Iran has emerged as an unexpected trailblazer in the world of sniper rifles with a one-of-a-kind anti-materiel rifle of unparalleled firepower named after the legendary Arash, the Archer. This weapon wields 20-millimeter high-explosive rounds, the same caliber as the lethal M61 Vulcan gun found on many of today’s modern aircraft. It can tear through armored vehicles and enemy emplacements with devastating force. Iran's tests reveal the Arash in action, the operator carrying the 45-pound rifle, which is as long as he is tall. The colossal muzzle brake is barely enough to tame the ferocious recoil of its 20-millimeter cartridge, and the shooter must use the bipod to even keep the weapon and himself in place. Appearances, however, can be deceiving. Despite its imposing stature, the Arash adheres to the tried-and-true Iranian doctrine of “shoot and scoot,“ specifically devised for deployment by nimble two-man motorcycle teams. But while Iran's brainchild surpasses the American rifle it drew inspiration from—the Barrett M82—in both power and sheer devastation, the question remains whether its size works against it and how it compares to the world’s top sniper rifles… --- Dark Footage showcases the most unbelievable photos and videos from history while telling the stories behind the camera. Featuring military, space, aircraft and real-life historic events caught on tape.
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