suppressor to avoid minimap detections
Accessory: Tactical Light to blind enemies clearing dark rooms
While damage over extreme range suffers compared to faster traditional rounds, the SR338 completely redefines lethality and influencability under 300 meters. Clear corners, flank objectives and quickly overwhelm groups like a bolt action assault rifle.
…drum roll again as we reveal our #1 sniper rifle pick..
- SRR-61
The SRR-61 confidently claims our crown jewel top spot backed by raw statistical performance meeting pinpoint precision. Here‘s a recap:
Damage Profile: 110 max / 80 min
Muzzle Velocity: 670 m/s
Rate of Fire: 51 RPM
This lethal formula combines both extremes – highest bullet energy with fast cycling and the flattest trajectory for minimized adjustments dialing onto distant targets. Recoil is tempered for successive shots even under duress holding breath too long.
Expert marksman can comfortably erase entire squads during a single breath hold thanks to minimal scope sway and visual obstruction when aligning follow ups. The minimal bullet drop and trajectory variability at extreme distances also decrease mental stack tracing complex shot adjustments.
Instead, smoothly transition between targets counting on muscle memory to intuitively land rounds downrange as enemies present themselves. This flow state rewardingly gets you into a surgical rhythm of calculated aggression.
The SRR-61’s brilliance shines brightest by allowing supreme confidence and quick decision making during high intensity battles. Land the first shot, reacquire for the second killing blow. Rinse and repeat while dropping hostile forces with sheer efficiency.
Few weapons in any FPS franchise exude such mastery of mechanics translated into lethality and carrying power to sway entire 64 player matches. Equipped properly, expect to rack up 40-50 elim multi kills per round and taste delicious vengeance on even the most evasive vehicle drivers!
Conclusion
And there we have it – the definitive sniper rifle rankings and analyses for Battlefield 4! Of course in competitive multiplayer shooters, raw statistics and traits on paper tell only part of the story. Each recon specialization enables unique play style advantages in the right hands and scenarios.).‘)
I hope this guide gives all readers – new and veteran BF4 recon players alike – fresh perspectives on the options available to step up their game! Try out multiple rifle + accessories loadouts until you find the flawless personalized fit feeling like an extension of yourself while adjusting on the fly. That special hard-to-explain "feeling" ends up making the biggest difference securing highlight worthy killstreaks.
Now grab your favorite sniper, equip some tactically ambiguous camo and disappear into the map edges. Your squad needs your watchful eye holding down the scope ready to provide combat support…one surgically placed round at a time!
Let me know your thoughts in the comments – what sniper rifle do YOU run with and why? I‘m always looking to test hidden gem loadouts!
Sincerely,
[Your name]