Zhang Taofang

Zhang Taofang, (Chinese: 張桃芳; Wade–Giles: Zhang Tao-fang; 1931 – April 29, 2007) was a Chinese sniper during the Korean War. He is said to have 214 confirmed kills in 32 days with rifle without scope.[1][2]

Zhang Taofang
張桃芳
Born1931
China
DiedApril 29, 2007 (aged 76)
China
Allegiance China
Service/branch People's Volunteer Army
Years of serviceJanuary 11, 1953 – April 29, 2007
Unit8th company, 214th Regiment, 24th Corps
Battles/warsKorean War
AwardsCombat Hero (2nd Class)

Korean War

On January 11, 1953, Zhang, who had been enrolled in the army for no more than two years and together with soldiers of 8th company, 214th Regiment, 24th Corps, he was assigned to Triangle Hill, equipped with an old Mosin–Nagant without a PU scope.[3]

After waiting 18 days at his position, Zhang spotted an enemy and immediately aimed and fired 12 shots, only to miss them all. This eager action attracted enemy fire, which almost killed him. After this, he carefully analyzed why he failed and figured out a technique using the iron sight to improve his shooting ability. He shot down one enemy the next day.[3]

On February 15, he hit 7 enemies with 9 rounds, which surpassed the ratio of many experienced snipers. He achieved a total of 214 confirmed kills in 32 days.[3]

Media

In 2003, Zhang was the topic of a China Central Television documentary.

Books
  • Martin Pegler (2006) "Out of Nowhere: A History of the Military Sniper" ISBN 1-84176-854-5
  • Kevin Dockery (2007) "Stalkers and Shooters: A History of Snipers" ISBN 0-425-21542-3

References
  1. The Sniper Log Book—World War II
  2. 毙伤敌214 我第一位“狙击王”张桃芳
  3. Stronge, Charles (25 January 2011). Kill Shot: The 15 Deadliest Snipers of All Time. Ulysses Press. p. 91. ISBN 978-1-56975-862-5.


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