CARE AND DESCRIPTION OF THE RIFLE
Care
=1321. Importance.= The care of his rifle should be the soldier's
first thought; for, if he would have it take care of him in time of
danger, he must take care of it at all times.
_It is a generally recognized fact that more rifles become inaccurate
and unserviceable by the lack of care than by firing._
The instructions for taking care of the rifle are few and simple.
Learn them well and _apply them constantly_--it only requires a little
care and patience. You will be well repaid for it. It may some day
save your life.
=1322. Care of bore requires work.= The bore of the rifle is
manufactured with the greatest care in order that a high degree of
accuracy may be obtained, and it should, therefore, be properly cared
for.
The proper care of the bore requires conscientious, careful work, but
it pays well in reduced labor of cleaning and in prolonged accuracy
life of the rifle, and better results in target practice.
=1323. How to clean the bore.= With the cleaning rod the bore must
always be cleaned from the breech--never from the muzzle. Cleaning
from the muzzle is liable to wear and otherwise injure the mouth of
the barrel, which is easily injured and thus the piece rendered
inaccurate.
First, remove the bolt from the rifle, place the muzzle on the floor,
a board, or piece of canvas, and do not remove it therefrom while the
cleaning rod is in the bore. Never place the muzzle on the bare
ground, lest dirt should get into it. (Note. Of course, if a rack is
provided for cleaning rifles, it should be used instead of placing the
muzzle on the floor.)
To clean the bore use patches of rag, preferably canton flannel,
cutting them into squares of such size that they may easily run
through the barrel.
=1324. What care of the bore consists of.= Briefly stated, the care of
the bore consists of removing the fouling resulting from firing to
obtain a chemically clean surface, and then coating this surface with
a film of oil to prevent rusting.
=1325. Kinds of fouling.= The fouling which results from firing is of
two kinds--the _powder fouling_, from the burning of the powder; and
the _metal fouling_, from the nickel scraped off the bullet as it
passes through the bore.
The _powder fouling_ is highly corrosive, that is, it causes rust and
eats into the metal, and it must, therefore, be removed as soon as
possible.
The _metal fouling_ itself will not cause rust, but it may cover the
powder fouling and thus prevent the cleaning material from getting at
the powder fouling, which, as stated before, will eat into the metal.
When metal fouling accumulates in noticeable quantities it reduces the
accuracy of the rifle.
=1326. How to remove powder fouling.= Powder fouling may be readily
removed by scrubbing the bore with the soda solution (hot) furnished
by the Ordnance Department, but this solution has no effect on the
metal fouling.
It is, therefore, necessary to remove all metal fouling before we are
sure that all powder fouling has been removed and that the bore may be
safely oiled.
Ordinarily, after firing a barrel in good condition, the metal fouling
is so slight as to be hardly perceptible, and is easily removed by
solvents.
However, due to the accumulation of metal fouling, pitting (little
hollows in the metal) or the presence of dust, or other abrasives
(substances that cause the metal to wear away by rubbing), the fouling
may occur in clearly visible flakes or patches and be much more
difficult to remove.
=1327. How to remove metal fouling.= After scrubbing out the bore with
the soda solution, plug it from the breech with a cork at the front
end of the chamber or where the rifling begins.
Slip one of the 2-inch sections of rubber hose over the muzzle down to
the sight and fill with the standard Ordnance Department solution to
at least one-half inch above the muzzle of the barrel.
Let it stand for 30 minutes, then pour out the solution, remove the
hose and breech plug, and swab out thoroughly with soda solution to
neutralize and remove all trace of ammonia and powder fouling.
Wipe the barrel clean, dry, and oil.
With few exceptions, one application is sufficient, but if all fouling
is not removed, repeat the operation.
Hoppe's Nitro Solvent No. 9 will accomplish the same result even
better and quicker and with much less labor.
=1328. How to proceed in cleaning the bore.=
To clean the bore after firing, proceed as follows:
Swab out the bore with soda solution to remove powder fouling. A
convenient way to do this is to insert the muzzle of the rifle into
the can containing the solution and with the cleaning rod inserted
from the breech, pump the barrel full a few times.
Remove and dry with a couple of patches of cloth. Examine to see
whether any patches of metal fouling are in evidence, and if so, then
remove same as explained above. If no metal fouling is in evidence,
then swab out with the swabbing solution. The amount of swabbing
required with the swabbing solution can be determined only by
experience assisted by the color of the patches of cloth. Ordinarily a
couple of minutes' work is sufficient. Dry thoroughly, and oil with
3-in-One.
As a measure of safety a patch should _always_ be run through the bore
on the next day and the bore examined to insure that cleaning has been
properly done. The bore should then be oiled again with 3-in-One.
=1329. Necessity for preventing formation of pits.= It is a fact
recognized by all that a highly polished steel surface rusts much less
easily than one which is roughened; also that a barrel which is
pitted fouls much more rapidly than one which is smooth. Every effort,
therefore, should be made to prevent the formation of pits, which are
merely enlarged rust spots, and which not only affect the accuracy of
the piece but also increase the labor of cleaning.
=If swabbing solution or standard metal fouling solution is not
available=, the barrel should be scrubbed as already described, with
the soda solution, dried, and oiled with a light oil. At the end of 24
hours it should again be cleaned, when it will usually be found to
have "sweated." Usually a second cleaning is sufficient, but to insure
safety it should be again examined at the end of a few days, before
final oiling.
Of course, the swabbing solution should always be used, if available,
for it must be remembered that =each "puff" when the bore "sweats" is
an incipient rust pit=.
What has just been said contemplates the use of the solutions
furnished by the Ordnance Department. However, the same result will be
obtained with less labor by using Hoppe's Nitro Powder Solvent No. 9,
which is sold by all post and camp exchanges, and which the Author, as
the result of experience, highly recommends.
=1330. How to oil a barrel.= The proper method of oiling a barrel is
as follows:
Wipe the cleaning rod dry; select a clean patch of cloth and smear it
well with sperm or warmed cosmic oil, being sure that the cosmic has
soaked into the patch well; scrub the bore with patch, finally drawing
the patch smoothly from the muzzle to the breech, allowing the
cleaning rod to turn with the rifling. The bore will be found now to
be smooth and bright so that any subsequent rust or "sweating" can be
easily detected by inspection. (By "sweating" is meant, rust having
formed under the coating of metal fouling where powder fouling was
present, the surface is puffed up.)
=1331. Care of the chamber.= The chamber of the rifle is often
neglected because it is not readily inspected. Care should be taken to
see that it is cleaned as thoroughly as the bore. A roughened chamber
delays greatly the rapidity of fire, and not infrequently causes
shells to stick.
=1332. The bolt.= To clean the bolt, remove; clean all parts
thoroughly with an oily rag; dry, and before assembling _lightly_ oil
the firing pin, the barrel of the sleeve, the striker, the well of the
bolt, and all cams.
=1333. The sights.= Both the front and rear sights should be cared for
just as you would care for the works of your watch. If the sights are
injured, the rifle will not shoot as aimed.
The front sight cover issued by the Ordnance Department protects the
front sight.
=1334. The magazine.= The magazine should be kept clean and covered
with a thin coat of oil.
=1335. The stock.= The stock should receive a light coat of raw
linseed oil once a month, or after any wetting from rain, dew, etc.
The oil should be thoroughly rubbed in with the hand.
=1336. Care of the mechanism.= When the rifle has been wet or exposed
to unfavorable climatic conditions, the bolt should be withdrawn and
all working parts carefully wiped with a dry cloth, and then gone
over with an oily rag.
The same thing should be done after firing.
All working parts should habitually be _lightly_ oiled with a
thin-bodied oil, such as "3-in-One."
=1337. The care of all metal parts.= All metal parts of the rifle
should be kept clean and free from rust.
=1338. Cams and bearings.= All cams and bearings must be kept
constantly oiled.
=1339. How to apply oil.= Do not pour or squirt oil on the rifle.
Put a few drops on a piece of clean cloth, preferably cotton, and rub
with the cloth, thereby avoiding the use of an unnecessary amount.
Cams and bearings can be oiled this way. However, if the oiler is used
instead because of greater ease in reaching them, oil them _lightly_.
To soak with oil accomplishes no more than to cover with a light
coating--it merely results in excessive, undesirable smearing and a
waste of oil.
Remember
=1340.= 1. It is easier to prevent than to remove rust.
2. To remove rust, apply oil with a rag, and let it stand for a while
so as to soften the rust; then wipe with a dry rag.
3. Emery paper or a burnisher must never be used in removing rust, for
it also removes the bluing.
However, an ordinary rubber eraser will be found very serviceable for
removing rust.
4. To prevent rust and dirt in the bore, run a rag through at least
once each day.
5. Never, under any circumstances, put away a rifle that has been
fired or exposed to bad weather, without first cleaning it.
6. Never lay your rifle flat on the ground. Not only is there danger
of dirt or other foreign matter getting into the bore, but a vehicle
may run over it, or some one may step on the sight. Always rest it up
_securely_ against something. On the target range it is well for every
soldier to have a short wood or metal fork, on which to rest his
rifle.
7. In coming to the order from any position, always bring the rifle to
the ground _gently_.
Army Regulations Regarding the Rifle
=1341.= _Are enlisted men allowed to take their arms apart?_
No; not unless they have the permission of a commissioned officer, and
even then only under proper supervision and in the manner prescribed
in the descriptive pamphlet issued by the Ordnance Department. (A. R.
292.)
(Except when repairs are needed, the following named parts should
never be dismounted by the soldier, and whenever they are taken apart
they should be removed only by the company mechanic, or someone else
familiar with the handling of tools and delicate mechanism: Bolt stop,
cut off, safety lock, sleeve lock, front sight, front sight movable
stud, lower band, upper band, and stacking swivel screws.)
(Unless the screw driver is handled carefully and with some skill the
screws are sure to be injured either at the head or thread. The
soldier may dismount the bolt and magazine mechanism for the purpose
of cleaning them, but he is not permitted to do any further
dismounting without the authority of a commissioned officer.)
_Is the polishing of blued and browned parts permitted?_
No, and rebluing, rebrowning, putting any portion of an arm in fire,
removing a receiver from a barrel, mutilating any part by fire or
otherwise, and attempting to beautify or change the finish, are
prohibited. However, the prohibition of attempts to beautify or change
the finish of arms is not construed as forbidding the application of
raw linseed oil to the wood parts of arms. This oil is considered
necessary for the preservation of the wood, and it may be used for
such polishing as can be given when rubbing in one or more coats when
necessary. The use of raw linseed oil only is allowed for redressing
and the application for such purpose of any kind of wax or varnish,
including heelball, is strictly prohibited. (Army Regulations 292.)
_Is the use of tompions[17] in small arms permitted?_
No, it is prohibited by regulations. (Army Regulations 292.)
_Should pieces be unloaded before being taken to quarters or tents?_
Yes, unless it is otherwise ordered. They should also be unloaded as
soon as the men using them are relieved from duty. (Army Regulations
292.)
_Should a loaded or unloaded rifle or revolver ever be pointed at
anyone in play?_
No, under no circumstances whatsoever. _A soldier should never point a
rifle or revolver at a person unless he intends to shoot him._
Description
=1342. Nomenclature of the rifle.= The illustrations on this page and
those on the two following pages give the nomenclature of the rifles,
with which every soldier should be familiar.
[Illustration: Fig. 1]
[Illustration: Fig. 2]
The bolt (Fig. 2) consists of the _handle_, A; _sleeve_, B; _safety
lock_, C; _Cocking piece_, D; _safety lug_, E; _extractor_, F;
_extractor collar_, G; _locking lugs_, H; _extractor tongue groove_,
I; and _gas escape hole_, J.
[Illustration: Fig. 3]
=1343. Rear-sight leaf; drift slide; wind gauge.= The illustration on
the opposite page shows the _rear sight leaf_ (raised), the _drift
slide_ (E), and the _wind gauge_ (F, L.). It is most important that
the soldier be thoroughly familiar with the use of these parts, for
otherwise it is impossible for him to sight correctly and use his
rifle properly.
The leaf is graduated from 100 to 2850 yards. The lines that extend
the whole way across the two branches of the leaf, mark 100 yard
divisions; those that extend about half way across, mark 50 yard
divisions, and the shorter lines mark 25 yard divisions.
The _even_ numbers (4, 6, 8, etc.) on the _left_ branch of the leaf,
indicate 400, 600, 800, etc, yards.
The _odd_ numbered hundreds of yards (300, 500, 700, etc.) are on the
_right_ branch of the leaf.
_The numbers rest on top of the lines to which they refer._
So, if you want to fire at a target 800 yards away, set the rear sight
at 8; 1,000 yards, at 10; 1,200 yards, at 12, etc.
With the fly leaf up, ranges from 100 to 2350 yards can be obtained
through the _peep hole_, K; from 100 to 2450 through the lower _peep
notch_, J; and from 1400 to 2750 yards through the upper _peep notch_,
G.
There is a horizontal line on the drift slide, across the _peep hole_,
K. If the _peep hole_ sight is used the sight is set by this
horizontal line, which is set opposite the proper graduation (line
across branch of leaf).
If the _peep notch_, J, is used, the sight is set by the short
horizontal line--that is, on a line with the top of the notch.
If the _peep notch_, G, is used, the sight is set by the top of the
_slide_, C, which is set on the proper graduation.
Care must be taken not to use one of the _peep notches_ when the sight
has been set for the _peep hole_, or not to do the reverse, without
first changing the sight.
The _sighting notch_, A, used when the range is 2850 yards, is hardly
ever used, because the rifle is very, very seldom, if ever, fired at
that range.
By _battle sight_ we mean the position of the rear sight with the leaf
down, and it corresponds to a sight setting of 530 yards. The notch,
H, that is used when the leaf is down is called the _battle sight
notch_. The battle sight is the only one used in _rapid fire_. In
unexpected, close encounters the side that first opens a rapid and
accurate fire has a great advantage over the other.
[Illustration: Fig. 4]
[Illustration: Fig. 5]
FOOTNOTES:
[17] Wooden stoppers or plugs that are put into the muzzles of rifles
and other arms to keep out dirt and water.
PART IV
RIFLE TRAINING AND INSTRUCTION
(Based on Small-Arms Firing Manual)
=1344. Object of system of instruction.= The object of the system of
rifle training and instruction employed in our Army is two-fold:
1. _To make of INDIVIDUALS, shots who in battle will make hits
instead of misses._
2. _To make of ORGANIZATIONS, pliable, manageable MACHINES,
capable of delivering in battle a volume of EFFECTIVE fire._
=1345. To make of INDIVIDUALS shots who in battle will make hits
instead of misses.= This is accomplished by INDIVIDUAL training and
instruction whereby the skill of the soldier as a rifleman is so
developed as to be up to the capabilities of his rifle, which is
probably the best and most accurate rifle in the world,--that is to
say--
_Effort is made to so develop the shooting skill of the soldier
that he will be able to make his rifle do the things that it is
capable of doing._
To accomplish this end the soldier is put through a course of
individual instruction that divides itself into three main phases or
stages, viz:--
1. _Preliminary drills._ By means of preliminary drills in the
form of sighting drills; position and aiming drills; and
deflection and correction elevation drills, he is taught the
theoretical, fundamental principles of shooting.
2. _Gallery practice._ Having been taught the theoretical,
fundamental principles of shooting by means of the preliminary
drills mentioned in the proceeding paragraph, the soldier is then
shown how to apply them in a simple, elementary way by being put
through a course of gallery practice with the .22 Cal. Gallery
Practice Rifle, using reduced charges. This practice may be called
the _transitory_ phase or period of individual instruction, during
which The soldier passes from his acquisition of the theoretical,
fundamental principles of shooting to their application to actual
firing, on the target range, with the regulation Army rifle.
3. _Range practice._ Having gone through the course in gallery
practice, the soldier then fires on the target range, applying and
putting into practice, with the regulation Army rifle; the
theoretical principles of shooting taught him during the
preliminary drills, and in the application and practice of which
he was also instructed during the gallery practice.
=1346. Other Instruction.= While the above phases embody the principal
subjects in which a soldier is trained and instructed in developing
his skill in shooting, he is also instructed in other matters that
are necessary to round out and complete his skill in
marksmanship,--for example, the care of the rifle, estimating
distances, the effect of light, wind, and temperature, etc.
=1347. To make of ORGANIZATIONS pliable, manageable MACHINES, capable
of delivering in battle a volume of EFFECTIVE fire.= This is
accomplished by _collective_ training and instruction, in which a
number of soldiers (for example, a squad, platoon, or company), under
command of a leader, fire, under assumed tactical situations, at
targets which simulate the appearance of an enemy under conditions
approaching those found in war. This kind of training and instruction
is called, "Combat practice."
In combat practice the individual is trained in firing as part of a
tactical unit,--that is to say, in cooeperation with others,--and the
commanders of the tactical units are taught how to direct and control
the fire of their units,[18] obtaining the maximum efficiency of fire
by cooerdination of the skill and efforts of all the individuals of the
unit.
PROGRAM OF INSTRUCTION
=1348.= The following outline of the program of instruction gives a
sort of bird's-eye view of the system:
1. INDIVIDUAL INSTRUCTION
{ (a) Theory of sighting. (The trajectory;
{ The line of sight; Sighting or aiming.)
1. Sights and Sighting. { (b) Kinds of sights. (Open; Peep; Battle.)
{ (c) Kinds of sight. (That is, amount of
{ front sight taken.) (Normal; Fine; Full.)
{ (a) Sighting drills. (Importance and purpose;
{ Point of aim; Triangle of sighting.)
{ (Verifying the triangle; causes of errors.)
{ (b) Position and aiming drills. (Objects
2. Preliminary drills. { [3]; Position exercise; Aiming exercise;
{ Trigger-squeeze exercise; Rapid-fire exercise;
{ Kneeling, sitting down, and prone.)
{ (c) Deflection and elevation correction
{ drills.
3. Gallery practice. (Object and importance.)
4. Range practice. (Instruction practice; Range practice.)
5. Other Instruction. (Use of sling; Designation of winds; Zero
of rifle; Estimating distances [with the eye, by trial shots, and by
trial volleys]; Wind; Temperature; Light; Mirage; Care of rifle, etc.)
INDIVIDUAL INSTRUCTION
Sights and Sighting
_Theory of Sighting_
=1349. The trajectory.= As the bullet passes through the air it makes
a curved line something like this:
[Illustration: Fig. 1]
This curved line is called the _trajectory_.
The resistance of the air and the force of gravity (the force that
pulls all bodies toward the earth) are the two things that make the
path of the bullet a curved line, just the same as they make the path
of the baseball thrown by the player a curved line.
The resistance of the air holds the bullet back and the force of
gravity pulls it down, so that the two acting together make the
bullet's path curved.
The longer the range the more will the path of the bullet (the
trajectory) be curved, as shown by the following drawing:
[Illustration: Fig. 2]
=1350. Sighting or aiming.= Now, on the rifle there are two
"sights,"--the _front sight_ and the _rear sight_,--which enable the
rifleman to regulate the path of the bullet, as the ball player
regulates the path of the ball.
If the ball player wants distance, he throws the ball high (raises the
path, the trajectory), using his eye and guesswork, and likewise if
the rifleman wants to shoot at a distant target, he, too, shoots the
bullet high (that is, he raises the muzzle of his rifle), but he
doesn't have to depend upon guesswork. It is all worked out for him by
experts and all he need do is to set the _rear sight_ for the proper
range,--that is, for the distance the object is from him.
Aiming or sighting a rifle consists in bringing into line three
objects: _The target_, A, _the front sight_, B, and _the rear sight_,
C.
[Illustration: Fig. 3]
The rifle is so made and the sights placed on it in such a way that
when the piece is held in such a position that the _target_, the
_front sight_ and the _rear sight_ are in line, and the trigger is
pulled (squeezed) the bullet will strike the _target_.
You raise the muzzle of the piece by raising the rear sight,--that is,
raising the rear sight has the effect of raising the muzzle, for the
higher you raise the rear sight the higher must you raise the muzzle
in order to see the front sight and get it in line with the object
aimed at and the rear sight.
This is shown in the following illustrations:
[Illustration: Fig. 4]
[Illustration: Fig. 4a]
The rear sight, C, the front sight, B, and the bull's eye, A, are all
on a line with the eye, D, the rear sight being set for 200 yards.
Suppose we wanted to shoot at 2000 instead of 200 yards. We would
raise the slide up to 20 (2000 yards) on the sight leaf.
In order to see the bull's eye through the notch sight at 2000, we
must raise the eye to the position, D. We now have the rear sight, the
bull's eye and the eye in line, but we must bring the front sight in
line with them, which is done by raising the muzzle of the piece,
giving the result shown in Fig. 4a.
=1351. Line of sight.= With the open sight the line of sight is
determined by a point on the middle line of the notch of the rear
sight and the top of the front sight.
With the peep sight, the line of sight is determined by the _center_
of the peep and the top of the front sight.
Kinds of sights
=1352.= (See Fig. 3, par. 1343, giving rear sight leaf in detail.)
The different kinds of sights are as follows:
(a) =Open sight.= By _open sight_ is meant the use of any one of the
_sighting notches_.
To use the open sight:
1. Look through the sighting notch at the target. (Fig. 5.)
[Illustration: Fig. 5]
[Illustration: Fig. 6]
2. Bring the top of the front sight _on a line with the top and in the
center_ of the sight notch, _the top of the front sight being just
under the bull's eye_.
Because of its wide field of view and its readiness in getting a quick
aim with it, the open sight is the one that is generally used in the
later stages of battle, or when fire is to start immediately.
(b) =Peep Sight.= By _peep sight_ is meant the use of the _peep hole_
in the drift slide.
To use the peep sight:
1. Look through the peep hole at the target. (Fig. 7.)
[Illustration: Fig. 7]
2. Bring the top of the front sight to the _center_ of the peep hole,
_the top of the front sight being just under the bull's eye_. (Fig. 8)
[Illustration: Fig. 8
_Correct_]
_Be sure to get the top of front sight_, as in Fig. 8, _and not the
bull's eye_, as in Fig. 9, _in center of the peep hole_.
[Illustration: Fig. 9
_Incorrect_]
=Advantage of the peep sight.= The advantage of the peep sight over
the open sight is due to the fact that it is easier to center the top
of the front sight in the peep hole and thus get the same amount of
front sight each time.
For example you know at once, without measuring, that the dots in the
circles, Fig. 10, are not centered, and that the one in the circle in
Fig. 11, is.
[Illustration: Fig. 10]
[Illustration: Fig. 11]
After a little practice, in looking through the peep hole the eye
almost automatically centers the top of the front sight.
=Disadvantage of the peep sight.= The disadvantage of the peep sight
is that its limited field of view and lack of readiness in getting a
quick aim with it limit its use to those stages of the combat when
comparative deliberation will be possible.
(c) =Battle sight.= By _battle sight_ we mean the position of the rear
sight with the leaf down. There is a sighting notch on the top of the
leaf, or rather on top of the leaf slide which works up and down the
leaf.
The battle sight is the only sight used in _rapid fire_. In
unexpected, close encounters the side that first opens a rapid and
accurate fire has a great advantage over the other. Again, a soldier
on patrol generally has no time to set his sight, if suddenly attacked
at close range. The battle sight, may, therefore be called the
_emergency sight_,--the _handy_, _quick sight_. The soldier should,
therefore, become thoroughly familiar with the use of this sight.
[Illustration: Fig. 12
_Battle sight_]
The _sighting notch_ in the slide with the rear sight leaf down, is
the same height as is the sighting in the drift slide when the rear
sight leaf is raised and set at 530 yards.
That is to say, _battle sight_ is equivalent to a sight setting of 530
yards. Therefore, in shooting with battle sight at objects nearer than
530 yards you must aim lower.
Kinds of Sight
=1353.= (Amount of front sight taken)
(a) =Normal sight.= The amount of front sight taken in Figs. 6 and 8,
is called the _normal_ sight and is the one that the soldier should
always use, either with the open notch or peep sight, as it is the
only sight which assures the taking of the same amount of front sight
every time. In other words it assumes a greater degree of _uniformity_
in sighting, which is one of the most important factors in shooting.
By uniformity in sighting is meant taking the same amount of sight
each time.
If you take _less_ than the amount of front sight used in the normal
sight, it will, of course, have the effect of _lowering_ the muzzle of
the piece, and consequently you will hit a point _lower_ than if you
had used the normal sight.
On the other hand, if you take _more_ than the amount of front sight
used in the normal sight, it will, of course, have the effect of
raising the muzzle and consequently you will hit a point _higher_ than
if you had used the normal sight.
(b) =Fine sight.= Although occasionally a man will be found who can
get good results by using the fine sight, the average man cannot, and
this form of sighting is, therefore, to be avoided.
[Illustration: Fig. 13
_Fine sight_]
(c) =Full sight.= The so-called _full sight_ must be avoided under all
circumstances. It is merely mentioned and shown here to point out a
fault that must be carefully avoided.
The objections to its use are the same as in the case of the fine
sight,--that is, lack of uniformity in the amount of sight taken.
[Illustration: Fig. 14
_Full sight_]
=1354. What the rifleman looks at when he fires.= The eye can be
focused accurately upon objects at only one distance at a time; all
other objects we see will be more or less blurred and fuzzy looking,
depending upon their distance from the object upon which our eye is
focused.
The rifleman who attains proficiency _focuses his eye on the target
while aiming_, but he glances at one sight and then the other to see
that they are aligned properly, then back at the target, and at the
instant of discharge _his eye is on the target_.
Preliminary Drills
=1355. Sighting, Position and Aiming Drills.= The importance of the
following sighting, position and aiming drills cannot be
overestimated. If they are carefully practiced, before firing a single
shot at a target, you will have learned how to aim your piece
correctly, hold your rifle steadily, squeeze the trigger properly,
assume that position best adapted to the particular conformation of
your body, and you will also have acquired the quickness and manual
skill required for handling the piece in rapid fire.
The sighting, position and aiming drills teach the fundamental
principles of shooting, which are the foundation upon which
marksmanship is built.
_Do not confine yourself to going through these drills only during
drill hours, but go through them frequently at other times. The extent
to which it will improve your shooting will more than repay you for
your trouble._
Sighting Drills
=1356. Object.= The objects of the sighting drill are:
1. To show how to bring the rear sight, the front sight and the target
into the same line,--that is, to show how to sight properly.
2. To discover and point out errors in sighting.--in other words, to
discover the errors you make in sighting and show the reasons for
same, so that you may be able to correct them properly.
3. To teach uniformity in sighting,--that is, to teach you how to take
the same amount of sight each time,--to see every time the same amount
of front sight when you look through the rear sight.
=Sighting rest for rifle.= A good sighting rest for a rifle may be
made by removing the top from an empty pistol ammunition box, or a
similar box, and then cutting notches in the ends of the box to fit
the rifle closely. (Fig. 15.)
[Illustration: Fig. 15]
[Illustration: Fig. 16]
Place the rifle in these notches with the trigger guard close to and
outside one end.
At a convenient distance above the ground fasten a blank sheet of
paper on a wall or on a plank nailed to a stake driven into the
ground.
Three legs are fastened to the rest (or it may be placed on the ground
without any legs), which is placed 20 or 30 feet from the blank sheet
of paper.
[Illustration: Fig. 17]
Make sure that the piece is canted neither to the right nor left, and
without touching the rifle or rest, sight the rifle near the center of
the blank sheet of paper (Fig. 17.)
Changes in the line of sight are made by changing the elevation and
windage.
A soldier acting as marker is provided with a pencil and a small rod
bearing at one end a small piece of white cardboard, with a black
bull's eye pierced in the center with a hole just large enough to
admit the point of a lead pencil.
[Illustration: Fig. 18]
The soldier sighting directs the marker to move the disk to the right,
left, higher, or lower, until the line of aim is established when he
commands, "Mark," or "Hold."
At the command "Mark," being careful not to move the disk, the marker
records through the hole in the center the position of the disk and
then withdraws it.
At the command "Hold," the marker holds the disk carefully in place
without marking, until the position is verified by the instructor, and
the disk is not withdrawn until so directed.
=1357. Point of Aim.= Always be sure to aim at a point just below the
black bull's-eye,--that is, aim so that there will be a fine line of
light between the bottom of the bull's-eye and the-top of the front
sight (Fig. 19). This is important to insure uniformity in
sighting,--that is, in order to make sure that you aim at the same
place on the target each time. If the top of the front sight touches
the bottom of the bull's-eye it is impossible to say just how much of
the front sight is seen, and how far up into the bull's-eye you are.
[Illustration: Fig. 19]
First Sighting Exercise
=1358.= Using the sighting rest for the rifle (Fig. 17) require each
man to direct the marker to move the disk until the rifle is directed
on the bull's-eye with the _normal_ sight and command, "Hold." If
aiming correctly the rear sight, the front sight and the bull's-eye
will look as shown in Fig. 19, above.
The instructor then verifies this line of sight. Errors, if any, will
be pointed out to the soldier and another trial made. If he is still
unable to sight correctly, he will be given as many more trials as may
be necessary.
Sometimes a man does not know how to place the eye in the line of
sight; he will look over or along one side of the notch of the rear
sight and believe that he is aiming through the notch because he sees
it at the same time that he does the front sight. Again some men in
sighting will look at the front sight and not at the object.
Repeat the above exercise, using the _peep_ sight. If aiming
correctly, the rear sight, the front sight and the bull's-eye will
look as shown in Fig. 20.
[Illustration: Fig. 20]
Second Sighting Exercise
=1359. The triangle of sighting.= Using the sighting rest for the
rifle as before (Fig. 17), direct the marker to move the disk until
the rifle is directed on the bull's-eye with the _normal_ sight and
command "Mark," whereupon the marker, being careful not to move the
disk, records through the hole in its center, the position of the
disk, and withdraws it. Then, being careful not to move the rifle or
sights repeat the operation until three marks have been made.
Join the three points by straight lines. The shape and size of the
triangle will indicate the nature of the variations made in sighting.
[Illustration: Fig. 21]
For example, if you have taken the same aim each time, you will get a
very small triangle something like this: [Illustration: triangle]
which resulted from taking each time this aim, for instance:
[Illustration: Fig. 22]
A triangle like Fig. 22 results from not taking the same amount of
front sight each time, as shown in Fig. 23.
[Illustration: Fig. 23]
[Illustration: Fig. 24]
A triangle like Fig. 24 shows that the front sight was not in the
middle of the notch each time, as shown in Fig. 25.
[Illustration: Fig. 25]
A triangle like Fig. 26 results from a combination of the two errors
mentioned above,--that is, not taking the same amount of front sight
each time and not having the front sight in the middle of the notch
each time, as shown in Fig. 27.
[Illustration: Fig. 26]
[Illustration: Fig. 27]
If any one of the sides of the triangle is longer than one-half inch,
the exercise is repeated, each sight being verified by the instructor,
who will call the soldier's attention to his errors, if any.
The smaller the triangle, the better the sighting.
=1360. Verifying the triangle.= If the sides of the triangle are so
small that they indicate regularity in sighting, mark the center of
the triangle and then place the center of the bull's-eye on this mark.
The instructor then examines the position of the bull's-eye with
reference to the line of sight. If the bull's-eye is properly placed
with reference to the line of sight, the soldier aims correctly and
with uniformity.
If the bull's-eye is not properly placed with reference to the line of
sight, the soldier aims in a regular manner but with a constant error.
=1361. Causes of errors.= If the bull's-eye is directly above its
proper position, the soldier has aimed high,--that is, he has taken
too little front sight.
If the bull's-eye is directly below its proper position, the soldier
has aimed low,--that is, he has taken too much front sight.
If the bull's-eye is directly to the right or left of its proper
position, the soldier has not sighted through the center of the rear
notch and over the top of the front sight. If to the _right_, the
soldier has either sighted along the _left_ of the rear sight notch or
the _right_ side of the front sight, or has committed both of these
errors.
If the bull's-eye is to the _left_ of its proper place, the soldier
has probably-sighted along the _right_ of the rear sight notch, or to
the _left_ of the front sight, or has committed both of these errors.
If the bull's eye is diagonally above and to the right, the soldier
has probably combined the errors which placed it too high and too far
to the right.
Any other diagonal position would be produced by a similar combination
of vertical and horizontal errors.
After the above instruction has been given to one man, the line of
sight will be slightly changed by moving the sighting rest or by
changing the elevation and windage, and the exercises similarly
repeated with other men.
Repeat the exercise, using the _peep_ sight.
Third Sighting Exercise
=1362.= This exercise shows the effect of canting the piece.
It is most important that in aiming the sights be kept vertical and
the piece not be canted,--that is, that the barrel be not tilted over
to the right or left.
If the piece is canted to the right, the sights are lowered to the
right and consequently the bullet will strike to the right and below
the point aimed at, even though the rifle be otherwise correctly aimed
and the sights correctly set.
Similarly if the piece is canted to the left the sights are lowered to
the left, and consequently the bullet will strike to the left and low.
This effect of canting the piece may be shown as follows: Use the
sighting rest with the rifle firmly held in the notches, the bolt
removed.
Paste a black paster near the center of the bottom line of the target.
Sight the rifle on this mark, using about 2000 yards' elevation. Then,
being careful not to move the rifle, look through the bore and direct
the marker to move the disk until the bull's-eye is in the center of
the field of view and command, "Mark."
Next, turn the rest (with the rifle) over 90 deg. to the right, on its
side, and with the same elevation, sight on the same paster as above.
Then, being careful not to move the rifle, look through the bore and
again direct the marker to move the disk until the bull's-eye is in
the center of the field of view and command, "Mark."
Not considering the fall of the bullet, the first mark represents the
point struck with the sight vertical, the second mark represents the
point struck, low and to the right, using the same elevation and the
same point of aim, when the piece is canted 90 deg. to the right.
Different degrees of canting the piece can be represented by drawing
an arc of a circle through the two marks with the paster as a center.
The second mark will be at a point on this arc corresponding to the
degree of canting the piece.
It is important to know that this effect of canting increases with the
distance from the target.
Fourth Sighting Exercise
=1363.= This exercise is to show the advantage of blackened sights.
In strong sunlight, make a triangle of sighting, using a rifle having
sights worn bright. Then, being careful not to move the rifle, blacken
the sights and make another triangle.
Use dotted lines for the triangle with bright sights and full lines
for the triangle made with blackened sights.
The position and size of the two triangles will plainly show the
advantage of using blackened sights.
Fifth Sighting Exercise
=1364.= This exercise is to illustrate the importance of knowing the
effects of varying degrees of light.
In strong sunlight make a triangle of sighting. Then, being careful
not to move the piece, make another triangle, the target and the man
sighting having first been shaded.
The relative positions of the triangles will show the importance of
knowing the effects of varying degrees of light.
Position and Aiming Drills
=1365. Object.= The object of the position and aiming drills are:
1. To so educate the muscles of the arm and body that the piece,
during the act of aiming, shall be held without restraint, and during
the operation of firing shall not be deflected from the target by any
convulsive or improper movement of the trigger finger or of the body,
arms, or hands.
2. They also establish between the hand and eye such prompt and
intimate connection as will insure that the finger shall act upon the
trigger, giving the final pressure at the exact moment when the top of
the front sight is seen to be directed upon the mark.
3. If at the moment the piece is discharged, it is properly supported
and correctly aimed, the mark will surely be hit.
Since any fairly intelligent man can be taught to aim correctly and to
hold the sights aligned upon the mark with a fair amount of
steadiness, it follows that bad shooting must necessarily arise from
causes other than bad aiming. The chief of these causes is known to be
the deflection given to the rifle when it is discharged, due to the
fact that the soldier, at the moment of firing, instead of SQUEEZING
the trigger, _jerks_ it. This convulsive action is largely due to lack
of familiarity with the methods of firing and to a constrained
position of the muscles of the body, arm, and hands, which constrained
position it is the object of the position and aiming drills to
correct.
=1366. General.= In order to correct any tendency to cant the piece,
the rear sight is raised in all the exercises.
Place a black paster at which to aim on the wall opposite each man.
The squad being formed in single rank, with an interval of one yard
between files, the instructor directs the men to take the position of
"Ready," except that the position of the feet is such as to insure the
greatest firmness and steadiness of the body.
The instructor then cautions, "Position and aiming drill."
The exercise which is being taught should be repeated frequently and
made continuous. The instructor prefaces the preparatory command by,
"Continue the motion," or "At will," and gives the command "Halt" at
the conclusion of the exercise, when the soldier returns to the
position of "Ready." Or the soldier may be made to repeat the first
and second motions by the command "One," "Two," the exercise
concluding with the command "Halt."
Care must be taken by the instructor not to make the position and
aiming drills tedious. Thirty minutes daily should be spent in this
practice during the period of preliminary instruction. After gallery
practice is taken up, however, five or ten minutes daily should be
sufficient for these exercises.
In order that the instructor may readily detect and correct errors the
squads for these drills should not consist of more than eight men.
The instructor should avoid holding the squad in tiresome positions
while making explanations or corrections.
Position Exercise
=1367.= The instructor commands: =1. Position, 2. EXERCISE.= At the
command, "_Exercise_" without moving the body or eyes, raise the rifle
smartly to the front of the right shoulder to the full extent of the
left arm, elbow inclined downward, the barrel nearly horizontal,
muzzle slightly depressed, heel of the butt on a line with the top of
the shoulder. (Fig. 28.)
[Illustration: Fig. 28]
(Two.) Bring the piece smartly against the hollow of the shoulder,
without permitting the shoulder to give way, and press the rifle
against it, mainly with the right hand, only slightly with the left,
the forefinger of the right hand resting lightly against the trigger,
the rifle inclined neither to the right nor left.
(Three.) Resume the position of ready. (Fig. 30.)
[Illustration: Fig. 29]
=Remarks.= The instructor should especially notice the position of
each soldier in this exercise, endeavoring to give to each man an
easy and natural position. He should see that the men avoid drawing in
the stomach, raising the breast, or bending the small of the back. The
butt of the piece must be pressed firmly, but not too tightly, into
the hollow of the shoulder and not against the muscles of the upper
arm. If held too tightly, the pulsations of the body will be
communicated to the piece; if too loosely, the recoil will bruise the
shoulder. If only the heel or toe touches the hollow of the shoulder,
the recoil may throw the muzzle down or up, affecting the position of
the hit. While both arms are used to press the piece to the shoulder,
the left arm should be used to direct the piece and the right
forefinger must be left free to squeeze the trigger.
[Illustration: Fig. 30]
Aiming Exercise
=1368.= The instructor will first direct the sights to be adjusted for
the lowest elevation and subsequently for the different longer ranges.
The instructor commands: =1. Aiming. 2. EXERCISE.= At the last command
execute the first and second motion of the position exercise.
(Two.) Bend the head a little to the right, the cheek resting against
the stock, the left eye closed, the right eye looking through the
notch of the rear sight at a point slightly below the mark. (Fig. 31.)
[Illustration: Fig. 31]
(Three.) Draw a moderately long breath, let a portion of it escape,
then, with the lungs in a state of rest, slowly raise the rifle with
the left hand, being careful not to incline the sight to either side,
until the line of sight is directly on the mark; hold the rifle
steadily directed on the mark for a moment; then, without command and
just before the power to hold the rifle steadily is lost, drop the
rifle to the position of "Ready" and resume the breathing.
=1369. Remarks.= Some riflemen prefer to extend the left arm. Such a
position gives greater control over the rifle when firing in a strong
wind or at moving objects. It also possesses advantages when a rapid
as well as accurate delivery of fire is desired. Whatever the
position, whether standing, kneeling, sitting, or prone, the piece
should rest on the palm of the left hand, never on the tips of the
fingers, and should be firmly grasped by all the fingers and the
thumb.
The eye may be brought to the line of sight either by lowering the
head or by raising the shoulder; it is best to combine somewhat these
methods; the shoulder to be well raised by raising the right elbow and
holding it well to the front and at right angles to the body.
If the shoulder is not raised, it will be necessary for the soldier to
lower the head to the front in order to bring the eye into the line of
sight. Lowering the head too far to the front brings it near the right
hand, which grasps the stock. When the piece is discharged, this hand
is carried by the recoil to the rear and, when the head is in this
position, may strike against the nose or mouth. This often happens in
practice, and as a result of this blow often repeated many men become
gun-shy, or flinch, or close their eyes at the moment of firing. Much
bad shooting, ascribed to other causes, is really due to this fault.
Raising the right elbow at right angles to the body elevates the right
shoulder, and lifts the piece so that it is no longer necessary to
incline the head materially to the front in order to look along the
sights.
As the length of the soldier's neck determines greatly the exact
method of taking the proper position, the instructor will be careful
to see that the position is taken without restraint.
As changes in the elevation of the rear sight will necessitate a
corresponding change in the position of the soldier's head when
aiming, the exercise should not be held with the sight adjusted for
the longer ranges until the men have been practiced with the sights as
the latter would generally be employed for offhand firing.
The soldier must be cautioned that while raising the line of sight to
the mark he must fix his eyes on the mark and not on the front sight;
the latter can then be readily brought into the line joining the
rear-sight notch and mark. If this plan be not followed, when firing
is held on the range at long distances the mark will generally appear
blurred and indistinct. The front sight will always be plainly seen,
even though the eye is not directed particularly upon it.
The rifle must be raised slowly, without jerk, and its motion stopped
gradually. In retaining it directed at the mark, care must be taken
not to continue the aim after steadiness is lost; this period will
probably be found to be short at first, but will quickly lengthen with
practice. No effort should be made to prolong it beyond the time that
breathing can be easily restrained. Each soldier will determine for
himself the proper time for discontinuing the aim.
The men must be cautioned not to hold the breath too long, as a
trembling of the body will result in many cases.
Some riflemen prefer, in aiming, to keep both eyes open but, unless
the habit is fixed, the soldier should be instructed to close the left
eye.
Trigger-Squeeze Exercise
=1370.= The instructor commands: =1. Trigger squeeze. 2. EXERCISE.= At
the command =Exercise=, the soldier executes the first motion of the
aiming exercise.
(Two.) The second motion of the aiming exercise.
(Three.) Draw a moderately long breath, let a portion of it escape,
hold the breath and slowly raise the rifle with the left hand until
the line of sight is on the mark, being careful not to incline the
sights to either side. Contract the trigger finger gradually, slowly
and steadily increasing the pressure on the trigger, while the aim is
being perfected; continue the gradual increase of pressure so that
when the aim has become exact the additional pressure required to
release the point of the sear can be given almost insensibly and
without causing any deflection of the rifle. Continue the aim a moment
after the release of the firing pin, observe if any change has been
made in the direction of the line of sight, and then resume the
position of "Ready," cocking the piece by raising and lowering the
bolt handle.
=Remarks.= Poor shooting is often the result of lack of proper
cooerdination of holding the breath, the maximum steadiness of aim, and
the squeeze of the trigger. By frequent practice in this exercise,
each man may come to know the exact instant his firing pin will be
released. He must be taught to hold the breath, bring the sights to
bear upon the mark, and squeeze the trigger all at the same time.
=1371. The Trigger Squeeze.= The trigger should be _squeezed_, not
pulled, the hand being closed upon itself as a sponge is squeezed, the
forefinger sharing in this movement. The forefinger should be placed
as far around the trigger as to _press_ it with the second joint. By
practice the soldier becomes familiar with the trigger _squeeze_ of
his rifle, and knowing this, he is able to judge at any time, within
limits, what additional _pressure_ is required for its discharge. By
constant repetition of this exercise he should be able finally to
_squeeze_ the trigger to a certain point beyond which the slightest
movement will release the sear. Having _squeezed_ the trigger to this
point, the aim is corrected and, when true, the additional pressure is
applied and the discharge follows.
[Illustration: Fig. 32]
Rapid-Fire Exercise
=1372. Object.= The object of this exercise is to teach the soldier to
aim quickly and at the same time accurately in all the positions he
will be called upon to assume in range practice.
The instructor commands: =1. Rapid-fire exercise. 2. COMMENCE FIRING.=
At the first command the first and second motions of the
trigger-squeeze exercise are performed. At the second command, the
soldier performs the third motion of the trigger-squeeze exercise,
squeezing the trigger without disturbing the aim or the position of
the piece, but at the same time without undue deliberation. He then
without removing the rifle from the shoulder, holding the piece in
position with the left hand, grasps the handle of the bolt with the
right hand, rapidly draws back the bolt, closes the chamber, aims, and
again squeezes the trigger. This movement is repeated until the
trigger has been squeezed five times, when, without command, the piece
is brought back to the position of "Ready."
When the soldier has acquired some facility in this exercise, he will
be required to repeat the movement ten times, and finally, by using
dummy cartridges, he may, by degrees, gain the necessary quickness and
dexterity for the execution of the rapid fire required in range
firing.
=1373 Methods.= The methods of taking position, of aiming, and of
squeezing the trigger, taught in the preceding exercises, should be
carried out in the rapid-fire exercises, with due attention to all
details taught therein; the details being carried out as prescribed
except that greater promptness is necessary. In order that any
tendency on the part of the recruit to slight the movements of aiming
and of trigger squeeze shall be avoided, the rapid-fire exercises will
not be taught until the recruit is thoroughly drilled and familiar
with the preceding exercises. The recruit will be instructed that with
practice in this class of fire the trigger can be squeezed promptly
without deranging the piece.
=1374. Repetition.= If the recruit seems to execute the exercise
hurriedly or carelessly, the instructor will require him to repeat it
at a slower rate.
=1375. Manipulation of the Breech Mechanism.= To hold the piece to the
position of the left hand should not be changed, but the left forearm
with the proper facility, are learned only after much practice. Some
riflemen, especially men who shoot from the left shoulder, find it
easier, in rapid firing, to drop the piece to the position of load
after each shot. While at first trial this method may seem easier, it
is believed that, with practice, the advantage of the former method
will be apparent.
Position and Aiming Drill, Kneeling
=1376.= These exercises will be repeated in the kneeling position by
causing the squad to kneel by the commands prescribed in the Drill
Regulations. The exercises will be executed as prescribed for
standing, except that the command "Two" in the position exercise, the
soldier will rest the left elbow on the left knee, the point of the
elbow in front of the kneecap. The pasters for the kneeling exercise
should be at 2-1/2 feet from the floor or ground.
=Remarks.= Frequent rests will be given during practice in these
exercises kneeling, as the position, if long continued, becomes
constrained and fatigues the soldier unnecessarily.
In raising the rifle to the mark in the second and third exercises,
the position of the left hand should not be changed, but the left
forearm should be brought toward the body and at the same time the
body bent slightly to the rear.
When aiming kneeling there is, from the nature of the position, a
tendency to press the butt of the rifle against the upper arm instead
of against the hollow of the shoulder; this will necessitate inclining
the head considerably to the right to get the line of sight, and by
bringing the rifle so far to the rear will, if the thumb is placed
across the stock, cause it to give by the recoil a blow upon the nose
or mouth.
These difficulties may be avoided by advancing the right elbow well to
the front, at the same time raising it so that the arm is about
parallel with the ground. The hollow of the shoulder will then be the
natural place for the rifle butt, and the right thumb will be brought
too far from the face to strike it in the recoil.
Some riflemen prefer, by bending the ankle, to rest the instep flat on
the ground, the weight of the body coming more on the upper part of
the heel; this obviates any tendency of the right knee to slip; or, by
resting the right side of the foot on the ground, toe pointing to the
front, to bring the weight of the body on the left side of the foot.
These positions are authorized.
=1377. Choice of Position.= In firing kneeling, the steadiness
obtained depends greatly upon the position adopted. The peculiarities
of conformation of the individual soldier exert when firing kneeling a
greater influence than when firing either standing, sitting, or prone;
the instructor should, therefore, carefully endeavor, noticing the
build of each soldier, to place him in the position for which he is
best adapted and which will exert the least tension or strain upon the
muscles and nerves. It should be remembered, however, that without the
rest of the left elbow on the knee this position possesses no
advantage of steadiness over the standing position.
=1378. Kneeling Position; When Taken.= The kneeling position can be
taken more quickly than either the sitting or the prone position. It
is, therefore, the position naturally assumed when a soldier, who is
standing or advancing, has to make a quick shot at a moving or
disappearing object and desires more steadiness than can be obtained
standing.
Position and Aiming Drill, Sitting Down
=1379.= In many cases the men, while able to kneel and hold the piece
moderately steady, can obtain in a sitting position much better
results. All should, therefore, be instructed in aiming sitting down
as well as kneeling.
To practice the soldier in the preceding exercises in a sitting
position, the squad being formed in a single rank, with an interval of
one pace between files, the rifle should first be brought to "Order
arms"; the instructor then commands: _Sit down._
At this command make a half face to the right and, assisted by the
left hand on the ground, sit down, facing slightly to the right, the
left leg directed toward the front, right leg inclined toward the
right, both heels, but not necessarily the bottoms of the feet, on the
ground, the right knee slightly higher than the left; body erect and
carried naturally from the hips; at the same time drop the muzzle of
the piece to the front, and to the position of the first motion of
load, right hand upon the thigh, just in front of the body, the left
hand slightly above, but not resting upon, the left leg.
The exercise will be executed as heretofore prescribed, except that at
the command "Two" (position exercise) the soldier will rest the left
elbow on the left knee, the point of the elbow in front of the
kneecap, and the right elbow against the left or inside of the right
knee, at the same time inclining the body from the hips slightly
forward.
For the aiming and trigger-squeeze exercises the pasters, used as
aiming points, will be 2-1/2 feet from the floor or the ground.
To afford the men rest or on the completion of the kneeling or sitting
down exercises the instructor will command _Rise_, when the men rise,
face to the front, and resume the "Order arms."
=Remarks.= If the preceding position is carefully practiced,
steadiness is quickly attained. The right leg should not be carried so
far to the right as not to afford a good support or brace for the
right elbow.
This position may be modified, but, in general, not without impairing
the steadiness of the man, by crossing the legs at the ankle, the
outside of each foot resting upon the ground, body more erect, and the
knees slightly more raised than in the previous position.
Position and Aiming Drill, Prone
=1380.= From the nature of the position it is not practicable to
execute these exercises according to the method followed when standing
or kneeling. Instruction will, however, always be given with reference
to the position, to the manner of assuming it, and to aiming and
squeezing the trigger.
For this purpose the squad being formed as specified above, in the
position and aiming drill, sitting down (the black plasters therein
mentioned being about 12 inches from the ground), the squad will be
brought to "Order arms."
Then (the squad either standing or kneeling), the instructor commands:
_Lie down_, which will be executed as prescribed in the Drill
Regulations; the legs may be spread apart and the toes turned out if
found to give a steadier position.
After the squad has taken the position as prescribed above, the legs
should be inclined well to the left, and either crossed or separated
as the soldier prefers or as his particular conformation appears to
render most desirable, and the body at the same time inclined slightly
to the right.
With care and practice the soldier may acquire an easy position which
he is able to assume with great facility.
=1381.= Being at "Ready," the instructor then commands: =1. Trigger
squeeze. 2. EXERCISE.=
At the latter command carry the left elbow to the front and slightly
to the right, the left hand under the barrel at the balance, weight of
the body mainly supported by the left elbow, the right resting lightly
on the floor or ground.
(Two.) Slide the rifle with the right hand through the left hand to
the front until the left hand is a little in front of the trigger
guard; at the same time raise the rifle with both hands and press it
against the hollow of the shoulder.
(Three.) Direct the rifle upon the mark and carry out the further
details of aiming and squeezing the trigger as prescribed in the
trigger-squeeze exercise.
Then resume the position, lying down.
As soon as the men have acquired with accuracy the details of the
position, they will be practiced, without the numbers, in aiming and
squeezing the trigger at will; after which the rapid-fire exercise in
the prone position will be practiced, the necessary skill and
dexterity being acquired by degrees.
To afford the men rest, or on completion of the exercise, the
instructor will command: _Rise_, which is executed as prescribed in
the Drill Regulations.
=1382. Remarks.= The preceding position for firing lying down
possesses in a greater degree than any other position the merit of
adaptability to the configuration of the ground; it enables the
soldier to deliver fire over low parapets or improvised shelters, thus
making the best use of cover. The importance of training the soldier
in firing from the other positions should not, however, be lost sight
of, since from the prone position it will frequently be impossible to
see the objective.
Back positions are not authorized.
In the prone position, when aiming, the left elbow should be well
under the barrel, the other elbow somewhat to the right, but not so
far as to induce any tendency to slip on the floor or ground.
The greater changes in elevation required in first directing the rifle
on the object should be given by altering the position of the left
hand under the barrel, the slighter changes only by advancing or
withdrawing the shoulder.
As the body does not yield to the recoil, as when firing standing or
kneeling, the force of recoil, if the rifle is not properly held, may
severely bruise the soldier. It is one of the objects of this exercise
to so teach him that this will be prevented by assuming a correct
position. Care must be exercised that the butt is not brought against
the collar bone. By moving the shoulder slightly to the front or rear,
and by moving the right elbow from the body or toward it, each soldier
may determine the position in which the shoulder gives to the butt of
the rifle the easiest rest. This will probably be the one in which the
force of the recoil will be least felt.
The soldier should persist in this exercise until he obtains a
position in which he feels no constraint, which will not subject him
to bruises from recoil, and from which the mark appears plainly
through the sights. Having secured such a position, he must not change
it when firing, as a variation in the points of support of the rifle,
the distance of the eye from the rear sight, or the tension of the
hold has a decided effect, especially at the longer ranges, upon the
location of the point struck.
=Important.= The soldier should be encouraged to go through these
exercises frequently at other than drill hours, care being taken that,
in the aiming and trigger-squeeze exercises, he always has some
definite object for a mark.
Deflection and Elevation Correction Drills
(Sight-Setting Drills)
=1383. Sight Correction.= You may find when firing at a target that
the first shot has missed the bull's-eye or figure. Now, one of two
things may be done in order to cause the second shot to hit the
bull's-eye or figure: (1) The point of aim may be changed, or (2) the
sights may be moved and the same point as before aimed at.
In order to do accurate shooting it is necessary to have a
well-defined mark at which to aim; consequently, except for very
slight corrections, the method of moving the sights, involving changes
in elevation and windage, is the one to be used.
=Exercises.= In order to give the soldier practice in making
corrections in elevation and deflection (windage),--that is, in
sight-setting,--proceed as follows:
Take an "A" target and rule it off with red vertical lines to
represent range and black or blue horizontal lines to represent
windage deviations, as in Fig. 33. Tell the men to set their sights
(either peep or open) for 200 yards, no windage. Examine the sights
(assisted by the lieutenants, noncommissioned officers and expert
riflemen).
[Illustration: Fig. 33]
Then say, for example, "You have fired a shot at 200 yards with your
sights set as you now have them. The shot was marked here (pointing to
'P,' Fig. 33). Change your sights so as to move the next shot into the
bull's-eye,--considering that you take the same hold as you did the
last time."
(Note. In this case the sight should be lowered 75 yards and 2 points
of left windage should be taken.)
Repeat with different positions for "P" until the men all understand
the method and the reasons. Do same for 300 yards, 500 yards, and 600
yards. See Figs. 34, 35, and 36.
[Illustration: Fig. 34]
[Illustration: Fig. 35]
[Illustration: Fig. 36]
Explain that in firing no change in sights should be made until the
man is sure that his hold was good, and then change without hesitancy.
The correct use of sights and their proper adjustment can thus be
taught without firing a shot. This exercise will save much time and
work on the range.
=Elevation.= As previously explained, raising the rear sight increases
the range of the bullet and lowering it decreases the range.
The amount of change which a given amount of elevation will cause in
the point struck varies with the range and with the rifle and with the
ammunition used.
For example, generally and approximately, in order, at a range of 500
yards, to change the point struck 1 foot, the rear sight must be
changed 48 yards, while to change the point struck 1 foot at 1000
yards it must be changed 12 yards. That is to say, if you fired a shot
at 300 yards, and then with the same aim, hold and other conditions as
before, you _raised_ your rear sight 48 yards, the next shot would
strike the target 1 foot _above_ the first one, and if you _lowered_
the rear sight 48 yards, the bullet would then strike the target 1
foot _below_ the first one. If firing at 1000 yards, _raising_ the
rear sight 12 yards would cause the bullet to strike the target 1 foot
_higher_ and _lowering_ the rear sight 12 yards would cause it to
strike 1 foot _lower_.
The following table gives the approximate changes in the rear sight to
move the point struck 1 foot at ranges from 100 to 1000 yards:
+-----------------------------------+
| | Correction in elevation |
| Range | necessary to change the |
| | point struck 1 foot |
+---------+-------------------------+
| 100 | 415 |
| 200 | 185 |
| 300 | 105 |
| 400 | 70 |
| 500 | 48 |
| 600 | 35 |
| 700 | 25 |
| 800 | 20 |
| 900 | 15 |
| 1,000 | 12 |
+---------+-------------------------+
The score-books issued by the Ordnance Department contain elevation
charts and all you have to do is to consult the chart of your
score-book in order to get the amount of elevation necessary at any
particular range in order to raise or lower your shots any desired
distance.
=1384. Deflection (windage).= Corrections in the deflection (side
movement) of the bullet are made by means of the windage screw that
moves the movable base, each division of the graduations on the rear
end of the movable base being called a "point of windage."
_One point of windage moves the point struck 4 inches for each 100
yards of range._
That is to say, at 100 yards, 1 point of windage moves the point
struck 4 inches; at 200 yards, 8 inches (2 x 4); at 300 yards, 12
inches (3 x 4), etc.
Consequently, if at 100 yards the wind were carrying your bullets 8
inches to the side, you would take two points of windage to get the
bull's-eye, and if the wind were carrying your bullets 20 inches to
the side, you would take 5 points of windage, irrespective of the rate
at which the wind was blowing.
Again, if at 200 yards the wind were carrying your bullets 8 inches to
the side, you would take 1 point of windage, and if it were carrying
your bullets 20 inches to the side, you would take 2-1/2 points,
irrespective of the rate at which the wind was blowing.
In using the wind gauge remember _windage is always taken in the
direction from which the wind is coming (into the wind) and the bullet
moves in the same direction that the rear sight moves,--that is, if
the wind is coming from the right, you take right windage and the
bullet will strike to the right. Likewise if you move the rear sight
to the left (take left windage), the bullet will strike to the left_.
GALLERY PRACTICE
=1385. Object and importance.= After the soldier has been thoroughly
instructed in sighting, and in the position, aiming, deflection, and
elevation correction drills, he is exercised in firing at short ranges
(50 and 75 feet) with the gallery practice rifle (.22 caliber).
Notwithstanding the value of the position and aiming drills, it is
impossible to keep up the soldier's interest if these exercises are
unduly prolonged. By gallery practice, however, the interest is easily
maintained and further progress, especially in teaching the trigger
squeeze, is made. Many of the external influences, which on the range
affect the firing, being absent, the soldier is not puzzled by results
for which, at this stage of his education, he could not account were
he advanced to firing with full charges. Furthermore, as there is no
recoil to induce nervousness or flinching, the soldier soon finds that
he can make good scores, and this success is the surest stimulus to
interest.
Not only to the beginner is gallery practice of value; to the good
shot it is a means of keeping, to a certain extent, in practice, and
practice in shooting, as much as in anything else, is essential. Since
it can be carried on throughout the year, gallery practice is of much
value in fixing in the men the _habit of aimed fire_, than which
nothing in his training is of more importance.
RANGE PRACTICE
=1386.= Having completed the gallery practice course, the soldier is
then advanced to known-distance firing on the target range where he
uses the service rifle, with service ammunition.
This known-distance practice is divided into certain regular courses
and special courses.
The regular courses and Special Course A are for troops of the Regular
Army.
There is also a special course for the Organized Militia and
Volunteers and one for Volunteer recruits.
All the various courses are described in detail in the Small-Arms
Firing Manual and anyone having occasion to use any of them should
familiarize himself thoroughly therewith.
OTHER INSTRUCTION
=1387. Use of sling.= After the soldier has been drilled in the proper
standing, kneeling, sitting, and prone positions in the foregoing
exercises, the use of the sling will be taught. Adjustments and their
advantages will be taught with the idea of noninterference with
quickness and freedom of action. The trigger squeeze exercises will
then be continued in the different positions, using the sling.
=1388.= _Description and adjustment._ The sling is made up of four
parts: the long strap, A, forming the arm loop; the short strap, B;
and the two keepers, C and D. At one end of each of the straps there
is a metal claw, used for adjusting the straps. At the other end of
the short straps there is a metal loop through which the longer strap
is passed, thus connecting the two straps.
[Illustration: Fig. 37]
To adjust the sling for firing, the claw of the short strap is
disengaged and reengaged in the proper holes of the short strap, such
adjustment as may be necessary being also made in the long strap (the
arm loop).
=1389.= _What the sling does._ It does two things: (1) It steadies the
rifle, and (2) helps to take up the recoil,--that is, to reduce the
"kick."
_Its use._ There are a number of different methods of using the sling.
Experiment with different ones until you find and decide upon the
method best suited to you.
The sling should be used in all firing,--combat practice as well as at
target practice.
Always adjust the sling so that it will be tight.
Have the arm loop no longer than is necessary to reach the middle of
the small of the stock. When on the arm, have the lower end of the arm
loop well up near the arm pit, with the keeper well pressed down so as
to hold the loop fast.
Note the proper adjustments of the sling for the different firing
positions,--that is, standing, sitting, kneeling, and prone, and mark
the adjustments on the inside of the arm loop, "St" (standing), "Si"
(Sitting), "K" (kneeling), and "P" (prone).
It is sometimes advisable to sew a piece of rope to your shirt sleeve
to keep the sling from slipping down.
=1390. To put on the sling.= 1. Put your left hand in the loop,
twisting the sling to the left, A, Fig. 38, and holding the rifle with
the right hand as shown in the figure. Twisting the sling to the left
causes a flat surface instead of the cutting edge of the sling to rest
against the wrist.
[Illustration: Fig. 38]
2. Extend the arm on through the loop, (Fig. 39), bringing the loop
well up near the pit of the arm, grasping the piece with the left
hand, and pressing down keeper, A.
[Illustration: Fig. 39]
3. Place left hand between the sling and piece, (Fig. 40), the hand
being pressed well forward toward the upper sling swivel, A. Notice
how the back of the hand is resting against the flat of the sling.
[Illustration: Fig. 40]
4. Come to the position of aim, Fig. 41. Pressure is applied to the
sling by pressing forward the left hand, and holding the rifle to the
shoulder with the right hand. Remember that whatever pressure you
apply must be the same for each shot.
[Illustration: Fig. 41
_Right side view_]
Notice (Figs. 41 and 42) how well forward the left hand is, and how
the flat of the sling is resting against the wrist and back of hand.
See how the short strap, C, (Fig. 41), of the sling is correctly
loose.
The thumb should be held along the stock as shown (A) in Fig. 42.
[Illustration: Fig. 42
_Left side view_]
=1391. Designation of winds.= Winds are designated as "12 o'clock," "1
o'clock," "2 o'clock," etc., winds, depending on the direction _from_
which they come.
Imagine the firing point to be in the middle of the face of a clock
and the target to be at 12 o'clock; 3 o'clock will be on your right, 9
o'clock on your left, 6 o'clock in your rear and 12 in your front.
A wind blowing _from_ your right to your left is called a 3 o'clock
wind; one blowing _from_ your rear is called a 6 o'clock wind; one
from your front, 12 o'clock wind, etc.
[Illustration: Fig. 43]
The score-books issued by the Ordnance Department have windage charts
that have been carefully worked out and all you have to do is this:
Estimate the force of the wind in miles per hour, and determine the
direction from which it comes (whether a 9 o'clock wind, a 2 o'clock
wind, etc.). Then look at the windage chart and see just how much
windage you must take.
The simplest and best rule for the beginner is for him to make his
estimate and then ask an experienced shot what windage to use,
checking this up with what he found on the windage chart. In this way
he soon learns to estimate for himself.
Practice estimating the wind. Ask a man who has been making 5's and
4's what windage _he_ used and check up with your own estimate.
You can find out the direction of the wind by watching smoke, grass or
the limbs of trees.
Throw up some small straws and watch which way they are blown, or wet
your finger and hold it up. The wind cools the side it strikes.
A 12 o'clock wind slows up the bullet and a 6 o'clock wind helps it
along,--so, in the first case you would need more elevation and in the
second less elevation.
=1392. The zero of a rifle.= The twist of the bullet given by the
rifling of the barrel causes the bullet to move to right, which
movement, called "the drift," is compensated by having the slot in the
rear sight for the drift slide, slope to the left. However, in some
rifles the compensation is too great and in others it is not enough.
That reading of the wind gauge necessary to overcome the drift of a
rifle at a particular range is called the "zero" of that rifle for
that range, and all allowances for wind should be calculated from this
reading.
The "zero" of a rifle is found by shooting it on a perfectly calm day.
=1393. Estimating distance.= Ability to estimate distances correctly
is an important part of a soldier's education.
While it is true that fire on the battlefield will usually be by
groups and the ranges will be given by officers, the battlefield is
reached only after a long series of experiences in scouting,
patrolling, and outpost duty, in which the soldier is frequently
placed in positions where it is necessary that he shall determine for
himself the range to be used in order that his fire may be effective.
There are different methods of estimating the range (for example, by
sound, trial shots, range-finding instruments, etc.), but the only
ones that the average soldier need know are those of estimating
distance by the eye and by trial shots.
To estimate distance by the eye with accuracy, it is necessary to be
familiar with the appearance, as to length, of a unit of measure which
can be compared mentally with the distance which is to be estimated.
The most convenient unit of length is 100 yards. To impress upon the
soldier the extent of a stretch of 100 yards two posts 100 yards
apart, with short stakes between to mark each 25 yards, should be
placed near the barracks, or on the drill ground, and the soldier
required to pace off the marked distance several times, counting his
steps. He will thus learn how many of his steps make 100 yards and
will become familiar with the appearance of the whole distance and of
its fractional parts.
Next a distance of more than 100 yards will be shown him and he will
be required to compare this distance with the 100-yard unit and to
estimate it. Having made his estimate, he will be required to verify
its accuracy by pacing the distance.
A few minutes each day should be spent in this practice, the soldier
often being required to make his estimate by raising his rear-sight
leaf and showing it to the instructor. After the first drills the
soldier should be required to pace the distance only when the estimate
is unusually inaccurate.
The soldier should be taught that, in judging the distance from the
enemy, his estimate may be corrected by a careful observation of the
clearness with which details of dress, the movements of limbs or of
the files in a line may be seen. In order to derive the benefit of
this method, the soldier will be required to observe closely all the
details noted above in single men or squads of men posted at varying
distances, which will be measured and announced.
Although the standing and kneeling silhouettes used in field practice
afford good objects upon which to estimate distances, the instructor
should make frequent use of living figures and natural objects, as
this is the class of targets from which the soldier will be compelled
to estimate his range in active service.
=1394. Methods of estimating long distances by the eye.= The following
methods are found useful:
(_a_) The soldier may decide that the object cannot be more than a
certain distance away nor less than a certain distance; his estimates
must be kept within the closest possible limits and the mean of the
two taken as the range.
(_b_) The soldier selects a point which he considers the middle point
of the whole distance, estimates this half distance and doubles it, or
he similarly divides the distance into a certain number of lengths
which are familiar to him.
(_c_) The soldier estimates the distance along a parallel line, as a
road on one side, having on it well-defined objects.
(_d_) The soldier takes the mean of several estimates made by
different persons. This method is not applicable to instruction.
=1395. Determination of distance by trial shots or volleys.= If the
ground is so dry or dusty that the fall of the bullets is visible to
the naked eye or through a field glass, distance may be determined by
using a number of trial shots or volleys.
In the case of individual trial shots, the soldier sets his sight at
the estimated range, watching to see where the bullet strikes,--or
some other man, with or without field glasses, may watch to see where
it strikes. If the bullet strikes beyond the target, the estimated
sight setting is decreased; if it falls short, the sight setting is
increased.
In case of volleys, the sights are set at the estimated range and a
volley is fired. If it appears to strike a little short of the mark,
an increase in elevation of 100 yards is used for the next volley.
When we have the target inclosed between two volleys, we take the mean
of the estimated ranges for the correct range. For example, if the
first estimated range were 1000 and the second 1100, the correct range
would be 1050.
=1396. Appearance of objects: How modified by varying conditions of
light; difference of level, etc.= During instruction the men should be
taught the effect of varying conditions of light and terrain upon the
apparent distance of an object.
_Objects seem nearer_--
(_a_) When the object is in a bright light.
(_b_) When the color of the object contrasts sharply with the color of
the background.
(_c_) When looking over water, snow, or a uniform surface like a wheat
field.
(_d_) When looking from a height downward.
(_e_) In the clear atmosphere of high altitudes.
_Objects seem more distant_--
(_a_) When looking over a depression in the ground.
(_b_) When there is a poor light or a fog.
(_c_) When only a small part of the object can be seen.
(_d_) When looking from low ground upward toward higher ground.
=1397. Effect of heat and cold.= Heat causes shots to strike high, and
cold causes them to strike low.
Therefore, if you shot on a warm day and made 5's, and recorded
temperature and other conditions in your score-book, you would know on
looking at your score sheets that you should raise your elevation, if
you were firing on a cold day.
=1398. Effect of moisture.= Dampness causes shots to strike high and
dryness causes them to strike low. Therefore, on damp days take lower
elevations than on dry days.
=1399. Effect of light.= Light affects the aiming without the beginner
knowing it. It does not, however, affect the travel of the bullet.
A dark target causes a tendency to aim farther below the bull's-eye
than if the target were bright. Therefore, use higher elevations with
dark targets. As it gets darker, higher elevations should be used.
If you _always aim carefully and correctly_ the light will have little
effect on your aiming,--that is, if your eyesight is good.
If you are shooting in a dull light and a bright sun comes out, say on
your right, there is a tendency to move the front sight to the
opposite (left) side of the rear sight notch, since the near (right)
edge is shaded and obscured somewhat. Therefore 1/4 to 1/2 windage
into the sun (right in this case) should be taken to overcome this.
In using battle sight, hold higher for a bright light.
We also raise our sights if a strong sun comes out. Therefore, we have
this rule: _Move your rear sight into the sun, just as you do for a
wind,--and raise your elevation._
=1400. Mirage= gives a wavering appearance to the target. It is heated
air that is moving. It is sometimes called "heat waves."
With the wind between 2 and 14 miles an hour on clear, hot days the
waves can be seen moving across the target.
When there is no wind or a light six o'clock wind, the waves go
straight up, or "boil." _Never fire when the mirage is boiling_,--wait
for it to move from one side to the other and then take windage to
correct for it.
=1401. Summary of temperature, light and moisture effects:=
_Raise elevation for_--
Dull target
Shooting in the sun
Hot gun
Dirty gun
Cold day
Bright or shining sight
Cloudy day
12 o'clock wind
_Lower elevation for_--
Bright target
Target in sun
Cold gun
Clean gun
Hot day
Moist day
Full sights
6 o'clock wind
=1402. Firing with bayonet fixed.= In firing with bayonet fixed
usually a lower point on the target will be struck, corresponding to a
reduction of about 50 yards in the range.
=1403. Care of rifle.= Since the accuracy of a soldier's rifle has a
most important bearing on his shooting, and since the proper care of a
rifle affects its accuracy, the care of the rifle is an important
subject in which every soldier should be thoroughly instructed. The
subject is fully covered in the preceding chapter. (Chapter XV, Part
I).
COLLECTIVE INSTRUCTION
(Combat practice)
=1404. General scheme.= While individual instruction is most
important, it is not everything. The maximum effect of fire in battle
is obtained when a command, as a whole, is a pliable, manageable,
effective instrument in the hands of a commander who can use it
intelligently and efficiently. Therefore, the two objects to be
obtained are:
1. To make the command a pliable, manageable, effective instrument in
the hands of its commander.
2. To train and instruct the commander so that he will know how to use
this instrument in an intelligent and efficient manner.
=1405. To make the fire unit a pliable, manageable, efficient
instrument.= In order that a unit may be a pliable, manageable,
efficient instrument in the hands of its commander, he must be able to
control the unit absolutely,--that is to say, not only must the
individuals composing the unit be so trained that they will respond at
once, even in the din and confusion of battle, to the will of the
commander, as expressed by his orders, but they must also be so
instructed and disciplined that they can, as individual parts of the
unit, perform their functions efficiently. This is accomplished by
_fire discipline_.
=1406. Fire discipline.= By _fire discipline_ is meant a habit of
obedience, a control of the rifle, and a display of intelligence, all
the result of training, which will enable the soldier in action to
make hits instead of misses. It embraces taking advantage of the
ground; care in setting the sight and delivery of fire, including
proper fire distribution; constant attention to the orders of the
leaders and careful observation of the enemy; an increase of fire when
the target is favorable, and a cessation of fire when the enemy
disappears; economy of ammunition.
=1407. To train and instruct the commander to use the unit with
intelligence and efficiency.= In order to handle the unit with
intelligence and efficiency, utilizing to the greatest extent possible
the power of all the rifles under his command, not only must the
commander be able to control the unit, having it respond at once to
his every command, but he must also know tactics, and be thoroughly
familiar with the technical principles of infantry fire.
=1408. Combat exercises.= A combat exercise consists of the
application of tactical principles to certain assumed battle
situation, in the execution of which are employed the appropriate
formations and movements of close and extended order drill, and in
which, as a rule, ball cartridges are used in firing at the targets.
By means of combat exercises, the unit commanders are trained and
instructed in applying tactical principles, in controlling and
directing the fire of their units and the men are trained and
instructed in fire discipline.
The tactical principles applicable to combat exercises are covered in
the Infantry Drill Regulations, under the headings of "_Fire_" and
"_Combat_."
=1409. Technical principles of firing.= The technical principles of
firing are given in detail in the Small-Arms Firing Manual, a summary
of which is given below under the headings of, _The Effect of Fire_,
_The Influence of the Ground_, and _The Adjustment of Fire_.
The Effect of Fire
=1410. Ballistic qualities of the rifle.= The accuracy of a rifle, the
flatness of its trajectory, and its disabling power,--that is, the
power it has to disable the enemy,--are called its _ballistic
qualities_.
The accuracy of the U. S. Springfield rifle, caliber .30, model of
1903, is very high,--probably superior to that of any other military
rifle.
The flatness of trajectory is dependent upon the muzzle velocity, and,
to some extent, upon the form of the bullet. Our bullet is pointed and
the muzzle velocity is 2700 feet per second, which is a very high
muzzle velocity.
Two rifles of different type may be equally accurate, but the accuracy
of the one having the flatter trajectory will, naturally, be less
affected by slight errors in sight setting.
Again, another advantage of the rifle with the flatter trajectory is
that it holds more ground under its fire. For example, take our
service rifle: At a range of 500 yards, the bullet, at the highest
point in its trajectory or line of flight, is 2 feet above the line of
sight. It is, therefore, apparent that if the bottom of an object 2
feet or greater, is aimed at, it would be struck if it were anywhere
under 500 yards. Now, take a rifle with a very curved trajectory, say
one whose bullet, at the highest point of the trajectory corresponding
to a range of 500 yards, is 10 feet above the line of sight. There
will be a large extent of ground between the target and the rifle that
is not danger space for a target 2 feet above the line of sight.
Hence, we see that the rifle with the flatter trajectory is better.
The continuous danger space afforded by the flat trajectory of our
service rifle enables us to adopt a universal sight for all ranges up
to 500 yards,--that is, the battle sight, which is the rear sight
ready for use when the sight leaf is laid down.
=1411. Cone of fire or cone of dispersion.= If a body of soldiers fire
at the same target the bullets will not, of course, follow the same
path, but will be scattered. This is due to differences in sights,
parts of the rifle, ammunition, and to a greater extent, to the
individual errors of the soldiers in aiming and firing.
The trajectories or paths of the bullets considered together form a
horn-shaped figure or cone, called the _Cone of fire_ or cone of
dispersion. (See Fig. 44.)
[Illustration: Fig. 44]
=1412. Shot group and center of impact.= If the _cone of fire_ be
intercepted by a target (for example, A O, Fig. 44) at right angles to
the axis of the cone, the shot holes will make a pattern or group
called the _shot group_, the holes being the thickest approximately in
the center of the group, called the _center of impact_. From this
point in all directions the density of the grouping decreases
progressively,--at first gradually, then more rapidly, out to the
limits of the group.
Naturally, the size of the cone of fire and of the shot group vary
with the skill of those firing, good shots making a small cone and
small group, and poor shots a large cone and large group.
=1413. Beaten zone.= The intersection of the cone of dispersion with
the surface of the ground is called the _beaten zone_.
If the surface of the ground is horizontal, the form of the _beaten
zone_ is that of an ellipse with its longer axis in the direction of
the line of fire, as shown in Fig. 45.
[Illustration: Fig. 45]
In view of the fact that at the long ranges the angle of fall of the
bullets is much greater than at short ranges, it follows that at
short ranges the elliptical figure (beaten zone) is much more
elongated than at long ranges. In other words, the longer the range,
the shorter is the depth of the beaten zone. This is shown in Fig. 45.
=1414. Uncertainty and ineffectiveness of long-range fire.= It follows
from what has been said, that as the range increases the length of the
beaten zone decreases,--that is, a less depth of ground is held under
fire. That being the case, if an error is made in sight setting due,
for example, to an incorrect estimate of the range, the proportionate
loss of fire effect due to misplacement of the center of impact will
be greater as the beaten zone is less,--that is, as the range is
greater.
Furthermore, the difficulty of exact range determination increases
with the distance, the two influences combining to make long-range
fire uncertain and usually ineffective.
=1415. Zone of effective fire.= That portion of the ground which
contains the best 75 per cent of the shots in the beaten zone, is
called the _zone of effective fire_.
Effectiveness of Fire
=1416. Factors involved.= The effectiveness of fire depends upon these
three factors:
(1) The percentage of hits made;
(2) The number of targets hit;
(3) The time of execution.
That is to say, the effectiveness of fire is determined by the number
of enemies disabled or targets hit in a given time.
=1417. Percentage of hits.= By the percentage of hits is meant the
proportion of all the bullets fired that hit the targets. For example,
if 1000 bullets are fired and 750 hit the targets, then the percentage
of hits is 75.
The percentage of hits depends upon the dispersion, and this is
influenced by the precision of the arm, the range, the visibility of
the target, the atmospheric conditions, the training and instruction
of the troops, and upon their physical and moral state at the time. In
addition, the percentage of hits also depends upon the character of
the ground as favoring ricochet hits, upon the correct estimation of
the range and the proper designation of the target.
=1418. Number of targets hit.= The number of targets hit,--that is,
the distribution of fire,--may be affected by varying degrees of
visibility, as men instinctively choose the more conspicuous marks as
aiming points. Under any circumstances, a poor distribution of the
hits made will be due to an absence of proper instructions from the
leaders; or, in other words, to poor control, or else to a want of
understanding or lack of obedience on the part of the men.
=1419. Time of execution.= The time of execution is important in that
the gaining of fire superiority is dependent less upon obtaining high
percentages of hits than upon making an absolutely large number of
hits in a unit of time. There is necessarily a limit to the rapidity
of fire which, if exceeded, will result in some loss of accuracy. With
targets of a fair degree of visibility, the following may be taken as
standard rates of fire for troops who have been given suitable
training in target practice:
200 yards }
300 yards } 10 shots per minute.
400 yards }
500 yards }
600 yards } 7.5 shots per minute.
700 yards }
800 yards }
900 yards } 5 shots per minute.
1,000 yards }
Greater ranges, 3 shots per minute.
The rates given should not exclude higher rates of fire in the case of
large and conspicuous targets. On the other hand, when objectives, or
marks used as aiming points, are very indistinct, the requirement of
correct aiming imposes rates of fire somewhat lower than the standard
rates given even for well-instructed men.
With imperfectly trained men who have not fully acquired the habit of
using aimed fire only, and who are lacking in the manual dexterity
required for executing the standard rates of fire, the maximum rate
can not well exceed six shots per minute without incurring the danger
of lapsing into unaimed fire.
Fatigue and exhaustion, the results of marches or prolonged firing,
have a detrimental influence and tend to lower the rates of effective
fire.
Influence of Ground
=1420. Defilade.= If we will consider a bullet just grazing the top of
an impenetrable obstacle (like "A," Fig. 46), the space from the top
of such obstacle to where the bullet strikes the ground (space B E,
Fig. 46) will be protected from fire. Such space is called,
"_defiladed space_." Its extent will, of course, depend on the height
of the obstacle, the curvature of the trajectory and the slope of the
ground in rear of the obstacles.
[Illustration: Fig. 46]
Between B and D, a soldier standing would be completely protected;
between D and E, he would be only partially protected. To obtain
complete protection between D and E the soldier would have to assume
the kneeling or prone position, depending on how far away from D he
was.
By cover is meant effective defilade from the enemy's fire.
By concealment is meant screening from view but not necessarily
protection from fire.
=1421. Rising and falling ground.= The influence of the ground upon
the effect of fire is at once seen by studying Fig. 44.
If the ground rises, as shown by B O and A O, the depth of the beaten
zone (and consequently the effect of fire) decreases. On the other
hand, if the ground falls (up to a certain point), the depth of the
beaten zone (and consequently the effect of fire) increases.
=1422. Depth of beaten zone affects only targets having depth.= It
should be remembered that depth of beaten zone can affect only targets
which have depth.
On a target in the form of a line,--a line of skirmishers, for
example,--the depth of the beaten zone has no effect one way or the
other. If such a target, however, is backed up by supports and
reserves, the depth of the beaten zone may have a decided effect on
them, depending upon their distance in rear of the line forming the
target and the slope of the ground in rear of such target.
In this connection, attention is invited to Fig. 47, which shows how
in the case of a fire delivered from a height at a target on a
horizontal plane beneath, the beaten zone is shortened and
consequently the fire effect decreased.
[Illustration: Fig. 47]
An example of increasing the depth of beaten zone is seen in Fig. 48,
which shows a fire delivered from low ground at a target on the edge
of a plateau or crest of a ridge from which the ground slopes to the
rear.
[Illustration: Fig. 48]
=1423. Grazing fire.= Shots which pass over a crest with an angle of
fall conforming, or nearly conforming, to the slope of the ground
beyond the edge of the crest (as shown in Fig. 48), are called
_grazing shots_ and fire so delivered is called _grazing fire_.
=1424. Diminution or increase in fire effect due to rising and falling
ground.= In connection with the diminution or increase in fire effect
due to rising and falling ground, attention is invited to the
following:
1. If the ground slopes upward to the rear from a firing line, the
supports may be placed closer without increasing the danger from fire
aimed at the firing line.
2. When the ground slopes down and to the rear from the firing line
forming the target, the supports must be posted at a greater distance
in rear, unless the slope is so much greater than the angle of fall of
the hostile bullets that a defiladed space is created in which no
bullets strike, in which case the supports may be brought up close to
the crest.
3. On ground rising with respect to the line of sight, column targets
(i. e., having depth) will suffer greater losses than lineal targets.
4. On ground falling with respect to the line of sight, the reverse
slope of hills or the level grounds of plateaus, line targets will
suffer the greater losses.
=1425. Ricochet shots.= When a bullet strikes any surface and is
deflected it is called a _ricochet shot_.
Not only do bullets that ricochet usually tumble after striking, but
they are also mutilated, so that wounds inflicted by ricochet hits are
usually severe.
The most favorable ground for ricochets is a smooth, hard, horizontal
surface, the aim being low, the chance of ricochets in sand is very
slight.
=1426. Occupation of ground.= The question of the occupation of ground
presents these two aspects:
1. What firing positions may be chosen which will tend to increase the
losses of the enemy?
2. What positions may be chosen and formations adopted to minimize our
own losses?
The selection of a defensive position presents this question: _Shall
it be near the crest or well down the slope?_
A position well down the slope
_Advantages:_
1. The depth of the beaten zone for fire delivered from the position
is increased and the upper portion of the cone of fire will include
the supports and reserves advancing to reenforce the hostile firing
line. That is to say, the fire will be a _grazing fire_.
2. It eliminates dead spaces that might otherwise exist at the bottom
of the slope.
3. The hostile fire being directed against a point well down the
slope, the high ground in rear will interpose as a defilade and
intercept the upper portion of the cone of fire which might otherwise
take effect on the supports and reserves behind the crest.
_Disadvantages:_
1. It makes withdrawal difficult in case it becomes necessary to fall
back.
2. It is difficult to reenforce the firing line.
A position near the crest
_Advantages:_
1. It favors observation of the enemy.
2. It makes withdrawal easy in case it becomes necessary to fall back.
3. It is easy to reenforce the firing line by the supports advancing
from behind the crest.
_Disadvantages:_
1. The depth of the beaten zone is decreased and consequently the cone
of fire will probably not include the supports and reserves advancing
to reenforce the hostile firing fire. In other words, the fire will be
a _plunging fire_.
2. It is likely to result in dead spaces at the bottom of the slope.
3. It affords a good target for the hostile artillery.
Whether or not a position near the crest or a position down the slope
should be chosen, depends, in each case, upon circumstances.
For instance in a rear guard action, where a determined stand is not
contemplated, a position near the crest would be occupied. On the
other hand, if a determined stand were contemplated, the terrain
offered good opportunity for the delivery of an effective grazing
fire, and we had reason to believe that we were going to be subjected
to heavy artillery fire, a position at the foot of the slope would be
selected.
However, it may be said that, in general, a defensive position should
be near the bottom of the slope.
=1427. Gentle reverse slopes.= From the point of view of avoiding
losses, all gentle reverse slopes are dangerous and are to be avoided
when possible.
When necessary to traverse or to occupy such ground, precautions must
be taken to protect the reserves or other bodies of troops by placing
them on the flanks; by disposing them in formations with a narrow
front; by causing them to lie down; by the construction of suitable
shelter, and by avoiding useless movements.
Adjustment of Fire
=1428. Fire at stationary targets.= The correct adjustment of fire is
attained by causing the center of impact to fall on the center of the
target. This is the problem constantly presented in combat firing.
The two important elements entering into this problem are, (1) the
commander and (2) the troops. When a body of troops has aimed
correctly at the target indicated, with the elevation ordered and has
fired with steadiness, it has done all that can be expected of it, but
that is not sufficient; for, if the commander, by giving the wrong
sight-setting, for example, has failed to cause the center of impact
to fall on the center, of the target, the result may be nothing.
Hence the vital importance of knowing and announcing the correct
range.
It is known that good shots make a small group and poor shots a large
group, average shots making a group of intermediate size.
It is frequently stated that troops composed of good shots are not so
effective in collective firing as poorer shots. How is this possible?
The explanation is simple. The shot group of the good shots is small
and if misplaced by an error in range estimation few hits result while
the shot group of poorer shots, being larger, is not so much affected
by the same error in range estimation, will cover the ground, and
probably hit more figures. This, of course, is _only true_ when a
considerable error has been made in estimating the range.
As battle targets are mostly line targets, a displacement to the right
or left does not amount to much, but an error in depth (range), as
stated before, is serious. Thus we, see that the _correct
determination of the range_ is very important.
=1429. Determination of range.= The range may be determined, with only
a small error, by a range finder. There are several other methods, as,
for instance, by trial shots,--the dust thrown up by the bullet
showing whether the range is too short or too great,--by sound, by the
appearance of objects, etc., but except in deliberately prepared
defensive positions, estimating by eye will be the most practicable
method of estimating the range. For all practical purposes a very
satisfactory result will be obtained by taking the average estimates
of several trained men.
In observing the effect of the fire the ground may be wet, or covered
with turf, sod or brush in which no signs of striking shots can be
seen. By careful use of good field glasses some indication of the
place where the shots are going, may be obtained. The actions of the
enemy may often indicate whether the fire is effective or not.
=1430. Combined sights.= All other means failing, _combined sights_
may be resorted to. By this is meant firing part of the troops with
sights set at one range and part with a range greater or less by 100
yards or more. This increases the beaten zone and will generally
assure a certain amount of fire effect. This method is seldom used
under 500 yards.
=1431. Auxiliary aiming points.= It frequently happens that the target
is so well concealed that it is invisible. In this case some well
defined object in front or behind it must be used as an _aiming
target_, and the range given so that the beaten zone will include the
actual target at its center.
=1432. Fire at moving targets.= In firing at a moving enemy, a beaten
zone must be established immediately in front, his forward movement
into this zone completing the adjustment of fire. Due to the chance of
overestimating the range, a sight-setting must be taken _well under_
the estimated range (usually about 200 yards against advancing
infantry).
When the fire becomes effective, as may be judged by the actions and
movements of the enemy, the rate of fire should be quickened in order
to increase the effect of the fire.
Frequent changes of sight not only cause a loss of time, but they also
multiply chances of error in sight-setting. Changes in sight-setting
against advancing infantry should not be less than 200 yards at a
time, that is to say, when the enemy has passed through the zone of
effective fire, the sight should be lowered 200 yards and the
operation repeated until the battle-sight zone is reached, when the
rear-sight leaf is thrown down and no other sight manipulation is
made.
Against skirmish lines advancing by rushes, the sight-setting should
not be changed during a rush, but it should be done at the halts, so
that the greater vulnerability of the targets presented during the
rush may be taken advantage of.
Against retreating infantry, use the estimated range, and when the
target appears to have passed beyond the zone of effective fire, add
200 yards to the sight-setting.
Against attacking cavalry, due to the rapidity of the advance, there
will not usually be time for sight manipulation other than throwing
down the rear-sight leaf, so that the battle should be resorted to at
all ranges.
In firing at a target moving across the line of fire it is desirable,
on account of the confusion caused thereby, to hit the head of the
column. It is necessary, therefore, to hold to the front a distance
sufficient to allow for the time of flight and the rate of march. This
will be accomplished by the observance of the following rough rules:
1. Against infantry, hold against the head of the marching column;
2. Against cavalry at a trot, hold to the front 1 yard for every 100
yards of range; and at a gallop, 2 yards for every 100 yards of range.
=1433. Night firing.= In night firing it is almost impossible to
adjust the fire by ordinary means.
In night attacks the purpose of the offensive is to gain rapidly and
quietly a position where the issue may be decided in a hand to hand
encounter, or a position from which the superiority of fire may be
gained at daylight. For the offensive, therefore, fire action is a
subordinate consideration.
On the defensive, when a night attack is apprehended, preparations
should be made to sweep with fire the ground immediately in front over
which the assailant must advance.
Special arrangements may sometimes be made for resting rifles on the
parapet, so that the ground in front will be suitably covered. A solid
support is necessary for maintaining the proper direction of the
pieces during firing. For this purpose notched boards or timbers are
convenient. The arrangements should be such that the operations of
loading and firing may be performed without removing the rifles from
the support.
Searchlight illumination may reveal the position and movements of the
enemy sufficiently well to permit the use of the sights. In night
operations of small parties fire may be well directed when a bright,
well-defined light, such as a camp fire, is presented as an aiming
point. In such a case a slight illumination of the front sight is
required.
Fire Direction and Control
=1434. General.= As stated before in substance, the maximum effect of
fire can be gotten only by instructed and disciplined troops under a
commander capable of directing and controlling their fire properly.
The fire of a company may be likened to spraying water from a hose,
and as the fireman can shift his stream of water from one point to the
other with certainty, being able to direct and control it with
promptness and accuracy, so should the company commander be able to
switch the cone of fire of his company from one target to another,
having it at all times under direction and control. In other words, as
the pliable, manageable hose responds to the will of the fireman, so
should the company be so trained and instructed that it will respond
to the will of the company commander on the firing line, in the midst
of the noise and confusion of battle. No one except a man who has been
in battle can realize how great are the noise and confusion, and how
necessary and important are cooeperation, team-work, discipline, and
communication, in order for a company commander to control and direct
the fire of the company--there must be absolute cooeperation,
team-work, and communication between all parts of the company--between
the captain and the platoon leaders, the platoon leaders and the squad
leaders, and the squad leaders and the members of their squads. Each
and every man must know and do his part and endeavor all he can to
keep in touch with and help the others. Now, the foundation of
team-work and cooeperation, is communication--communication between the
company commander and the men on the firing line--the means by which,
the medium _through_ which he will make known his will to the men on
the firing line. As stated before, because of the noise and confusion
on the firing line this is no easy matter. The ideal way would be for
the company commander to control the company by communicating direct
with every man on the firing line, as graphically shown on the
following page:
[Illustration: Fig. 49]
However, in the noise and confusion of battle it would be utterly
impossible for all the men to hear the captain's voice. Experience
shows that from 20 to 35 rifles are as many as one leader can control.
The captain, must, therefore, control the company through the platoon
commanders--that is to say, he _actually directs_ the fire and the
platoon commanders, assisted by the squad leaders, _actually control_
it. In other words, the captain communicates with the men on the
firing line, he makes his will known to them, through his platoon
commanders, as graphically shown in this diagram:
[Illustration: Fig. 50]
However, in order for our system of communication to be successful,
each and every man, as stated above, must know and do his part and
endeavor all he can to help the others. If this is done, then the
different parts and elements of the company will dove-tail and fit
into one another, resulting in a complete, homogeneous whole, in the
form of an efficient, pliable, manageable instrument in the hands of
the company commander. And this is the object, the result, sought by
practice and instruction in field firing, and which will be obtained
if the captain, the platoon leaders, the squad leaders, the file
closers, the musicians, and the privates, will perform the following
duties and functions:
=1435. The Captain.= (_Fire direction._)
The captain _directs_ the fire of the company or of designated
platoons. He designates the target, and, when practicable, allots a
part of the target to each platoon. Before beginning the fire action
he determines the range, announces the sight setting, and indicates
the class of fire to be employed, and the time to open fire.
Thereafter, he observes the fire effect, corrects material errors in
sight setting, prevents exhaustion of the ammunition supply, and
causes the distribution of such extra ammunition as may be received
from the rear. (I. D. R. 249.)
Having indicated clearly what he desires the platoon leaders to do,
the captain avoids interfering, except to correct serious errors or
omissions. (I. D. R. 240.)
=1436. The Platoon Leaders.= (_Fire direction._)
In combat the platoon is the _fire unit_. (I. D. R. 250.)
Each platoon leader puts into execution the commands or directions of
the captain, having first taken such precautions to insure correct
sight setting and clear description of the target or aiming point as
the situation permits or requires; thereafter, he gives such
additional commands or directions as are necessary to exact compliance
with the captain's will. He corrects the sight setting when necessary.
He designates an aiming point when the target cannot be seen with the
naked eye.
In general, _platoon leaders_ observe the target and the effect of
their fire and are on the alert for the captain's commands or signals;
they observe and regulate the rate of fire. (I. D. R. 252.)
=1437. The Guides= watch the firing line and check every breach of
fire discipline.
=1438. The Squad Leaders= transmit commands and signals when
necessary, observe the conduct of their squads and abate excitement,
assist in enforcing fire discipline and participate in the firing.
Every squad leader should place himself just a little in advance of
the rest of his squad and by occasionally glancing to the right and
left, observe how the men of their squads are doing--whether they are
firing at the proper objective, if the sights are apparently properly
adjusted, if they are firing too rapidly, etc. After each shot the
squad leader should look toward his platoon leader, and then glance to
his right and left to observe his men, and then load and fire again.
=1439. The Musicians= assist the captain by observing the enemy, the
target, and the fire effect, by transmitting commands or signals, and
by watching for signals. (I. D. R. 235.)
=1440. The Privates= will take advantage of cover, exercise care in
setting the sights and delivering fire; be on the constant lookout for
orders from their leaders; always aim deliberately; observe the enemy
carefully, increasing the fire when the target is favorable and
ceasing firing when the enemy disappears; not neglect a target because
it is indistinct; not waste ammunition, but be economical with it; if
firing without a leader to retain their presence of mind and direct an
efficient fire upon the proper target.
=1441. Distribution of Fire.= The distribution of fire over the entire
target is of the greatest importance; for, a section of the target not
covered by fire represents a number of the enemy permitted to fire
coolly and effectively. So, remember that all parts of the target are
equally important, and care must be taken that the men do not neglect
its less visible parts.
The captain allots a part of the target to each platoon, or each
platoon leader takes as his target that part which corresponds to his
position in the company. Every man is so instructed that he will fire
on that part of the target which is directly opposite him.
If the target cannot be seen with the naked eye, platoon leaders
select an object in front of or behind it, designate this as the
aiming point, and direct a sight-setting which will carry the fire
into the target. The men aim at the good aiming point or line, but
with such an increased or decreased sight-setting, as the case may be,
that the bullets will fall on the target instead of on the aiming
point.
Distribution of fire is assured by dividing the whole target assigned
the company into definite parts or sectors, and allotting these parts
or sectors to the various platoons. And, of course, the whole of the
target must be kept under fire while the company is advancing. This
may be accomplished by one of two methods:
=1442. Overlapping Method.= In this method each sector (target) is
covered by more than one fire unit. For example, in a company of four
platoons the entire company sector would be divided in two parts, the
right part being covered by the first and second platoons and the left
part by the third and fourth platoons. When the first platoon ceases
fire to advance, the second platoon would replace the lost rifles by
firing faster. With three platoons the company sector would be divided
into two parts, one being assigned to each flank platoon and the whole
company sector to the center platoon. When the first platoon advanced,
the center platoon would cover its target, both the center and third
platoons increasing their rate of fire. With two platoons, each would
cover the whole company sector.
=1443. Switch Method.= The company is divided into a number of parts,
one less than the number of platoons in the company. One platoon is
designated as the "switch," and swings into fire automatically into
that sector from which the fire of its assigned unit is withdrawn. For
example, with four platoons, and platoon rushes to start from the
right, the company sector is divided into three parts assigned to the
first, second and third platoons, the fourth being the "switch." When
number 1 ceases fire to advance, No. 4 fires at No. 1's target; when
No. 2 ceases to fire, No. 4 fires at No. 2's target, then at No. 3's
target, and finally No. 4 advances.
=1444. Individual instruction in fire distribution.= Every man should
be thoroughly drilled, instructed and trained always to _fire at that
part of the hostile target which corresponds to the position he
occupies in his platoon_. That is to say, if on the right of his
platoon, he fires at the right (as he faces it) of the hostile target;
if in the right center of his platoon, he fires at the right center
(as he faces it) of the target, and so on. This is represented by the
following diagram, the points A', B', C', etc., representing the parts
of the hostile target at which the men occupying the positions A, B,
C, etc., in their platoon, would fire:
[Illustration: Fig. 51]
=1445. Designation of target.= It is very important that the
commanders should be able to describe the objectives to be attacked
and the sectors[19] to be defended, and that individual soldiers
should be able to understand and transmit to other soldiers such
descriptions. Within the squad, target designation implies ability on
the part of the squad leader to understand and transmit to his squad
the target designation received from his platoon leader, and also
ability on his own part to designate a target intelligently; within
the platoon, target designation implies ability on the part of the
platoon leader to understand the company commander's designation of
the target and to transmit that designation to his platoon in such
manner as to insure an equal distribution of its fire within the
sector assigned to it; within the company, target designation implies
ability on the part of the company commander to designate the targets
into which the company sector is divided in such manner that the
platoon leaders will have no trouble in understanding him. It also
implies ability on the part of the company commander to change the
objectives or sectors of his platoons, and his ability to cover the
whole target of the company during a forward movement of a part of the
company, by the so-called "switch" or the "overlapping" method, or by
any other method which is practicable and accomplishes the desired
end. Targets should be designated in a concise, prompt, unmistakable
manner, but, as we all know, it is not always an easy matter to
describe the location of an object, especially if the object be not
conspicuous or readily recognized. This is due to two reasons: First,
the unit commander is likely to indulge in vague talk instead of
accurate description, and, second, even if correct terms are used, it
is more than likely that all members of the firing line will not be
able to grasp the idea, because the commander will be using
expressions which, although understood by himself (in some cases
perhaps due to the fact that he is looking at the objective), they
will not be clear to the men. The secret of prompt, accurate and
concise designation of a target lies in the use of simple words and
terms with which both the unit commander and the men on the firing
line are thoroughly familiar.
Of course, if the target be distinct and clearly defined, it can
easily be designated by name, as for example, "That battery on the
hill just in front of us," "Cavalry to our right front," etc.
Generally the designation of a target, if not conspicuous nor readily
recognized, will include:
1. A statement of what the target is, or its appearance (shape, color,
size, etc.)
2. Where the target is with reference to some easily recognized
reference point.
3. How wide the company sector is.
The following systems of target designation are used at the School of
Musketry. Each has its limitations, defects and advantages, under
various conditions of ground, etc. A wise selection of one or a
combination of two or more, is a material factor in efficiency.
=1446. Horizontal Clock Face System.= (Used with visible, distinct
targets.)
SYSTEM EXAMPLE
1. Announce direction. "At one o'clock."
2. Announce range. "Range 1000."
3. Announce objective. "A troop of cavalry dismounted."
[Illustration: Fig. 52]
PROCEDURE:
1. All look along the line pointing toward one o'clock of a horizontal
clock face whose center is at the firing point, and whose 12 o'clock
mark is directly perpendicular to the front of the firing line.
2. All look at a point about 1000 yards away on the one o'clock line,
and
3. At 1000 yards on the one o'clock line find the objective.
=1447. Vertical Clock Face System.= (Used with small or indistinct
targets.)
SYSTEM EXAMPLE
1. Announce the general direction "To our right front" (or "At two
of the reference point. o'clock").