Chapter X: Instruction on Miniature Ranges, Including Range and Field Practices

Section =70=.--General Remarks.

=1. Instruction on Miniature Ranges.=--(i) Instruction on miniature ranges is in no sense a final training, but it is a useful and economical preparation for service shooting--especially useful where range accommodation is distant or altogether lacking. It should be commenced during the recruit’s training, when frequent visits should be made to the miniature range, and the lessons of aiming, pressing the trigger, declaring the point of aim on discharge, etc., should be illustrated practically by firing at elementary targets.

(ii) =Object of Instruction.=--Instruction should be carried out on the same principles as on open ranges. It should be progressive, and may with advantage precede instruction on open ranges. Instruction and firing may be carried out throughout the year; but if this work on miniature ranges is done during the winter months it will prove a useful preparation for subsequent practice on open ranges and for field training in the spring and summer months (see _Drill and Field Training_ of this series, Sec. 29, para. 1).

=2. Scope of Training.=--The instruction, which may be carried out with the Solano Target and Landscape targets is more or less identical in scope with that which can be carried out on open ranges. It must be remembered, however, that the effects of varying light, wind, and other atmospheric influences are absent on miniature ranges, that instruction in judging distance is not possible [see Sec. 72, para. 2 (iii)], that firing with sights adjusted for different ranges can only be carried out to a limited extent, and that the general conditions under which training takes place are artificial and easier as compared with training on open ranges.

=3. Rifles.=--The rifles used should be service pattern, ·22-inch R.F., or aiming or Morris tubes used in service rifles with regulation sights. Service rifles must be used, so that the firer may become accustomed to the weight, length, bolt action, and sighting of the weapon he will use in war. Unless this principle is adhered to, practice on miniature ranges cannot be regarded as satisfactory preparation for service shooting. _Rifles must be “harmonized” both for firing at targets direct or with elevation in landscape practices according to the directions laid down in Appendix, V. Rifles must also be cleaned after every ten to fifteen rounds, otherwise they become inaccurate._

=4. Windgauge.=--The windgauge may be used to represent wind, and the firers taught to aim off so as to correct the deflection given, acting sometimes on their own judgment, sometimes according to orders for fire direction.

=5. Cover.=--Cover of various kinds can be improvised at the firing-point with sandbags, screens, or other available material.

=6. Empty Cases.=--Empty cartridge-cases and lead should be collected, and may be sold at market rates.

=7. Precautions.=--(i) As the ·22 cartridge used on miniature ranges has considerable power, every precaution must be taken to insure safety. _Rifles must be laid down at the firing-point unloaded and with the breech-action open, and firers must stand clear whenever it is necessary for anyone to be in front of the firing-point._

(ii) A non-commissioned officer will be placed in charge of each range, and will attend whenever any practice takes place. Firing will take place only during the hours fixed by the commanding officer.

(iii) No person, except the officer or non-commissioned officer in charge, or the marker, is to pass from the firing-point up to the target during practice. Should it be necessary to stop firing, the same precautions are to be taken as at rifle practice.

(iv) Every possible precaution must be taken to avoid accidents, the strictest order and discipline being maintained at the firing-point. When practice takes place on a classification range, the same orders for safety, etc., are to be observed as when service ammunition is used.

(v) In practices combining firing and movement, the non-commissioned officer in charge of the range will examine the rifles to see that they are not loaded before movement is commenced.

Section =71=.--Targets.

=1. Standard Equipment.=--(i) The various targets of the standard equipment to be used for miniature range instruction are described in Appendix, VII, the information in which must be carefully noted. It is important to avoid confusing the Solano Target when used with scenery, etc., as shown in Figs. 55 and 56, with various Landscape targets when fixed to the Solano Target for instruction as in Fig. 57. The points of difference between the Solano and Landscape targets mentioned in the following paragraphs must also be noted.

(ii) The scenery, scenic accessories, and Solano figures of the Solano Target are all correctly drawn to scale for 25 yards, and at that distance give correct impressions of what they represent. Landscape targets are not all drawn to scale for 25 yards, _but they must always be used at this distance when possible_.

(iii) On the Solano Target the various features of the scenery, including background and details, as well as the position of troops, can be altered quickly to any extent. The features of landscape targets cannot be altered, therefore they should be changed frequently, as they lose their value when their features become well known.

(iv) In firing at the Solano Target when fitted with scenery, the bullets _strike the objective aimed at_. In firing at landscape targets rifles must be given elevation so that bullets _strike a screen above the landscape_, not the objective aimed at (Fig. 58).

(v) The Solano Target, with or without scenic effects and figures, can be used for the whole scope of the instruction in this chapter, and for all range and field practices. The scope of instruction which can be carried out on landscape targets is strictly limited, and does not include important branches of elementary training nor range and individual field practices. Firing at landscape targets has the advantage of practising men in the adjustment of sights. On the other hand, landscape target practice lacks elements of realism and surprise, as it does not include arrangements for representing the movement of troops at different distances, and does not afford practice in watching the front for the appearance of targets representing troops, discerning and opening fire quickly at such targets, and in marking down, snapshooting, and rapid firing at moving and disappearing targets, especially within close range, which has proved of such vital importance in modern battles (see Preface, paras. 4 and 5).

=2. Elementary Targets.=--(i) The elementary bull’s-eye and other targets for use in miniature range instructional practices should be similar to those used on the classification range, but are supplied reduced to the correct scale.

=Fig. 54.=--SOLANO TARGET--CLEAT FITTING WITH CORDS WHICH OPERATE
MECHANISM ATTACHED. (_See Appendix, Sec. VII., para. 2._)]

=Fig. 55.=--SOLANO TARGET, MARK I, ARRANGED FOR GENERAL
INSTRUCTION OR FOR FIRING FIELD PRACTICES, WITH SCENERY AND
SCENIC ACCESSORIES (TYPE A), AND WITH SOLANO FIGURES REPRESENTING
TROOPS AT DIFFERENT RANGES. (_See Appendix, Sec. VII., paras. 3
to 5 inclusive._)]

=Fig. 56.=--SOLANO TARGET, MARK I, ARRANGED FOR GENERAL
INSTRUCTION OR FOR FIRING FIELD PRACTICES, WITH SCENERY AND
SCENIC ACCESSORIES (TYPE C), AND WITH SOLANO FIGURES REPRESENTING
TROOPS AT DIFFERENT RANGES.]

=3. Regulation Figure Targets= include those in the list in Appendix, VII, para. 5. Targets representing troops advancing in close formations, such as those shown in the Preface, p. ix, may be improvised by cutting strips of card to the required length. The height of the card for various distances, scaled for 25 yards, is as follows: 400 yards, 4 inches; 600 yards, 3¾ inches; 800 yards, 2 inches; 1,000 yards, 1 inch. To these measurements ½ inch should be added in every case for the base held by the clips of the target. Brown or grey card should be used.

(iii) _It must be noted that if figures are made with card which is not sufficiently thick, the impact of the bullet will not cause them to fall when fixed in the falling clips of Tier B of the Target_ (Appendix, VII, para. 2).

=4. Solano Elementary and Instructional Targets.=--These targets have been officially approved by the Army Council for miniature range practices (see Appendix, VIII).

=5. Nomenclature of Targets.=--In the subsequent Sections of this chapter the Solano Target will be referred to as =The Target=, Figure Targets as =Figures=, and Landscape Targets as =Landscapes=.

Section =72=.--Preliminary Training

=1. Instruction to Precede Firing.=--(i) As already stated, range and field practices carried out before men have been thoroughly instructed in preliminary training will merely result in waste of ammunition. Therefore, before firing on miniature ranges commences men should be thoroughly trained in the following duties: (_a_) Quick and accurate adjustment of sights; (_b_) laying an absolutely correct aim from aiming-rest at easy aiming-mark; (_c_) correct trigger pressing; (_d_) assuming correct loading and firing positions, including adjustment of sights, aiming, and release of trigger without disturbing aim.

(ii) Particular subjects of instruction which relate to different firing practices should precede them as follows:[30]

(_a_) _Before firing from cover_: Adapting the firing position to different kinds of cover.

(_b_) _Before application practices_: Aiming-off; the extent being reckoned by the breadth of the aiming-mark as ordered, and aim being laid from aiming-rest.

(_c_) _Before firing at moving targets_: Aiming-off for movement at crossing figures on the Solano Target; aim being tested with aim-corrector.

(_d_) _Before snapshooting practices_: Combining rapidity with accuracy of aim; aim being tested with aiming-disc.

(_e_) =Before firing at the Target with scenery and figures or at landscapes=: Marking down an enemy, and aiming at ground and service targets; aim being laid from aiming-rest at points or targets indicated.

=2. Instruction in Aiming.=--(i) This training can be carried out on the Target without scenery (Fig. 53), as described in Chapter III. _Elementary training_ should be carried out as described in Sec. 70, para. 1. _Aiming at service targets and ground_ can be taught on the Target with scenery and figures and on landscapes as described in Sec. 19, para. 2 (ii). _Marking down an enemy_ can be taught on the Target with scenery and figures as described in Sec. 19, para. 3 (ii), a number of figures representing men at different distances being exposed from behind cover or in the open to represent the movements of the fatigue-men.

(ii) _Aiming-off for wind_ can be taught on the Target with scenery and figures as described in Sec. 20, para. 4, figures representing men at different distances instead of fatigue-men. _Aiming up and down_ may also be taught as above according to the instruction laid down in Sec. 21, para. 3, figures representing men at various distances being exposed on Tiers A and B to represent an advance or retirement in the place of fatigue-men. _Aiming-off for movement_ can be taught with the crossing figures on the Target as described in Sec. 22, para. 1.

(iii) _Rapid adjustment of sights_ can be taught on the Target with scenery and figures by exposing a number of figures representing men at different distances. The distance of each figure will not be given. Men will adjust their sights for the distance at which they estimate it to be. The correct range of the figure will then be given, and the men will declare their estimate. As the figures are correctly scaled to size for 25 yards range, this practice will help to accustom the eye to the appearance of men at different distances, and so help to some extent to train them in judging distance, though it cannot be considered wholly satisfactory for this purpose for the reasons given in Sec. 70, para. 2.

=3. Instruction in Firing=--(i) =Elementary Training.=--This training can be carried out on the Target without scenery, according to the directions laid down in Sec. 24 and the rest of Chapter IV.

(ii) =Vulnerability of Different Firing Positions= (Sec. 26, para. 1).--This can be illustrated on the Target with the aid of figures representing men in the standing, kneeling, and lying positions at various distances. Figures in the standing and lying positions respectively are shown at various ranges in Figs. 55 and 56, arranged on Tier B of the Target.

(iii) =Need for Avoiding Unnecessary Movements in Loading and Firing= (Sec. 30, para. 1).--This important rule can be illustrated on the Target with scenery and a number of figures representing men in various firing positions at different distances, disposed either singly or in groups in the open or _partly_ behind cover such as bushes, rocks, walls, etc. The figures should be placed in front of background which harmonizes with their colour, so that they are invisible to the naked eye when motionless. The mechanism should then be operated so as to move the figures slightly to demonstrate to the class (_a_) that a figure which is invisible to the naked eye while motionless catches the eye through movement, and (_b_) that while quick movements may escape the eye, and even if seen may make marking down difficult, movements prolonged even for a short time catch the eye and facilitate marking down. This object-lesson will emphasize the rule that movements in the open should be confined to those which are absolutely necessary, and that these should be made smartly.

(iv) =Firing from Cover.=--This instruction can be practised on miniature ranges, according to the rules laid down in Sec. 31, para. 4, with cover improvised by the use of sandbags, etc. Care must be taken to see that the firing positions are correctly adapted to different forms of cover. The need for keeping the eye fixed on the target when firing from cover can be illustrated on the Target by the use of scenery and disappearing and crossing figures representing men at different distances. The correct and incorrect method of using various kinds of cover can also be illustrated on the Target, together with faults such as firing over instead of round the side of cover when this is possible, undue exposure, and unnecessary movement. The Target can also be used with scenery and figures for lectures on the choice of cover and the advantages and disadvantages of different kinds of cover according to the instruction laid down in Sec. 31, para. 3 (ii) to (iv) inclusive, and para. 5.

=4. Visual Training=--(i) =Discernment of Targets.=--Training can be carried out on the Target as described in Sec. 34 with different types of scenery and figures representing both men and bodies of troops in different formations at various ranges. The methods of instruction described in paras. 3 to 8 of this section, inclusive, can be carried out on the same principle as in training on the ground.

(ii) =Effect of Background on Visibility.=--Figs. 55 and 56 illustrate object-lessons in the effect of background on the visibility of service targets. For instance, lying figures in front of the hedge to the left of the tree on the left of the white house in the foreground of Fig. 55 are hardly visible at close range in the open, while a khaki figure near the right edge of the dark wood to the right of the hills in Fig. 56 is distinct, though it represents a man 1,400 yards away, while the rest of a line of similar figures coloured grey extended to his right in front of the wood are invisible. It must be remembered that in photographic reproduction the visibility of the figures is exaggerated as compared with their visibility against the scenery when observed with the naked eye at 25 yards.

(iii) Figures which are invisible to the naked eye against the scenic background of the Target can be made distinctly visible by holding a white piece of paper behind them to throw them into sharp relief. This object-lesson will illustrate the manner in which a sky-line or a sheet of water, for instance, affects the visibility of object seen against such backgrounds. The effect of movement on visibility has been dealt with in para. 3 (iii) of this section.

(iv) =Use of Field-Glasses.=--This can be practised as described in Sec. 34, para. 6.

=5. Military Vocabulary and Study of Ground.=--This instruction can be carried out on the Target with scenery and figures, including those which represent troops in different formations, artillery, transport, etc., and also on Landscapes according to the rules laid down in Sec. 35, paras. 3 to 6 inclusive.

=6. Range-Cards and Range-Marks= (Sec. 40).--The Target with scenery and also Landscapes may be used for lectures on the choice of features of ground for taking ranges, and for the preparation of range-cards and range-marks in attack and defence.

=7. Observation of Fire.=--Observation of fire can be practised on miniature ranges as described in Sec. 73, para 4.

=8. Fire Direction and Control.=--(i) =Lectures.=--Lectures on organization for fire action and the tactical application of fire, based on the instruction laid down in Chapter VI, can be illustrated on the Target with scenery and figures, and also to some extent on Landscapes. These lectures should include subjects such as allocation of frontages and objectives to fire-units, indication of the limits of sectors by description points, justification for opening fire, choice of targets, concentration and distribution of fire, mutual support, surprise, and use of rapid fire [see Sec. 74, para. 5 (iii)].

(ii) =Description and Recognition of Targets.=--This instruction should be carried out as described in Sec. 45 on the Target with scenery and figures, and on Landscapes. In training fire-unit commanders in the description of targets on the Solano Target the apparatus should be arranged beforehand, so that the instructor is able suddenly to expose targets representing bodies of troops at different distances in various parts of the field of fire (see Sec. 74, para. 4).

=9. Fire Discipline.=--Men may be practised in the duties of fire discipline, including passing fire orders, concurrently with the training of fire-unit commanders as described in Sec. 47, paras. 8 to 11 inclusive. They may also be practised in working in pairs during exercises in fire discipline, and by individual field practices and observation practices.

Section =73=.--Range Practices.

=1. Arrangement of Target.=--The arrangement of the Target for grouping and application practices is shown in Fig. 53. This arrangement must be modified if the practice is an instructional one, fewer targets being used, as it may not be found possible to accommodate eight firers and eight instructors at the firing-point at the same time. In this case targets should be placed on Tier A only. The arrangement of the Target for observation practices is described in Appendix VII, para. 6, and shown in Fig. 57.

=2. Grouping Practices.=--The dimensions of the rings to be used in measuring groups in grouping practices fired on miniature ranges are given in Sec. 49, para. 6 (xi). Instruction will be carried out on the principles laid down in Sec. 52, and Sec. 56. The conditions of practices are laid down in Tables A and B.

=3. Instructional Practices.=--The conditions of these practices are laid down in Tables A and B.

=4. Observation Practices.=--These practices can be carried out with figures to practise men in the duties described in Sec. 47, para. 4. The range may be estimated by the size of the figure fired at, and aim corrected by observing the results of fire as the bullets strike the sawdust bank or paper screen (see Sec. 74, para. 6, Practice No. 4).

Section =74=.--Field Practices, Night Firing and Competitions.

=1. Arrangement of Target and Number of Firers.=--The arrangement of the Target for individual and collective field practices is shown in Figs. 55 and 56, and fully described in the _Official Handbook_ mentioned in the Appendix, VII, para. 1. Targets may be arranged on both tiers. If necessary, as many as eight men may fire individual field practices at the same time. Six or eight men under a fire-unit commander is a convenient number for firing collective field practices either on the Target or landscapes. The Firers may represent a single fire-unit under its commander, or be divided into two or more fire-units, each under its own commander. The arrangement of landscapes for collective field practices is shown in Figs. 57 and 58, and described in the _Official Handbook_ referred to above.

=2. Conditions of Practices.=--(i) The conditions of practices as laid down in this chapter may be varied at the discretion of the instructor to suit the skill of firers. Instructors should encourage fire-unit commanders and men to devise the conditions of practical individual and collective field practices. Interest will be added to a practice if men are allowed, under his supervision, to arrange the scenery and place targets in position for practices to be carried out by their comrades. Before commencing, the object of each practice will be explained to the firers by the instructor.

(ii) After firing, the squad will proceed to the Target, when the results of firing will be criticized and the causes of failure discussed. Hits on figure targets will be counted for scoring according to the rules laid down in the field practices in Chapter VIII and in Appendix, VI, paras. 4 and 5. Rifles are to be loaded before or after commencement of practice or appearance of targets, as ordered. Movement may be carried out by running distances representing an advance either outside the range or between firing-point and butt, _due precautions being taken to avoid accidents_.

=3. Individual Field Practices=--(i) =Demonstrations.=--Individual field practices may with advantage commence with demonstrations carried out with or without firing on the Target, arranged with scenery and figures to illustrate lectures on important subjects, such as justification for opening fire, choice of targets, and the duties of men working in pairs.

(ii) =Justification for Opening Fire.=--For example, justification for opening fire may be illustrated by the following object-lesson, which will also help men to recognize the limit of individual fire, and explain the need for collective fire beyond close range. Figures representing infantry lines in extended order at 2,000, 1,800, 1,600, 1,400, 1,200, 1,000, 800, 600, and 400 yards, may be exposed on Tiers A and B to represent the advance of an enemy in attack. All the figures will be shown against background which harmonizes with their colouring. The difficulty of discerning targets beyond close range will be demonstrated. The difficulty of estimating the range of the figures beyond close range by the difference in their size, even when difficulties due to atmospheric influences and movement are absent, will also be indicated. Finally, a good shot may be told off to fire five rounds at a 1,000 yards figure; five rounds at a 600 yards figure; and five rounds at a 400 yards figure, to illustrate the limit of probable assurance of fire effect from individual fire, and to demonstrate the principle which underlies justification for opening individual fire--namely, that such fire must not be opened unless there is at least probable assurance of effect.

(iii) =Choice of Targets.=--The principle underlying the choice of targets in individual firing may be illustrated in the same manner by arranging figures on the Target so as to represent more or less favourable or important targets between which firers may commonly have to choose. For instance, figures representing a line of men in extended order may be arranged so that the intervals between the men in some parts of the line are considerable, while in others they art crowded together, shoulder to shoulder (see footnote, p. 226). Here the thickest part of the line is the more favourable target. Again, targets which are distinctly visible owing to the effect of background are more favourable than those which are rendered indistinct owing to this cause. Targets consisting of men in the standing position are, other conditions being equal, more favourable than those in the kneeling and lying positions, and men in the open are obviously more favourable targets than those partly concealed behind cover, especially if it affords protection from fire. These object-lessons illustrate the principle underlying the choice of targets--namely, to select the target which gives the greatest probable assurance of fire effect, or which in any given situation is the most important.

(iv) Object-lessons illustrating other important points may be arranged on the Target by instructors on the same principle as the above examples.

(v) =Conditions of Practices.=--_The Individual Field Practices Nos. 1 to 6 on pp. 185-188, Chapter VIII, can all be adapted with necessary modifications as to targets, numbers firing, etc., for firing on the Solano Target with scenery, scenic accessories, and figures._ The following are examples of other individual field practices which can be carried out on the Target, and are suitable for both instruction and competitions. Firing should be carried out in the different firing positions from behind cover, as well as without cover, or rest for arms or rifle.

INDIVIDUAL FIELD PRACTICES ON THE SOLANO TARGET.

=No. 1.=

=Object=: To teach men to open fire with effect quickly.

=Rounds=: 6 per man.

=Targets=: 2 per man--one 300 yards head and shoulders, and one 400 yards standing figure on different tiers.

=Directions=: Each target to be exposed singly in any order, 3 times for 5 seconds, at uncertain intervals of not less than 10 seconds. 1 round to be fired on each exposure.

=No. 2.=

=Object=: To teach men to open fire with effect quickly and to aim off.

=Rounds=: 5 per man.

=Targets=: 1 per man--400 or 600 yards standing figure.

=Directions=: The figures will be arranged on the carriers of the crossing mechanism on Tier A. Scenic accessories, such as houses, trees, foliage, etc., will be arranged on the Target so as to conceal the figures at their starting-points, and also along the _front groove_ of the Tier across which the figures will be moved with irregular intervals of some 6 to 12 inches between them. The figures will be moved from the concealment of cover to represent an enemy’s scout doubling across the firer’s front from cover to cover. On disappearing behind each successive piece of cover the figures will be halted for an uncertain time, not less than 5 seconds, after which they will be retired or advanced to the shelter of the nearest cover, when they will again be halted. Each figure will be exposed in this manner 5 times. 1 round will be fired on each exposure while the figure is in motion.

=No. 3.=

=Object=: To teach men to mark down an enemy.

=Rounds=: 6 per man.

=Targets=: 2 per man--400 or 600 yards standing figure.

=Directions=: One figure on each tier of the Target fixed to clips either without cover in front or behind cover which affords protection from fire, such as rocks, a wall, or a bank. The cover must not conceal more than half the figure when exposed. At first cover may be isolated to facilitate marking down, but as progress is made it should be continuous. Each target to be exposed singly for 3 seconds in any order and at uncertain intervals of not less than 10 seconds, then disappeared for 10 seconds, and then exposed again for 4 seconds. 1 round to be fired at each target on second exposure. This practice can also be carried out with the men working in pairs and taking it in turns to fire and to help to observe and mark down.

=No. 4.=

=Object=: To teach men to fire at ground.

=Rounds=: 3 per man.

=Targets=: 1 per man--400 or 600 yards standing figure.

=Directions=: The figure, must be fixed to clips on either tier behind cover which does not afford protection from fire, such as a bush or hedge. The cover must not conceal more than half the figure when exposed. At first, to render marking down and aim easy, cover may be isolated, such as a bush, but as progress is made it should be continuous. Each figure will be exposed for 3 seconds and then disappeared to represent a man advancing and taking cover. 10 seconds will be allowed for firing 3 shots at the ground line of the spot marked down for the position of the figure behind cover. This practice can also be carried out with the men working in pairs and taking it in turns to fire and to help to observe and mark down. Hits may be checked as follows--on the back of cover immediately in front of the figure an outline in pencil must be drawn of its head and shoulders to represent the figure in the lying position behind cover. The shot-holes will then show whether hits have been scored.

=No. 5.=

=Object=: To teach men to snapshoot.

=Rounds=: 6 per man.

=Targets=: 3 per man--300 or 400 yards head and shoulders figures and 400 or 600 yards standing figures.

=Directions=: A great variety of these practices can be arranged, and men should be encouraged to devise the conditions. Targets must be concealed on the moving and disappearing mechanism Tier A and on Tier B behind cover such as walls, rocks, trees, hedges, bushes, houses, and cottages (see Appendix, Sec. VII, para. 4). Figures will be exposed to represent men firing over cover and round the side of cover. The doors and windows of the larger houses and cottages may be cut out and disappearing figures exposed for short intervals to represent men firing from them as in _street fighting_. Targets may also be exposed to represent men moving quickly across open spaces between cover such as trees, etc., to represent targets seen in _wood fighting_.

Men will fire from behind cover, care being taken to see that they watch ground while waiting to fire in correct positions with the minimum of exposure, and that all unnecessary movements in loading and firing are avoided. Men will be trained to aim and fire immediately on the appearance of the target with the minimum of exposure while doing so, and to take cover, load, and resume their watch for targets as quickly as possible after firing. Each target will be exposed twice for 4 seconds. They will be exposed singly in any order at intervals not exceeding 10 seconds, 1 round will be fired on each exposure. They may also be exposed simultaneously to test the judgment of men in the _choice of targets_.

=No. 6.=

=Object=: To teach men to combine rapidity with accuracy of fire.

=Rounds=: 5 per man.

=Targets=: 1 per man--400 or 600 yards standing figure.

=Directions=: On the exposure of the target men will fire 5 rounds as rapidly as possible. The time taken by each man in firing 5 rounds will be checked. Accuracy must not be sacrificed for rapidity, and hits scored will be more important than the time taken in firing.

=No. 7.=

=Object=: To teach men to combine fire and movement.

=Rounds=: 6 per man.

=Targets=: Any of the following: (_a_) A row of Solano figures representing a line of loopholed head-cover entrenchments. (_b_) A row of 300 or 400 yards head-and-shoulder figures representing men firing from a bank or open trench. (_c_) A row of low bushes representing the line of a screened entrenchment. (_d_) A stone wall marked with loopholes or with head-and-shoulder figures exposed at intervals to represent men firing over it. (_e_) A row of houses defended from doors and windows. (_f_) Folds of ground, etc.

=Directions=: The above targets, (_a_) to (_e_) inclusive, may be arranged on either tier; (_f_) will consist of features shown on the scenery itself. The firers will represent a firing-line advancing at close range. Firing will be carried out as follows: 2 rounds will be fired; the men will then run 50 yards and fire 2 more rounds, after which they will run 50 yards again and fire the last 2 rounds.

=4. Fire Direction Practices= (Sec. 42, paras. 8 and 9, Sec. 47, paras. 2 to 4 inclusive, and Sec. 54, para. 3).--(i) Though officers and N.C.O.’s cannot be trained satisfactorily in the important duties of ranging on miniature ranges, much useful instruction can be carried out by fire direction practices on the target and landscapes, the object of which will be to teach fire-unit commanders and men to work together in some of the principal duties of fire direction, control, and discipline before proceeding to fire collective field practices.

(ii) The object of these practices is to train fire-unit commanders to discern targets quickly, describe them accurately, and give clear, correct fire orders (Sec. 46, paras. 1 to 6 inclusive), and to train men to recognize targets, obey and pass fire orders. Both officers and men will previously have been trained to some extent in these duties. In fire direction practices they should be carried out as a whole under a time limit, reckoned from the appearance of the target to the end of firing or aiming in obedience to fire orders. The time limit should be decreased as progress is made. Observers should also be trained in their duties in these practices, which should be devised so as to train both fire-unit commanders and observers to watch for signals and maintain communication with neighbouring units (Sec. 42, para. 8 (ii) (_b_), and para. 9).

(iii) The target should be arranged before practices with a variety of figures representing various arms and troops in different formations at various ranges (Appendix, VII, para. 5). They should be exposed suddenly for short time limits corresponding approximately to the probable time exposure of such targets on service. Fire-unit commanders should use field-glasses and include ranges estimated by the size of the figures in fire orders. Passing fire orders may be practised by passing them down a line of men to those at the firing-point (Sec. 46, para. 7). This should be done if possible while firing is proceeding. Practices may be carried out with firing or by aiming with rifles on rests for laying aim. Instructors must carefully criticize the work of both fire-unit commanders and men.

=5. Collective Field Practices= (Sec. 54, para. 4)--(i) =Demonstrations.=--These practices may be preceded by lectures demonstrating some of the _Points for Criticism_ set out in Sec. 54, para. 4 (iii), and also points in the instruction laid down in Sec. 35, para. 4 (_Reconnaissance of Ground in Attack and Defence_), Sec. 42 (_Organization for Fire Action_), Sec. 43 (_Effect of Fire at Different Ranges on Various Formations and Objectives_), and Sec. 44 (_Tactical Application of Fire_).

(ii) =Arrangement of Target for Demonstrations.=--Demonstrations should be carried out on the Target arranged with scenery and figures with or without firing to illustrate instruction. The arrangement of the target for lectures and demonstrations affords scope for skill and ingenuity on the part of instructors, and may be used to give practical instruction to N.C.O.’s and men engaged to help in arranging the scenery and figures to illustrate various principles and tactical schemes. The following are examples of simple lessons which may be demonstrated on the Target.

(iii) =Examples of Demonstrations.=

=No. 1. Need for Collective Fire.=--The instruction laid down in Sec. 11 may be demonstrated by arranging figures on the Target as above described in para. 3 (ii), adding figures representing troops in different formations, artillery and transport at ranges up to 2,500 yards. If the demonstration is carried out with firing, a useful object lesson may be provided as follows. A row of 1,000 and 1,200 yard figures can be arranged on the clips so that when exposed their heads will appear over continuous cover, such as low bushes, to represent men firing from a bank or fold of the ground. The figures will be arranged against background which renders them invisible to the naked eye from the firing-point. The firers will be told that they have come under the fire of the enemy somewhere to their front, and that the need for replying to it immediately to minimize its effect is urgent. They will depend upon individual firing for fire effect. When they have realized their helplessness, a fire-unit commander will indicate the target and direct fire, the results of which will be noted.

=No. 2. Justification for Opening Fire= (Sec. 43 and Sec. 44, paras. 3 to 6 inclusive).--This may be demonstrated by various examples carried out with or without firing to illustrate the principle that fire must not be opened in attack or defence without reasonable assurance of effect in regard to the object for which it is delivered. For instance, a number of rounds may be fired at an extended line of 2,000 or 1,600 yard figures, and an equal number of rounds at an extended line of 1,000 and 800 yard figures, to illustrate the greater effect of fire at closer ranges. It must be explained, however, that exceptionally favourable targets may justify the opening of fire at long and distant ranges [Sec. 43, para. 2 (iii)].

=No. 3. Choice of Targets= [Sec. 54, Note to para. 4 (iii)].--The principle that the more favourable or important targets should be chosen may be illustrated by various examples, as for instance by exposing a line of 800 yard figures so that the heads and shoulders only are visible above cover affording protection from fire, and exposing a line of the same figures upright in the open to one side. If carried out with firing, a demonstration of the effects of converging fire (Sec. 44, para. 11) may be combined with that of the choice of targets as follows: The firers may be divided into two fire-units of four men each under its own commander. Each unit will deliver deliberate fire for half a minute at a line of 1,000 yard figures on Tier A within its own sector or frontage. A dense line of 800 yards figures will then be exposed in the centre of Tier B to represent a part of the enemy’s line which has taken advantage of a covered approach or dead ground to push forward. Both fire-unit commanders will at once divert the fire of half their unit in a burst of rapid converging fire for half a minute at this favourable target while continuing to keep the enemy’s line to his front under fire with the rest of his unit for the same time. Results of firing will be compared.

=No. 4. Control of Fire as to Rate and Volume= (Sec. 44, paras. 14-17 inclusive).--The above object lesson illustrates the principle governing the control of fire as to volume and rate, both of which are increased to get the greatest possible effect against very favourable or important targets. Many other object lessons can be devised on the Target with figures to illustrate the principles of fire control. For instance, against an enemy’s entrenchment or firing line under cover, fire at longer ranges will usually be deliberate, while against the dense line of an attack at close range or against very favourable or important targets, especially if they are fleeting, it will usually be delivered in rapid bursts and in as great a volume as possible. The relation between the rate and volume of fire and the object for which it is delivered, and the circumstances under which it is delivered, should be explained and demonstrated in connection with fire control.

=No. 5. Concentration and Distribution of Fire= [Sec. 44, paras. 8 and 9; and Sec. 54, para. 3 (v) to (vii) inclusive].--The broad principles which govern the concentration and distribution of fire may be illustrated by arranging figures representing troops in different formations, machine guns, etc., at various ranges on the Target, so that men can see the different kinds of targets against which fire will be concentrated or distributed. For instance, against a narrow-fronted column or machine gun fire will be concentrated, while against lines of infantry in extended order or the frontage of a defensive position fire will usually be distributed. Fire may, however, be concentrated if part of a line offers a favourable target through the men failing to keep their extension and crowding together, on the principle that fire should be concentrated against very vulnerable targets or at points where it will produce increased effect.

=No. 6. Mutual Support and Covering Fire= (Sec. 44, paras. 12 and 13).--The broad principles governing the application of fire in mutual support and covering fire may be illustrated by arranging simple tactical schemes on the Target in the following manner: The firers will be divided into two fire-units, as in Demonstration No. 3. They are supposed to be part of a firing line in attack. To illustrate _mutual support_, one unit will be represented by a line of figures on Tier B, directly in front of it. When the figures are disappeared, the unit they represent is supposed to be halted, and when they are exposed, it is supposed to be advancing. The enemy’s position will be indicated as a definite frontage in front of each unit on the scenery above Tier A, or the scenic accessories on this tier. While both units are supposed to be firing during a halt, the figures on Tier A will be exposed, denoting that one unit is advancing. The commander of the other unit will at once direct fire from part of his unit in rapid fire against the front of the enemy’s position to the front of the advancing unit, while keeping the enemy’s position to his front under fire from the rest of his unit. To illustrate _covering fire_, a line of figures on Tier B will represent the firing line of an attack, to which the firers are supports on high ground. The enemy’s front will be indicated on Tier A. When the figures are exposed, denoting an advance by the firing line, the supports will cover the advance by delivering heavy fire at the enemy’s position to the front of the figures.

=No. 7. Fire and Movement= (Sec. 44, para. 7).--The control of fire in its application to movement may, for example, be illustrated by supposing the firers to be part of a force acting on the defensive against an attacking force, represented by figures on the Target. Considerations relative to opening fire may be studied, together with the control of fire against advancing troops, with the object of obtaining increased effect at closer ranges and attempting surprise (Sec. 44, paras. 17 and 18). The rate and volume of fire in relation to movement may be demonstrated by illustrating by figures arranged on both tiers of the Target the different stages of an attack[31] in column and extended order formations from 1,600 to 600 or 400 yards range, an advance, and explaining that the rate of fire is usually deliberate when the enemy halts or takes cover, and is increased in rate and volume when his troops present favourable targets during forward movement, more especially to beat them off in the act of assaulting [Sec. 44, para. 16 (i) and (ii)].

=No. 8. Organization for Fire Action= (Sec. 42).--Before commencing collective field practices, the principles of organization for fire action, so far as it concerns the allotment of frontages and the division of the field of fire into separate sectors for each fire unit should be demonstrated to fire-unit commanders on the Target or on landscape targets. Platoon and section commanders

inclusive. may be practised in indicating the limits of sectors to their units, after the frontage allotted to their unit in a field of fire has been pointed out to these commanders. The limits of sectors must be indicated in the manner described in Sec. 42, para. 3, and illustrated in Fig. 47. The nature and details of fields of fire should be varied as much as possible to accustom unit commanders to dealing with all kinds of ground. The field of fire may be divided up into two, three, or four sectors, a different unit commander being made to indicate the limits of each sector.

(iv) =Conditions of Practices.=--_The collective field practices on pp. 188 to 192 inclusive may be adapted for miniature range firing on the Target by modifying the conditions as may be necessary._ The conditions of practices may also be based on the ideas contained in the examples of demonstrations given in para. (iii) above. Instructors should encourage fire-unit commanders and N.C.O.’s to devise simple tactical schemes for collective field practices which, besides training officers and men in the duties of fire direction, control, and discipline, will teach them to give effect to the principles which govern the application of fire. The arrangement of the Target by men for practices to be fired by their comrades may also be used by the instructor for imparting useful practical knowledge. Special attention should be paid in these practices to firing from cover, passing fire orders, and fire discipline generally. The following examples of practices will serve as a guide to instructors with regard to conditions.

(v) =Special Rules.=--Practices will begin with the caution _Commence_, and will end with the order _Cease Fire_. The number, nature, and positions of targets will be unknown to firers, and must be invisible until exposed or moved. Targets may be exposed without warning any time after the caution _Commence_, and the order, time, and duration of exposure or movement will be unknown to firers in every case. All information which will help commanders and men to use their judgment will be given them beforehand, when the object of the practice will be explained, but no help or suggestion as to the manner in which they will carry out their duties will be told them either before or during a practice. Criticism will not be confined to the points noted in the following examples of practices, but will be general. These examples are purposely made simple, and devised as far as possible to deal with situations which may confront men in the present campaign. They may be varied by Instructors as desired.

COLLECTIVE FIELD PRACTICES ON THE SOLANO TARGET.

=No. 1.=

=Object=: Test of fire direction and control.

=Targets=: Tier A (left section) infantry line standing, extended order, 1,200 yards. Right section, infantry line standing, extended order, 800 yards. Tier B (left half) infantry line standing, extended order, 1,000 yards--half of line crowded together.[32]

=Directions=: The firers will represent two separate units in neighbouring localities of a defensive position. The target on Tier A (right section) will first be exposed for ten seconds. After a pause, both targets on Tier A will be exposed together for ten seconds. After a pause the targets on Tier A (right section) and Tier B will be exposed together for ten seconds. =Particulars=: The enemy at 1,200 yards is difficult to discern owing to background and undergrowth, and the defence know that he is close to a covered approach which will bring him to 1,000 yards of their line. =Criticism=: (i) _Justification for Opening Fire_: (_a_) By both units on first exposure of 800 yards’ target; (_b_) by both units on exposure of 1,200 yards target. (ii) _Choice of Targets and Mutual Support_: By left unit on simultaneous exposure of 1,200 and 800 yards targets. (iii) _Rate of Fire_: (_a_) By both units on first exposure of 800 yards target; (_b_) by left unit at 1,000 yards target. (iv) _Concentration and Distribution of Fire_: By left unit at 1,000 yards target. (v) _Results of Firing._

=No. 2.=

=Object=: Test of fire direction by auxiliary aiming-marks (aiming-off).

=Target=: A point on the scenery indicated to unit commander as concealing enemy’s machine-gun at 1,400 yards.

=Directions=: Commander is ordered to open fire at once, allowing one, two, or three fingers’ breadths for the deflection of right-angle winds of varying strength from left or right. He will select auxiliary aiming-marks for direction of fire and aiming-off under a time limit. =Criticism=: _Choice of description-point. Clearness of fire orders. Quick opening and rate of fire. Results of firing._

=No. 3.=

=Object=: Test of fire direction by anticipatory orders.

=Directions=: A variety of targets and tactical schemes may be employed for this practice, which may also be made to combine fire and movement. For example, the firers may represent a force in pursuit of retreating troops, and run 100 yards in intervals of firing to represent an advance. At the end of movement prearranged crossing and disappearing targets will be exposed or moved at points previously known to commander, who will indicate them to men, telling them to open fire when target appears without further orders. To develop individual judgment, men will be made to use their judgment in applying fire according to nature and importance of targets. =Criticism:=: _Recognition of targets. Quick opening of fire. Application of fire as to rate, volume, concentration, or distribution according to nature of target. Fire discipline._

=No. 4.=

=Object:=: Test of individual judgment in applying rapid fire.

=Targets=: Tier A (left section), infantry line standing, extended order, 600 yards. Line of head and shoulder figures 400 yards on right section. Tier B, dense line standing figures, 400 yards, or strip of cardboard of same measurements.

=Directions=: Targets will be exposed once separately for 15 seconds each at intervals of 10 seconds between exposures in following order: (i) 600 yards target; (ii) 400 yards head and shoulders; (iii) 400 yards standing. Men will fire without orders. =Criticism=: _Quick opening of fire. Rate of fire at first, second, and third targets. Fire discipline. Unsteady firing. Results of fire._

=No. 5.=

=Object=: Test of individual judgment in applying fire to a tactical situation.

=Targets=: Tier A, infantry line standing, 800 yards. Tier B, dense infantry line standing, 600 yards (figures or cardboard strip).

=Directions=: 600 yards target will first be exposed alone representing attack at close range. 800 yards target representing enemy’s supports will then be exposed for 15 seconds, the 600 yards target also remaining exposed for this period. Firers will be told that they will succeed in checking enemy’s firing line represented by first target exposed, and will then deal with the situation as it develops without orders owing to sudden loss of their commander at critical moment. =Criticism=: _Quick opening of fire. Discernment of 800 yards target. Proportion and rate of fire diverted from enemy’s firing-line to supports. Fire discipline._

No. 6.

=Object=: Test of rapid fire.

=Target=: Tier B, dense line of figures or strip of cardboard--400 yards or closer.

=Directions=: Target will be exposed for 30 seconds to represent an enemy delivering attack from his trenches on firers who are entrenched close to and opposite his earthworks. When practice commences, one firer as observer will watch the front, while others will sit with their backs to target. When the observer gives the alarm, firers will rise and open rapid fire. Arrangements should be made to carry out this practice standing with rifles rested, and if possible by firing from loopholed head-cover improvised with sandbags, etc., as shown on p. 82 of _Field Entrenchments_ of this series. The practice may also be fired at dusk or with artificial lighting lowered to give the effect of uncertain light. =Criticism=: _Work of observer. Quick opening of fire. Fire discipline. Percentage of hits to rounds fired._

Shadowgraph facsimile.

Colour-printed portion.

(“Section Fire” Target.)]

=Fig. 58.=--LANDSCAPE TARGET PRACTICES. ILLUSTRATION SHOWING
METHOD OF HARMONIZING RIFLES AND THE SYSTEM OF MEASURING
COLLECTIVE GROUPING OF CONCENTRATED AND DISTRIBUTED FIRE FOR
SCORING. (_See Appendix, V., para. 2, and Appendix, VI., para.
5._)]

=6. Landscape Target Practices.=--As already stated, range and individual field practices cannot be carried out on landscape targets. Collective field practices can be carried out on landscape targets with either ·303 or ·22 ammunition on 30 yards and miniature ranges. As progress is made, landscape target practices should be carried out with a time limit for indicating targets, giving and passing fire orders, and firing. When firing at landscape targets, rifles will be given elevation, so that bullets aimed at objectives on the landscapes will strike a blank or shadowgraph sky screen above the whole of the landscape, even if the objective is at the bottom of the landscape (Fig. 57). For method of valuing hits and scoring in these practices, see Appendix, VI, para. 5. The following are examples of collective field practices which may be carried out on landscape targets:

Collective Field Practices on Landscape Targets.

=No. 1.=

=Object=: To teach concentration of fire.

=Directions=: Fire is opened on a given point on the landscape as ordered. If the point is clearly indicated and recognized, and if sighting and fire are accurate, a dense group of shot-holes will be made on sky-screen, the point of mean impact being a point the correct height _vertically_ above the point of aim [see Appendix, VI, para. 5 (i)].

=No. 2.=

=Object=: To teach distribution of fire.

=Directions=: Fire is opened along a given line of country as ordered. The shot-holes should appear evenly distributed along a line on the sky-screen at a certain height, and immediately above the line of country indicated [see Appendix, VI, para. 5 (ii)].

=No. 3.=

=Object=: To teach the use of combined sights.

=Directions=: As in No. 1, but half the firers will adjust sights 50 yards above and half 50 yards below the range given. Results will show two groups, which would be merged into one group of great depth in the case of fire of sufficient volume, such as that of two platoons, and illustrates the use of combined sights for increasing the zone of effective fire.

=No. 4.=

=Object=: To teach observation of fire.

=Directions=: A point is indicated on landscape (preferably near the top), and a visible[33] sketch of it is made at any height on the screen and _vertically_ above it. The commander will open fire with such elevation as he thinks necessary, and then correct from observation of shot-holes until on the target.

=7. Night Firing.=--The automatic alignment of rifles may be practised on miniature ranges. Aim may be taken at a strip of brown or grey paper representing a line of standing figures at 100 and 200 yards’ distance, scaled down to size for 25 yards, and attached to the landscape target screen faced with blank paper (Fig. 57). Men may also be taught to aim rifles from improvised night-firing rests at objectives on the Solano Target or Landscape Targets. The field of fire containing the objectives may then be concealed by a paper screen, the rifles fired, and results examined. As there is no recoil with the miniature cartridge, this practice will not prove the utility of the rest.

=8. Miniature Range Cadet Competitions.=--The rules regarding competitions set out in Sec. 69 apply also to miniature ranges. The various practices laid down in this chapter and Chapter VIII will serve as the basis of various competitions on miniature as well as open ranges. Tests in grouping and application may be found suitable for cadet competitions in elementary forms of shooting. Regulation as well as Solano elementary and instructional targets may be used (see Appendix, VIII).

CADET COMPETITIONS.

=No. 1.=

=Object=: To teach cadets grouping under a timed limit when firing from cover, and to train the eye to aim at marks seen against backgrounds of natural tints.

=Rounds=: 5 per cadet.

=Target=: Solano Elementary Target No. 1.

=Directions=: Kneeling. Firing over cover with arm or rifle rested. Two minutes allowed for firing reckoning from the order _Commence_.

=No. 2.=

=Object=: To teach cadets to focus the eye on the mark instead of the sights of the rifle.

=Rounds=: 5 per cadet.

=Target=: Solano Elementary Target No. 2.

=Directions=: Lying. Firing round cover with side of rifle rested.

=No. 3.=

=Object=: To teach cadets to assume a firing position and open fire quickly with effect.

=Rounds=: 5 per cadet.

=Target=: Solano Instructional Target No. 1.

=Directions=: Firer stands to attention at firing-point. Ten seconds allowed for assuming the lying position, loading, and firing one shot, reckoned from command _Fire_.

=No. 4.=

=Object=: To teach cadets to snapshoot.

=Rounds=: 5 per cadet.

=Target=: Solano Instructional Target No. 2.

=Directions:= Lying. Firing round cover. Target exposed six seconds for each shot. Time reckoned from the exposure of the target.

=No. 5.=

=Object=: To teach cadets to combine accuracy with rapidity of fire.

=Rounds=: 5 per cadet.

=Target=: As in No. 3.

=Directions=: Lying. Rifle to be unloaded and breech closed until the command _Rapid fire_. Target exposed for thirty seconds, reckoned from command _Rapid fire_.

No. 6.

=Object=: To teach cadets to combine fire with movement.

=Rounds=: 5 per cadet.

=Target=: Solano Instructional Target No. 3.

=Directions=: Lying. A distance of 25 yards to be run before firing each shot. Fifteen seconds reckoned from the order _Commence_ allowed for running and firing each time. One minute to elapse between the firing of a shot and the commencement of the next run.