As long as he can get close a long range attacker will lose. As simple as that. Under normal circumstances a sniper wouldn't fight under circumstances where close combat is expected.

Bill, that could be a valid point, but if he develops some coldness, he can force the opponent to surrender (or die). That should be an option. Or he could damage the machine and render it incapable of fighting, shields or not.

Still, I wouldn't be surprised if he developed an attack more suitable for this show business.