Hey man,
I agree and think damage is a little high especially in a game that has Core and HC..
Basically its 3 bullet kills which is faster than your reaction time.
My tip to try to give yourself a chance to fight back is to use Stalker and Agility on most classes. This can get guys (at least those with soft aim) to miss a few shots and give you that split second you need.
Also.. PREAIM, PREAIM, PREAIM because by the time you lift your weapon (.2/.3 secs) your dead.