Strikes me (sorry about the pun) that a sniper rifle's sensitive optics would not enjoy getting smacked into the ground by a tethered and lightly padded valise released at too low a level, or in a decent wind, or at night (God forbid). I appreciate Sapper's reference to Gordon's equipment book, which I couldn't find available anywhere except eBay, where I just ordered Artiozen's last new copy (Artiozen comes through again!).

I assume, and may learn from Gordon's book, the rifle panniers or containers were well insulated from landing shock so could have safely landed precision devices such as 4 (T)s. On the other hand, dropzone confusion, parachute failures, hard container landings, etc., would seem to militate against the sniper getting too far removed from his essential tools, so maybe on-body carry was the preferred method for these specialists. Anybody know whether a parachute troops' rigging (as opposed to rigging a parachute) manual existed? Maybe in a sniper manual? This must have been specifically addressed somewhere.

Given the long operational life of the 4 (T) this must have remained a concern well in to the '50s at least.