RE: An idea for spotters for snipers

Glover, spake thusly upon matters weighty: 
> Hi all, this is what I like, more discussion.
> 
> OK, I'm trying to give the observations on Sniper teams relevance to
> Stargrunt. As I mentioned before, the No2 Sniper may today carry an
M203
> or some such to provide a little heavier firepower for teh team. In
2180
> the average assault rifle often has a GL attached. I'm suggesting that
> therefore the No2 will need something a little 'oompier'. Regarding
the
> bulk of a radio; well 'everyone' has a tac/sat linked radio. 

Depends on your setting, the quality of your troop, etc. I'd still 
think that (based on jamming tech keeping pace), you might need a 
breadloaf sized radio for secure comms to orbit. (If no such EW 
environment exists, then sure you could get away with your satlink 
throat mike). But the point is the No 2 still has to hump gear. Even 
if its just his kit. 
 
> If we are going to say that the No2 is carrying a scoped rifle then
I'd
> probably be arming the No1 with a Conventional or Gauss, and give the
> No2 a Laser rifle. Different FP and Impact but useful in different
> circumstances. Quineg?

I could agree, especially if you are playing in a milieu like 
Traveller where Reflec armour stops lasers dead but doesn't dent 
gauss guns a whit and cloth will stop a gauss gun but lasers 
penetrate it with ease. So it might well be useful to have this split 
of armament. That way if the target is defended against No 1 
(sniper), then No 2 (the spotter) takes the sniper roll and No 1 
spots for him. 
 
> Anyone else thought about the Camoflage Cape that the ESU naval
infantry
> are supposed to be equipped with? (The poor old ESU don't seem to have
> much going for them as is.) This seems to be not unlike the Cameleon
> Fatigues that the Confed Marines in STARFIST novels might wear?

Or the Phototrophic Camouflage from the Sten Series by Chris Bunch 
and Alan Cole. It might allow you extra 'hiding' bonuses while IP or 
in cover. Another range shift perhaps because you are hard to see? 
Presumably void while moving.  Make a good Ghillie suit for snipers. 
I'll have to try that out. 

Tom.  
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