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Last updated: January 31, 2024
Reviews of seven of the best Nerf sniper rifles available today, based on ergonomics, performance, overall design, and the sniper factor.
One of my favorite types of Nerf blasters is the sniper rifle. Those long blasters with fancy looks and funky features designed to make you feel like a professional sniper.
Nerf blasters, in general, aren’t exactly famous for their outstanding performance and accuracy. But when buying a Nerf sniper rifle, there are expectations regarding accuracy, velocity, and firing range.
In this article, I am going to share what the best Nerf sniper rifles are right now. Further below, I will also explain what makes a blaster a sniper rifle.
Top 7 Nerf Sniper Rifles:
Top 7 Nerf Sniper Rifles
Here is my top seven list of best Nerf sniper rifles you should consider adding to your collection.
1. Nerf N-Strike Modulus LongStrike
Released in 2018 as a remake of the 2010 Longstrike CS-6, the N-Strike LongStrike sniper rifle in the Modulus series offers improved performance compared to its predecessor.
The N-Strike Modulus series was introduced in 2015, focusing on the customization of blasters with various interchangeable accessories, such as barrel extensions, shoulder stocks, and tactical rail accessories. This means that if you buy a Modulus blaster, it comes packaged with accessories that all other Modulus blasters can use.
The Modulus LongStrike is no different. It comes packaged with a fancy bi-pod, a scope, a barrel extension, a detached shoulder stock, three six-round magazines, and eighteen Elite Darts. Please note that the shoulder stock is integrated, so once it’s attached, it can’t be detached anymore.
The Modulus LongStrike performs better than its predecessor mainly because of much-needed updates to the internal workings. The reverse plunger has been replaced by a direct plunger system, and it also comes with a tiny unjamming button on the left side of the blaster.
The process of priming, firing, and replacing the magazine with the Modulus LongStrike is a breeze, and performance is now much more in line with blasters in the N-Strike Elite series. Overall, this is an excellent Nerf sniper rifle and my favorite on this list.
| Nerf N-Strike Modulus LongStrike | |
|---|---|
| Year: | 2018 |
| Series: | N-Strike Modulus |
| Ammunition: | Elite Darts |
| Estimated max range: | 70 feet |
2. Nerf Ultra Pharaoh Sniper
Officially released in October 2020, the Nerf Utra Pharaoh is a magazine-fed, bolt-action, single-fire sniper blaster in the Ultra line of blasters.
As you may know, the Ultra series isn’t exactly the most popular or most successful Nerf series ever made, but the Pharaoh is actually a really good blaster.
What I like most about the Ultra Pharaoh is that it looks and feels like an actual sniper rifle. The bolt-action priming mechanism feels super robust with a 4-part movement (up, back, forward, and down) that creates a true sniper rifle experience.
Performance-wise, the Pharaoh is perhaps the best one on this list, with an average velocity of 100 per second and an achievable firing range of 100 feet.
| Nerf Ultra Pharaoh Sniper | |
|---|---|
| Year: | 2020 |
| Series: | Ultra | Ammunition: | Ultra Darts |
| Estimated velocity: | 100 feet per second |
| More info: | Nerf Ultra Pharaoh review |
3. Nerf Fortnite Heavy SR
If you’re looking for a fun and smooth Nerf sniper rifle that doesn’t necessarily offer the best performance, the Nerf Fortnite Heavy SR in the Fortnite series is definitely one to consider.
The Heavy SR is all about the looks. It’s big, bold, intimidating, and has all the characteristics of an actual sniper rifle. And the color scheme, in my opinion, is also fantastic.
But while the Heavy SR might have the best looks of all the blasters on this list, it does lack performance. So don’t expect to be shooting very far or accurately, but the fun factor absolutely makes up for it.
The Heavy SR fires Fortnite Mega Darts and has a 6-dart clip.
| Nerf Fortnite Heavy SR | |
|---|---|
| Year: | 2021 |
| Series: | Fortnite |
| Ammunition: | Fortnite Mega Darts |
| Estimated velocity: | 65 feet per second |
| More info: | Nerf Fortnite Heavy SR review |
4. Nerf Fortnite BASR-L Sniper Rifle
The second sniper rifle in the Fortnite series is the BASR-L. It works similarly to the Heavy SR, but it actually performs slightly better.
Released in 2020, the BASR-L has all the looks and characteristics of a sniper rifle-style blaster, including a large scope, a long barrel, priming handles, and a shoulder stock.
The bright yellow and orange color scheme may not be for everyone, but it does add to the fun factor, which is what the BASR-L is all about.
The most interesting thing about this blaster is that it can also slam-fire. That doesn’t actually make much sense in the context of sniper rifles, but it’s a fun feature.
| Nerf Fortnite BASR-L Sniper Rifle | |
|---|---|
| Year: | 2020 |
| Series: | Fortnite |
| Ammunition: | Fortnite Darts |
| Estimated velocity: | 75 feet per second |
| More info: | Nerf Fortnite BASR-L review |
5. Nerf N-Strike Elite AccuStrike RaptorStrike
The AccuStrike sub-series of N-Strike Elite was introduced in 2017 to offer Nerf blasters with better firing accuracy and more stability. Those improvements are achieved by using AccuStrike darts.
These darts feature a spiraled head, which makes them fly in a more horizontal direction. They also have a better weight distribution compared to standard Elite darts.
The 2017 AccuStrike RaptorStrike is an impressive-looking Nerf sniper rifle that comes with a bi-pod, detached bolts, two six-dart magazines, and 18 AccuStrike darts. It also has a somewhat redundant flip-up sight on top that doesn’t serve much purpose.
The other thing worth mentioning is that this blaster does not have a top rail, which is kind of weird given the fact that this is meant to be a sniper rifle type blaster. Despite these minor drawbacks, the RaptorStrike is a fantastic toy with great looks and excellent overall performance.
| Nerf N-Strike Elite AccuStrike RaptorStrike | |
|---|---|
| Year: | 2017 |
| Series: | N-Strike Elite |
| Sub series: | AccuStrike |
| Ammunition: | AccuStrike Darts |
| Estimated max range: | 80 feet |
6. Nerf N-Strike Modulus ECS-10
The ECS-10 is the second blaster in the N-Strike Modulus series in this list of great Nerf sniper rifles. This one is a bit different from the rest because it is a battery-powered flywheel blaster. It needs 4 AA batteries, or it won’t do much.
Battery-operated blasters are not for everyone, but this ECS-10 is fun to shoot with. Just hold down the rev trigger and pull the trigger to start shooting darts. One weird thing with the ECS-10 is that the shoulder stock is not stably attached to the blaster. It’s weird because, especially with sniper rifles, stability is crucial.
Like other blasters in the Modulus series, the ECS-10 allows for tons of accessories to be attached. This is awesome because it allows you to be creative and set up this blaster in many different ways.
Admittedly, the Nerf N-Strike Modulus ECS-10 is not a genuine sniper rifle because it’s a full-auto machine. Still, this blaster has enough sniper rifle characteristics that a spot on this list is warranted.
| Nerf N-Strike Modulus ECS-10 | |
|---|---|
| Year: | 2015 |
| Series: | N-Strike Modulus |
| Ammunition: | Elite Darts |
| Estimated max range: | 80 feet |
7. Nerf N-Strike Elite AccuStrike AlphaHawk
The 2017 AlphaHawk is the second sniper rifle on this list that comes from the AccuStrike sub-series of blasters, which means it fires with AccuStrike darts, which in turn improves firing accuracy.
While the AlphaHawk doesn’t have the looks of a classic sniper rifle, it is still worthy of a spot on this list because it is a fantastic blaster.
The AlphaHawk is considered an oversized revolver-style blaster because it has a drop-down cylinder. Other than that, it does have a typical sniper shoulder stock, an extended front, a sight, and a tactical rail that can hold a scope or bipod.
What I like about the AlphaHawk is that it is a very ergonomic blaster with a smooth priming and firing mechanism. Overall, it is a pleasant and well-performing blaster that deserves your consideration.
| Nerf N-Strike Elite AccuStrike AlphaHawk | |
|---|---|
| Year: | 2017 |
| Series: | N-Strike Elite |
| Sub series: | AccuStrike |
| Ammunition: | AccuStrike Darts |
| Estimated max range: | 80 feet |
Nerf Sniper Rifle Buying Guide
What I like about Nerf rifles is their design and build. Not only are they designed to shoot farther and more accurately, but Nerf sniper rifles typically also come with great looks.
Nerf has always tried hard to make them look like real-life sniper rifles, with telescopic sight, shoulder stock, and other cool accessories.
1. What Classifies as a Nerf Sniper Rifle?
For me, the following criteria are what makes a Nerf blaster classify as a sniper rifle:
- Long barrel (and long overall design)
- Shoulder stock
- Bolt-action priming mechanism
- Single-fire only
- Accessories (scope, sight, bipods, etc.)
You may find other sources claiming that a specific blaster is a sniper rifle, but often they aren’t.
A sniper rifle should not be motorized, for example, and slam firing also doesn’t make any sense for a sniper rifle.
2. Performance
While you certainly won’t be able to hit a bull’s-eye from 200 feet away with any Nerf sniper rifle, I do like how Nerf designs them such that they perform significantly better than other types of Nerf blasters (of course, blasters in the Rival series disregarded).
But let’s be realistic: even with a Nerf sniper rifle, accuracy is never going to be mind-blowing, and that is perfectly fine. I mean, we’re dealing with darts and rounds that are made with foam.
3. Accessories
If you do want to focus on improving your accuracy when using a Nerf sniper rifle, check out some of the accessories you can buy. For example, a bipod or a scope can certainly help with shooting better.
The type of dart you’re using is also important. For example, Ultra Darts, AccuStrike Darts, and Rival High-Impact Rounds were designed to improve performance, accuracy, and firing velocity.
4. Aesthetics
In my opinion, the looks and ergonomics of Nerf sniper rifles add to their appeal. They aren’t designed to win Nerf wars, but there is a niche market for this type of blaster.
It’s for that reason that I appreciate Nerf sniper rifles; the look and feel, in addition to the sniper firing mechanism.
5. Target Practice
If you’d like to practice your target shooting with your new Nerf sniper rifle, it might be a good idea to invest in a purpose-built target shooting device.
Have a look at my list of best Nerf shooting targets for some great options. It just adds to the fun, and is great for some secret solo training before going into a battle!
Hi, I’m looking for a sniper rifle and liked the Nerf N-Strike Modulus LongStrike.
Is it a good choice for realist Nerf wars with good range and decent accuracy?
Hi Lukas,
Yes, I still think the LongStrike is the best Nerf sniper rifle currently available on the market. It offers the best balance between performance and the sniper experience.
I have the Fortnite BASR-L, the range is not great.
Sorry to ask more questions, but does it also have good accuracy?
I’ve noticed some of the reviews say that the darts come out a little wonky. Do you think the accuracy is good compared to other guns?
Hi Jake,
I think it’s important to set the right expectations. None of the above blasters will offer outstanding accuracy, despite them being sniper rifles. Weird, I know.
That said, in my opinion, the Ultra Pharaoh will offer the best performance in regards to both firing distance and accuracy.
However, if you want the best results and are not too fussed about having a sniper rifle, I would recommend looking into Rival blasters.
So which one do you recommend for performance regarding range and accuracy?
Because I recently bought one that was listed as a sniper and seemed good online but it couldn’t shoot more than 30 feet without dropping and curved in the air.
Hi Jake, for the best performance, I’d recommend the Ultra Pharaoh.
But if you aren’t necessarily looking for a sniper, I would recommend looking into the Rival series. For example, the Kronos (small) and Nemesis (big) are excellent blasters with great performance.
Ok, thank you, I will look into buying the Ultra Pharaoh.
The raptor strike accustrike rifle is really fun and powerful, the flip up sight does help aim at long range.
I agree Tristan, the AccuStrike is a good representation of what a real Nerf sniper rifle should be like.
I love the Raptor Strike.
By the way, all Nerf blasters work on same concept and the reason they are different is because of the dart they fire. For example, Nerf Mega darts travel much further because they are heavy and given the same initial velocity they travel much further because they fight air resistance better than any other darts.
Very true, Aradhya, the darts make a big difference. Although the design and mechanics of the blaster of course are also important.
I’d agree. I feel like the raptor strike has the coolest look, but I’d say the longshot, pharaoh, and long strike are also amazing.
Thanks William. I agree, the RaptorStrike looks fantastic.
I recently got the Whiteout Longstrike from a friend and it looks pretty nice
Nice! That’s a collector’s item.
I think these are all cool, but my favorite is the Nerf Ultra Pharaoh, I’ve been wanting it for years.
Agreed, that’s an awesome sniper rifle!
Same man, same.
I have it, and it is pretty big! The bolt action is a bit annoying.
This is actually a very good list! All of the things you said are true, unlike other articles that show off the “Best Nerf Guns”, and all of these (except for the Modulus ECS-10) are actual Nerf sniper rifles. Most of the claims you made are true, and at the least are close enough. You made truthful comments about things like the Ultra series and Mega darts. Great job.
Thanks so much A, that means a lot. My kids and I are very passionate about Nerf and laser tag, so we try to be as helpful as we possibly can!
I think the Sonic Ice is the best, I have it and I’ve never lost a battle.
Love the Modulus LongStrike!
Indeed, it’s a great Nerf sniper rifle blaster, a classic.