Being a sniper, I'd say that all snipers using anything other than a thales is useless. Sure, with a charged, you'll be able to take out most weak pub reddots. However, when it comes to a full proto'd squad on the other side, no sniper rifle but the thales will be of any real help because it is simply too inefficient to use anything else. Also, of course you'll have those times when you need a sniper to take out AV or counter snipe, but that shouldn't really be a full-time job because AV isn't in at every moment of every game. Most snipers are non-factors and to counter them is more of a fleeting thought to most people.

Full-time snipers are even more useless on maps that have a supply depot, due to the fact that anyone can switch to a sniper at anytime in the match. Even in matches without supply depots, one can simply spawn into a sniper fit, take out who needs to be taken out and then switch back.

Also lets not forget about active scanners. Any snipers who say that they are important for relaying info to their team haven't realized how useless they are. A logi with an active scanner is worth their weight in Aurum.

They have their time and place, and on the battlefield it is important to be flexible.

As a closing thought, it comes down to effectiveness of the individual and how conducive they are to winning. Thus I find most people useless, including myself at times. If a specific role isn't being fulfilled at the right time, then don't expect to win against a team that is playing counter to your play style.