well... not completely accurate. They're not as common, but are used for special role applications. Even the humble .22 has a home.
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http://www.ruger1022.com/docs/israeli_sniper.htm
I think you'd have to readdress the criteria under which you call a combatant a sniper. If you're looking for massive range roughly equaling penetration capability -- sure. But FWIW, not all shots are made at 1000y in the middle of a desert.
It might be small, but a .22lr to the toque will ruin your whole day.
The Russians in Chechnya were using .22's - due to the background noise they found they didn't need silencers.They were making the shots they needed out to 75 yards in Grozny.




















































