To reiterate Ranger Takedown does not do its intended animation in first person.
But if you want greater effectiveness first hold the attack button THEN hold back.
Alright, first take a look at this video. It is a different video.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UWUqKcqZ-dE
Notice how when the person executes the attack, the target becomes limp, turns into a ragdoll, and falls to the ground.
Now, look at my video.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Pp13Q52U6M
Notice how when I execute the move, (REGARDLESS OF FIRST OR THIRD PEROSN) the target does
not become limp, does
not turn into a ragdoll, and does
not fall to the ground. (Enemy death notwithstanding.)
If you pay further attention you will notice that each and every one of my attacks are, in fact, landing. The target recieves damage, the target is pushed back slightly, yet that is the extend of the damage caused by the attack.
The question I'm asking is: Why does this happen?
In regards to the second part of your post: In my experiments, this does not make any difference. And as far as I can tell by looking at example videos, distance does not matter, as long as the actual attack reaches the opponent.