How do you become a sniper in the British army, is it best to join as an infantry soldier and do the sniper course?

Morning, so in a nutshell you have answered your own question. That is exactly what you do.

Thanks for the reply, to add on to the question if I were already a sniper in the British army could I then go onto a career in the SAS as a sniper or would there be further sniper training for it?

Although some other units do have Snipers the best chance to become one would be joining the COMBAT role as an infanteer.

Becoming a sniper in the British Army is a challenging yet rewarding goal that requires dedication, skill, and perseverance. Here’s a summarized guide to help you navigate this path:
Initial Steps:
1. Join the British Army:
- Meet the basic requirements (fitness and medical).
- Enlist and complete Basic Training (approximately 14 weeks).
2.. Initial Trade Training (phase 2):
- After basic training, undergo advanced training (another 12-14 weeks) to join an infantry unit.
3. Gain Experience:
- Serve in your infantry unit for at least 2-3 years.
- Focus on developing marksmanship, fieldcraft, physical fitness, and leadership skills.

Sniper Selection and Training:
1. Pre-selection:
- Excel in your unit and get recommendations from your Chain of Command.
- Pass initial fitness assessments.
2. Sniper Training Course:
- Duration: 10 weeks on an assessment course.
- Topics Covered:
- Advanced marksmanship and long-range shooting.
- Camouflage, concealment, and stalking techniques.
- Observation, target identification, and reconnaissance.
- Survival and fieldcraft skills.
3. Post-Training:
- Join a sniper platoon within your infantry unit.
- Continue training and refining your skills regularly.

Opportunities in Special Units:

1. Special Air Service (SAS):
- Requires passing a rigorous selection process with a success rate of about 10-15% of candidates.
- Extensive training including endurance, jungle, and escape and evasion phases.

2. Other ‘specialised’ units that might also be worth your research:
- Special Reconnaissance Regiment (SRR).
- Pathfinder Platoon.

It is important to have a good understand the commitment it takes to become a sniper: The journey to becoming a qualified sniper is demanding, often taking 2-5 years from initial enlistment to qualification. You must maintain high physical fitness and develop strong mental resilience to handle the rigorous training cadres, continuously improve your marksmanship, navigation and fieldcraft.

While the path is challenging, many soldiers have successfully become snipers through hard work and determination. Focus on continuous improvement, seek mentorship from experienced personnel, and maintain a positive and resilient mindset. Each step you take brings you closer to achieving your goal of becoming a sniper, if you set your mind to it, have the right attitude, training and prepare efficiently then it’s always achievable.