Slitherine

I am new to the multiplayer format and I find that no matter how fast or slow I move my armor, I cannot kill a paper bag. On the other hand, my opponents never fail to get a first shot kill on me even on front facing tigers or panthers (even at long range). Same results no matter which side I'm playing. It's really frustrating to enter a battle and watch my zippos burn weather their hiding, running or moving slow. What am I missing here? Yeah, I probably do kinda stink at this, but I play to enjoy the games and try to learn a few things, but it gets frustrating. Thanks ....