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8 Best Nerf Sniper Rifles: 2023 Buyers Guide

nerf sniper rifles
Updated on 01/17/24

If you are looking for the best Nerf guns, you have to check out the sniper rifles. Nerf sniper rifles are some of the most entertaining and fun-to-use toy guns.

While charging straight into battle with a Nerf machine gun is a good time, there is just something special about sitting back and scoping your target from afar.

Nerf snipers are designed to feel more realistic, add a fun element to battles, and, most importantly, look really cool!

The main unique features of snipers are their bolt-action loading systems, large shoulder stocks, and extra-long barrels.

To be completely honest, most Nerf sniper guns don’t shoot way further or with more power than some pistols. That said, some rise above the rest and put the smaller blasters to shame.

What is the Best Nerf Sniper?

While researching the best sniper rifles, we have considered their performance, usability, and overall style.

TOP CHOICE
Nerf Ultra Pharaoh
  • PREMIUM GOLD ACCENTS
  • BLASTER, CLIP, 10 ULTRA DARTS, CLIP STORAGE, SCOPE
  • SHOOTS OVER 100 FEET PER SECOND
CUSTOMIZABLE
Nerf Modulus Longstrike
  • CUSTOMIZABLE WITH SEVERAL REMOVABLE ATTACHMENTS
  • INCLUDES 3 CLIPS, 18 DARTS, SCOPE, BIPOD, AND CLIP STORAGE
  • SHOOTS AT OVER 70 FEET PER SECOND
BEST PRICE
Nerf Fortnite BASR-L
  • REPLICA OF BLASTER FROM FORTNITE
  • INCLUDES 6-DART CLIP, 12 NERF DARTS, REMOVABLE SCOPE
  • SHOOT AT OVER 70 FEET PER SECOND

The Nerf Ultra Pharaoh is currently the best sniper Nerf gun because it shoots harder than most, has a realistic operating design, and looks the best overall.

However, if you are looking for something a little more customizable, or one that shoots a different type of ammo, you will find that on our list as well.

To help you find the exact sniper that fits you, we have found the rest of the best and put them into categories.

These are 100% honest reviews, and you will know both the good and bad features of each gun.

If you need more details on the main features of Nerf snipers and what to look at before buying one, check out our buyer’s guide at the bottom of this article.

Here are the 8 Best NERF Sniper Rifles You Should Consider in 2024

  1. Best Overall: Nerf Ultra Pharaoh Blaster
  2. Most Customizable: Nerf Modulus Longstrike
  3. Best Lightweight: Nerf Fortnite BASR-L
  4. Best Rival: Nerf Rival Jupiter XIX-1000
  5. Best Mega Series: Nerf Fortnite Heavy SR
  6. Most Accurate: Nerf N-Strike Elite Accustrike Raptorstrike
  7. Best Sounding: Nerf N-Strike Elite Mega Centurion
  8. Best Off Brand: Dart Zone Max Stryker Ultimate

1. Nerf Ultra Pharaoh Blaster

Best Overall

ultra pharaoh nerf blaster

The Nerf Ultra Pharaoh Blaster is the best Nerf gun sniper that wins out because of its power, great feel, and overall design.

It is one of the only snipers that actually shoots at a solid speed, clocking in at over 100 FPS.

The Ultra Pharaoh has a permanently fixed scope, bolt-action firing system, and muzzle brake on the barrel, contributing to a realistic feel.

While it has a large 10-dart mag holding Ultra darts, it’s a bummer it is not compatible with other types of darts.

If you purchase additional darts and a clip, there is room to store that extra clip in the bottom of the stock for easy access.

On top of the gun, the scope is non-magnifying and nonadjustable but is acceptable for the range these snipers have.

The bolt action works smoothly, and the clip can be removed fast with the clip release trigger for a quick reload.

Overall the Ultra Pharaoh is one of the best Ultra Nerf guns and will not disappoint; it does a great job of helping the user play as a sniper.

Specs:

  • Ammo Type: Ultra darts
  • Capacity: 10 darts

Reasons to Buy:

  • Great range
  • Great color design

Reasons to Avoid:

  • Less customizable

CHECK AMAZON PRICE

2. Nerf Modulus Longstrike

Most Customizable

nerf modulus longstrike

The Nerf Modulus Longstrike is a very close second to the Ultra Pharaoh for the best overall.

It is basically an upgraded version of the older Nerf N-Strike Longstrike CS-6 that was discontinued and is now really hard to find.

The only real reason the Modulus version is second on our list is that it shoots at just over 70 FPS, which is about 30 FPS less than the Pharaoh.

However, it is more customizable and is more compatible with other attachments than the Pharaoh.

This gun includes a lot of stuff, including a removable scope, bipod, three six-round clips, and 18 elite darts to fill them.

The gun is primed with a bolt-action lever and can be quickly replaced with another clip.

The bipod has an adjustable length to help you get it just right, and the whole barrel is removable if you feel like having a pistol design.

The tactical rails work with any N-strike attachments and allow you to move the scope where you want on the gun, leaving plenty of room to customize the blaster.

The Nerf sniper gun is in high demand because it is older and high-quality; if you can find one, it’s worth the snag.

Specs:

  • Ammo Type: Elite darts
  • Capacity: 6 darts

Reasons to Buy:

  • Highly customizable
  • Lots of extras included

Reasons to Avoid:

  • Lower FPS

CHECK AMAZON PRICE

3. Nerf Fortnite BASR-L

Best Lightweight

nerf fortnite basr l

The Nerf Fortnite BASR-L, is the best sniper for mobility because it is so lightweight.

This sniper is a great choice for younger kids because it is straightforward to use and doesn’t shoot too hard, at around 70 FPS.

The Fortnite BASR-L also has slam-fire, making it faster to shoot than other snipers.

That means when someone gets close, you can surprise them by quickly unloading on them.

It uses a standard six-round magazine that shoots Elite darts but is not compatible will all other mags.

If you want to shoot it fast, you may consider getting the larger 12-round mag to hold all the darts it includes.

The included non-magnifying scope works great but can be easily removed or replaced if desired.

The tactical rail on top is standard and is compatible with N-strike attachments.

In all reality, both kids and adults will find this an enjoyable gun to use.

You can also find this blaster on our list of the best Fortnite Nerf guns.

Specs:

  • Ammo Type: Elite darts
  • Capacity: 6 darts

Reasons to Buy:

  • Very lightweight
  • Fast firing

Reasons to Avoid:

  • Not very customizable

CHECK AMAZON PRICE

4. Nerf Rival Jupiter XIX-1000

Best Rival

nerf rival jupiter xix 1000

Shooting at over 90 FPS, the Nerf Rival Jupiter XIX-1000 has solid speed and distance compared to other snipers.

The bolt-action primer is the most realistic, requiring you to lift and pull back before pushing back into place and firing.

It fires Rival ammo or High Impact rounds, which are foam balls that are known for solid accuracy.

Jams, even though they are a rare occurrence, can be fixed with the help of an included unjamming button.

A very high-quality bipod comes included and can be both directionally and height adjusted.

The Jupiter is the only gun on this list that includes an adjustable monopod on the underside of the shoulder stock.

The monopod is not super necessary, but it can be a fun aid for target shooting because using it with the bipod allows you not to have to hold any gun weight.

The main drawback is the lack of an included scope, but it does come with a high-quality target that “dings” when you hit it.

I think sniper Nerf guns need sights, and that one looks sweet on the gun and can help your aim a bit because the iron sights are just ok.

This sniper is a great option for those that prefer or already have Rival series guns that shoot the same rounds.

Specs:

  • Ammo Type: Rival rounds
  • Capacity: 10 balls

Reasons to Buy:

  • Good FPS
  • High-quality attachments and target

Reasons to Avoid:

  • No included scope

CHECK WALMART PRICE

5. Nerf Fortnite Heavy SR

Biggest Mega

nerf fortnite heavy sniper rifle

The Nerf Fortnite Heavy SR is a big ole mega dart gun that looks like the Barret M82 sniper rifle from the Fortnite video game.

This one makes a list primarily for size and looks because it only shoots up to 65 FPS and doesn’t have great range.

The gun measures in at 43 inches long, making it one of the bigger Nerf guns available. It shoots smoothly and is fun to operate, with an included clip of six darts that adds to its immense size.

Attached is the bipod, which is not adjustable but works well to help hold some weight of the gun.

The tactical rails are standard compatible with other N-strike scopes, but the one it comes with looks good and works fine for its range. My main complaint is that the shoulder stock is slightly too short.

This sniper is an excellent buy for someone looking for that extra intimidation and wow factor in a game of Nerf. While it doesn’t pack a hard-hitting punch, this gun can help you feel like you are in that sniper role.

Specs:

  • Ammo Type: Mega darts
  • Capacity: 6 darts

Reasons to Buy:

  • Realistic design
  • It’s a big boy!

Reasons to Avoid:

  • Short stock for long gun

CHECK AMAZON PRICE

6. Nerf N-Strike Elite Accustrike Raptorstrike

Most Accurate

nerf accustrike raptorstrike sniper

The Nerf Accustrike Raptorstrike stands out because of its sleek design and accurate Accustrike darts.

Accuracy is debatable among Nerf guns, but the basic theme of the Accustrike guns is slower shooting but with reasonable accuracy.

It is lower on the list because you can’t attach a scope, and the flip-up sight barely helps at a long range.

You don’t need a scope to be more accurate with this gun, but I mean, it’s a sniper, and it should have a tactical rail on top.

On the plus side, it comes with two six-round dart mags and 18 Accustrike darts; this is the most you will get with any sniper out of the box.

It has one tactical rail under the barrel, which is best used for the bipod that comes with it.

The bipod has two different adjustable heights and utilizes a button release to extend them.

The Raptorstrike is worth checking out because it looks so different from the rest of the snipers, and the accuracy makes it a great target-shooting gun.

Specs:

  • Ammo Type: Accustrike darts
  • Capacity: 6 darts

Reasons to Buy:

  • Accurate darts
  • Unique design

Reasons to Avoid:

  • Low-quality sight
  • You can’t attach a scope

CHECK AMAZON PRICE

Alternative Design: Nerf Accustrike Alphahawk

If you want something close to the Raptorstrike that you can put a scope on, check out the Nerf Accustrike Alphahawk.

7. Nerf N-Strike Elite Mega Centurion

Best Sounding

nerf n strike elite mega centurion

The Nerf N-Strike Elite Mega Centurion has a satisfying bolt action priming sound that is louder than the other snipers.

No, it’s not going to go “boom,” but the sliding firing spring sound is noticeable and produces a very slight recoil.

I think it sounds great, but it could be annoying to others that live with you, which is something to consider.

Before loading, the priming handle must be in the forward position, and then you can stick the clip of six darts on in.

The Centurion is not meant to be fast firing, and it’s not, but the dart speed is average at around 70 FPS.

It fires Nerf Mega darts with an advertised range of 100 feet. That estimate may be a bit generous, but you can achieve it if you angle the gun up before firing.

This gun does have one of the better bipods that is both detachable and has adjustable legs.

It is a little sad it doesn’t come with a scope, but the upper tactical rail is the typical N-strike, so that you can put your own on there.

The Centurion isn’t the most impressive with range but makes the list because of its looks and feel. If you like the look of this color theme, be sure to check out the Nerf Mega series.

Specs:

  • Ammo Type: Mega darts
  • Capacity: 6 darts

Reasons to Buy:

  • Realistic feel and sound
  • Mega dart gun

Reasons to Avoid:

  • No scope included

CHECK AMAZON PRICE

Alternative Design: Nerf N-Strike Elite Sonic Ice Centurion

The centurion comes in another excellent transparent blue design that I had to point out. It is more expensive but could make a sweet collector’s piece.

8. Dart Zone Max Stryker Ultimate

Best Off Brand

dart zone max stryker 

The Dart Zone Max Stryker Ultimate is only at the bottom of the list because it is not a technical sniper design.

It outperforms all the name-brand Nerf snipers and is in the same price range, so it is worth checking out.

At up to 150 FPS and with a range over 125 feet when angled, this gun definitely deserves sniper status.

This gun comes with a lot, including 12 half-length and 12 full-length Max accuracy darts and different clips to use both size rounds.

The three attachments, the barrel, scope, and adjustable stock, all feel pretty solid.

The main downside is the pump-action stock which feels somewhat cheap compared to other snipers’ bolt-action designs.

Dart zone overall makes some good quality NERF-style guns worth taking a look at.

Specs:

  • Ammo Type: Half and full-length Dart zone darts
  • Capacity: 12 darts

Reasons to Buy:

  • High FPS
  • Good Dart Capacity

Reasons to Avoid:

  • Not technical sniper design

CHECK LOWEST PRICE

Nerf Gun Snipers Buying Guide (2024)

It can help to know a little bit more about the features of Nerf snipers that make them different to compare and find the right one.

What is a Nerf Sniper Rifle?

NERF snipers may not shoot as far as one would hope, but they have unique traits that set them apart from regular Nerf guns.

An actual Nerf sniper rifle will have most or all of these distinct features:

  • Longer barrel (design)
  • Large shoulder stock
  • Bolt-action loading system
  • Single shot
  • Scope and bipod

Many small or mid-size guns can be adapted to look like snipers, but the real snipers come with these features straight out of the box.

Here are some of the things we looked at to determine the best Nerf sniper guns, which can also help you find your best choice.

Distance Bullet Speed Ammo
Attachments Size Price

Shooting Distance

Personally, I want a sniper that can shoot far, but that might not be the most important thing for everyone.

We have sorted them by the distance they shoot when aimed straight and also angled up a bit for more distance.

Here are the estimated averages for how the sniper rifles on our list stack up in the distance category.

SNIPER Straight Angled
Ultra Pharaoh 50-75 ft Max 120 ft
Modulus Longstrike 40-65 ft Max 80 ft
Fortnite BASR-L 40-65 ft Max 80 ft
Rival Jupiter XIX-1000 45-70 ft Max 100 ft
Fortnite Heavy SR 40-55 ft Max 95 ft
Accustrike Raptorstrike 40-65 ft Max 80 ft
Mega Centurion 40-55 ft Max 95 ft
D Z Max Stryker 70-90 ft Max 125 ft

These are the average distances in good conditions outside with the stock darts that come with each gun.

Bullet Speed (FPS)

The speed at which the snipers shoot a dart or ball is typically measured and given in feet per second (FPS)

You won’t find snipers on the list of hardest-hitting Nerf guns, but most are above the average shooting speed.

Here are the guns on our list sorted by the feet per second at which they shoot the ammo included with them in the box.

SNIPER Shot Speed
Ultra Pharaoh Max 105 FPS
Modulus Longstrike Max 75 FPS
Fortnite BASR-L Max 65 FPS
Rival Jupiter XIX-1000 Max 95 FPS
Fortnite Heavy SR Max 65 FPS
Accustrike Raptorstrike Max 70 FPS
Mega Centurion Max 65 FPS
D Z Max Stryker Max 150 FPS

As for the firing rate, you should assume that most snipers shoot relatively slowly, but the Fornite BASR-L is the best choice if you want to unload the mag quickly with slam fire.

Ammo Type and Capacity

You may not be aware there are many different ammo types in Nerf guns, and not all are fully compatible with each other.

Here is what ammo comes with each gun on our list and how much it can hold at once.

SNIPER Ammo Capacity
Ultra Pharaoh Ultra darts     10
Modulus Longstrike Elite darts      6
Fortnite BASR-L Elite darts      6
Rival Jupiter XIX-1000 Rival balls     10
Fortnite Heavy SR Mega darts      6
Accustrike Raptorstrike Accu darts      6
Mega Centurion Mega darts      6
D Z Max Stryker DZ darts     12

Most guns that shoot Elite darts can shoot Accustrike rounds and vice versa; otherwise, most other guns only shoot their specific dart type.

The exception is the Dart Zone Max Stryker, which can also shoot Elite darts.

Attachments

There are a few things to consider when looking at the attachments on a NERF sniper rifle.

nerf sniper rifle features

Scope

Nerf scopes are not generally magnifying in any way because they don’t have a long enough range to really need that feature.

It is probably best to stick with the scope on the gun or get one that looks best to you.

Not all scopes are removable or adjustable so double-check the description or picture to make sure.

If you are planning to get a scope for a gun that doesn’t include one, just make sure you get one that is compatible with the tactical rail on the specific rifle.

Stock

The gun’s stock is the part that you put to your shoulder to aim and fire.

Sniper stocks are more prominent because the overall design is bigger than other guns.

Some are a little shorter in length, which makes them slightly less comfortable for bigger people.

Otherwise, there is not much to worry about besides looks when considering the stocks.

Barrel

What you see is what you get when it comes to Nerf sniper barrels.

The Modulus Longstrike is the only one that can be removed to be used on another N-strike gun or replaced.

Most sniper rifles will arrive in several pieces in the box, and the barrel of the guns will have to be locked into the central part.

It is important to note that a longer barrel doesn’t really help performance when it comes to Nerf.

Bipod

The purpose of bipods on Nerf snipers is mainly to help with the aim while sitting or laying down.

These will help a bit for target shooting, but just like many of the other features for Nerf guns, they are primarily for looks.

The bipods can be great for younger kids that may have trouble carrying and handling the bigger guns.

Most of them have at least slightly adjustable legs and are detachable, but with a few exceptions.

Overall, bipods add to the feel of the snipers and help them feel a bit more realistic.

Size and Design

Snipers are longer in general, and the big design is one of the primary reasons people like them.

Younger kids may have a little trouble handling the bigger sniper rifles, but most are not that heavy.

For design, while other guns have many different color choices and variations, snipers typically don’t. The few that do, I pointed out above, but the alternate designs usually cost more.

Price and Warranty

The Nerf sniper guns on this best-of-list range in price from about $40-$70.

Some awesome older guns didn’t quite make the list because they are harder to find and therefore are higher priced.

No exact prices are given in this article because they often change.

The links in this article will take you to the lowest prices at Amazon, but it never hurts to double-check the warranties while you are there.

Safety Precautions

You can check the Nerf safety and recommended ages for these guns, but most are for ages 8+ except the Rival Jupiter on this list which is suggested for ages 14+.

The hardest any of these snipers shoot is just over 100 FPS, and the Nerf darts hurt just slightly at close range.

Wearing eye protection is always a good idea because darts can catch you off guard, and the eyes are the worst spot to get hit in.

The darts and ball ammunition can also be a potential choking hazard for younger kids, as you know, so remember to keep it away from them.

Summary

Nerf snipers can be loads of fun, and I believe all the ones found here are, indeed, the best foam shooters.

You will not likely claim ultimate victory and dominance in a Nerf war with a sniper, but they have their place and are great for those who want to take a more calculated approach to battle.

However, I recommend looking at the pros and cons of each to be sure the guns you choose meets your expectations or the persons you may be shopping for.

Most people would like to see Nerf snipers have greater distance and power, but they are pretty suitable for more age groups than something like airsoft.

If there is a gun on the list that you like but is lacking in a specific area, like design or power, I would recommend looking into Nerf gun modification kits.

If you are looking to claim ultimate victory and absolutely obliterate the competition quickly, make sure to find the best Nerf pistol to complement your sniper.

There still is nothing like Nerf when it comes to spontaneous indoor battles and target shooting that is sure to entertain.

Happy Nerfing!