Cherry flavored energy shot from Monster.

It used to be when you walked up to the counter at the convenience store, you'd find ridiculous novelty candies, cans of chewing tobacco, a case of mini-thins, and the obligatory rack of patriotically shaped butane lighters.

Now it's a sea of multicolored bottles, the energy shot. I have never found the energy shot so amazing that it demanded my $3; I prefer the slow release of a 16oz can. So I've eye-balled the counter, watching as new products have popped in and out, usually nameless derivatives of one another.

I've had the 5 hour energy, and the 6 hour energy, and the 7 hour extreme energy, I'm still waiting for the 10 hour extreme explosion energy that will inevitably come. None of these have any personality and seem to be marketed towards truck drivers and third shift nurses. It wasn't until I saw Monster and Rockstar jump into the ring that I had any interest at all. The original Monster Hitman was strong and pretty tasty for a shot. There are now two new flavors available so I took Sniper out for a test drive.

Taste

One of the unifying characteristics of energy shots is that they taste terrible. Energy ingredients taste terrible and when you only have 2 ounces of liquid to counteract their awfulness, you're not likely to succeed. I'm sure somebody out there craves the taste of 5 hour energy berry, but it's definitely not me. Monster added an ounce to their shots, presumably to add some sugary fruit flavor and the result is much easier on the palate. Sniper has a kind of children's cherry cough medicine vibe to it that isn't half bad.

Ingredients

Sniper is loaded with energy goodies. B Vitamins, Taurine, Glucose, Guarana, Ginseng, etc... The primary energy blend is 5000mg with an estimated 240 mg of caffeine!

Energy

POW! The preceding has been a textual simulation of the fast acting surge of energy one gets from consuming a Monster Hitman Sniper shot. It really hits you right in the face. I was tingling all over moments after inhaling it and didn't settle down for many hours after. This little bottle will light you up, I don't recommend it for those who have to sit at a desk all day.

Verdict

I would absolutely say this is the best shot I've ever had. The taste doesn't gag me and the energy is STRONG. I don't get as much enjoyment for my $2.99, but if I'm looking for a pure energy rush I know right where to look. Bravo, Monster. You've outdone yourself with this one.

Reviewed by TNT

You can buy Monster Hitman in bulk here for 2.25 a bottle.