FM 23 81 75mm Rifle M 20 1948

Survival, Water, Medical Field Manuals

Military Manuals

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DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY FIELD MANUAL 
Е! ЕМ 23-81 
This manual supersedes those portions of Training Circulars No, 25, 


War Department, 1945, and No. 11, War Department, 1946, pertaining 
to the 75-mm rifle, 


Ea 


= 


75-mm RIFLE 
M20 


° MARCH 1948 


` 

Ээ RESTRICTED. DISSEMINATION OF RESTRICTED MATTER.—No 
person is entitled solely by virtue of his grade or position to 

f. knowledge or possession of classified matter. Such matter 


is entrusted only to those individuals whose official duties 
require such knowledge or possession. (See also AR 380—5.) 


United States Government Printing Office 
Washington : 1948 


DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY | 
Washington 25, D. C., 11 March 1948 _ 


FM 23-81, 75-mm Rifle, M20, is published for the 
information and guidance of all concerned. 


[AG 300.7 (19 Dec 47)1 


By ORDER OF THE SECRETARY OF THE Army: 


OMAR N. BRADLEY 
Chief of Staff, United States Army 
OFFIGIAL: 
EDWARD F. WITSELL 
Major General 
The Adjutant General 


DISTRIBUTION: 


USAF (10); AGF (40); OS Maj Comd (2); 
Base Comd (2); MDW (11); Arm & Sv Bd 
(2); Tech Sv (2); Sch (50) except Inf Sch 
(1500); USMA (50); ROTC (1); A (ZI) 
(25), (Overseas) (10); CHQ (10); D (3); 
B (2); R2 5, 7; 17 (2); Bn 2, 5572122); 
C 2, 5, 7, 9, 17 (1) ; Five (5) copies to each of 
the following: T/O & E 7-18; 7-26; 3-36T ; 
7-58T. 


For explanation of distribution formula see TM 


38-405. 


( 


CONTENTS 
$ Paragraphs Page 
CHAPTER 1. INTRODUCTION ............... MeL 1 
CHAPTER 2. MECHANICAL TRAINING. 
Section I. Disassembly and assembly ....... 4-6 4 
II. Mechanical functioning .......... 7-8 10 
III. Stoppages and immediate action.. 9-11 17 
IV. Ammunition and fuzes ........... 12-18 22 
V. Careand cleaning ............... 19-20 31 
VI. Mountings eder uox. ese ese 21-22 38 
VII. Fire control instruments ......... 23-31 40 
VIII. Equipment, spare parts, and ac- 
CeSSOTIGS VUES E T vais ves voie sa 32-33 51 
CHAPTER 3. TRAINING FOR PLACING GUN IN 
ACTION. 
Section I. Crew drill ........ "IO ERO Soc 34-44 56 
II. Battery drill ..... ELS mos ... 45-46 67 
CHAPTER 4. MARKSMANSHIP. 
Séctionris, "General О 47-49 69. 
II. Preparatory exercises ........... 50-58 70 
Tie Boresighting е «6» v 59 79 
IV. Qualification courses ............ 60-64 82 
À V. Safety precautions and procedure 
E for firing ..... Җае Кас ‚... 65—69 91 
CHAPTER 5. TECHNIQUE OF DIRECT FIRE. 
Section T^ uneneralo а.е ++» 70-72, -101 
II. Characteristics of fire ......... . 72-75 101 
III. Range determination ...... .. 76-82 105 


Section IV. 
V. 

VI. 

VII. 

VIII. 

TX: 


X. 
XI. 


CHAPTER 6. 


Section 1. 
II. 
ПІ. 


IV. 


VII. 
IX. 


X. 


XI. 


CHAPTER 7. 
Section 1. 


iv 


Paragraphs 


Speed and lead determination .... 83-85 
Target designation ............., 86-90 
«Birescontrolie ое vie . 91-94 
TFareicommands 0066 95-101 
Range cards ueteres nere imis 102 
Direct laying on landscape targets, 

VU UE ose CODO T "odo adt 103-109 
iDransition firing ее 110-112 
ДеП firme. or «vis de Si oE АЕО 113-116 
TECHNIQUE OF INDIRECT FIRE. 

Сепега т о settee аен 117-118 
Computation of initial data ...... 119-124 
General principles of conduct of 

ате ое еа е 125-135 
Conduct of бге by range-bracket- 

ING procedure. „шли уена е. 136-141 
Conduct of fire by deflection- 

bracketing procedure .......... 142-149 
Conduct of the battery ......... 150-156 
Prearranged fires ............... 157-159 
Position defilade ................ 160-164 
Extract of fire control tables....165-166 
Recorders sheet ................ 167-168 


Subcaliber training on landscape 
targets at unknown short ranges169-175 


ADVICE TO INSTRUCTORS. 


(serleral зеден ала 176-179 
Mechanical training ............. 180-185 
Crew аги жааганы 186-187 
Marksmanship 5 188-189 
еа бше тендан Еле атаа 190-192 


193 
195 


197 ( |f 
198 


199 


201 


] This manual supersedes those portions of Training Circulars 
No. 25, War Department, 1945, and No. 11, War Department, 
1946, pertaining to the 75-mm rifle. 


CHAPTER 1 
INTRODUCTION 


$, RESTRICTED 


1. PURPOSE AND SCOPE. a. This manual pro- 
vides the unit commander with the data necessary 
for the step-by-step training of gun crews equipped 
with the 75-mm rifle, M20. 

b. The scope of this manual includes mechanical 
training, training for placing the gun in action, 
marksmanship, and the techniques of direct and in- 
direct fire. 


2. DESCRIPTION. a. The 75-mm rifle, M20 (fig. 1), 
is a recoilless portable weapon designed to be fired 
from the machine gun tripod mount caliber .30, 
M1917A1. It is an air cooled, single shot, breech 
loading weapon using fixed ammunition. This rifle 
is equipped with a manually operated breech mech- 
anism and a percussion type firing mechanism. 
b. Tabulated data. (1) General. 


> Weight of rifle (w/sight bracket)...... Ibs 114.5 
Weight of rifle complete w/mount and 
siPhbracket jon dee pd d rre Ibs 167.7 
Wen ethno ril sees spoke eee ere ess in 82 
пепео tube, о: іп 65.1 
Бейек ОН ay ИЗО in 65.1 
Type of breechblock ........... Interrupted screw 


1 


Figure 1. 75-mm rifle M20 (mounted on HMG tripod). 


(2) Performance. 
Muzzle velocity HE and WP.......... f/s 990 
Muzzle velocity HEAT .............- f/s 1000 
Range (approximate maximum) : 
Cartridge, HEAT, N310 (T39), 


for 75-mm rifle, M20 ............ yds 7200 
Cartridge, HE, M309 (T38), ) 

for 75-mm rifle, М20 ............ yds 6955 ( 
Cartridge, SMOKE, WP, M311 (T40), 

fon 75-mimrifie; М0 yds 7020 


c. Data pertaining to mount M1917A1. See FM 
23-55. 
d. Sighting equipment: (1) Unit sight, M34 (for 
indirect fire), consists of— 
Elevation quadrant. 
2 


Telescope adapter. 
Elbow telescope. 


Instrument light. 
Carrying case. 
(2) Direct fire sight, M85C, consists of— 
Telescope mount. 
Telescope. 
Instrument light. 
Carrying case. 


3. PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION. The shell cas- 
ing for recoilless rifle ammunition is perforated so 
that the propellant gases can escape through the 
perforations into the enlarged chamber of the’ tube. 
The breech is so constructed that, on ignition of the 
propellant charge, the resultant gases are allowed 
to escape to the rear through orifices in the breech- 
block, thereby eliminating recoil. The gas escape 
orifices are so designed that the momentum of gas 
discharge effectively counteracts the momentum of 
recoil and the angular momentum induced by the 
motion of the fired shell, and the rifle remains 
motionless. 


CHAPTER 2 
MECHANICAL TRAINING 


^ 


Section I. DISASSEMBLY 
AND ASSEMBLY 


4. GENERAL. A knowledge of the procedure of 
disassembly and assembly is a prerequisite to an 
understanding of functioning and stoppages, and 
to an ability to perform immediate action to reduce 
stoppages. The process of normal care and cleaning 
also requires a knowledge of these subjects. The 
following paragraphs outline a standardized, step- 
by-step method of disassembly and assembly. 


5. DISASSEMBLY (fig. 2). The Allen wrenches 
contained in the breech handle are the only tools 
needed to field strip the rifle. The preliminary 
steps and the disassembly of the parts are accom- 
plished in the order indicated below. 

a. Disengage the breech lock, open the breech q 
and check the chamber to see that it is clear. With \3 
the breech in the open position, rotate the safety 
and depress the trigger. Holding the trigger de- 
pressed, close the breech. This places the hammer 
and firing spring in the “as fired” position. 


b. Remove the two breech operating handle 


lousing screws on the left side of the breech 
perating handle housing, and remove the lower 
screw on the right side. Holding the right hand in 
position to catch the closéd breech lock spring 
in the event that it springs out of its seat, remove 


1. Tube chamber assembly. 13. Trigger spring. 
2. Vent bushing. 14. Safety. 
_ 3. Breechblock 15. Sear cover. 
4. Breech operating handle hous- 16. Sear. 
ing screws. 17. Cam rollers. 
(5. Extractor and extractor spring. 18. Breech hinge, hinge pin and 
6. Breech operating handle as- hinge pin screw. 
sembly. 19. Breech hinge block, shim and 
7. Firing spring. screws. 
8. Hammer and firing pin. 20. ) Front mounting bracket 
9. Breech handle cap. 21. | and screws. 
10. Closed breech lock and spring. 22. Front mounting bracket ring. 
11. Trigger. 23. Telescope mount and screws. 
12. Trigger pin. 24. Tube handle assembly. 


Figure 2. 75-mm rifle, M20—disassembled. 


the remaining screw, and remove the breech oper- 
ating handle housing assembly. tl 

c. Remove the closed breech lock and spring. 

d. Remove the firing pin, hammer assembly, and 
the firing spring from the hammer housing. 

e. Remove the two cam rollers from the hammer 
housing. 

f. Lift out the sear cover. 

g. Rotate the safety 14 turn counterclockwise, 
depress the trigger, continue the counterclockwise 
rotation of the safety for another 14 turn, then lift 
out the trigger safety assembly, being careful not 
to displace the trigger key from its recess. 

h. Remove the sear. 

i Rotate the breechblock to the unlocked posi- 
tion and open the breech. Lift the breechblock off 
the hinge. 

j. Withdraw the extractor from its seat in the 
hinge, and then withdraw the extractor spring. 

k. Remove the cam rollers from the hinge. 

1. Remove the hinge pin screw from the hinge 
block and remove the hinge pin by pushing it out 
of the block. 

m. The weapon is now stripped for normal care 
and cleaning. There are three additional ili 
blies which may be undertaken, under competen 
supervision, for periodic cleaning. They are: 

(1) Separation of firing pin from hammer. Insert 
hammer into its seat in the housing, making sure 
that the square slots in the hammer engage the 
cam rollers. While supporting housing with one 


6 


he spanner wrench. 

(2) Removal of breechblock hinge. Rotate hinge up- 
ward to uncover the hinge block screw. Using 
small wrench unscrew the hinge block screw. Dis- 
engage the hinge from the hinge block by remov- 
ing the hinge pin. 

(3) Disassembly of the trigger and safety assembly. 
(a) While holding the base of the trigger, slightly pull 
up and rotate the trigger safety, and allow the 
trigger key to drop out of the trigger. 

(b) Holding trigger safety in left hand, with the 
trigger spring down, place corner of cover plate 
against the end of trigger spring. Exert pressure 
against the end of spring to prevent it from turn- 
ing. Rotate trigger safety counterclockwise and 
unscrew it from trigger spring. Withdraw trigger 
safety from trigger. 

(c) Hold trigger in left hand and, using the same 
procedure as outlined in (b) above, remove trigger 
spring from trigger. 

n. The removal of tube carrying handles, the 
mounting bracket, and the telescope mount may be 

. accomplished, under competent supervision, by 
poc or unscrewing the proper clamping or 


j hand unscrew the firing pin from hammer using 


olding screws. 

o. The vent bushing is screwed into the rear 
end of the chamber and locked in place by the 
hinge pin screw which passes through the chamber 
wall into a hole in the bushing. The cone and the 
interrupted threads, which engage the breechblock, 
are an integral part of the bushing. These parts 


7 


may be removed by ordnance maintenance person- 
nei only. ( 


6. ASSEMBLY. Assembly is in approximately the 
reverse order of disassembly. 

a. Place the hinge in position so that it straddles 
the hinge block, and insert the hinge pin so that 
the notch in the pin faces to the rear. 

b. Insert and tighten the hinge pin screw making 
certain that the point on the screw enters the hole 
in the vent bushing. 

c. Replace the cam rollers in the hinge. 

d. Insert the extractor spring into its recess in 
the hinge. This spring may be inserted with the 
curved surface either up or down. 

e. Insert the extractor into the recess in the 
hinge so that the hook is pointing away from the 
hinge block. 

f. Place the breechblock on the hinge making 
certain that the projection on the lower end of the 
extractor enters the cam slot in the breechblock. 

g. Close the breech and rotate the breechblock 
to the locked position. 

h. Replace the sear in its slot in the breech 
operating handle housing so that the tapered end 
is toward the hammer housing and the bent cn 
is in the trigger handle. 

i. Insert the trigger and safety assembly into 
the trigger handle so that the studs of the safety 
become engaged in the slots in the trigger handle. 
Revolve the trigger key clockwise until it is lined 
up with the lugs on the safety, In order to com- 


8 


igger. Before this assembly can be fully seated 
in the trigger handle, the sear recess in the base 
of the trigger must be in position to receive the 
bent end of the sear. When the assembly is com- 
pletely seated, the safety will revolve and retain 
the assembly. 


»- this operation it is necessary to depress the 


j. Place the sear cover, curved end up, over the 
sear slot in the breech operating handle housing. 

k. Replace the two cam rollers in their recesses 
in the hammer housing. 

1. Center the’ firing spring in the hammer hous- 
ing. Place the hammer-firing pin assembly over the 
firing spring with the cam rollers positioned in the 
two square slots, and with the sear notch in posi- 
tion to engage the sear. 


Caution: Be sure that the hammer is replaced 
so that the sear notch is opposite the sear. If the 
hammer is replaced backwards—that is, so that 
the sear notch is opposite the closed breech lock— 
the closed breech lock will engage the hammer in 
the cocked position when the piece is cocked. 
Manual operation of the closed breech lock will 
then release the hammer. This situation is ex- 
tremely dangerous if the breech is closed on a live 
ound, as the only way the breech may be reopened 
s by disengaging the closed breech lock manually. 

m. Replace the closed breech lock and spring 
into their recess in the breech operating handle 
assembly. 

n. Holding the closed breech lock pin, place the 
breech operating handle assembly against the 


9 


breechblock so that the trigger handle is on the 


left. \( 
о. Secure the assembly to the breechblock with ` 


the four breech operating handle assembly screws. 
p. Replace tools in breech handle and replace 
breech handle cap. 
q. Test by cocking the piece and actuating the 
firing mechanism. 


Section II. 
MECHANICAL FUNCTIONING 


7. GENERAL. a. Introduction. A gun crew, to be 
efficient, must be able to keep its gun in action 
during combat. Therefore, in order to recognize 
the causes of mechanical failures, and to reduce 
the stoppages resulting therefrom, the crew must 
have a working knowledge of the mechanical func- 
tioning of the gun. 

b. To unload. The gunner opens the breech by 
rotating the breechblock clockwise (using the trig- 
ger handle only) through an angle of approx- 
imately 45°, and then withdraws the breech assem- 
bly from the chamber. The loader grasps the 
partially extracted round by hand and ejects it. 

с. To load. The loader inserts a round of ammu- 
nition into the chamber engaging the preengraved 
rotating band with the lands and grooves of the 
tube.- The loader replaces the breechblock in the 
chamber and rotates it (using the breech handle 
only) counterclockwise to the locked position. 

d. To fire the piece. The gunner rotates the 


10 


- 


Ў 


$ 


safety clockwise (using either the index or middle 
nger of the right hand) as far as it will go, and 
en depresses the trigger with his thumb. 

e. To clear the gun. The gunner opens the 
breech; the loader checks the chamber to see that 
the piece is unloaded. The piece is clear as long 
as the breech is open and the chamber is empty. 


8. FUNCTIONING. For purposes of instruction, 
the subject of functioning is divided into three 
main headings which are: opening the breech, 
closing the breech, and firing the piece. Since 
functioning is a cycle, it is necessary to choose 
some point in the cycle from which to start. In 
the paragraphs on functioning which follow it is 
assumed that the piece has just been fired and 
that the empty shell case is still in the chamber. 
With this situation existing, successive steps in 
operation of the piece are— 

a. Opening the breech (fig. 3). (1) Cocking. The 
cam rollers in the hammer housing hold the ham- 
_ mer so that when the breech operating handle 

assembly is rotated, the Һатте1 must also rotate. 
The hammer is free to move horizontally back 
and forth independently of the breech operating 
handle assembly. When the breech operating 
«handle assembly is properly positioned against 

he breechblock, the cam rollers in the hinge are 
lined up with the square slots in the hammer. 
When the breech operating handle assembly is 
rotated clockwise, the cocking cams on the ham- 
mer come into contact with the cam rollers in 
the hinge, and since these are immovable, the 


11 


hammer is forced to the rear against the action 
of the firing spring. When the hammer has be] 
cammed to the rear approximately one-half inch; / 
the sear notch has moved into position so that 
the sear can be cammed to the right by the cam- 
ming action of the oblique hole in the base of the 
trigger against the bent end of the sear. This 
camming action is actuated by the trigger spring 
which has a tendency to draw the base of the 
trigger up. The sear then enters the sear notch, 
and engages the hammer in the cocked position. 
When the breechblock has been rotated clockwise 
through approximately 45°, the piece has been 
cocked. 


(2) Unlocking. When the breechblock has rotated 
clockwise through approximately 45°, the inter- 
rupted screws on the breechblock become disen- 
gaged or unscrewed from their locking Surfaces 
in the chamber, and the breech is unlocked. 
Rotation is stopped when the right arm of the 
breech operating handle assembly comes in con- 
tact with the built-up portion of the hinge. 

Note.—There are two unlocking actions. One is as described 
immediately above; the other is the disengaging of the closed 
breech lock from the hinge as described in c(1) below. 

(3) Extraction. When the breechblock is in the 
closed and lock position, the hook of the extractor, 
is positioned in front of and below the rim of the 
shell case. As the breech is rotated to the open posi- 
tion, the extractor is cammed upward by the cam- 
ming action of the cam slot in the rear face of the 
breechblock against the large end of the extractor 
pin. This action so positions the extractor hook that 


12 


when the breechblock is swung to the rear, the 
ook engages the rim of the cartridge case, with- 
rawing it about two inches from the chamber 
before the hook is swung out of position by the 
downward movement. 

(4) Breech lock open. The action of locking the 
breechblock, so that it may not be rotated while 
in the open position, is performed by the extractor 
arm. When the breech is open the extractor arm 
is forced into a recess in the rear of the breech- 
block by the action of the extractor spring, thereby 
locking the breechblock to the hinge. The purpose 
of this action is to insure that when the breech- 
block is placed into the chamber the threads оп 
the breechblock will not burr against their locking 
surfaces im the chamber. 

b. Closing the breech. (1) Action of the breech 
lock open. When the breechblock is closed the hook of 
the extractor first comes into contact with the rim 
of the shell case, or with the cone if the piece is 
not loaded, and is cammed away from the center 
of the breechblock against the action of the ex- 
tractor spring. This camming action forces the 
arm of the extractor out of the recess in the rear 
of the breechblock, and thereby breaks the con- 
nection between the breechblock and the hinge, 
so that the breechblock is free to be rotated coun- 
terclockwise to the locked position. 

(2) Action of the extractor. When the breechblock 
is fitted into the chamber, the extractor hook comes 
into contact with the rim of the shell case and 
is momentarily cammed to the side of the case. 
When the breechblock is fully seated, the extrac- 


13 


tor hook snaps into position in front of the rim 
of the shell case and remains there until the” 
counterclockwise rotation of the breechblock is 
begun, at which time it is cammed downward by 
the action of the cam slot in the rear face of the 
breechblock acting against the large end of the 
extractor pin. 

(3) Locking. When the breech is rotated counter- 
clockwise the interrupted screws on the breech- 
block engage with their locking surfaces in the 
chamber. When this rotation is complete the cut- 
away portion of the breech lock cam on the ham- 
mer is in position to receive the small end of the 
closed breech lock. The small end of the closed 
breech lock is then forced into the cutaway portion 
of the closed breech lock cam by the action of the 
closed breech lock spring. When the closed breech 
lock is in this position, the shoulder of the lock 
bridges the gap between the breech operating 
handle assembly and the hinge, thereby preventing 
rotation of the breechblock. By moving the closed 
breech lock pin to the right, the breech can be 
unlocked without actuating the firing mechanism. 

c. Firing the piece. (1) Action of the firing mech- 
anism (fig. 3). The safety is a sleeve with slots in it. 
' The slots are so arranged that the rotation of the 
safety alines the longitudinal slot with the trigger 
key so that the trigger may be depressed. As the 
trigger is depressed, the oblique hole (sear recess) 
in the base of the trigger acts as a cam against 
the bent end of the sear, camming the sear away 
from the hammer. As the sear becomes disengaged 
from the sear notch in the hammer, the hammer 


14 


4 


f the firing spring. (Rotation of the safety puts 
a tension on the trigger spring which tends to 
return the safety to its original position. Depres- 
sion of the trigger also puts a tension on the 
trigger spring which tends to return the trigger 
to its original position. When the trigger is drawn 
up to the firing position the sear is cammed to 
the right. The trigger and safety do not return 
to their firing positions until the piece is recocked 
because the sear cannot be cammed to the firing 
position unless the sear notch is in position to 
receive the tapered end of the sear.) As the ham- 
mer goes forward, the closed breech lock cam on 
the hammer cams the closed breech lock to the 
right, disengaging the shoulder of the closed 
breech lock from its recess in the hinge, thus un- 
locking the block so that it is free to be rotated 
to the open position. The firing spring drives the 
hammer firing pin assembly forward so that the 
firing pin strikes the primer with sufficient force 
to detonate it, and the piece is fired. SEE 


(2) Action of the gases. When the propellant charge 
is detonated, a chemical reaction transforms the 
solid powder into a mass of hot gases which 

y ruptures or burns its way through the 


>: pin assembly moves forward under the action 


‘raft paper container within the shell case, and 
escapes through the perforations. The gases expand 
in all directions with equal force. The force exerted 
against the end of the projectile sends it through 
the tube. The force exerted in the opposite direc- 
tion sends the gases through the gas escape orifices 
in the breechblock. The escape orifices are so 


. 15 


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-. adjusted in size and shape that the forward and 
earward thrusts acting on the tube chamber as- 

М embly neutralize each other. The orifices аге also 
canted so that the gases are given a twisting 
motion to the rear. The resulting rotational thrust 
on the tube is equal and opposite to the rotational 
thrust caused by the action of the projectile against 
the rifling of the tube. 


Section III. STOPPAGES AND 
IMMEDIATE ACTION 


9. DEFINITIONS. a. A stoppage is any uninten- 
tional cessation of fire. 

b. Immediate action is the unhesitating proced- 
ure used for the prompt elimination of common 
stoppages. 


10. STOPPAGES. a. Prevention of stoppages. 
With a knowledge of functioning and care and clean- 
ing the gunner can eliminate stoppages, to a large 
extent, by taking proper care of his piece and by 
performing detailed inspections from time to time. 
Prevention is the best remedy for all stoppages. 

b. Causes of stoppages. Listed below are com- 
mon stoppages and their usual causes. Although 
not considered stoppages in the literal sense of 

Q- word, two common malfunctions, forward 
movement and recoil, have been included at the 
end of the list. (See (6) (а) and (b) below.) 

(1) Failure to fire. (a) Defective ammunition. 

(b) Broken firing pin. 

(c) Weak or broken firing spring. 

(d) Carbon on firing pin shoulders. 


17 


(e) Carbon in firing pin recess. 

(f) Breech not fully locked. A 

(g) Trigger frozen. , 

(h) Incorrect assembly of hammer. 

(2) Failure to cock. (a) Weak, broken, or discon- 
nected trigger spring. 

(b) Insufficient rotation of breechblock. 

(c) Cam rollers not replaced. 

(3) Failure of breech to open. (a) Closed breech 
lock engaged with hinge (piece not fired). 

(b) Incomplete rotation of breechblock. 

(4) Failure to extract. (a) Broken or missing ex- 
tractor spring. 

(b) Broken extractor hook. 

(c) Extractor frozen in position. 

(5) Failure of breech to close and lock. (a) Broken 
or missing extractor spring allowing premature rota- 
tion of breechblock. 

(b) Extractor frozen in position, allowing prema- 
ture rotation of breechblock. 

(c) Bent or improperly positioned extractor. (Ex- 
tractor not alined with extractor clearance cut.) 

(d) Preengraved rotating band burred causing im- 
proper positioning of round in chamber. f 

(e) Fouling in throat of tube causing TEA 
positioning of round in chamber. 


(f) Fouling of breechblock. threads or locking 
surfaces. 


(g) Misalinement of threads because of shifted 
hinge block. 


18 


hen fired — obstruction in gas escape orifices. 


4 (6) General malfunction of operation. (a) Recoil 


(b) Forward movement when fired — gas escape 
orifices too large. (To be corrected by ordnance 
maintenance personnel only.) 


11. REDUCTION OF STOPPAGES. 


a. Immediate action. 


Gun fails to fire 


No. 1 releases pressure on trigger and calls “Misfire.” 
No. 2 examines breech lock pin to determine whether 


hammer has fallen. 


If hammer fell, No. 2 
waits 30 seconds then 
recocks by rotating 
breech operating 
handle assembly. 


No. 1 fires. 


Piece still fails to fire. 


If primer dented, 
No. 2 reloads with 
у” round. 


If primer is not dented, 
No. 2 tests firing mecha- 
nism with breech open. 
Replaces defective part. 


If hammer did not fall 


No. 2, using stick or other 
object, forces closed breech 
lock pin away from hammer 
housing, opens breech, un- 
loads. Holding breechblock 
in relative firing position 
with breech open, No.2 tests 
firing mechanism, 


If trigger depresses prop- 
erly, firing spring or sear 
is broken, Replace firing 
spring or sear. 


If trigger cannot be depressed, 
trigger is improperly assembled 
or there is obstruction in 
trigger handle. Check trigger 
assembly and handle. Replace 
defective parts or reassemble. 


19 


lined in a above does not place the gun in action, 
the gunner must inspect the working parts of the 
gun to locate and reduce the stoppage. Table below 
lists less common stoppages and actions by which 
the stoppage can be reduced. 


b. Uncommon stoppages. If the procedure out- 4 


Stoppage Indication Action 


Gun fails to} Closed breech | No. 2 attempts to recock mak- 


cock. lock pin fe- ing sure breech operating 
mains in handle assembly is rotated 
unlocked clockwise as far as it will go. 

position. 
Gun still fails | Closed breech | No. 2 removes breech operat- 
to cock, lock pin re- ing handle assembly and 
mainsin checks assembly of hammer, 
unlocked checks cam rollers, sear, and 
position, trigger spring. Replaces de- 


fective part or reassembles. 


Breech fails to | Breech fails | №. 2 calls for No. 1 to remove 
open, to open. hand from trigger handle. 
No. 2 then checks closed 

breech lock pin. If hammer 

has not fallen, he proceeds 

as in paragraph 10a above. 

If hammer has fallen, No. 2 

checks to see if breech op- 

erating handle assembly has 

turned far enough to disen- 

gage breechblock screw 

from locking surfaces ii 


chamber. 
Gun fails {о | No. 2 cannot | No. 2 examines extractor hook, 
extract. grasp empty tests the extractor for free- 
shell case. dom of movement, strength 


of spring; replaces defective 
part or cleans out foreign 
matter, 


Stoppage Indication Action 


eech fails to | Breech fails to| No. 2 checks breechblock for 

close and | to close and premature rotation. Checks 
lock. lock. extractor for freedom of 

movement; checks to see if 
extractor is alined with ex- 
tractor clearance cut; cor- 
rects extractor deficiencies 
by replacement or reassem- 
bly. If extractor is correct, 
No. 2 checks to see that am- 
munition is seated properly; 
checks fouling in throat of 
tube and on threads of 
breechblock and locking sur- 
face; cleans out fouling. If 

there is no fouling, No. 2 

checks hinge block for prop- 
er position; if shifted, gun 

must be repaired by higher 
echelon. 

Malfunction: | Gun recoils No. 2 removes obstruction 
gun recoils. when fired. from gas escape orifices. 
(Note. New guns sometimes 
recoil slightly when first 
fired. When this is the case, 
recoil can be partially coun- 
terbalanced or taken up by 
reversing the tripod so that 
the trail leg is to the rear. 
Erosion of the vent bushing 
during normal firing will 
then balance the gun, after 
which the tripod should be 
returned to its original posi- 
tion. Caution must be ob- 

served to see that back blast 

does not undermine the trail 
leg when tripod is reversed). 


Malfunction: | Gun moves Vent bushing must be replaced 
gun moves| forward by ordnance maintenance 
forward| when fired. personnel. 
when fired. 


Section IV. AMMUNITION 
AND FUZES 


12. GENERAL. Ammunition for the 75-mm rifle, 
M20, is issued in the form of complete, fixed rounds 
(fig. 4). The round consists of a primer and propel- 
ling charge in a perforated case which is crimped 
rigidly to the projectile. The term “fixed” used in 
connection with ammunition signifies that the pro- 
pelling charge is not adjustable and that the round 
is loaded into the weapon as a unit. The case is 
crimped rigidly to the projectile because the round 


1. High explosive. 5. Inert. 

2. High explosive antitank, 6. Individual metal container. 
3. Smoke, WP. 7. Individual fiber container. 
4. Target practice. 8. Packing box. 


Figure 4. Ammunition for the 75-mm rifle, M20. 


22 


x 


nust be rotated in the chamber so that the pre- 
pees rotating band can be fitted into the lands 

nd grooves of the tube. Because of the preengrav- 
ing on the rotating band, a lower chamber pres- . 
sure is required to propel the round. The propellant 
is contained within the casing by a thin tube of 
Kraft paper. This paper is only 0.004" thick; there- 
fore, caution must be observed in handling the 
round to prevent rupture of this tube. Because 
of the incomplete protection against moisture af- 
forded by the paper, added precautions must be 
taken to assure that the ammunition is kept dry. 
Each round comes packed in a waterproof, hermet- 
ically sealed container and should not be un- 
packed until ready for use. Each round weighs 
about 22 pounds. Each round in its individual 
container weighs 27 pounds. Two rounds in their 
wooden crate weigh 78 to 80 pounds. 


13. TYPES (fig. 4). Depending upon the type of 
projecticle, ammunition for this rifle is classified 
as high explosive (HE), high explosive antitank 
(HEAT), white phosphorus (WP), inert (IN), 
and target practice (TP). 


14. HIGH EXPLOSIVE. a. The HE projectile is 
a comparatively thin walled projectile containing 
» high explosive bursting charge. It is used princi- 

ally for fragmentation or mining effects. It-has 
a total weight of 14.4 pounds and contains a charge 
of 1.4 pounds of TNT. It comes equipped with a 
point detonating, PD M48A2 or М51А4 fuze, 
either of which may be set for instantaneous (SQ) 
or delayed (DELAY) detonation (fig. 5). 


23 


igure 5, Fuse PD M48A2 and M5144 for HE round, 
75-тт rifle, M20, 


‘ Note. The only difference between the two fuzes is the 


ster charge. 

ttings are made by turning a setting screw 
in the side of the fuze. Setting positions marked 
“DELAY” and “SQ” (superquick) are stamped 
on the side of the fuze ogive (F). The setting 
device is an eccentrically positioned plunger (J) 
and plunger spring (K) the functioning of which 
is regulated by a setting sleeve (I). The head of 
the sleeve is slotted to facilitate turning when 
adjusting the setting. 


b. When the slot in the sleeve head is alined 
with the “SQ” line, the sleeve, which is thicker 
on one side than on the other, is turned so that 
it does not interfere with movement of the plunger. 
The plunger is free, therefore, to move outward 
under centrifugal force, and thereby open the pas- 
sage (G) from the head of the fuze to the booster 
charge. Superquick detonation occurs when the 
nose of the fuze strikes an object. The head of the 
fuze (A) is crushed and the firing pin (D), which 
is supported by a gilding metal cup (C), is driven 
into the detonator (E) setting it off. The flash 
from the detonator passes down the tube (G), 
which connects the superquick action (B) to the 
ody (H), and into the booster. 


c. When the slot in the setting sleeve is alined 
with the “DELAY” line the thick side of the 
sleeve is in position to stop any outward move- 
ment of the plunger, and even though the super- 
quick action functions normally on impact, the 
detonator flash never gets past the plunger into 
the booster. On impact the delay action (L) comes 


E 25 


pins (Q) to recede outward, thereby leaving th 
delay action mechanism free to move forward. 
Centrifugal force also causes the plunger pin lock 
(P) to place an arm against the inner end of each 
plunger pin so that the pins are prevented from 
returning to the unarmed position. On impact, 
inertia causes the delay action plunger to move 
forward driving the primer (N) against the firing 
pin (M). The primer ignites the black powder 
delay pellet (O) which in turn detonates the relay 
charge (R). No action takes place upon firing until 
sufficient rotational speed has been established to 
overcome the resistance of springs and set back 
force on the safety devices. Bore-safe superquick 
action is provided by the plunger (J). Bore-safe 
delay action is provided by the M20 booster for the 
M48A2 fuze, and by the M21A2 booster for the 
М51А4 fuze. 


into play. Centrifugal force causes the ng nd 


15. HIGH EXPLOSIVE ANTITANK. a. The 

armor penetrating ability of a normal projectile 

depends upon its weight, velocity at time of im- 

pact, and angle of impact. Since muzzle velocities 
| have been greatly reduced in this weapon, it is | 
|| necessary to employ a shaped or hollow charge 
| in order to secure armor penetration. The HEA 

projectile employs such a charge. The projectile 
weighs 13.1 pounds. The fuze for the projectile 
is the base detonating BD M62AL (fig. 6) for which 
there is no setting of delay. 


b. The firing pin (K) is held in the unarmed 
position in the percussion plunger by spring-held | 


26 


фей '21ї4 шш-с; 


safety pins (L) which release the firing pin under 
the action of centrifugal force. The percussio 
plunger assembly will not arm at 1,700 revolution’ 
or less per minute. The slider assembly (E) is 
normally positioned under spring pressure in its 
recess in the fuze body so that the slider charge 
(F) of the slider is out of alinement with the 
other explosive elements. When sufficient centrif- + 
ugal force has been set up, the slider overcomes 
the resistance of the spring and moves outward, 
bringing the slider charge (F) into alinement. 
The slider will not arm at 2,400 revolutions or 
less per minute, but must arm at 3,600 revolutions 
per minute. Upon firing, and after sufficient rota- 
tional force has been created, the firing pin and 
slider move into the armed position. However the 
percussion plunger assembly (J) is held to the rea: 
during the flight of the projectile by the restrain- 
ing spring (I). Upon impact, the plunger over- 
comes the resistance of the springs and carrie: 
the firing pin forward against the primer (H) 
initiating the action of the explosive train (G) 
through the booster lead (D). The booster pelle: 
(B) in its turn causes detonation of the shel 
bursting charge. 

16. SMOKE. The smoke, WP, projectile (vein) 
15.1 pounds) is used for screening smoke, ince: 
diary action, limited antipersonnel action, spotting 
round, or any combination of these. The filer i: 
white phosphorus. The projectile has a thin wall 
tubular casing, called the burster, which extend: 
nearly the length of the filler cavity, and whic! 


28 


e M57 for ИР" round, 75-mm rifle, M20. 


Figure 7. Fuz 


29 


contains a detonator relay chain and a burster 
charge of high explosive to rupture the shell an 

disperse the chemical contents. The fuze M5 

(fig. 7) is essentially the M48A2 fuze modified to 
a single action superquick type by omitting the 
delay element, and is of the same size, shape, and 
weight. There is no setting sleeve on the centrif- 
ugal interrupter. 


17. TARGET PRACTICE. The target practice 
projectile weighs 14.4 pounds. It is made of cast 
iron and has the same dimensions, weight, and 
center of gravity as the HE projectile. It contains 
a black powder spotting charge and is equipped 
with the M51A4 fuze (fig. 5). 


18. INERT. The inert projectile contains no ex- 
plosive charge. It is plastic loaded to bring it up 
to the weight of the HE projectile (14.4 pounds). 
It is equipped with the dummy fuze M73. 


Section V. CARE AND CLEANING 


19. GENERAL CARE. Dirt and grit, accumulated 
in traveling or from blast of the piece in firing, 
form cutting compounds. Powder fouling settles 
between. and on operating parts and attracts ША 
ture, prevents proper operation of moving parts, 
and hastens the formation of rust. Dirt, grit, and 
powder fouling should be cleaned from all parts at 
frequent intervals, depending upon use and service. 
If rust should accumulate, its removal from bear- 
ing surfaces requires special care in order that 


30 


hould be used for this purpose. The use of coarse 

abrasives is strictly forbidden. When the weapons 
ate not in use they should be properly oiled and 
covered. 


yos are not unduly increased. Crocus cloth 


20. PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE SCHED- 
ULES. a. Before firing. (1) Remove and disassem- 
ble the breechblock group and wipe all components 
thoroughly dry. 


(2) Thoroughly clean the bore and chamber of 
all dirt and oil. 


(3) Assemble the gun and wipe outer surfaces 
with a clean, dry rag. 


b. After firing. The procedures outlined below 
are to be followed immediately after firing and are 
to be repeated each day for three consecutive 
days, or until there is no longer evidence of sweat- 
ing. The materials and the cleaning and preserving 
procedures to be used for recoilless weapons’ 
bores are indicated in order of preference below. 

ГА 


(1) Rifle bore cleaner. (a) Thoroughly clean the 
bore with rifle bore cleaner each day for two days 
after firing, making sure that all surfaces are well 

)y:us Do not wipe dry. 


(b) On the third day after firing, clean the bore 
with rifle bore cleaner. If the piece is to be fired 
within the next 24 hours, do not wipe dry until 
just before firing. If the piece will not be fired 
within the next 24 hours, wipe dry and coat with 
the prescribed oil. 


31 


the tube has cooled to the point where it can be touched wit 
the bare hand. Bore cleaner is an excellent rust preventive fo 


Note. The bore should not be cleaned with bore cleaner a 
periods of from 24 to 48 hours. 


(c) Following the third day after firing, renew the 
oil film daily. Every fifth day, clean with rifle bore 
cleaner, wipe dry and oil. 


(2) Soda ash. (a) Prepare a solution of 1⁄4 pound 
soda ash to each gallon of warm water. In tem- 
peratures below 32? F., and if the tube to be 
cleaned is cold, add the type and amount of anti- 
freeze prescribed in 'TM 9-850. 


(b) Immediately after firing and on three consecu- 
tive days thereafter, thoroughly clean the bore 
with the soda ash solution. Rinse with clear warm 
water and wipe dry. Coat with the prescribed oil. 


(c) When the piece is not being fired, renew the 
oil film daily. Every fifth day clean the bore with 
dry cleaning solvent, wipe dry, and oil. 


(3) Soap. (a) Use castile or issue soap. Prepare a 
sponging solution by shaving 1 pound of soap into 
4 gallons of water. If possible, warm the water to 
facilitate dissolving the soap. In temperatures be- 
low 32° F., and if the tube to be cleaned is cold, 
add the type and amount of antifreeze prescribed 
in TM 9-850. 

(b) Follow the same cleaning, drying, and oiling 
procedure prescribed for soda ash solution. 

Caution: When issue soap is used, the bore must 
be thoroughly rinsed after cleaning as the soap 
may contain a free caustic which will cause cor- 
rosion if not completely removed. 


32 


(4) Hot water. (a) As a temporary measure after 


swabbing with quantities of hot water. This meth- 


us the bore may be cleaned while still hot by 


od will be used only when rifle bore cleaner, 
soda ash, or soap is not available. After cleaning 
with hot water extreme care must be taken to 
dry the bore thoroughly. A coating of oil will be 
applied immediately' thereafter to prevent rust. 


(b) Swabbing with hot water may not remove all 
of the primer salts or powder residue. It is most 
important, therefore, that the bore be cleaned as 
soon as possible in accordance with (1), (2), or 
(3) above. 

c. Chamber. The method and materials used for 
cleaning the bore will be used for cleaning the 
chamber. However, the bore brush is impractical 
for cleaning the chamber and an improvised burlap 
swab on a stick should be used. 

d. Breech. The breech mechanism must be dis- 
assembled, all parts cleaned and oiled, and reas- 
sembled at each cleaning. Rifle bore cleaner, pref- 
erably, or commercial dry cleaning solvent may 
be used to clean the parts. 

e. Oiling. For temperatures above 0° F., oil, 
lubricating, preservative, medium, should be used 
or oiling all parts; for temperatures below 0° F., 
il, lubricating, preservative, special, should be 
used. See War Department Lubrication Order 
9-304, Rifle, 57-mm, M18. 

f. Care in the field and during combat. The same 
procedures for care and „cleaning should be fol- 
lowed in the field and during combat as are pre- 


33 


scribed above where the materials and the time 
are available. Shortage of prescribed materials will 4 
have to be dealt with by substitute measures. Í 
Where none of the materials listed above are avail- 
able, swabbing the bore with dampened rags fol- 
lowed by thorough drying and swabbing with oily 
rags will serve as an emergency measure. It must 
be remembered that this treatment is a temporary 
measure only, and that at the first opportunity 
the weapon should be cared for as described in a 
through e above.. In the event lubricants prescribed 
in e above are not available the lubricants listed 
below may be used as emergency substitutes : 


Preservative lubricating oil (light). 


Lubricating oil for aircraft instruments and 
machine guns. 


Engine oil, SAE 10 (above 32° F.). 


g. Operation under unusual conditions. The pro- 
cedures for the mechanical operation of the rifle _ 
are the same for operation under either usual or 
unusual climatic conditions. In addition to the 
|| normal preventive maintenance service specified 

throughout this manual, special care in cleaning 
and lubrication should be observed where extremes 
| of temperatures, humidity, and atmospheric con- 
| ditions are present. Proper cleaning and anctonin 
| 


not only insure proper operation and functioning 
| but also guard against excessive wear of the work- 
ing parts and deterioration of the matériel. 


| (1) Cleaning in cold climates. (a) In temperatures 
| below freezing, it is necessary that the working 
parts of the rifle be kept absolutely free from mois- 


ture. Take special care to remove excessive oil 
n the working parts because it will congeal to 
uch an extent as to cause sluggish operation and 
functioning, or complete failure. This applies, in 
particular, to the small spring-operated parts in 
the breech mechanism and trigger group. 


(b) Protect rifles not in use with the proper covers 
to prevent frosting. 


(c) Allow rifles taken into heated buildings to 
come to the temperature of the building before 
cleaning. Immediately after they reach room tem- 
perature, disassemble to the extent outlined in 
paragraph 5. Thoroughly wipe all moisture from 
all parts as well as the bore and chamber to 
prevent rusting. Then thoroughly clean by one of 
the methods outlined above and lubricate as out- 
lined. 


(2) Cleaning in hot climates. (a) In hot climates, 
the thin film of oil necessary for operation and 
preservation will be quickly dissipated. Inspect 
rifles frequently, paying particular attention to 
unexposed surfaces such as the bore and chamber, 
springs and spring seats, firing pin, and like places 
where corrosion might occur and not be quickly 
noticed. When necessary renew a film of the 
oil prescribed above. Keep screws and pins lightly 
be: to prevent rust from attacking them and 
"freezing" them in place. 


(5b) Protect rifles not in use with the proper covers. 


(c) Perspiration from the hands is a contributing 
factor to rusting because it contains acid. After 
handling, wipe dry and restore the oil film. 


35 


(3) Cleaning under excessively sandy or dusty 
conditions. (a) In localities where dust and sand 
storms are prevalent, carefully protect the rifles 
with proper covers. Dust and sand will enter the | 
mechanism and bore and stick on lubricated sur- 
faces, forming a gummy paste which may clog the 
rifle and cause malfunction. This paste will also 
act as an abrasive and will cause undue wear of 7 
|| the moving parts of the rifle. 7 

(b) Under such conditions thoroughly clean and 
lubricate the rifles as often as necessary. 

(c) Disassemble to the extent outlined in para- 
graph 5. Clean by one of the methods outlined | 
above. Lubricate with the oil specified. Apply the 
oil to moving parts and contacting surfaces only. 
The film of oil will be as light as possible for 
proper functioning of the rifle. ` 

(4) Cleaning in excessively moist or salty atmos- 
phere. Salt air is conducive to quick rusting as the 
salt has a tendency to destroy the rust-preventive 
qualities of the oil. When operating the rifle under 
these conditions, treat it in a manher similar to 
that prescribed for operation in hot climates. 


h. Demolition to prevent enemy use. (1) The de- 
struction of the matériel, when subject to capture 
ог abandonment in the combat zone, will be under-: 
taken by the using arm only on authority dele- 
gated by the division or higher commander, as { 
command function, when such action is deemed 
necessary as a final resort to keep the matériel 
from reaching enemy hands. The barrel assembly 
and breech mechanism are the most vital parts of 
this rifle. Next in importance are the mount and 


36 


gun book. Adequate destruction of this matériel 
neans damaging it in such a way that the enemy 

y: restore it to usable condition in the combat 
zone by fepair or cannibalization. Adequate de- 
struction requires that— 


(a) Enough parts essential to the operation of the 


matériel must be damaged. 
= 


(b) Parts must be damaged beyond repair in the 


combat zone. 


V (c) The same parts must be destroyed on all ma- 


tériel, so that the enemy cannot make up one 
"operating unit by assembling parts from several 
„partly destroyed units. 


(2) To demolish the rifle proceed as follows: >” 


(a) Detach all optical sights. If evacuation is pos- 
sible, carry the sights; if evacuation is not possible, 
thoroughly smash the sights. 

(b) Depress muzzle. Open breech. Using incendiary 

. grenade M14, pull safety pin, but continue to hold 
the grenade safety handle in safe position. Aline 
grenade with open breech. Release safety handle 
and insert grenade into the chamber. Stand clear 
to the side at least 15 yards. The intense heat of 
the burning incendiary grenade will damage the 
chamber and molten iron will pour through the 
bore and render it unserviceable. 

Caution: De sure to use an incendiary grenade 
and Not a fragmentation or offensive grenade. 

(c) For information on demolition of ammunition, 
refer to TM 9-1901. For information on demolition 
Of mounts and fire control equipment refer to 


FM 23-55. 


37 


Section VI. MOUNTINGS 


21. TRIPOD M1917A1. The 75-mm rifle, M20, al 
designed to be mounted on the Browning machine 
gun tripod M1917A1 (for description see FM 
23-55). Two mounting brackets are assembled on 
the piece. The rear mounting bracket is at the 
junction of the tube and chamber. The. front 
mounting bracket is a circular removable bracket 
which is clamped and tightened on the tube by 
Wi means of screws. The position of the front mount- 
ing bracket can be adjusted to fit the mounting 
| brackets of the gun to the tripod. The gun pintle 

is attached to the rear mounting bracket, and the 
front mounting bracket fits over the elevating 
screw head. The gun is mounted on the tripod 
| with the trail leg and longer arm of the cradle to 
| the front (fig. 1). 


22. OTHER MOUNTINGS. Although the rifle is ' 
|| normally to be mounted on standard ordnance 
mounts, it may be mounted on any mount that will 
| take a pintle. Successful and efficient firing has 
been accomplished with the gun mounted on the 
|| light machine gun tripod М2 (fig. 8), and on the 
pedestal and dashboard mounts of the 14-ton truck 

| (fig. 9). When firing from the %4-ton truck, d 
must be taken that the back blast does not damage 
any part of the vehicle. The use of improvised 
| mounts can be dangerous; hence the need for suf- 
| ficient clearance and safety precautions must be 

| emphasized. 


| 38 


Figure 8. 75-mm rifle, M20, mounted on light machine gun 
tripod. 


10406861 5 


а 


Figure 9. 75-mm rifle, M20, mounted on t-ton truck, 
dashboard mount. 


39 


Section VII. FIRE CONTROL 
INSTRUMENTS { 


23. GENERAL. Since the 75-mm rifle M20 is capa 
ble of delivering both direct and indirect fire, it is 
equipped with two sights. The telescopic sight 
M85C is used for direct fire for ranges up to and 
including 2,100 yards. The telescopic sight M34 is 
used for direct fire for ranges over 2,100. yards 
and for all indirect fire. 


24. SIGHT М85С. The sight M85C (fig. 10) is a 
short tube telescope provided with a sunshade and 
rubber eyeshield. The telescope is a fixed focus, 
three-power instrument having a field of view of 
119 30'. The reticle pattern (fig. 11) consists of a 


Figure 10, Sight M85C for 75-mm rifle, M20. 


40 


7676064 
75-НЕ. AT T39 


Figure 11. Sight reticle, sight M85C. 


series of broken horizontal lines and a broken 
vertical line. The cross hair at the top of the pattern 
represents zero deflection and zero elevation. Fach 
vertical line segment and each space between 
the segments represents a change in range of 100 
ards. Each horizontal line segment and each space 
between the segments represents an angular lead 
of 5 mils. There is a dovetail slot, with a window, 
on the side of the telescope. To this may be fixed 
the night lighting device. The open sight which 
has been built on top of the telescope is used for 
quick alinement of the sight on the target. 


41 


25. SIGHT M34. The sight M34 (fig. 12) consists 
essentially of three parts. 

a. The lower part is the elevation quadrant 
T13E1 which furnishes the means for laying the 
piece in elevation. Rotating the elevation knob 
elevates or depresses the angle of sighting. The 
amount of elevation is registered in mils on a scale 
and micrometer. The elevation scale is graduated 
in 100-mil increments from minus 200 to plus 1,600, 
every even graduation being numbered. The eleva- 
tion micrometer is divided into two semicircles, 
each graduated from 0 to 100 mils, in 2-mil incre- 
ments, every fifth graduation being numbered. One 
complete rotation of the micrometer will indicate 
a change in elevation of 200 mils on the elevation 
scale. When the longitudinal bubble is centered, 
the rifle is elevated to the angle indicated on the 
scale. 

b. The telescope adapter M9 is the center part 
of the sight. It contains the mechanism and scales 
for laying the piece in direction. It has an azimuth 
scale which is graduated in 100-mil increments in 
two semicircles from 0 to 3,200 mils each. Every 
fourth graduation is numbered. The deflection 
micrometer is graduated from 0 to 100 mils in 
l-mil increments, each tenth- graduation being 
numbered. Azimuth or deflection is set on the scale 
and micrometer by turning the azimuth worm 
knob. For rapid motion in azimuth, the internal 
worm and worm gear can be disengaged by push- 
ing outward on the azimuth worm knob. The 
adapter also contains the cross level bubble. An 
open sight has been built as an integral part of 


42 


Figure 12. M34 for 75-mm rifle, M20. 


the adapter and is used for quick alinement of 
the sight on the target or aiming point. 

c. The top part of the sight is the elbow tele- 
scope M62, which is a three-power, fixed focus 
instrument having a field of view of 12? 12'. The 
reticle pattern consists of a vertical and a hori- 


43 


zontal line which cross at the reticle center. The 
telescope is attached to the adapter in such a h 
ner that, by loosening the elevation clamping 
screw, the telescope can be elevated or depressed 
independently of the elevating mechanism; and 
by loosening the telescope clamping screw, the 
telescope can be rotated about the axis of the 
horizontal arm of the scope. A dovetail bracket 
housing a window, on the side of the telescope, 
is provided for attaching the night lighting device. 


26. LENSATIC COMPASS. The lensatic compass 
is standard for fire control use with the 75-mm 
rifle, M20. The prismatic compass may be used 
but the watch compass is unsuitable for such use. 
For description and operation of the lensatic com- 
pass, see FM 23-90. 


27. BINOCULAR. For nomenclature, operation, 
and maintenance, see TM 9-575. 


28. PLOTTING BOARD N10. a. General. Com- 
plete data on description and operation of the M10 
ij plotting board can be found in FM 23-55. 

||| b. Use. The M10 plotting board is used by per- 
| sonnel of the 75-mm rifle platoon to facilitate fig- 
uring of initial fire data for the 75-mm rifle, M20, 
as follows: E 
M (1) When the ranges involved are greater than 
Il can be accommodated on the board by use of the 
half value scale, any point on the disc may be 
used as the OP. In such cases, ranges for plotting 
OT and OG are measured parallel to the index 
line with the disc set for the required azimuth. 


||! 
| 44 


ata for GT are then obtained as usual. The 

nge scale may be doubled or quadrupled, thus 

ermitting use of the plotting board for longer 
ranges without selecting a different point to be 
used as the OP. 

(2) To find fire data from a gridded map, obtain 
from the map the coordinates of the OP, the gun 
position, and the target. On the plotting board, 
with the disc set at zero, and using the grid system 
of the plotting board with any convenient grid 
intersection as a common point of origin, plot co- 
ordinates as read from the map on the disc. 
Azimuth and range are then read as above. 
Azimuths obtained will be grid azimuths, subject 
to the usual correction for conversion to magnetic 
azimuths. 

(3) When ungridded maps or aerial photos only 
are available, with north and either yard scale or 
representative fraction indicated, proceed as fol- 
lows: On map or photograph at a convenient 
position draw in north-south and east-west lines, 
their intersection to serve as point of origin for 
coordinates. Coordinates of a point are obtained 
by measuring its lateral offset from the north-south 
line, and its vertical offset from the east-west line. 
Ш a graphic yard scale is available, it is used for 

easuring. Resulting coordinates are applied. di- 
rectly to the grid system of the plotting board, 
as above, and resulting ranges read in yards there- 
on. If no graphic scale is available but the repre- 
Sentative fraction is known, measurements are 
made on the map or photo in inches and applied 
to plotting board grid system accordingly. Result- 


45 


ing azimuths will be correct, but resulting range. 
wil be in the scale of the plotting d 
(v to 1000 yards or xoi) and must be converte; 


to scale of the map or aerial photo by applying the 
ratio between the denominator of indicated repre. 
sentative fraction and that of the plotting board, 
Thus, if range on the plotting board is 1500 yard; 
(1.5”), and representative fraction of the phot 


24000 
3 20002 1500, o: 


ur actual range is 
24000’ 
1000 yards. 
29. GUNNER’S QUADRANT М1 (fig. 13). 

a. General. The gunner’s quadrant M1 is used i: 
laying for elevation and for leveling the gun during 
tests and adjustments. 


or map is 


Figure 13. Gunner's quadrant M1, 


aped frame to which is pivoted an arm carrying 

level. Notches on the frame engaging with a 
plunger in the arm permit rapid setting of the 
arm to elevations from 0 to 800 mils. Separate 
scale and micrometer indications on opposite sides 
of the quadrant are used to obtain elevation 
readings. 

c. Operation. (1) To lay the piece at a given 
elevation, set the scale and micrometer at the 
required angle and place the corresponding refer- 
ence surface on the quadrant seat of the gun. 
Elevate the gun slightly above the center position 
of the leveling bubble, then depress it until the 
bubble is centered. 

(2) To measure the elevation of the gun, place 
the proper reference surfaces of the quadrant on 
the leveling plates, parallel to the bore, with the 
associated arrow pointing in the direction of fire. 
(Black arrow and black figures are for readings 
from zero to 800 mils; red arrows and red figures 
are for readings from 800 to 1,600 mils.) Set the, 
micrometer at zero. Disengage the plunger from 
the notches in the frame, lift the arm, and lower 
it slowly until the bubble is seen to pass through 
he central point of the level. Allow the plunger 
o engage with the notches and turn the microm- 
eter until the bubble is accurately centered. Face 
the side of the quadrant which bears the arrow in 
use, and read the scale and micrometer indica- 
tions. A note engraved below the micrometer in- 
dicates whether the red or black micrometer figures 
‘ire to be read. The scale is divided into 10-mil 


Y Description. This quadrant includes a sector 
a 


47 


graduations. The micrometer is divided into 1-mi| 
graduations up to 10. The elevation of the gu 
in mils is equal to the sum of the scale and microm! 
eter readings. Remove the quadrant from the gun 
before firing. 

(3) To measure depression angles, proceed a: 
above, but with the line of fire arrow pointed in 
the reverse direction. 

d. Test and adjustment. No adjustment of the 
quadrant by the using arm is permitted. The zer 
position may be verified (end-for-end) by setting 
the scale and micrometer at zero elevation, elevat. 
ing or depressing the gun to center the bubble 
then turning the quadrant end-for-end. If the bub. 
ble does not remain centered, rotate the microm. 
eter until it is centered. Note the reading on the 
micrometer. Apply one half of the reading to the 
micrometer and re-level the tube. This reading 
may be used as zero 


30. AIMING CIRCLE M.. i-or compete aescrip: 
tion of this instrument see FM 23-90. 


31. CARE AND PRESERVATION. a. General 
(1) Fire control and sighting instruments will no 
stand rough handling or abuse; inaccuracy or mal 
functioning results from such mistreatment. 

(2) Instruments are kept as dry as possible 
they are not put in their carrying cases when wet 

(3) When not in use, instruments are kept i: 
carrying cases provided or in the condition indi 
cated for traveling. 

(4) Any instruments which give incorrect read 


48 


ings and/or fail to function properly after the 

uthorized tests and adjustments have been made 
): turned іп for repair by ordnance personnel. 
Only those adjustments expressly authorized are 
performed by using personnel. The turning of 
screws or other parts not essential to the use of 
the instrument is expressly forbidden. 

(5) No painting of fire control equipment by 
using personnel is permitted. 

(6) Many worm drives have “throwout” mech- 
anisms to permit rapid motion through large 
angles. When using these mechanisms, the throw- 
out lever must be fully depressed to prevent injury 
to the worm and gear teeth, 

(7) When using a tripod with adjustable legs, 
the legs must be clamped tightly to prevent the 
possibility of collapse. — 

(8) When setting up tripods on sloping terrain, 
two legs are placed on the downhill side to provide 
maximum stability. 

(9) Exposed moving parts should be oiled occa- 
sionally with a small quantity of neutral oil. In- 
terior parts are oiled by ordnance personnel. Any 

excess lubricant that seeps from the mechanisms 
is wiped off to prevent accumulation of dust and 
arit. 

(10) Optical instruments must not be pointed 
directly at the sun. 

. (11) Compass needles and dials must always be 
clamped in position when not in use. 

(12) Forced rotation of any of the knobs beyond 

their limits must be avoided. 


49 


(13) The clamps on the aiming circle legs must 
be turned outward to prevent damage to the verti- 
cal support of the aiming circle when legs ar 


folded. 


b. Optical parts. (1) To obtain satisfactory 
vision, the exposed surfaces of the lenses and other 
parts should be kept clean and dry. Corrosion and 
etching on glass surfaces, which greatly interfere 
with the good optical qualities of the instrument, 
can be prevented or minimized by keeping the 
glass clean and dry. 

(2) Under no condition will polishing liquids, 
pastes, or abrasives be used for polishing lenses 
and windows. 

(3) To remove dust, the glass is brushed lightly 
with a clean camel’s-hair brush; the brush is then 
rapped against a hard surface to knock out the 
small particles of dust that cling to the hairs. This 
operation is repeated until all dust is removed. 
With some instruments an additional brush with 
coarse bristles is provided for cleaning mechanical 
parts. Each brush is used only for the purpose 
intended. 

(4) Particular care will be exercised to keep 
optical parts free from oil and grease. Lenses or 
windows are not wiped with the fingers. To re- 
move oil or grease from optical surfaces, ethyl 
alcohol is applied with a clean camel’s-hair brush 
afterward the surfaces are rubbed gently with clean 
lens paper. If alcohol is not available, breathe heav- 
ily on the glass and wipe with a clean lens paper. 
This operation is repeated several times until the 
lens is clean. 


50 


(5) When the temperature of the parts is lower 

an that of the surrounding air, moisture may 
i on the optical parts of the instrument. This 
‘moisture, if not excessive, can be removed by 
placing the instrument in a warm place. Heat 
from strongly concentrated sources should not be 
applied directly, as it may cause unequal expansion 
of parts, thereby resulting in breakage or dis- 
tortion of optical parts, and causing inaccuracies , 
in observation. 


à 


Section VIII. EQUIPMENT, SPARE 
PARTS, AND ACCESSORIES 


32. EQUIPMENT, SUBCALIBER. a. General. 
Subcaliber equipment component parts are— 

(1) Subcaliber device, 75-mm, complete. 

(2) Firing pin, subcaliber, 75-mm. 

(3) Firing pin bushing, 75-mm. 

b. Description. The subcailber deviee (figs. 14 
and 15) consists of a 75-mm drill cartridge T8 
or 75-mm inert cartridge T38 with fuse, primer, 
and igniter removed. In the base of the cartridge 
case is mounted the barrel bushing. Tht projectile 
is drilled through the center of the base to receive 
Ep carbine barrel and barrel extension tube (essen- 

ally a pipe threaded at both ends). Over the 
forward portion of the barrel extension tube is fit- 
ted the head space adjustment nose, which is held 
in place by the barrel locking nut. The subcaliber 
firing pin is the same as a normal firing pin except 


that the striker has been turned down from 346” 


51 


| Figure 14. Subcaliber device assembled. 


Figure 15. Subcaliber device disassembled. 


to 4,4”. The firing pin bushing fits in the firing pin 
| aperture and over the firing pin. 


| с. Installation. Remove firing pin from hammer 
| and replace with subcaliber firing pin (fig. 16). 
JM Remove extractor. Assemble the rifle. Open the 
al breech and insert firing pin bushing in firing pin 
| aperture. Insert the subcaliber device into the 

breech, match the preengraved rotating band, and 
If fully seat. The device is positioned in the tube by 
| the preengraved rotating band and neck of the 
cartridge casing. To remove the subcaliber device, 
TM unload in the same manner as service ammunition. 


| d. Operation. Loading, firing and extraction; 
MI Carbine cartridges are loaded by hand into thd 
breech of the subcaliber device. Care must be 
taken in closing the breech since the extractor 
| has been removed. This allows rotation of the 
Il breechblock on the hinge while in the open posi- 
| tion. Undue roughness and carelessness will result 
| 


52 


Figure 16. Hammer, subcaliber firing pin, and bushing. 


in burring and jamming of locking surfaces. After 
the breech is closed the trigger is actuated; this 
causes the firing pin to move forward, guided by 
the firing pin bushing, and strike the primer of 
the carbine cartridge. As the propellant gases leave 
the muzzle of the carbine barrel they tend to 
“burble” ahead of the projectile causing inaccuracy. 
The gas escape slots allow these propellant gases 
to escape sidewise, thereby allowing the projectile 
to travel accurately. 

e. Extraction. Extraction of the carbine cartridge 
hould be accomplished by use of a screw driver. 
his method requires approximately the same 
amount of time for extraction as that necessary 
for a service round thereby simulating service 
firing. 

f. Targeting. The rifle will be targeted prior to 
range firing. This is accomplished as follows: 


53 


(1) Fire five rounds at 1000 inches to obtain : 


group. 

(2) Without disturbing the lay of the A 
adjust the sight so that the desired sight picture 
is obtained on the center of the group. 

(3) Check the sight setting by firing five more 
rounds. 

(4) After targeting has been completed, do not 
remove the device from the chamber until com- 
pletion of firing, unless necessary for headspace 
adjustment. 


g. Head space adjustment. Head space must be 
properly adjusted prior to and during all firing. 
To adjust: 

(1) Loosen barrel locking nut. 


(2) Turn the head space adjustment nose, screw- 
ing the barrel in the barrel bushing until the pro- 
jection on the breech is flush with the base of the 
75-mm cartridge casing. 


(3) During firing, head space will change due to 
induced torque; therefore it must be checked 
continuously. 


(4) Caution must be observed to keep the breech 


operating handle assembly screws tight, or loose 
head space will occur. 


(5) Ruptured cartridges should be removed only 
by a carbine ruptured cartridge extractor. If the 
breech is difficult to close, tight head space may 
exist and cause rupturing of cartridges. 


h. Care and cleaning. The device should be 
cleaned after each firing and three days thereafter. 


54 


3 unit should be disassembled for cleaning. For 
s of care and cleaning see paragraphs 19 


ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT. For informa- 
1 on other equipment, spare parts, and artillery 
book, see TM 9-314 and ORD 7, ORD 8, 
id ORD 9, respectively, SNL C74. 


55 


CHAPTER 3 


TRAINING FOR PLACING GUN 


Section I. CREW DRILL 


34. GENERAL. a. The object of crew drill is t 
give the section complete confidence in its abilit 
as a team to put its gun into action with precisio: 
and speed. 


b. The attainment of precision is the first ste; 
in developing an expert section. This is achieve 
only by strict adherence to prescribed trainin; 
procedure. After the desired degree of proficienc; 
in precision has been attained, the next phases— 
teamwork and speed—are undertaken. 


c. Teamwork is assured by rotation of dutie 
during drill so that each section member, by prac 
tice, becomes expertly acquainted with the dutie 
of every other member, particularly with the mor: 
detailed actions of Nos. 1, 2, and 4. Continuity o 
action is made certain by this phase of training. 


d. Practice for speed is instituted as the las 
phase of instruction in crew drill. Care must b 
taken during this phase to insure that precisio: 
and teamwork are not sacrificed for speed. 


56 


ORGANIZATION AND EQUIPMENT FOR 
EW DRILL (fig. 17). a. Normally, the section 
ill use only one of its two organic weapons for 

crew drill. The section leader is armed with an 
M1 rifle and carries binoculars, compass, gunner’s 
quadrant, firing tables, and the sights. 


b. No. 1 is the gunner. He is armed with a pistol 
and carries the tripod and cradle. 


c. No. 2 is the loader. He is armed with a pistol 
and assists in carrying the tube. He wears a light 
pack and carries one thermite grenade. 


d. No. 3 is a gunner’s assistant. He is armed 
with a pistol and assists in carrying the tube. He 
wears a light pack and carries one thermite 
grenade. 


e. No. 4 is a gunner’s assistant. He is armed 
with a pistol and assists in carrying the tube. He 
wears a light pack and carries one thermite 
grenade. 


f. No. 5 is an ammunition bearer. He is armed 
with a carbine and assists in carrying the tube up 
to the gun position whence he reverts to carrying 
ammunition. He wears a light pack and carries 
one thermite grenade. 


. g. Nos. б, 7, and 8 are ammunition bearers. 
bv are armed with the carbine and carry pack 
oards with two rounds of ammunition. No. 8, 
in addition, carries the rammer staff and waste 
for swabbing out the bore. They each carry two 
fragmentation grenades. 


h. No. 9 is the vehicle driver (34-ton truck with 
l-ton trailer). He is armed with an M1 rifle. 


57 


Figure 17. 75-mm rifle section with equipment. 


36. DUTIES OF SECTION MEMBERS. a. Sec 
tion leader (observer). The section leader is i: 
direct command of the gun and its equipment in 
cluding the vehicle. He conducts the section i: 
accordance with the orders and instructions o 
his platoon leader or of the commander of th 
unit to which he is attached according to th 
dictates of the terrain and the situation. He is re 
sponsible for the care and maintenance of th 
gun and its equipment. In combat he is responsibl. 
for the accomplishment of the section mission 
He controls and conducts the fire of the gun an 
is responsible for its proper concealment. He keep: 
the platoon leader informed of the status of ammu 
nition supply and maintains ammunition suppl 
by timely orders to the ammunition bearers. 

b. No. 1 (gunner.) No. 1 lays and fires the g: 
and acts as section leader in the latter's absence 
He is careful to coordinate his actions with No. 2 

c. No. 2 (loader). No. 2 is responsible for com 
plying with the fire commands insofar as the load 
ing of the gun with the proper type of ammunitio! 
is concerned. He coordinates his movements an 


58 


ns of the section are manned, he is the gunner 

the second gun. 

d. No. 3 (gunner’s assistant). No. 3 takes up a 
position to the left of the gun for close-in defense. 
When the situation requires, he may carry ammu- 
nition from the vehicle to the gun. If both guns 
are manned, he is the loader of the first gun. 

e. No. 4 (gunner’s assistant). No. 4 directs the 
ammunition bearers in the placement of their am- 
munition. It is his duty to select the proper type 
of ammunition, prepare it for firing and hand it 
to No. 2. If both guns are manned, he is the loader 
of the second gun. 

f. Nos. 5, 6, 7, and 8 (ammunition bearers). At 
the direction of the section leader, Nos. 5, 6, 7, and 
8 carry ammunition from the vehicle or section 
dump to the gun. Otherwise, they take up posi- 
tions in defense of the gun — No. 5 to the left, 
and Nos. 6, 7, and 8 to the right. 

g. No. 9 (vehicle driver). No. 9 is responsible 
for driver maintenance of his vehicle and for its 
concealment and camouflage when halted. 


j: at the gun with No. 1. In the event both 


37. SUPPLEMENTARY GUN AND AMMUNI- 
ION CARRIES. a. Using light machine gun 
ipod. Although the light machine gun tripod is 
ot normally part of the section equipment, it still 

тау be used as a mount from which to fire the 
gun. When it is so used it may be left attached 
to the gun for carrying, or No. 1 may be required 
to carry it. In either case, No. 1 can carry two 
rounds of ammunition. 


59 


b. Two-man carry. Two men can carry the tul, 
for short distances. The carry is facilitated by 
taching two long wooden rods parallel to the tub; 
in such a manner that the rods can be supporte: 
on the shoulders of the carriers. Nos. 2 and ; 
initially carry the tube, and Nos. 4 and 5 forn 
the relief team. In this method, two addition; 
men are free to carry ammunition. 

с. Three-man carry. By attaching a cross ba; 
and/or by the use of slings, the gun may be car 
ried for short distances employing three men. Nos 
2, 3, and 4 carry the tube, and No. 5 is a relie 
member. The cross bar is affixed to the breech — 
end, and the carriers carry either by hand or by 
slings strapped over their shoulders. The Мг! 
man carries the muzzle end in a sling which ma: 
be held in the hand or strapped over the shoulder 
This method allows one more man to carr) 
ammunition. 

d. Emergency carry. With either the light or 
heavy machine gun tripods in use, Nos. 2, 3, 4, 
and 5 may carry two rounds of ammunition fo: 
short distances. 


38. TO FORM THE SECTION. At the command | 
FORM FOR CREW DRILL, the members oí 
the section fall in at attention in a column of two 
behind the section leader (fig. 18). To clarify thei 
positions for crew drill the sergeant command: ` 
CALL OFF. Upon that command the section call: 
off from left to right and from front to rear; for 
example, the first man in the left file is No. 1, the 
first man іп the right file is No. 2, the second | 
man in the left file is No. 3, etc. | 


60 


Figure 18. 75-mm rifle section at FORM FOR 
CREW DRILL, 


61 


39. TO POST THE SECTION. At the соттап 
POSTS, all section members move forward a 
double time to positions directly behind thei 
equipment which is laid out in order (fig. 19) on 
the drill ground. 


Figure 19. 75-mm rifle section at POSTS, 


40. ТО EXAMINE EQUIPMENT BEFORE 
DRILL. a. At the command EXAMINE UM 
MENT BEFORE DRILL, given while the men 
are still at posts, individuals examine equipment in 
the following manner: 

(1) Section leader. (a) Determines that he has the 
proper firing tables. 


62 


(b) Checks binoculars for broken parts and clean 
enses. 

(c) Checks gunner’s quadrant for broken spirit 
level, lever arm and spring. Closes cover. 

(d) Checks compass to see that it is not broken 
and that the needle is still on pivot. 

(e) Checks sights. 

(2) No. 1. (a) Checks traversing and elevating 
handwheels and centers them. 

(b) Checks clamping and jamming handles. 

(c) Checks dial clamp and zeroes the dial. 

(3) No. 2. (a) Checks chamber and breech to de- 
fermine that the chamber is clear and that the breech 
mechanism is in firing condition. 

(b) Checks for Allen wrenches in breech handle. 

(4) Nos. 6, 7, and 8. (a) Check to see that all 
ammunition is properly secured. 

(b) Check to see that all straps are properly ad- 
justed for carrying. 

(c) Determine what type of ammunition is on hand 
and where it is carried. 

(d) No. 8 checks cleaning materials and rammer 
staff, 

(5) No. 2. Moves to the No. б, 7, and & positions, 
checks type of ammunition being carried and its loca- 
tion on the various ammunition bearers. 

b. When all equipment has been thoroughly and 
properly checked, the following commands are 
given from rear to front: 

(1) No. 8 reports CORRECT. 

(2) No. 7 reports CORRECT. 


63 


(3) No. 6 reports AMMUNITION CORRECT. 

(4) No. 2 reports CORRECT. 

(5) No. 1 reports GUN AND AMMUNITION 
CORRECT. 

(6) The section leader reports ALL CORRECT, 


41. TO SECURE EQUIPMENT. The section 
leader gives the command SECURE EQUIP- 
MENT and faces in the direction of march. No. 1 
picks up the tripod and cradle and places himself 
behind the section leader. No. 2 takes his position 
at the right tube handle. No. 3 takes his position 
at the left tube handle. No. 4 takes his position 
at the breech handle. No. 5 takes his position zt 
the trigger handle. Nos. 2, 3, 4, and 5 lift the 
tube. Nos. 6, 7, and 8 sling ammunition and take 
their positions in column behind the gun. The 
section leader then signals and commands FOL- 
LOW ME. 


42. TO PLACE THE GUN IN ACTION. The 
section leader designates, by pointing, the direction 
of fire and the position upon which the gun is to 
be mounted, and commands ACTION. He then 
moves to the left front of the position designated 
for mounting the gun, where he can observe the 
target and control the firing of the gun. Moving 


. to the left, No. 1 receives the sight from the sec- 


tion leader. As No. 1 moves to the left, Nos. 2, 
3, 4, and 5 place the tube on the tripod; No. 5 
lowers the pintle latch lever, depresses the trigger, 
and opens the breech; No. 2 removes the elevating 
pin from its carrying recess, and when the gun has 


64 


peen correctly positioned, he places it through the 
ront mounting bracket; No. 3 stamps the left leg 
A into the ground; No. 2 stamps in the right 
leg; Nos. 3 and 5 move to the left front of the 
gun and take up security stations in defense of 
the gun. In the meantime No. 1 has placed the 
sight on the gun, locked it in place, and taken up 
his firing position on the left of the gun. No. 2 
takes up his position at the gun where he can 
best service the piece. Sitting, kneeling on one or 
two knees, or squatting, are all satisfactory posi- 
tions. In the kneeling position, the knee nearest 
the breech should be on the ground. No. 2 checks 
the Боге for any obstructions, and reports CLEAR 
to indicate to the gunner that the bore is clear. 
Nos. 6, 7, and 8 bring up their pack loads of 
ammunition and place them in a semicircle as 
directed by No. 4. No. 8 places the rammer staff 
and waste near No. 4 where he can easily reach it. 
They then take up .security stations to the right 
of the gun, No. 8 to the right front, No. 7 to the 
right oblique, and No. 6 to the right flank. No. 9 
is the vehicle driver and will not normally leave 
his vehicle. The gun is now ready to fire. Upon 
receiving the fire command, all elements of which 
are repeated by No. 1, No. 4 draws the type of 
P ammunition designated from its container and 
passes it to No. 2. No. 2 inserts it in the chamber, 
mates the preengraved rotating band with the 
lands and grooves in the tube, and seats the round 
firmly. He then closes the breech and taps the 
gunner’s hand to indicate that the gun is ready 
to fire. No. 1 lays the gun on the designated target, 


65 


takes the correct sight picture, places his hand 
above the chamber, and waits for the tap from 
No. 2 indicating that the gun is ready. On receipt 
of the tap he rotates the safety and depresses the 
trigger. After the round has been fired, No. 1 opens 
the breech. No. 2 grabs the base of the expended 
round with his left hand and throws it to the 
rear, away from the gun position. 


43. TO TAKE THE GUN OUT OF ACTION. 
The section leader commands OUT OF ACTION. 
At this command No. 2 clears the gun, closes the 
breech, removes the elevating pin and replaces it 
in the carrying recess. No. 1 removes the sight and 
hands it to the section leader. Nos. 2, 3, 4, and 5 
take their places beside the gun. No. 5 lifts the 
pintle latch lever. Nos. 2, 3, 4, and 5 pick up the 
tube and move to the rear. No. 1 swings the tripod 
to his shoulders. Nos. 6, 7, and 8 pick up their 
pack boards and fall in behind the tube. No. 8 
also picks up the rammer staff and waste. The 
section is again ready to move out under the direc- 
tion of the section leader. 


44. TO CHANGE NUMBERS AND DUTIES 
DURING CREW DRILL. The section leader com- 
mands FALL OUT ONE, TWO, etc. At this 
command, No. 2 moves to the position of No. 1 and 
calls out ONE. Each succeeding number will move 
up one number and call out his new number. No. 
1 moves to the position of No. 8. This rotation of 
duties should be continued until each member 
of the section is proficient in the duties of all eight 


66 


: 


at the command is not given during the time 
hat the tube is being carried, since it is difficult 
to change over at that time. 


= of the section. Caution must be observed 


Section II. BATTERY DRILL 


45. GENERAL. a. The object of battery drill is to 
train the platoon to emplace guns in battery and 
to apply indirect laying data promptly and ac- 
curately. 

b. The battery may consist of two or more guns. 
The usual unit which executes battery fire is the 
platoon. 

с. The meanings of terms are given in para- 


graph 120. 


46. CONDUCT OF BATTERY DRILL. a. Gun 
positions are indicated to the section leaders and 
the guns emplaced pointing in the anticipated gen- 
eral direction of fire. 
b. All guns are laid parallel by any of the means 
outlined in chapter 5. 
с. After guns are properly laid for direction and 
m deflections determined, a series of simulated 
lissions are fired. 
d. The following fire commands indicate how 
Such an exercise may be conducted. 
(1) BATTERY ADJUST 
SMOKE 
BASE DEFLECTION 


67 


NUMBER THREE ONE ROUND 
ONE TWO SIX 
FIRE | 
(2) RIGHT ONE ZERO 
ONE THREE EIGHT 
FIRE 
(3) HE 
ONE THREE TWO 
FIRE 
(4 BATTERY RIGHT 
ONE TWO NINE 
FIRE 
(5 NUMBER ONE: RIGHT SIX, ADD 
FOUR 
NUMBER TWO: RIGHT THREE 
NUMBER FOUR: DROP TWO 
ON NUMBER THREE CLOSE SIX 
BATTERY 
ONE ROUND 
ONE TWO EIGHT 
FIRE 
(6) CEASE FIRING, END OF MISSION 
ON NUMBER THREE OPEN SIX 
RECORD NEW BASE DEFLECTION 
e. Upon completion of this exercise, additiona 
simulated firing should be conducted. 
f. Initial drill of this type should emphasize pre- 
cision. Speed will be attained through practice. 


68 


CHAPTER 4 
MARKSMANSHIP 


1 — А 


Section І. GENERAL 


47. PURPOSE. The purpose of this chapter is to 
provide thorough and uniform methods of train- 
ing individuals to deliver prompt and accurate di- 
rect fire during combat on stationary ór moving 
targets. Courses of instruction and rules and reg- 
ulations for the conduct of marksmanship training 
are included. 


48. FUNDAMENTALS. To be capable of deliver- 
ing prompt and accurate fire on stationary or mov- 
ing targets, the soldier must be thoroughly trained 
in the following fundamentals: 
a. Correct sighting and aiming. 
b. Correct positions. 
€. Correct trigger manipulation. 
1 d. Knowledge of range estimation. 
е. Knowledge of speed estimation. 
f. Knowledge of lead estimation. 
g. Tracking exercises. 


49. PRIOR TRAINING. The soldier should be 
proficient in mechanical training and should be 


69 


thoroughly familiar with the operation and use o 
the rifle accessories. | 


Section II. PREPARATORY 
EXERCISES 


50. GENERAL. a. The purpose of preparatory 
exercises is to teach the soldier the essentials of 
marksmanship, and to develop fixed and correct 
habits of marksmanship before he begins range 
practice. A thorough, carefully supervised course 
in preparatory exercises will conserve time and 
ammunition during range practice and will incul- 
cate in the individual automatic procedures to elim- 
inate accidents. 

b. Preparatory exercises are divided into eight 
steps. These steps should be taught in the sequence 
listed below: 

(1) Sighting and aiming exercises. 

(2) Position exercises. 

(3) Trigger manipulation exercises. 

(4) Range estimation exercises. 

(5) Speed estimation exercises. 

(6) Lead estimation exercises. 

(7) Tracking exercises. 

(8) Examination. 


51. SIGHTING AND AIMING EXERCISES. a. 
Sighting and Aiming with sight M85C. (Direct fire 
up to 2,100 yards.) For description of sight M85C, 
see paragraph 24. 

(1) Aiming for range. Exercises should be con- 


70 


ercise should not involve tracking. The gunner 
"s required to set the correct sight picture for every 
100 yards of range (fig. 20). 


(2) Aiming with leads. The distance by which a 
target is led is measured from the point of aim, 
and is equal to the distance the target will travel 
between the time the projectile leaves the rifle and 
the time its trajectory crosses the path of the 
target. This distance is known as lead and varies 
with the speed and path of the target. Five mils 
is taken as the unit and is equal to one lead. Three 


Fk on stationary 1000" “A” rifle targets. The 


7676064 
75-МЕ. AT. T39 


+ 


| 

l 
-8---)---6 
pre ry 
b EAR CEN 
ip S IUS 


Figure 20. Correct range sight picture, tank 200 yards. 


71 


leads (15 mils) are used for each 10 mph that t 
target is moving when the path of the target 

at an angle of 45° or greater to the line of fir 
When the path of the target is at an angle le; 
than 45? to the line of fire, half this number , 
leads should be used. Exercises are conduct. 
which require the gunner to set appropriate le; 
markings on a caliber .22 — .30 “А” subcalib. 
target (1000"). The target remains stationary : 
a range of 200 yards, but is assumed to be movin 
right or left at various angles and speeds (fig. 21) 


76064 
75- "t. AT. T39 


Figure 21. Correct lead sight picture, tank right to left, 
3 leads 200 yards. 


72 


(3) Aiming for range and leads. Range and lead 
e combined automatically within the telescope 
a series of horizontal lines extending to the 
fant and left from center at 200-yard intervals. : 
For targets requiring leads at ranges other than 
those etched on the reticle, interpolation is neces- 
sary: Select the appropriate range and lead points 
on the telescope reticle and project them to an 
imaginary point of intersection. This aiming point 
is laid on the center of the target. Each gunner 
is required to lay the rifle on the target (cal. .22 — 
30 “A” subcaliber 1000") at various ranges and 
leads. The target remains stationary with an 


767606 
75-Mt. AT. T39 


Figure 22. Correct lead to sight picture, tank left to rignt, 
3 leads, 500 yards. 


73 


assumed direction and speed being specified in ea, 
case. Ranges and leads requiring interpolati, 
should be included. At least one period of traini 
will be devoted to use of the lighted reticle | 
accustom all men to sighting and aiming with t} 
telescope during the hours of limited visibili 
(fig. 22). 

b. Sighting and aiming with the M34 sight. Т} 
M34 sight is used for direct fire for ranges ov. 
2,100 yards. 

(1) Aiming for range. (a) In using the indire 
fire sight for direct fire, the sight must be fir. 
adjusted for vertical parallelism. This is discusse 
under boresighting, paragraph 59. When this oper: 
tion has been performed, the M34 sight may b 
used for direct fire. Estimate the range to th 
target; set this range on the scale of the elevatio: 
quadrant in mils (use firing table); and raise th 
tube until the cross hair on the telescope is lai 
on the center of the target (fig. 23). 


Figure 23. M34, sight reticle and tank. 
74 


(b) Exercises should be conducted at any range 

using а stationary 1000” “A” rifle target with 
) assumed range over 2,100 yards. 

(c) It is not to be construed that the M34 sight 
cannot be used for ranges under 2,100 yards. A 
direct fire sight (M85C) is furnished for this pur- 
pose and can be used more rapidly since leads 
and ranges are combined automatically on the tele- 
scope reticle. However, the M34 sight may be used 
if desired. 

(2) Aiming with leads using M34 sight for direct 
fire. (a) Leads may be set off on the sight using the 
same rule as for direct fire given above. These 
leads may be applied to the M34 sight by setting 
the desired number of leads in mils on the scale 
of the deflection quadrant. 

(b) Exercises should be included in marksmanship 
training which require the gunner to set various 
Jeads on a stationary target with range, speed, and 
direction of movement assumed. 

(3) Aiming for range and leads. A combination of 
exercises as given in (1)(b) and (2)(b) above 
should be conducted until the gunner has reached 
the desired efficiency in sighting at stationary 
targets with assumed ranges, speeds, and direc- 
tions. A 1000” “A” rifle target may be used -at 
any range. 

c. Sighting and aiming with M34 sight for in- 
direct fire. For description of the sight, see para- 
graph 25. 

(1) Aiming for range. When firing indirect fire, 
the range element of the fire command is given 


75 


in mils. This conversion is readily available in a 
firing table. For example: the elevation in mil; 
required for 3,000 yards is 177.3 mils. To aim anf 
rifle for this range, set 100 mils on the elevation 
scale. This is accomplished when the first gradua- 
tion above “0” is opposite the index of the eleva- 
tion scale. By turning the elevation micrometer 
until 76 mils is opposite the index of the microm. 
eter scale, we have set an elevation of 176 mils 
on the elevation scale and micrometer. Since the 
micrometer is graduated in 2-mil increments, we 
must interpolate the half-way mark between 76 
and 78 mils on the elevation micrometer scale 
to obtain a reading of 77 mils. The .3 mil is 
dropped since it is less than one-half mil. To com- 
plete the operation and produce the desired eleva- 
tion of the tube, manipulate the elevation hand- 
wheel and cradle and raise the tube until the 
bubble in the longitudinal level is centered. 

(2) Aiming for direction. When aiming for direc- 
tion using the indirect fire sight, the initial direc- 
tion is given as a base deflection for each gun 
when the battery is put in position to fire. There- 
after, changes in direction are given as references 
left or right so many mils from base deflection. 
When the change is left, add the change in mils 
to the base deflection; when the change is right, 
subtract the change in mils from the base deflec- 
tion. The keyword “LARS” (left, add: right, sub- 
tract) will assist in remembering whether to add 
or subtract changes in deflection. For example: 
the command is BASE DEFLECTION, RIGHT 
40. The gunner subtracts 40 mils from his base 


76 


deflection and sets this reading on the azimuth 
cale and azimuth micrometer. He then moves 

e tube until the vertical cross hair of the tele- 
scope reticle is on the left edge of the aiming 
stake. It is not necessary to check the cross level 
bubble. However, when placing the gun in posi- 
tion, every effort should be made to level the dial 
and center the cross level bubble. Thereafter, un- 
1655 the tube cants to an extreme angle, the cross 
level bubble is not checked. 


52. POSITIONS. Instruction in positions includes 
positions for the gunner and assistant gunner when 
firing at stationary or moving targets. For posi- 
tions during firing, see paragraph 42. 


53. TRIGGER MANIPULATION. The gunner 
grasps the trigger handle with his right hand, 
thumb on the trigger, forefinger or middle finger 
rotating the trigger safety; and with a smooth 
steady rearward pressure on the trigger, fires the 
piece. Care must be taken not to throw the rifle ' 
off the target or aiming point while rotating the 
trigger safety or depressing the trigger. The cor- 
rect sight picture must be held while firing. 


| RANGE ESTIMATION. Accurate range esti- 

ation is essential to obtaining hits with a min- 
imum expenditure of time and ammunition. Esti- 
mation of the range to targets, stationary and 
moving, should be stressed until the desired pro- 
ficiency is attained. For methods of training in 
range estimation see paragraph 79. 


77 


55. SPEED ESTIMATION. a. Speed estimatio, 
is an essential phase of preliminary marksmansh; 
training. The firer must base the number of leac 
upon his estimation of the speed of the targe 
Constant practice in estimating the speeds of moy 
ing targets is the only method by which the i; 
dividual can acquire accuracy in speed estimatio; 
Training must include the use of many target 
at various ranges, speeds, and directions of move 
ment. 


b. Exercises in speed estimation should be cor 
ducted in the form of an examination with target 
moving according to a prearranged plan. Initiall 
the section is shown by demonstration the appea: 
ance of different targets moving at announce 
speeds and ranges. Each man is then require 
to estimate the speed of targets moving at variou 
ranges in various directions. 


56. LEAD ESTIMATION EXERCISES. Exe 
cises are conducted with targets moving at vario: 
ranges, speeds and directions. Based upon observ: 
tion of the target, the individual computes t! 
necessary leads in accordance with the method : 
lead determination as given in paragraph 85. 


57. TRACKING EXERCISES. When the gunn 
has become proficient in the previous steps | 
marksmanship, training in tracking moving targe 
should be conducted on 1000" ranges with pred 
termined speeds and ranges. Training should | 
continuous, progressing to vehicles, tanks, et 
moving first at predetermined ranges and spee 


78 


and moving finally at undetermined ranges and 
speeds. Sufficient exercises should be conducted to 
bring the gunner to a high level of proficiency. 


58. EXAMINATION. Before range practice is be- 
gun each man should be examined to see that he 
has attained the desired proficiency. The type of 
examination need not be the same for all individ- 
uals. An oral applicatory examination at the close 
of each phase of marksmanship, followed by a 
general review of all phases on the completion of 
marksmanship training, should be satisfactory. 


Section III. BORESIGHTING 


59. BORESIGHTING. a. Sight M85C. To bore- 
sight the rifle with this sight it is necessary to 
make the axis of the bore (extended) intersect the 
line of site at some distant point, preferably a 
point beyond the range to any likely target. On 
the muzzle end of the gun there are four notches 
90° apart. If threads are stretched across alternate 
notches, the intersection of the threads defines the 
axis of the bore at the muzzle end. If the breech 
Operating handle assembly is removed from the 
breechblock, the fiing pin aperture defines the 
axis of the bore at the breech end when the breech 
Is closed. (The cut-off base of an empty shell case 
Twith the primer punched out can be inserted into 
_ the cone, and the primer aperture used in place 
of the firing pin aperture.) By elevating and tra- 
| Versing the piece, the axis of the bore can then 
_ be aimed at the aiming point. To place the reticle 


79 


cross on the same aiming point it is necessary 
to loosen the elevation and deflection worm lock- 
ing nuts (fig. 24). When these are loose, the 
elevation and deflection worms on the telescope 
mount can be turned with a screw driver to adjust 
the position of the reticle cross with respect to 
the aiming point. When the reticle cross and the 
axis of the bore are on the same aiming point, the 
piece is boresighted. 

b. Sight M34. (1) Adjustment of the elevation 
quadrant. If the elevation quadrant is in adjustment, 


| TELESCOPE CLAMPING LEVER 
[DOVETAIL SLOT 


MOUNTING BRACKE' 
TELESCOPE HOLDER PRAES. 


INSTRUMENT 
LIGHT CLAMP AZIMUTH CLAMP NUT - 


beam а Lat aliut mia la -Ж tS. 


Figure 24. Sight bracket showing locking nuts and worms. 


80 


the tube will be elevated to the number of mils 
jndicated on the elevation scale and micrometer 
when the longitudinal bubble is leveled. To test 
the adjustment, set the scale and micrometer of 
the gunner’s quadrant to zero, place the quadrant 
on the gun and by means of the elevating mech- 
anism on the gun, level the bubble on the gunner’s . 
quadrant. Level the longitudinal bubble on the 
elevation quadrant of sight M34 by means of the 
elevation micrometer knob on the sight. The eleva- 
tion and micrometer scale should then read zero. 
If they do not, they must be made to read zero 
as follows: loosen the screw in each end of 
the scale and shift the scale until it reads zero; 
tighten the screws. Loosen the three small screws 
in the end of the elevating knob and while holding 
the knob to prevent it from moving, shift the 
licrometer scale to read zero; tighten the screws. 
Check the settings with the level bubble to make 
sure that the elevation micrometer knob did not 
turn when the screws were being tightened. 
(2) Adjustment of cross level. If adjustment of the 
cross level is necessary it must be made by ord- 
nance personnel. 

(3) Adjustment of deflection scale and micrometer. 
(a) Aim the axis of the bore at an aiming point. 

(b) Look through the telescope and, using the 
azimuth worm knob, bring the vertical line of the 
Teticle to bear exactly on the aiming point. The 
azimuth scale and micrometer should then read 

| Zero. If they do not, they must be made to read 
Zero as follows: Loosen the four screws in the 
damping ring and slip the scale until it reads 


81 
E 


zero; tighten the screws. Loosen the large clamp- , 
ing nut in the end of the micrometer knob, and 
while holding the knob to prevent it from turning, 
slip the micrometer scale to read zero; tighten 
the clamping nut. Check the readings and the 
alinement on the target to see that the knob did 
not turn while the clamping nut was being 
tightened. 

(4) Adjustment for vertical parallelism. If it is de- 
sired to use the elbow telescope for direct fire, the 
line of sight must be adjusted for vertical parallel- 
ism. To make this adjustment, loosen the elevating 
clamping nut and elevate or depress the telescope 
until the cross hair of the reticle falls on the aim- 
ing point. 


Section IV. QUALIFICATION 
COURSES 


60. GENERAL. a. Personnel who are to fire for 
qualification should have completed training in 
the following subjects: 

(1) Mechanical training. (a) Nomenclature, dis- 
assembly and assembly. 

(b) Care and cleaning. 

(c) Functioning. 

(d) Stoppages and immediate action. 

(e) Fire control instruments. 

(f) Boresighting (with both direct and indirect 
sight). 

(2) Crew drill. 

(3) Preliminary marksmanship. (a) Sighting and 
aiming. 


82 


(b) Trigger manipulation. 


(d) Fire commands. 


Qualification courses for the 75-mm rifle con- 
of the following: 

(1) Course A—1000” subcaliber, mid-range sub- 
aliber, and service firing. Course А is for use at 
S, camps, and stations where range facilities 
rmit the firing of service ammunition in accord- 
nce with the provisions of AR 750-10. 

(2) Course B — 1000" subcaliber and mid-range 
u bealiber firing. Course B is for use where range 
cilities prohibit the firing of service ammunition. 
(3) Course C — 1000" subcaliber firing. Course C 
s for use where range facilities include only indoor 
anges or miniature outdoor ranges. 


2 Instruction practice is not limited to the firing 
ables found in paragraph 6le. Time, facilities, and 
ammunition allowances will determine the amount 
f firing. 

d. The fundamentals emphasized in the quali- 
cation courses are: 

р Rapid and accurate delivery of the initial 


E: round. 
(3) Rapid determination of speed, lead, and 


83 


61. COURSE A. a. General. General instructio; 
practice consists of firing tables I and III twic 
and tables II and IV three times. Record practic, 
consists of firing tables I, II, III, IV, and V ong 
(see e below). 
b. Equipment. 
1— 75—mm rifle, complete with sight MSS 
and mounted on MG tripod M1917A1. 


Firing Point For Recoilless Rifle 
5 I 


ETTE 


O+ Ow 


FENCE OR ROPE 


ENCLOSURE 


Ay a ALTERNATE POSITION IF 


i TOWER IS AVAILABLE 
LEGEND: Ò GUNNER 
О Loaner 
X COACH (SCORING OFFICER FOR RECORD PRACTIC 
& FEEDER ( WITH RED FLAG) 
ô OFFIGER CONDUCTING FIRING 


Figure 25. Range organization. 


1 — Screw driver per rifle. 

© 1—Subcaliber device per rifle. 
_1—Crescent wrench per rifle. 

Boresighting equipment. 

Stop watch. 

Firing tables. 

с. Conditions. (1) Organization of the range is 
im accordance with the provisions of paragraph 
69 and AR 750-10. 

(2) Rifles are emplaced with tools nearby in 
accordance with operational diagram (fig. 25). 


to zero his rifle. Five rounds of caliber .30 carbine 
pall ammunition are fired at 1000" target “A” 
ile). Using an assumed range of 700 yards, the 


Table I. 1000" subcaliber stationary target 


"Rounds Time Target Score Remarks 


ES. No limit .RifleA.....20 ^ Four 1000" “A” 

(rifle) targets are 
EL... No limit .Rifle A.....20 placed on a ma- 
chine gun target 


Rates ie No limit .Rifle A.....20 frame at least 12” 
: apart laterally and 
COME Nolimit .Rifle A.....20 6" vertically, form- 


ing a rectangle. 


Total: 80 


85 


Table II. 1000" subcaliber moving target 


Speed Time 


No. rounds Inches/ exposed, Lead 9mm Remarks 
sec (sec) "C 
e ICE S ТО AD Д: ОЗЕ 1002. DOR 
РАР dede LASCIO 41527227 72: О ТОКЕ. 
20 16:6: ЗІ е Tes IO Pto, К 
Darcie AA ners АНЕ ssa ID ev 10....R to L 
De semis А DAs redes 2I devise ASAD 10 L to R 
2D bes РАЕН PAL Боос 2:59» ОККО) L 
12 Total “60 


(1) Target is 1000” “A” (rifle) target. 


(2) Commands by officer in charge of firing. 


(a) Preliminary commands: 


LAY ON AIMING STAKE (in center of 


target run). 


ONE ROUND, SUBCALIBER, LOAD. 
(All guns lay on aiming stake and load one 


round.) 


(b) Fire command: 
MOVING TARGET 
SUBCALIBER 
LEFT (RIGHT) FRONT 


TOP (CENTER or BOTTOM) TANK 


SEVEN HUNDRED 
ONE LEAD 
FIRE 


86 


‘able III. Known distance, subcaliber stationary target 


Maximum 


Remarks 
Score 


rounds Range Target 


105. ....All See below. т... 1...0: Targeting 
allowance. 


hd 
7 5......200 Prone “Е” M-1917 25 
complete. 


285......300 Prone “F? M-1917 25 All firing on 
1 this table 


Г complete. К 
is done 
5......400 Kneeling “E” M-1917 25 with trac- 
complete. er ammu- 
nition, 
Total: 75 


Scoring: Targets will be scored by personnel in the pits at the 200, 
10, and 400 yard lines. Scoring personnel in the pits should have 
lephone communication with the firing point. If the facilities described 
* are not available, a known distance rifle range with “E” targets 
е substituted, 


Table IV. Subcaliber moving target 


Lead Speed ыы Remarks 

ERES. uses 1 c 10 mph. ....... EEA L to R 

^ Ыы... Ma ODN к a 2071 TENROS 

EN OOA АО доора 205 Kan sie .L to R 

0 CEPIT TICU Тор s «0 AOSS ..R to Е 
Total: "80 


cal with table II. Tracer ammunition is used in this table. When 
used, scoring is accomplished by observation of strike of tracer 
er. When a towed target is substituted, the target will be 
td rather than scored by observation from the firing line, 


87 


Table V. Service firing, known distance 


ounds Range Target x он 
Ван 400 yds....55 gal. drum............20 
‚г 800 yds 3’ x 5’ log barrier.......20 
Total: 40 


Jote. The first round fired at either range does not count for score, 
r it is a Їйї or not. The gunner is credited with ten points for 
first hit he receives after the first round fired. He ceases fire after 
hit and receives five points for each unexpended round of the 
al four rounds. 


(3) Ammunition. Target practice ammunition 
uld be used. Inert ammunition is an authorized 


stitute. 


COURSE B. a. Course B will consist of tables 
I III, and IV. 
. Instruction practice and record practice for 


tables indicated will be fired as outlined in 
se A. 


‚ Equipment, conditions, and procedure will be 
tlined in Course A. 


COURSE C. a. Course C will consist of tables 
nd II. 

D. Instruction practice and record practice for 
tables indicated will be fired as outlined in 
Irse A (see sample score card in fig. 27). 

» Equipment, conditions, and procedure will be 
outlined in Course A. 


£9 


INDIVIDUAL SCORE CARD | 
QUALIFICATION COURSE 
75-mm RIFLE 


(Name) (Grade) (Serial No.) (Organization) 


Firing Phase 


Ist 2nd 3rd 
Instruc- | Instruc-| Instruc- 
tion tion tion 
Practice | Practice | Practice 


Record 
Practice 


Scorer's 
Initials 


TABLE I 
TABLE II 
TABLE III 
TABLE IV 
TABLE V 


TOTAL 


QUALIFICATION 


Certified Correct 


Figure 27. Sample score card. 


90 


í 4. QUALIFICATION SCORES*. a. Course A. 


БЕ рег nb dian cs eee tasa NR 260-335 
est Class: Gunner's. 0, ees tere eid tis 240-259 
end ClassGunner). os... sees oo 190-239 
папа еайын. 189 or below 
_ b. Course B. 
Бере ЕЕ Лл Л: 230-295 
Iste Glassy Gunner: о.о: 212-229 
2nd Class Gunner ........ eee. 160-211 
Arig tialified’s ооо 159 or below 
c. Course C. 
Epere ia o aala ide aene de ntes 125-140 
Ist. Glass» Gunnera 3292 УА 110-124 
And Glass. Günner о 80-109 
inqualified ОССЕ ve set ro si ees 79 or below. 


Section V. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AND 
PROCEDURE FOR FIRING 


5. GENERAL. a. Because of the danger to per- 
nnel, resulting from the back blast of recoilless 
yeapons, extreme care must be exercised in all 
hases of instruction. From the earliest stages of 
raining this danger must be emphasized. Any crew 
Till, position exercises, tracking exercises, or sub- 
aliber firing must be conducted as though actual 
ervice ammunition were being fired. 


‘Organization commanders should, prior to range practice, assure 
mmselves that the qualification scores agree with the latest published 
ulations, and should make changes in this manual in pencil to agree 
With such regulations. 


91 


EE-DANGER AREA 


=-CAUTION AREA 


Figure 28. Diagram showing danger area in rear of 
75-mm rifle, M-20. 


b. The danger zone (fig. 28) is triangular shaped, 
extends approximately 75 feet to the rear of the 
point of emplacement, and covers a space of 25 
feet on either side of the axis of the emplaced 
rifle at it widest point. No personnel should face 
the weapon within 125 feet of the rear of its 
breech because of danger of flying particles thrown 
up by the blast action. 

c. It is dangerous to operating personnel to fire 
the weapon from closely confined spaces, such 
as dugouts or foxholes, because of the concussion 
from the backblast. The weapons can be fire 
from semiconfined spaces, such as the rooms o 
buildings, without danger, provided the room i: 
large, with sufficient openings to allow rapid escapi 
of the powder gases. Firing can be accomplishe 
from any semiconfined space provided there is a: 


` 92 


opening directly behind the breech through which 
he back blast can pass. Firing from rooms wherein 
here is a wall too close to the breech will result 
n damage to the wall and discomfort to the operat- 
mg personnel even when there are sufficient out- 
jets for the gases to escape. 

'd. Most conventional type weapon emplacements 
are unsuitable for this weapon. Any emplacement 
wh ere there is an obstruction too near the breech 
js unsuitable because the obstruction will tend 
to deflect the concussion toward the operating 
personnel. Most suitable types of emplacements 
are those which leave the gun exposed, or semi- 
exposed, with no obstruction behind the breech, 
and provide for cover for the operating personnel 
on either side of the gun. (For details of emplace- 
ents see FM 5-15.) 

. All firing is controlled by definite fire com- 
ands. 

f. During the initial phases of instruction firing, 
e officer conducting firing may, at his discretion, 
duce the speed of the target and the number of 
founds fired in each run. The object of this proced- 
(Ше is to increase confidence and place emphasis 
9n manipulation and accuracy. 


h. During instruction firing only, moving target 
ng may be preceded by one or more dry runs. 


"led by the unit commander, is responsible for — 


93 


(1) Assignment, coordination, and supervision of 
the firing line to emphasize safe and smooth opera 
tion of all firing. ( 

(2) Issuance of fire commands and general in. 
structions to the firing line. 

(3) Enforcement of safety precautions pre- 
scribed in AR 750-10 and this manual. 


(4) Organization of the range. 


b. Company commander. The’ company com. 
mander is responsible for the efficiency of the 
marksmanship training in his organization and 
for the conduct of its firing. 


c. Scoring officers. (1) Scoring officers are de- 
tailed to supervise record practice firing. Officers 
for this duty will be detailed from organizations 
other than the one firing. They will familiarize 
themselves thoroughly with their duties and with 
firing procedure prior to the date of record prac- 
tice firing. 
^ (2) Scoring officers will perform the following 
specific duties: 

(a) Check dimensions of the targets, aiming sil- 
houettes, and scoring spaces. 

(b) Inspect each target before firing to insure that 
it contains no unpasted shot holes. 

(c) Count number of rounds of ammunition 
be fired by the gunner for each exercise. 

(d) See that firing is being conducted in accord 
ance with the prescribed procedure. 

(e) Check time of exposure on moving target rur: 
and render a decision in the event of irregularities. 


94 


(f) Verify and render decisions on all misfires 
nd malfunctions at the guns under his jurisdiction. 
(g) Render a decision in the event of breakage 

stoppage in any of the range apparatus. 

(h) Score targets on each exercise fired and record 
the score. 

Р d. Coaches. During all preparatory training 
practice a coach will be present at each gun to 
instruct and assist the gunner. No coach will be 
present at the gun for record firing. The specific 
duties of the coach are as follows: 

(1) Require each gunner and loader to observe 
all pertinent individual and general safety precau- 
tions, and insure compliance with instructions per- 
taining to the service of the piece. 

(2) See that the proper number of rounds is 
present at the piece for each exercise. 

(3) Supervise generally the work at the gun and 
make sure that the commands are executed prop- 
erly. Repeat orders and instructions where neces- 
to insure correct understanding and timely 
execution. 

(4) Report all misfires, malfunctions, or dis- 
сгерапсіеѕ to the officer conducting firing. 

(5) Score the targets and critique the firing. 


е. Loader. (1) The primary duty of the loader 
S to serve the piece during all firing exercises. 
During instruction practice he may also act as 
assistant coach. During record firing he will not 
©оасһ or instruct the gunner in any way. 

(2) The specific duties of the loader are as 
follows: 


95 


(a) Load the rifle in accordance with the com. 
mands of the officer conducting firing. 

(b) Tap the gunner and report “up” when thé 
weapon is loaded and he is completely clear of th. 
breech. 

(c) Signal “ready” to the officer conducting the 
firing. ; { 

(d) Repeat all orders to unload, cease firing, and 
clear gun. 

(e) Announce to the gunner the number of rounds 
to be fired on each exercise when required. 


f. Feeder. (1) The feeder controls the movement 
of personnel to and from the firing line and allows 
no movement behind the line of guns except under 
the direction of the officer conducting firing. 

(2) The specific duties of the feeder are a: 
follows: 

(a) To allow no personnel to move to or from 
the firing line except when all breeches are open and 
personnel are standing free of the gun. 

(b) After completion of firing by each order, to 
send subsequent orders to the guns on command 
of the officer conducting firing. | 

(c) To raise a red flag at the end of the firing line 
except when all breeches are open, all personnel 
are clear of the guns, and instructions are receive 
from the officer conducting firing. 

(d) To permit no personnel to move behind the 
guns while the red flag is raised. 


67. ORGANIZATION. a. Organization of the fir 
ing line is in accordance with figure 25. 


96 


— b. Duties of personnel are as outlined in para- 
eraph 66. 

(с. No personnel are allowed at any time to 
enter the fenced or roped off enclosure*except those 
actually required on the firing line. 

d. No personnel may enter or leave the firing 
line and no movement between guns will be al- 
lowed when the red flag is raised. 

e. Prior to any firing each gun will be carefully 
checked by an officer to insure that it is in firing 
condition. 


68. INSTRUCTION PRACTICE FIRING. a. 
General. (1) Before firing, the officer in charge of 
firing gives a description of the range and an- 
nounces specific instructions pertaining to firing 
procedure. 

(2) Guns are numbered from right to left. 

(3) The coach, loader, and gunner take posi- 
tions at the gun. The gunner tests the firing, elevat- 
ing and traversing mechanisms; the loader secures 
the necessary ammunition. 

(4) When all guns are prepared for firing and 
the safety regulations checked, the officer conduct- 
ing firing gives the fire command. 

(5) At the completion of an exercise the officer 
conducting firing commands: CEASE FIRING. 
"he loader rapidly unloads the gun, all personnel 
Stand clear of the gun, and the loader then signals 


b. Stationary target firing. An example of the 


97 


sequence of a fire command is as follows: FIRE 
MISSION, SUBCALIBER, FRONT, TARGET, 
SEVEN HUNDRED. When all guns have sig- 
nalled “Ready,” the officer conducting firing com- 
mands: FIRE. Each gunner fires as directed until 
his ammunition is used up or until the command, 


CEASE FIRING is given. 


c. Moving target firing. An example of the se- 
quence of a fire command is as follows: GUN ON 
AIMING STAKE, LOAD. When all guns have 
signalled “Ready,” a subsequent fire command is 
given as follows: MOVING TARGET, SUB- 
CALIBER, LEFT FRONT, TANK, SEVEN 
_ HUNDRED, TWO LEADS, FIRE. When the 
target has completed its run, the command CEASE 
FIRING is given. The same type of sequence is 
used for the return run. 


d. Record practice firing. (1) The same proced- 
ure as that. prescribed for instruction practice firing 
will, except as noted below, be employed for record 
firing. 

(2) Each man will complete the prescribed in- 
struction practice firing for the course specified 
prior to record practice firing. 


(3) As a rule, record practice firing will not 
be executed on the same day that any portion of 
instruction practice is fired. However, when the 
time allotted is very limited, the unit commander 
may authorize record practice firing on the same 
day. 

(4) Before firing any exercise for record, the 
gunner wil be given a reasonable length of time 


98 


| 


yo check the condition of his gun, sight, and am- 
iunition. 

(5) The gunner will be required {о boresight 
r target his own weapon prior to any record 


- 6) The target speed or allotted time will be 
given each gunner prior to firing. 

(7) In record practice firing, when a misfire, 
stoppage, or malfunction occurs, the gunner or 
loader will hold up his hand and call, “Stoppage.” 
Thereafter, neither the loader nor gunner will 
touch the gun until so instructed by the scoring 
officer who will examine the gun. 

(8) If a misfire, stoppage, or malfunction occurs 
‘ough no fault of the gunner, the score will be 
disregarded and the gunner permitted to refire the 
exercise. 

(9) Decisions to disregard scores or to authorize 
réfiring of portions of the course rest with the 
coring officer. 

10) If a misfire or malfunction is manifestly 
the fault of the gunner, he will not be permitted 
refire the portion of the course affected. 


9. SCORING AN INDIVIDUAL FOR QUALI- 


fired by him will count as a part of the exercise. 
c. The gunner who fires at the wrong target 
ОГ scoring space will be given credit only for those 


99 


hits which strike the proper target or scorin, 
space. 

d. A hit will be scored for each bullet hole four 
in a target or scoring space, except that no mo; 
than the prescribed number of shots will | 
counted. In moving target firing wherein a tani 
is used, observation of tracer strike on the tar 
will count as a hit. In field service firing, observ; 
tion of strike on the target will count as a hi 
'The target need not be marked. 


e. For 1000" firing, the name of the gunner wil 
be placed on each target before firing. Ехсер 
under the supervision of the scoring officer, n 
person will handle any target until it has bee 
scored. 

f. A bullet hole which touches the line of : 
scoring space will be classed as a hit. 

g. For moving target firing, ammunition no 
fired during the time of exposure of the targe 
will be forfeited. 

h. Holes made by ricocheting bullets, rocks, o 
other foreign matter will not be counted. 

i Each individual entry for record practice wi! 
be made on the score card in ink or indelible penc 
and will be authenticated by the scoring officer 
Erasures are not permitted. Alterations will | 
made only by the scoring officer, and such alter: 
tions will be authenticated by that officer. 


100 


E 


1] CHAPTER 5 
TECHNIQUE OF DIRECT FIRE 


Section І. GENERAL 


* 


70. DEFINITIONS. The operation involved in the 
application of effective fire on a target is called 
"technique of fire." The operation involved in 
pointing a gun for direction and elevation by direct- 
ing the line of sighting on a target visible to the 
gunner is called "direct laying." Since the primary 
mission of this weapon is direct fire at point 
targets, the technique of direct fire is particularly 
important. 


> 

71. SCOPE. Direct laying involves a knowledge 
of. the subjects listed below: 

"a. Characteristics of fire. 

Б. Range, speed, and lead determination. 

с. Target designation. 

а Fire control. 


—e. Fire commands. 
Т Range cards. 
Section II. CHARACTERISTICS OF FIRE 


72. TRAJECTORY. The trajectory is the imagi- 
nary line traced by the projectile from the gun to 


101 


A 


the point of impact. The 75-mm rifle M20 is classe, 
as a flat trajectory weapon, but because of t| 

action of the air resistance and the force of gravi 

on the projectile the trajectory is actually a сигу 
The angle of fall is greater than the angle of eleva] 
tion and the projectile reaches its maximun 
ordinate (highest point) closer to the point oj 
impact than to the gun (fig. 29). A tangent ty 
the trajectory at the point of impact is called thg 
line of impact. The angle between the line oj 
impact and the ground at the point of impact ij 
called the angle of impact. | 


GUN LEVEL: POINT 
RANGE —— 


Figure 29. Elements of trajectory. 


102 


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73. DISPERSION PATTERN. Factors such af 
difference in weight and composition of propellant, 
differences in weight of projectiles and varying 
atmospheric conditions cause dispersion of the 
points of impact of projectiles fired under other. 
wise similar conditions. A number of rounds fired 
at the same elevation and deflection form a definite 
pattern in the impact area. This pattern is roughly 
elliptical in shape with its longer axis along the 
line of fire (fig. 30). In other words, the shots 
are scattered more in range than in deflection. 
The density of the shots is greater at the center 
of the pattern than toward the edges. 


74. RANGE PROBABLE ERROR. It has been 
found through experiment that if enough shots at 
the same elevation and deflection are fired, half 
will fall beyond the center of impact and half will 
fall short of it. In figure 30, the line AB has been 
drawn through the center of impact, perpendicular 
to the line of site. The line CD has been con- 
structed parallel to AB so that the number of 
shots between AB and CD is the same as the 
number in the remainder of the right half of the 
dispersion pattern. The area ABCD will therefore 
contain 25 per cent of the shots fired. The length 
(in the direction of fire) of the 25 per cent zone 
represents one range probable error because this 
error is exceeded as frequently as it is not ex- 
ceeded. If lines are drawn parallel to AB at dis- 
tances of one probable error from the center о! 
impact, the small areas thus created will contain 
percentages of total shots fired approximately a: 


104 


own in figure 30. Eight probable errors (four 
either side of the center of impact) will cover 
» dispersion pattern. The value in yards of a 
ge probable error, which value varies directly 
the range from the gun to the center of 
is given in Firing Table 75-BB-1 


ig from a direct fire position will be very 
ted, in which case it becomes vitally important 
arrive at the correct range determination at 
earliest possible moment. Practice in determin- 
ng ranges by most of the methods explained in 
8 following paragraphs will usually improve 


b. Estimating distance by eye. 


с. Obtaining the range from other units. 


105 


d. Firing the gun. 
e. Measuring the range on the ground. 


78. TAKING RANGE FROM A MAP. The ac. 
curacy of this method will depend on the skill oj 
the person reading the map and the accuracy o; 
the map itself. The distance gun-target is measure; 
on the map and, by means of the map scale, the 
measured distance is converted into yards of range 


79. ESTIMATING DISTANCE BY EYE. a. Esti. 
mating range by eye is the quickest method. The 
degree of accuracy depends on the observer and 
on his training and experience. In many cases it 
will be the only possible means whereby range: 
can be determined. Accuracy can be attained 
through exercises which require the student to 
observe a measured 100-yard marked distance from 
various angles and from various ranges. After h: 
has attained a mental picture of what 100 yards 
looks like from these various angles and ranges, 
he is required to estimate an unknown distance. 
He does this by applying successively his mental 
100-yard “yardstick” to the range to be estimated. 
For ranges over 500 yards the observer should 
pick out a point which is half way, estimate thy 
distance to the half way point, and multiply tnl 
answer by two. 

b. Objects appear closer or farther away with 
different conditions of light and terrain. The effec 
of these conditions on the appearance of the 100- 
yard unit of measure is, however, negligible 
Whenever the appearance of objects is used as 4 


106 


basis for range estimation, the observer must make 
allowance for the effects noted below: 

(1) 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. 

- (f) When looking over a depression, most of which 


- (2) Objects seem more distant when— 

| (a) Looking over a depression all of which is 
visible. 
(b) There is poor light or fog. 

(c) Only a small part of the object can be seen. 
(d) Looking from low ground. 


80. OBTAINING RANGE FROM OTHER 
UNITS. Often a unit being relieved from a com- 
bat position will have range cards, along with other 
information, to be turned over to the relieving 
unit. Other units of the same organization may 
have the desired information. This source of in- 
formation is usually reliable, especially if the 
other unit has tested it. 


81. FIRING THE GUN. The gunner fires at the 
estimated range and, by observation, he adjusts 
until he brings fire to bear on the target. He then 
reads the range from the sight reticle. 


107 


82. MEASURING THE RANGE ON THE 
GROUND. This method presupposes that the 
situation will permit the observer to traverse the 
ground. If this situation exists, the observer may 
pace off the range, or measure it with tape or 
speedometer. 


Section IV. 
SPEED AND LEAD DETERMINATION 


83. GENERAL. Speed and lead determination are 
very closely allied since the observer cannot arrive 
at the correct lead estimation without first having 
correctly estimated the speed. 


84. SPEED DETERMINATION. Constant prac- 
tice in estimating speeds of vehicles is the only 
method by which the squad can acquire accuracy in: 
speed estimation. It is unlikely that the members 
of the squad will have any instruments with which 
to measure the speed of moving targets. Their 
success in arriving at reasonably correct estimates 
will be in direct proportion to the amount of their 
training and experience. 


85. LEAD DETERMINATION. a. The distance 
by which a target is led is equal to the distance 
the target will travel between the time the projectile 
leaves the gun and the time its trajectory crosses 
the path of the target. The telescope with which 
this gun is equipped provides measurement of 
angular leads. Leads, therefore, will vary with the 


108 


T 


ot with range. А 
"p. It has been found that the ballistic qualities 
f this weapon are such that three angular leads 
should be allowed for each 10 mph of speed that: 
the target is moving perpendicular to the line of 
sighting. The angle at which the target is moving 
will alter the number of leads to be taken as follows: 
for targets traveling at an angle of 45° or less to 
he line of sighting, use half the leads determined 
for the estimated speed; for targets traveling 
directly toward or away from the gun, no lateral 
leads are necessary. 


V and direction of movement of the target, but 


Section V. TARGET DESIGNATION 


86. PRELIMINARY TRAINING. As a prelimi- 

ary to practical work in target designation, the 
members of the 75-mm rifle crew must have a 
Knowledge of the military and topographical terms 
employed in designating targets; for example, crest, 
hill, draw, cut, ridge, cross-roads, right, left, flank, 
| and column. They should also be instructed in the 
meaning and use of such terms as horizontal, 
yertical, above, below, rectangle, square, triangle, 
nil, yard, and pace. Finally, a thorough course in 
isual training and range estimation should be 
iven. The crew member must be taught to use his 
€yes and retain mental pictures of what he sees, 


87. METHODS OF DESIGNATING TARGETS. 
Vargets can be designated by— 
Oral designation. 


109 


Firing the gun. 

Laying the gun. 
The choice of method will be dependent somewhat 
on the expediency required by the situation. 


88. ORAL DESIGNATION. a. General. By this 
method the target designation element is given 
orally; however, arm signals and pointing, where 
applicable, take the place of or supplement the 
spoken word. The essential parts of an oral designa- 
tion are announced in the following sequence: 

Direction. 

Description of target. 

Range. 


b. Direction. Wherever practicable, the direction 
should be given simply by pointing, using only such 
words as may be necessary. 'Front" is understood 
as the direction in which the muzzle points, and 
directions varying therefrom by successive angles 
of 45° are: designated as “right (left) front," “right 
(left) flank," "right (left) rear," and "rear." The 
clock system of indicating direction may also be 
used. In this system the observer imagines himself 
standing in the center of a clock dial. Front will 
then be twelve o'clock ; rear, six o'clock; right flank, 
3 o'clock; left flank, 9 o'clock; etc. (fig. 31). One of 
the best methods of designating very obscure 
targets is to use successive reference points. A 
clearly distinguishable reference is first designated. 
Rapid recognition of such references is facilitated 
by previous indication of certain landmarks within 
the sector of fire, together with an understanding 


110 


| 


| 


GRSERVER, 


REAR 


jure 31. Diagram of clock system of indicating direction. 


the descriptive terms to be applied to designate 
landmark. The gunner is then led step by step 
the target by naming successive reference points 
il his line of sighting is brought on the target. 


Description of target. Usually a word or two 
sufficient to describe the target; for example: 
chine gun, tank, pillbox. If reference points are 
luded in the order, the word “Target” E 
descriptive words. 

. Range. The range is announced by the com- 
nd RANGE followed by a statement of the yard- 
such as EIGHT HUNDRED. In the fire com- 
nd the word RANGE is omitted and the range 
announced simply as EIGHT HUNDRED. 


111 


89. FIRING THE GUN. Designating a target } 
firing the gun is a quick, sure, апд. simple metho 
however, its use may prematurely disclose the gu, 
position. The person designating the target actual], 
fires the gun. 


90. LAYING THE GUN. Laying the gun on. 
target is another quick, sure, and simple metho 
and does not prematurely give away the gun posi 
tion. The person designating the target may actually 
lay the gun himself to give the gunner his direction, 
He completes the designation orally. 


Section VI. FIRE CONTROL 


91. GENERAL. a. Fire control implies the ability 
of the leader to open fire at the instant he desires] 
adjust the fire of his gun or guns upon the target, 
shift it from» one target to another, regulate it; 
rate, and cease fire at will. He must be able to do 
all of these things promptly if the fire is to b: 
effective. Lack of proper fire control results in 
loss of surprise effect, premature disclosure 0! 
position, application of fire on unimportant targets, 
loss of time in securing adjustment, and wastag 
of ammunition. 


b. Fire control is founded primarily on thorough 
discipline and technical training. There must bí 
sufficient flexibility to provide for adequate decern: 
tralization in order to compensate for the difficulties 
encountered in firing guns from widely separate! 
positions. 


112 


2 CHAIN OF FIRE CONTROL. The commander 
onsible for the employment of the guns issues 
orders relative to their use direct to the platoon 
er. The platoon leader in turn gives fire com- 
nds to his section leaders, and they in turn 
municate their own commands to their gunners. 
lecause of such factors as noise, semi-isolation of 

ng compartments, limited vision, and fleeting 
ortunity, fire control must be based on simple 
hods to insure effective execution and the 
agement of new and unexpected targets which 
ear after the unit becomes engaged. 


93. ADJUSTMENT OF FIRE. Normally for 
s less than 1,000 yards, direct readings for 
deflection, and estimated range corrections neces- 
sary to bring the burst to the target will be 


|! supervision of the squad leader, make his 
m corrections and apply them to the weapon 
without command. The squad leader will issue 
Subsequent commands, when, in his estimation, 
speed or effectiveness of.fire can be enhanced by 
) doing. For ranges in excess of 1,000 yards 
е squad leader issues subsequent commands 
Sing the bracketing method of adjustment for 
nge, and direct reading for deflection, unless his 
owledge of the terrain indicates that the method 
itlined for a range of less than 1,000 yards will 
more expeditiously place fire on the target. 


94 OVERHEAD FIRE. a. Overhead fire is fire 
lelivered over the heads of friendly troops. The 


113 


75-mm rifle M20 is capable of delivering this ty, 
of fire provided it is clamped and in a stabi 
stationary position. 


b. Overhead fire must pass a safe, carefully deter 
mined distance above the friendly troops ove, 
whose heads it is to be delivered; that is, th, 
minimum clearance or safety angle must |, 
_accurately established. The minimum clearance fo, 
ranges up to 1,000 yards is determined as follow; 
(fig. 32): 

Gunner's Rule 


(1) Lay the gun on the target with the correc 
sight setting to hit the target. 

(2) Without disturbing the lay of the piece, sigh: 
down the reticle scale to the 1,200-yard graduatio: 
and fix the point where the line of sighting strike: 
the ground. If friendly troops are at ог. beyon¢ 
this point, it is unsafe to fire. Overhead fire can be 
delivered until friendly troops reach this point. 


Figure 32. Application of gunner's rule. 


114 


"The above method will insure ample troop 
rance at all ranges up to 1,000 yards. It will 
nsure that troops will be far enough from the 
st area to avoid shell fragments. Where a 
ere accurate determination for closer support is 
sired, consult paragraph 165. 

1 For determination of safety factors for ranges 
vr 1,000 yards, computation of mask and troop 
garances must be made by the method described 
paragraph 157 or by use of table VII. 


Section VII. FIRE COMMANDS 


-ENERAL. a. Fire commands are orders which 
ey all the information necessary for the com- 
ement, conduct, suspension and cessation of 
and activities incident thereto. 

Fire commands must be given clearly, forcibly, 
a speed which may be received and applied 
out confusion. Much time is lost when a crew 
Iber has to ask for a repetition of part of the 
nand. The use of standard commands elimi- 
s misunderstanding. 


TYPES. Direct fire commands are of two 
5: initial fire commands and subsequent fire 


NITIAL FIRE COMMANDS. Initial fire com- 
ds for direct laying of the weapon must contain, 


Where applicable, the elements listed below: 
а The alert. 
Type of ammunition. 


115 


Fuze. 

. Direction. 

Target description. 
Range. 

. Leads. 

. Command to open fire. 


rom о aa 


98. ELEMENTS. a. The alert. The alert is alw; 
the first element of the initial fire command. 
consists of the command FIRE MISSION in | 
case of a stationary target, or the command MOVIY 
TARGET in the case of a moving target. The ak 
puts the gun crew in readiness to execute a f 
command with the least practicable delay. 
b. Types of ammunition. Ammunition is des; 

nated in the fire command as— 

HE (High explosive) 

HEAT (High explosive, antitank) 

SMOKE (Smoke) 

TP (Target practice) 

INERT 
This element is announced immediately after th 
alert. As soon as it is announced, No. four wit! 


draws the proper type of ammunition from | 


individual container and prepares it for loading i 
the piece. 


c. Fuze. The high explosive and target ргасії 
rounds have fuzes which may be set for superqui( 
(SQ) or delay action. The rounds are original! 
packed so that the fuzes are set for superqui 
action. To obtain delayed action it is necessary ! 


116 


city DELAY in the fire command. If this 
ment is left out of the command the projectile 
be fired with the fuze set for superquick action. 
(T, SMOKE, and INERT rounds have no fuze 
ags. When using any of these types of ammu- 
n, it is not necessary to mention the fuze 
nent in the fire command. 


1. Direction. Direction is generally given orally, 

y pointing, or by a combination of these two 
ods. It is sometimes pointed out, in connection 
h target designation, by laying or firing the 
Target description. A target should be 
ribed as quickly and simply as is consistent 
1 clarity. Where the target is obscure, it may 
necessary to lead the gunner to the target by 
ms of successive reference points. 


Range. Range in yards, having been estimated 


Leads. This element has application only in 
case of moving targets. Leads are announced in 
bers of five mil angular leads, as: THREE 


Command to open fire. This element is given 
FIRE, or in the event a short delay becomes 


er time by the command FIRE. 


EXAMPLES OF INITIAL FIRE COM- 
NDS. a. (1) FIRE MISSION. 


117 


(4) MACHINE GUN. 

(5) SIX FIVE ZERO, 

(6) FIRE. 

b. (1) FIRE MISSION. 

(2) HE. 

(3) DELAY. 

(4) LEFT FRONT. 
‚ (8 REFERENCE: HEDGE; RIGHT CO} 
NER OF HEDGE, PINE TREE; BASE 0; 
PINE TREE, TARGET, MACHINE GUN. 

(6) EIGHT HUNDRED, 

(7) 3 ROUNDS, FIRE. 

c. (1) MOVING TARGET. 

(2) HEAT. 

(3) TWELVE O'CLOCK. 

(4) TANK. 

(5) SEVEN HUNDRED. 

(6) THREE LEADS. 

(7) FIRE. 


100. NUMBERS. Numbers are announced as illu 
trated below: 


10 One zero. 

25 'Two five. 

300 Three hundred. 
1400 One four hundred. 
6000 Six thousand. 
3925 "Three nine two five. 
4050 Four zero five zero. 


118 


01. SUBSEQUENT FIRE COMMANDS. a. Sub- 
sequent fire commands contain only such data as 
re to be changed, except that the command for 
range and the command FIRE must be repeated 
sach time. Corrections or changes in range are 
announced as ADD FIVE ZERO or DROP ONE 
ZERO. Changes iņ deflection are announced as 
ИСНТ TWO FIVE or LEFT ONE ZERO. 
hanges in leads are announced as ONE MORE or 
)NE LESS. 

b. In order to correct an error in the fire com- 
запа, the person giving the command calls out 
ORRECTION, and immediately thereafter issues 
he corrected version. 


Section VIII. RANGE CARDS 


02. RANGE CARDS. a. A range card (fig. 33) 
'a diagrammatic or panoramic sketch showing the 
sition of the gun, magnetic north, and ranges 
nd azimuths to prominent terrain features and 
robable targets. By reference to ranges to nearby 
bjects, it enables the gun crew to determine 
uickly and accurately the range to any target in 
he sector. The squad leader also can lay the gun 
or night firing on predetermined target positions, 
y using the tripod dial or aiming stake. If the 
lembers of the gun crew become casualties, the 
ange card permits the replacement crew to deliver 
fective fire on likely targets. 


b. Range cards may be constructed as follows: 
(1) Place a dot in the approximate center of a 


119 


Figure 33. Range card. ( 


piece of blank paper to represent the position of 
the gun. 

(2) Draw a straight line through the dot to 
represent magnetic north, and label the line. 

(3) Determine the range and measure the azi- 


120 


in mils to prominent terrain features to be 
wn on the card. 

{) Using a protractor and a convenient scale, 
in the terrain features, labeling each. 

3) Draw straight lines from the gun position 
je terrain features and label each line with rànge 
ad azimuth. 


Section IX. DIRECT LAYING ON 
LANDSCAPE TARGETS, 1000” 


"SCOPE AND IMPORTANCE. a. Upon satis- 
ory completion of the qualification course, the 
ler may practice what he has learned by firing 
andscape targets. 

he advantages of landscape target firing are— 
) It permits close supervision of all members 
he firing unit. 

2) It clearly and quickly demonstrates the 
lication and effect of fire. 

8) It can be conducted indoors when lack of 
lities or weather conditions make this desirable. 
4) It emphasizes target designation and fire 
trol, 


- DESCRIPTION. A landscape target is a 
Oramic picture of a landscape. It is so drawn 
t all or nearly all of the salient features are 
ognizable at a distance of 1000 inches. The 
ndard target is the Series A target of five sheets 
black and white. 


121 


105. PREPARATION OF TARGETS. a. Moy, 
ing. The sheets are mounted on frames made , 
by 2 inch lumber. The frames are 24 by 60 inc 
and are covered with target cloth tacked to y 
edges. 

b. Range indicators. To permit proper designat, 
of targets, assumed ranges must be used on 1а 
scape targets. Small cards with appropriate nu; 
bers representing yards of range are tacked alo; 
one or both edges of a series of panels (fig. 3 
The gunner zeros his rifle at a given range, a 
must be cautioned that the range announced ; 
any target designation is for the sole purpose, 
designating the target; the sight setting necessa 
to zero rifles must not be changed. 

c. Direction cards. In order to provide the dire 
tion element in oral target designation, small сагі 
marked "front," “right front," “left front," “rig 
flank," “left flank" are tacked above the appropria: 
panels of the landscape series. 

d. Scoring devices. (1) Scoring the exercise teni 
to create competition between individuals or se 
tions and enables the instructor to grade the 
relative proficiency. For a point target, а scorir, 
device conforming in size to the 50 percent and 7 
percent shot groups can be made from wire, cell 
loid, plywood, or similar material (fig. 35). T 
scoring space can be outlined on the target 
pencil before the target is shown to the sectio 
leaders. This procedure prevents section leader 
from misunderstanding the limits of the designat 
target. Upon completion of firing, the entire sectio 
is shown the target and the results of the firing. 


122 


123 


‘s40}DIIpUt UONIIAID PUD 26uD4 YIN 12640} advISpUnT “PE 24901] 


no 
NT 


: Figure 35. Scoring device 1000" range. 


(2) Although shot groups take the form of a ver- 
tical ellipse, the 50 percent and 75 percent zones should 
be shown by the devices as rectangles. This is for 
convenience in their preparation. At 1,000 inches the 
50 percent zone is a rectangle 114 inches high by 1 
inch wide. The 75 percent zone is a rectangle 21 | 
inches high by 2 inches wide. The target is at the 
center of the inner rectangle or 50 percent zone. 


124 


06. ZEROING OF RIFLES. Rifles are zeroed in 
е same manner as outlined in paragraph 614, 
sing an assumed range of 700 yards. At a distance 
1,000 inches, changes of one mil elevation and 
indage, respectively, will move the strike of the 
ullet 1 inch in the desired direction. 


97. FIRING PROCEDURE. The following se- 
fence is used in conducting firing exercises: 

a. All members of the section except the section 
ader face to the rear. 

b. The instructor takes the section leader to the 
anels and points out the target to him. They 
turn to the firing line, and the section leader 
akes charge of the section and orders the gunner 
d assistant gunner to resume their firing posi- 


c. The section leader designates the target orally. 
leference to panels to indicate direction should 
ot be allowed in the designation. The section 
ader completes his fire command with the com- 
рапа, FIRE. Each gunner is allowed 10 rounds. 

d. When the gunner has completed firing, the 
ection leader commands: CEASE FIRING, 
SLEAR RIFLE. He checks to see that this is 
one. The target is then examined and scored. 
|е. The instructor holds a short critique after 
ach exercise. 

f. For section competition, each member of the 
ection is given a target; his score is computed and 
ded to the score of other members of the squad. 
Zombined individual scores indicate the score for 
he section. 


125 


108. SCORING. The sum of the value of the hit 
within the two zones is the score for the exercise 
For convenience ‘of scoring and comparison, 100 ix 
fixed as the maximum score. Any method of scor. 
ing and of distribution of ammunition among mem. 
bers of the section may be used. For example: 


a. Number of rounds fired, 50. E 
b. Value of each hit in 50 percent zone, 2. 


c. Value of each hit in the area of the 75 percent 
zone outside the 50 percent zone, 1. 


109. EXERCISES. a. Number 1. (1) Purpose. To 
teach target designation and to show the effect of 
concentrated fire. 

(2) Method. The platoon (section) leader directs 
the fire of his platoon (section) at a point E" 
indicated to him by the instructor. 

b. Number 2. (1) Purpose. To teach Ee 
designation and the division of the platoon (section) 
fire between two points. 

(2) Method. 'The instructor indicates two point 
targets to the platoon (section) leader, giving the 
nature of each. The platoon (section) leader applies 
the fire of his platoon (section) on the two targets 
in proportions indicated by the nature of each. The 
scoring will be as for concentrated fire on each 
target, the two scores being combined in total 
for the score of the exercise. 

c. Number 3. (1) Purpose. To teach target 
designation and fire control in diverting part of the 
fire of the platoon (or section with 2 guns in action) 
to a suddenly appearing target. 


126 


2) Method. The instructor indicates a target to 
platoon (section) leader. The platoon (section) 
er applies the fire of one or more guns to this 
et. After firing has commenced, the instructor 
cates and gives the mature of a point target 
he flank. He then directs the platoon (section) 
er to shift one or more guns from the first to 
> second target. The method of scoring is to 
] the value of hits on both targets. 


Section X. TRANSITION FIRING 


PURPOSE AND SCOPE. This phase of train- 
gives the individual gunner practice in search- 
areas, estimating ranges, and firing rapidly and 
irately. It emphasizes the necessity for con- 
ed application of the principles stressed in 
jer marksmanship training, and prepares him 
field firing exercises which follow later. 


- RANGES, PERSONNEL, AND PROCE- 
RE. a. Ranges. The ranges are constructed to 
vide targets as outlined in the firing table 
уу. For protection of the pit detail, individual 
n pits of the foxhole type should be used. To 
trol the raising and lowering of targets, com- 
lication between the firing points and pits is 
ary. Targets are fastened to poles of suffi- 
it length to permit exposure of the target from 
pit without endangering the personnel in the 
. The number of lanes constructed will depend 
n the number of persons to fire. 


‚ Personnel One officer is required at each 


127 


firing point to control the firing. Pit details w 
consist of one or two men per target, with 
telephone orderly at the firing point to transn, 
Scores and orders for control of targets. 

c. Procedure. After the command LOAD, t 
officer in charge of firing gives the signal for t} 
raising of targets. Unless hit, all targets гета; 
up until the signal to withdraw them is give, 
When all targets are withdrawn the target operat; 
scores the targets and reports the score to t| 
firing line. A coach at each firing point record 
the score. Since a hit is indicated by the lowerin 
of the target, no extra credit is given for more tha 
one hit on a target. However, if two targets ar 
hit by one bullet, both targets are scored. 


112. FIRING TABLE. Firing will be conducte 
in accordance with table VI. 


Table VI. Firing Table 


No. of Maximum 
rounds Type target Range score 
Ker Prone "F" M- unknown (0—200 5 
1917 complete. yards) 
З Prone “Е” M- unknown (0-300 5 
1917 complete. yards) 
dev qe Kneeling “E” unknown (300- 5 
M-1917 com- 500 yards) 
plete. 
dimus. Kneeling “E” unknown (300— 5 
M-1917 com- 500 yards) 
plete. 20 
Score for rounds not fired— 8 
Possible score 28 


128 


a. Carbine tracer ammunition will be used. 
— b. Time allowance; 3 minutes for entire table. 
с. Gunner will be allowed 3 rounds to hit each 
arget. If he does not get a hit in 3 rounds, he 
proceeds to the next target. He will be scored 5 
points for each target hit and will be given a credit 
of one point for each round not fired per target, 
providing the target is hit. No credit will be given 
for rounds not expended per target if the target 
js not hit. It is not necessary that all targets be 
hit to receive credit for unexpended rounds on 
targets that were hit with less than 3 rounds. 

d. Target scoring will be done by operators in 


е. Fifteen points is a satisfactory score for this 
exercise. 


Section XI. FIELD FIRING 


13. PURPOSE AND SCOPE. The purpose of 
held firing is to demonstrate individual and crew 
proficiency in all phases of combat for the section 
a id platoon. The unit is conducted through a 
series of exercises which, as nearly as possible, 
simulate battlefield conditions. The situation for 
each exercise will be given by the instructor who 
will act as umpire. The tactical commanders will 
lirect and control their units in the actions 
required. At the completion of each exercise, a 
ritique will be held by the umpire. 


14. EXERCISES. The terrain should be varied for 
ch exercise, if possible, so that the unit will be 


129 


presented with a new situation for each exercise. 
The following exercises are given as guides for 
the preparation of such training. 

a. No. 1 (direct fire). (1) Purpose. (a) For the 
section leaders. Practice in control of their units in 
order to engage properly various types of targets. 

(b) For the members of the section. Application of 
the factors which govern the selection of positions, 
the use of individual cover and concealment am- 
munition supply, and technique of fire. 

(2) Unit. One section. 

(3) Situation. The section is located in an assembly 
area and is issued ammunition. The section leader 
is given pertinent portions of an operation order, 
to include position areas, target areas and sectors 
of fire, and the location of friendly troops. 

(4) Method. (a) The section leader selects his route 
of approach, his gun position, and issues the neces- 
sary orders to place the gun in position. When a 
target is indicated, the section leader issues his 
fire command, opens fire, and adjusts his fire. Fire 
for effect is not a part of these exercises. As soon 
as the fire has been adjusted, the duties of the 
crew are rotated and a new target is designated. 
The section leader must be prepared at any time 
to displace forward, move to an alternate position, 
or withdraw to a covered area. Selection of the 
proper type of ammunition will be the responsibility 
of the section leader. 

(b) Some possible types of targets are— 

1. Camouflaged cave type fortification with 
natural camouflage. Cave opening to be 
2 feet by 1 foot. Range 400-600 yards. 


130 


2. Mock tank or tank chassis. Range 600-800 
yards. 

3. Camouflaged log and earth pill- “box. 
Range 800-1000 yards. 

4. Pill box requiring section leader to smoke 
the apertures. Range 400-500 yards. 


b. No. 2 (indirect бге). (1) Purpose. (a) For the 
aders. Reconnaissance and selection of positions, 
putes of approach, observation posts, and control 
f units. 

(b) For the members of the unit. Same as exercise 
ml. 

(2) Unit.:75-mm rifle platoon. 

(3) Situation. The unit is located in an assembly 
ea and is issued ammunition. The section leader 
given pertinent portions of an operation order, 
include position areas, target areas, sectors of 
е, and the location of friendly troops. 

(4) Method. (a) The unit leader proceeds in the 
me manner as that outlined in exercise No. 1; how- 
rer, the situation should be presented so that 
direct fire is indicated. 

(b) The targets selected for this exercise should be 
"such a nature that point target or limited area 
e is clearly indicated. 


. AMMUNITION. The exercises are designed 
service ammunition; however, where range 
bilities are limited, subcaliber ammunition may be 
ed. Where subcaliber ammunition is used, the 
Ction leader should be required to specify what 
е of ammunition he would use were he firing 


131 


service ammunition. Also when subcaliber ammunj, 
tion is used, the ranges of targets suggested ( 
paragraph 114a (4) (b) must be modified to les; 
than 500 yards in order to observe the tracer strike. 


116. CRITIQUE. At the completion of each exercise 
the instructor should conduct a critique covering 
the following points (care should be taken by the 
officer conducting the critique to avoid confusing 
effectiveness of fire with over-all unit performance): 
Reconnaissance. 

. Actions and orders of unit leaders. 
Suitability of observation posts. 

. Suitability of firing positions. 
Suitability of alternate positions. 
Use of cover and concealment. 

g. Technique of fire. 

h. Ammunition resupply plans. 

i. Proper employment of types of ammunition. 


mean op 


132 


CHAPTER 6 
TECHNIQUE OF INDIRECT FIRE 


Section I. GENERAL 


117. PURPOSE AND SCOPE. Although the 75- 

im rifle was designed primarily as a direct fire 
eapon and will normally function in this role, 
asions may arise which indicate the desirability 
using the weapon in partial or complete defilade. 
his chapter discusses the means by which such 
e is effected. For more detailed description of 
is subject matter see FM 6-40. 


8. ORGANIZATION FOR INDIRECT FIRE. 
xcept in position defilade firing, in which case the 
server issues commands direct to the gunners, 
ganization for indirect fire normally consists ofÍ— 
a. An observer who sends back corrections in 
rds to the battery. The observer is usually the 
atoon leader or platoon sergeant, although any- 
e trained in observation methods may act in 
is capacity. 

. A fire direction center which translates the 
erver's corrections into fire commands and 
sues them to the gunners. The fire direction 
nter is usually made up of one or both section 
aders and a radio or telephone operator. 


133 


Section II. COMPUTATION OF INITIAL DATA 


119. PREPARATION OF DATA. Normally ud 
observer designates the location of the target by 
one of the means outlined in paragraph 132. Th. 
fire direction center then prepares the initial data for 
laying the guns. However, at times it may be neces. 
sary for the observer to prepare his initial data, 
When initial data are determined by the observer, 
he must send them to the gun position in the 
form of fire commands (see par. 155). 


120. TERMINOLOGY. The definitions, abbrevia- 
tions, and terms listed below are used in the 
preparation of firing data. 

a. Direct laying. The piece is laid by sighting 
on the target. 

b. Indirect laying. The piece is laid by sighting 
on a point other than the target. 

c. Firing angle (A). The clockwise horizontal 
angle from the target to the aiming point (see fig. 
36). 

d. Deflection. The setting of the sight which 
corresponds to the firing angle. An increase of 
deflection moves the plane of fire to the left, a 
decrease moves it to the right. 

e. Measured angle (M). The horizontal angid 
(vertex at the observation post) from the target 
to an aiming point, base point, or other points 
(fig. 36). 

f. Target offset (T). The horizontal angle (vertex 
at the target) between the piece and the observa- 
tion post (fig. 36). 


134 


LU PAG 
( 


С AIMING. POINT 


g. Aiming point offset (P). The horizontal angle 
(vertex at the aiming point) between the piece 
and the observation post (fig. 36). 

h. Range (R). Distance in thousands of yards 
from G to T. 

i. Observed range (r). Distance in thousands of 
yards from O to T. 

j. Base deflection (BD). The deflection on the 
sight when the gun tube is directed at the base 
point and the line of sighting is directed at the 
aiming point. 

k. Base point (BP). A well-defined point in the 
target area used as a point of reference from which 
range and direction adjustments of artillery fire are 
made. The location of the base point relative to 
the weapons is known. 


121. OBSERVER PREPARATION OF INITIAL 
DATA. When the observer is required to prepare 
the initial data (par. 119) the methods discussed in 
the succeeding paragraphs may be employed. 


122. COMPUTING DIRECTION. a. Hasty 
method. When the observer selects an OP on or 
near the line GT, he can direct the gunner to lay 
on the OP by the following command: AIMING 
POINT, OP, DEFLECTION ZERO, LAY ON 
ME. When this operation has been completed, 
the gun will be pointed in the general direction of 
fire. ) 


b. Alidade method (fig. 37). The observer sights 
on the gun with an alidade consisting of a pencil 


136 


 -— B. 


О 
ALIDADE HIEN 


ү: 


ure 37. Alidade method of determining initial direction. 


a straight edge. Without altering the position 
e alidade, he measures the deviation (A) be- 
еп the direction to the target and the direction 
which the alidade points. He multiplies this 
lation by the deflection correction factor r/R 
btain the approximate value of angle B. He then 
mands, AIMING POINT, OP; DEFLEC- 
N RIGHT (LEFT)————; LAY ON ME. 
Parallel line method. The observer estimates 
shortest distance from the observation post 
he line GT. He selects an object on the ground 


137 


to the front, on the same side of the line GT anq 
at the same distance from this line as he is locate, 
With a compass he determines the magnetic azi 
muth of the selected object. This is the azimuth 
of the line GT. 


d. Rapid plotting method. A diagram may b. 
drawn to scale, either on a sheet of paper or on а 
map or overlay. From this diagram range anq 
deflection may be read directly (fig. 38). 


e. Compass and mil method. The compass and 
mil method is used only when the angle T is les; 


vA STEPS 
4 I.MEASURE AZIMUTH O TO T 
/ T | 2.MEASURE OR COMPUTE 
/ DISTANCE O TO T 
/ 3.MEASURE OR ESTIMATE 
/ DISTANCE O TO G 
А 4MEASURE L TOG 
ie id 5.PLOT TO SCALE 
/ 6.MEASURE “Т AND DISTANCE 
GT 
7.AZIMUTH б T EQUALS 
AZIMUTH ОТ LESS VT 


G 


Figure 38. Rapid plotting diagram. 


138 


than 400 mils. The observer at the observation 
post proceeds as follows: 


- (1) Reads the azimuth of the line OT. 

(2) Estimates the distance OT and at the same 
time estimates the shortest distance from his posi- 
tion to the line GT. 

(3) Using the mil formula, he finds the angle T 
and adds or subtracts it from the azimuth OT. If 
the gun is on the left of the observer, he adds; if 
the gun is on the right, he subtracts. The result 
is the azimuth on which the gun should be laid. 
Note. A convenient method for teaching observers to know 


quickly whether angle T should be added or subtracted is to 
se the word "GLARS" (gun left, add; right, subtract). 


4 xample (gun right of observer) : 
Azimuth OT ..... Ж РИИ РУКУУ A nite 1,800 mils. 


Range ОША ite ch tree аз дис vetet ere IET d E 1,500 yards. 
Shortést distance from O to line GT............ 300 yards. 
.300 


Is = 200 mils = angle T 


Determine the azimuth of the line GT by subtracting 200 
mils from 1800 mils. 
The azimuth GT is 1600 mils. 


f. M-10 plotting board. Direction, range, and 
angle of site can all be determined using the M-10 
lotting board. (For operation see paragraph 28 
and FM 23-55.) 


23. COMPUTING ANGLE OF SITE. When 
pproximate initial firing data are used, the angle 
f site may be estimated, or may be assumed to 
e zero. However, when more accurate computation 
5 desired, the observer may employ a contoured 


139 


map, an M-10 plotting board, or may compute it 
by the use of an instrument, such as the aiming 
circle and application of the mil relation formula, 
In this latter method, the observer computes the 
difference in elevation between the OP and the 
gun, the OP and the target, and thus between the 
gun and target. With this difference in elevation 
he can find the angle of site of the line GT. 


124. ELEVATION. (a) The range GT is deter- 
mined from maps, by estimation, from friendly 
troops, by rapid plotting, or from the M-10 plotting 
board. The angle of elevation for this range is 
found in the firing tables. 

b. The angle of site and the elevation for the 
range are added together algebraically and the 
resulting quantity is known as the quadrant eleva- 
tion. The quadrant elevation is placed on the sight 
or the gunner's quadrant. 


Section III. GENERAL PRINCIPALS OF 
CONDUCT OF FIRE 


125. GENERAL. This section is concerned with the 
computation of factors, initial fire requests, and 
general principles of observer conduct of fire. The 
fundamental principle underlying observer conduct 
of an adjustment is that all bursts should remain on 
or near the OT line. For this purpose two proce- 
dures are employed. These are the range-bracketing 
and the deflection-bracketing procedures, each of 
which will be discussed in later sections of this 
chapter. 


140 


126. SENSINGS. One positive sensing is sufficient 
to establish a limit of a bracket. Sensing must be 
made promptly, except when it is necessary to 
take advantage of drifting smoke. Sensing must be 
based on what the observer sees while it is before 
his eyes, not on what he recollects. Except for 
terrain sensings, range or deflection sensings on 
bursts wide of the target should be made with 
caution. When sensings are made on drifting smoke 
or on shadows, the direction of the wind and the 
position of the sun must be considered. 


127. BRACKETING. It is better to overestimate 
the necessary correctibns than to underestimate 
them, because in this way a bracket is more readily 
‘obtained. The controlling element is that element 
(either range or deflection) which is more difficult 
fo sense. Range is the controlling element in range 
bracketing procedure (target offset of 500 mils or 
less) and deflection is the controlling element in 
deflection bracketing procedure (target offset 
greater than 500 mils). 


128. KEEPING BURSTS ON LINE. a. If a range 
change is made from a line shot, a corresponding 
deflection change is necessary to keep the burst on 
the OT line; conversely, if a deflection change is 
made from a line shot, a corresponding range 
change is required. S is the deflection shift in yards 
Vhich keeps the burst on the OT line when the 
ange is changed 100 yards (fig. 39). 

b. When sensings are obtained, small deviations 
Which might be caused by dispersion or by minor 


141 


Figure 39. The factor “S”. 


142 


regularities of the ground are ignored. Larger 
eviations which might hamper future sensings are 
jrrected to place bursts on the OT line. 


20. DETERMINATION OF DEFLECTION 
(ACTOR “5”. The deflection factor “5”, in yards, 
jay be determined by— 

a. Estimation and subsequent correction e firing. 
b. Computation using the formula S = 1/10 T 
if T is less than 600 mils). 

c. Use of ranging rounds. 


. EMPLOYMENT OF RANGING ROUNDS. 
Ranging rounds consist of two rounds fired as 
apidly as possible from the adjusting piece, the 
rst round where ordered by the observer, and the 
cond round at a range 400 yards greater. The 
server proceeds as follows: 

(1) He notes the line established by the two 
nging rounds and visualizes the gun-target line. 
(2) He measures the deviation (in mils) between 
Irsts and converts this deviation (fig. 40) to yards 
y means of the mil relation formula. Example: 
Estimated range to 1st burst...... 1,500 yards. 
Measured deviation in mils....... 100 

Deviation in yards. ............. W 

W = RM = 1.5 x 100 = 150 yards. 

(3) If the observed deviation is 200 yards or 
Ss the observer divides it by 4 (the distance 
ween ranging rounds in hundreds of yards) to 
tain the S factor. 


143 


(4) If the observed deviation is greater than 200 
yards, the value of S is no longer equal to approx 
mately one-fourth the value of the observed devia. 
tion. Instead, the observer uses the following table 
of approximate values in order to obtain a usable S, 


For an observed 


deviation of — Use an S of— 
(yards) (yards) 
25011 bee du uer ehe diei ЕЛЫ sre EAS 80 
ЗОО dei oc IRIS ies t ttm Ema 100 
АНЕ were, rer бабае E 200 


For larger values of S a precise determination i; 


not required. 


Figure 40. Observed deviation in ranging rounds. 


144 


(5) If the observed deviation between ranging 
rounds i is 200 yards or less, range is the controlling 
Jement, and the observer uses range bracketing 
procedure. If the observed deviation is greater than 
200 yards, deflection is the controlling element and 
he observer uses deflection bracketing procedure. 
b. When the observer desires ranging rounds 
jred, he includes in his initial fire message FIRE 
ANGING ROUNDS. Corrections are based on 
he first of the two ranging rounds. 


31. CORRECTIONS AND TERMS. Listed below 
Fe corrections and terms normally used by the 
bserver. Any additional information that would 
sist in bringing desired fire on the target may be 
transmitted. 

a. Left (Right) (so many yards). To correct the 

eflection. 
. Converged (so many yards) sheaf. To obtain 
converged sheaf (or a sheaf of any desired width). 
с. Converge on No. two (or other piece). To 
tain a sheaf converged on the desired piece. 
. Up (Down) (so many yards). To correct for 
ifferences in altitude in the target area in the 
itial fire message. 
e. Add (Drop) (so many yards). To increase 
lecrease) the range. 
f. Repeat range. To obtain fire with no change in 
hy element of the firing date. 
g. Salvo right (left). To obtain battery salvos 
ginning with the right (left) piece. 


145 


h. Fire for effect. To indicate that the adjust. 
ment is satisfactory and that the unit is to fire fo 
effect. | 

i. Special corrections. To indicate that individu; 
corrections for lateral distribution and variation; 
in range between pieces is necessary. 

j. Correction. A term used in a fire message to 
indicate that an error in data has been announced 
and that corrected data will follow; any change in 
firing data to bring the center of impact or burst 
closer to the target. 

k. Lost (followed by correction to obtain obser. 
vation). To indicate that the last round or volley 
was not observed. 

1. Cease firing, end of mission. To terminate 
firing on a target. 

m. Cease firing. To interrupt firing for any 
reason. 


132. INITIAL FIRE REQUEST. The initial fire 
request sent by the observer to the fire direction 
center includes the following elements in the. se 
quence indicated: 

Identification of the observer. 

Warning order. 

Location of target. 

Nature of target. 

Type of adjustment. 

Type of ammunition. 

Control. 


a. Identification of the observer. The observer, 


146 


den necessary, identifies himself, usually by use 
йа code word. 

> Warning order. The observer sends FIRE 
SSION to alert the fire direction center. 

с. Location of target. The location of the target 
jy be given in one of the following ways: 

By giving a shift in yards from a point, the 
on of which is known by the fire direction 


МАТЕО ТО BE 2OYDS — \ 
ME "ALTITUDE OF BASEPOINT. 


Ure 41. Designating the location of the target with respect 
а known point. The observer sent to FDC: FROM BASE 
INT, LEFT 400, UP 30, ADD 600 (to assure bracketing 
Me target between the known point and the initial round.) 


147 


Known point, deflection, altitude, range. For „ 
ample: FROM BASE POINT, LEFT ‘FO 
HUNDRED, UP THREE ZERO, ADD S 
HUNDRED. The deflection and range correcti,,? 
should be large enough to assure the bracketing | 
the target between the known point and the init, 
round. Normally the altitude element is omitti] 
However, where differences in altitude between ; 
known point and target would cause a large chan, 
in angle of site, this element is included. 


(2) By giving coordinates referring to a ma 
photo map, or vertical or oblique photo. | 


(3) By means of a geographic direction a 
distance from a known point, as: FROM CR 2) 
NORTH 400, EAST 500; or FROM CR 9j 
NORTHEAST 600. 


(4) By commanding a marking round from whi 
he can shift to his target. Examples: 


MARK BASE POINT. 
MARK CHECK POINT NO. 3. 
MARK CENTER OF SECTOR. 


d..Nature of target. A brief description of th 
target is used to give information of the importan 
of the target and to indicate the best manner 
attack. | 
I 


e. Type of adjustment. The designation of ty 
of adjustment may include special sheaf or rang 
spread desired, or any other special requiremet 
If salvo fire is desired, the observer sends SALVE 
RIGHT (LEFT). If no specific type of fire ! 
designated, single gun adjustment will be use 


148 


justment by single gun will be the normal 


Types of ammunition. The observer designates 
type of projectile and fuze desired. Choice of 
jectile and fuze depends on type of target and 
et sought. If no specific types of ammunition 
designated, He with fuze superquick will be 


; Control. The observer’s designation of control 
consist of one of the following: 

1) WILL ADJUST. This indicates that the 
racy of the observer’s location of the target is 
that an adjustment is considered necessary 
that the observer can adjust fire. If observation 
jifficult or intermittent, the observer precedes 
EL ADJUST by AT MY COMMAND. In 
event, the observer transmits FIRE after 
ipt of READY from the fire direction center, 
when he is in a position to observe. This 
cedure remains in effect until a subsequent 
ection is followed by the command WHEN 
ADY. 

2) FIRE FOR EFFECT. When transmitted as 
t of the initial fire message, this indicates that 
observer considers his location of the target 
ре accurate, no adjustment necessary, and sur- 
e fire desirable. He observes the initial fire for 
st and, if necessary, sends appropriate correc- 
S to increase the effect of subsequent fire on 
target. 

3) CANNOT OBSERVE. This indicates that the 
erver will be unable to adjust the fire. 


149 


h. Examples of initial fire messages: 
(1) FIRE MISSION 
MARK BASE POINT 
TROOPS 
WILL ADJUST 
(2) FIRE MISSION 
FROM BASE POINT 
RIGHT FOUR HUNDRED 
UP FIVE ZERO 
ADD SIX HUNDRED 
THREE MACHINE GUNS 
WILL ADJUST 
(3) FOX OBOE BAKER 
FIRE MISSION 
JIG MIKE 9763 
INFANTRY IN FOXHOLES 
HE FUZE DELAY 
AT MY COMMAND 
WILL ADJUST 
(4) FIRE MISSION 
(42.7-93.6) 
INFANTRY IN OPEN 
HE FUZE DELAY 
FIRE FOR EFFECT 


133. INFORMATION SENT TO OBSERVER. 
If a target is to be fired upon, the fire directio 
center furnishes the following information to th 
observer: 


150 


| Example 
(1) Adjusting piece......... No. 3 
(2) Projectile and fuze...... HE DELAY 

(3) Concentration No. CONCENTRA- 
assigned. TION NO. 30 
(4) Time of opening бге... ҮНЕМ READY 


b. If the mission cannot be fired, the observer is 
otified WILL NOT FIRE, along with the reason 
r not firing. 

с. The observer is informed ON THE WAY as 
ich round is fired during adjustment. He is notified 


hen fire for effect has been completed; for ex- 
nplee ROUNDS COMPLETE. 


SUBSEQUENT CORRECTIONS. a. Any 
ement of subsequent corrections, other than the 
)orrection for range, may be omitted if no change 
| that element is desired. If some element is to 
e corrected, but range is not, the observer sends 
le correction for that element followed by RE- 
EAT RANGE. If it is desired to fire with the 
ime data as the last rounds, the observer sends 
EPEAT RANGE. 

b. Subsequent corrections are given in the follow- 
ig sequence: 

(1) Deflection correction. 

2) Distribution correction. 

(3) Change in any special requirements (for 
ample, to change from single gun to salvo fire, or 
om salvo to volley fire). 

(4) Change in number of rounds to be fired. 


151 


(5) Change in ammunition (for example, to 
change from fuze superquick to fuze delay). | 
(6) Range correction. 


135. CORRECTION OF ERRORS. If the observe; 
has transmitted his initial fire request and finds 
that he has made an error in one of the elements 
contained therein, he sends CORRECTION fol- 
lowed only by the information pertaining to the 
element which is in error. If an element is omitted, 
the observer sends that element to the fire direction 
center as a separate transmission. 


Section IV. CONDUCT OF FIRE BY 
RANGE-BRACKETING PROCEDURE 


136. GENERAL. Range-bracketing procedure is 
employed when the observed deviation between 
ranging rounds is 200 yards or less. 


137. RANGE BOUNDS. Aíter a round has been 
sensed positively, the first range bound is made 
large enough to bracket the target. Initial range 
changes are made in hundreds of yards. Normally, 
when firing at observed ranges over 2,000 ж 
the initial range correction should not be less than 
400 yards to establish the bracket. 


138. ADJUSTMENT. a. The object of adjustment 
is to enclose the target within a range bracket of 
suitable depth, with deflection correct, or to obtain | 
target hits. This is accomplished by successively 

| 


152 


fitting the initial bracket. Fire for effect is not 
jerally called for until a bracket of 100 yards 
Jess is split. 

>. Ranging rounds. The observer may order the 
ng of ranging rounds to assist in the computation 
һе S and to determine the type of bracketing to 
employed. 
2 To get on the line. When a burst cannot be 
sed positively for range because of its deviation 
m the OT line, the amount of the deviation is 
ermined, in yards, and a deflection correction, 
jal to that amount is made to place the next 
fst on the OT line.. 

1. To stay on the line. When a line shot is 
lained, shift of one S is made for each 100-yard 
inge in range in order to keep the burst on the 
"line. When a burst off the OT line is sensed 
itively for range, the observer's deflection cor- 
tion combines a shift to bring the Off line burst 
the line, and a shift to stay on the line when 
? range is changed. 


). FIRE FOR EFFECT. a. Starting fire for 
lect. Fire for effect is started when a suitable 
acket is split, a target hit is obtained, or a salvo 
ackets the target for range. If all pieces of the 
ttery are calibrated (par. 156) they may be 
ought into fire for effect when the base piece has 
in adjusted. If they have not been calibrated, it 
advisable to adjust the other guns by means of 
tery salvos before commencing fire for effect. 
fire for effect was accurate but insufficient the 
server may command REPEAT RANGE, 


153 


REPEAT FIRE FOR EFFECT. The observer са, 
and should make corrections while fire for effec; 
being delivered. 


Observer to FDC (initial RANGING BURSY 


fire request) : 
FIRE MISSION, 
MARK BASE POINT, 
FIRE RANGING ROUNDS, 
WILL ADJUST. 


FDC to Observer: 
RANGING ROUNDS, 
FUZE QUICK, 

BASE POINT, 
WHEN READY .... 
ON THE WAY. 


Remarks: OT distance from тар = 2,000 yards. With field glasses 
observer measures 40 mils between ranging rounds. Observed de 
= 80 yards (40 x 2). S = 20 yards (80/4). Guns to right rea 
Range-bracketing to be used. No range sensing obtained. First rangin 
round is 80 mils right of OT line. Observer determines shift of 14 
yards (80 x 2) necessary to bring burst to OT line. 


Observer to FDC: 
LEFT 160, 
REPEAT RANGE, 


FDC to Observer: 
ON THE WAY 


Remarks: Small deviation is ignored. Observer decides that 200- yari 
range change should give a range bracket. 


Figure 42. Illustrative examples. 


154 


Observer to FDC: 
RIGHT 40 
ADD 200. 


FDC to Observer: 
ON THE WAY 


| 


IA to FDC: 
LEFT 20, 
DROP 100 


[9 
крс to Observer: 


ON THE WAY 


server to FDC: 
LEFT 10, 

з ROUNDS 

DROP 50. 

FIRE FOR EFFECT 


Server to FDC: 


CEASE FIRING, 
END OF MISSION 


Figure 42. Illustrative examples—Continued 


Е 155 


b. Report of observer. Upon completion of fir, 
for effect the observer sends CEASE FIRING 
END OF MISSION (if fire has been effective anq 
sufficient) and reports the effect which has bee 
obtained; for example, INFANTRY DISPERSED, 


140. Employment. a. Employ range-bracketing pro. 
cedure when the observed deviation between rang. 
ing rounds is 200 yards or less (target offset of 500 
mils or less). 

b. Bring bursts to the OT line by making appro- 
priate deflection corrections. 

c. Keep bursts on the OT line by shifting deflec- 
tion one S for each 100-yard range change. 


141. PRECISION FIRE. a. Adjustment. The object 
of adjustment is to determine the trial range. The 
trial range is the range for the center of a 100-yard 
(or l-fork) range bracket, or a range giving a 
target hit. 

b. Fire for effect. (1) Start fire for effect at the 
trial range, and with a deflection correction which 
will place the burst on the OT line. The rounds 
are fired singly or in half-groups of three. 

(2) Based on positive sensings, the deflection is 
changed L4 5 or 10 yards, whichever is greater, 
until a deflection bracket is obtained. Thereafter, 
the bracket is split until the deflection is correct. 
Deflection is correct when a target hit is obtained, 
when a 10-yard deflection bracket is split, or when 
deflection over and deflection short are obtained with 
the same deflection setting. 


156 


(3) Obtain and report to the fire-direction center 
, group of six usable range sensings. 

c. Types of registration. (1) SIX ROUND REG- 
STRATION. This is the type normally used. The 
djusted elevation is computed by fire-direction 
center as follows: 

(a) If the first three rounds fired for effect are 
И in the same sense and the observer has made the 
ppropriate range change and has fired three more 
punds, all six rounds are considered to have been 
red at the mean of the two elevation used. 

(b) With an equal number of overs and shorts, 
e adjusted elevation is the elevation at which the 
roup was fired. 

(c) With unequal numbers of overs and shorts, 
he difference between the number of overs and 
horts (neglecting target hits) is determined. Apply 
e formula: 

[Difference in number of overs and ae XF 

| 2 X number of rounds fired К 
nd add (subtract) the result to (from) the elevation 
ised (or mean elevation). 

Note. If there were more overs than shorts, subtract; if 
here were more shorts than overs, add. 

(d) Adjusted elevation is taken to the nearest 
nil. The fork used for the computation corresponds 
to the elevation at which the group was fired. 


I 


Section V. CONDUCT OF FIRE BY 
DEFLECTION-BRACKETING PROCEDURE 


42. DEFLECTION. When the observer is con- 
siderably to one side of the GT line, he can deter- 


157 


mine the range error more accurately than he саһ 
the deflection error. Deflection, therefore, become 
the controlling factor and the observer will use the 
deflection-bracketing procedure described below for 
adjusting on the target. This procedure is employeq 
when the observed deviation between ranging 
rounds is greater than 200 yards. 


143. DEFLECTION BOUNDS. After a round has 
been sensed positively, the first deflection bound is 
made large enough to bracket the target. That is, a 
bold enough change is made for the second round to 
insure that a bracket is established. Normally a 
deflection correction for the initial bracket should 
not be less than two S’s, or greater than 400 yards, 


144. COMPUTATION OF RANGE FACTOR (4). 
a. In deflection bracketing, bursts are brought to 
the OT line by range changes. To facilitate bringing 
off line bursts to the OT line, a range factor (d) 
in mils is employed. by the observer. This factor is 
the angular deviation from the OT line caused by a 
100-yard range change. The measured deviation oí 
off line bursts is divided by this *d" to determine 
the number of 100-yard range bounds necessary 
to bring the bursts to the OT line. To determine 
this factor the observer measures the deviation in 
mils between ranging rounds and divides this angle 
by 4. When the observer is so close to the target 
that the use of angle measuring instruments is 
impracticable, he is able to estimate the amount 
. of range change necessary in this case, His estima- 


158 


n of range error is facilitated by the use of a 
ardstick” established by ranging rounds or by 
or firing in the vicinity of his target. 

>» The value of "d" may be determined also, 
pproximately, by computation, using the formula: 
d — 1/10T (if T is less than 600 mils) 


L 


4 ADJUSTMENT. a. The object of adjustment 
fo enclose the target within a deflection bracket 
suitable width, with range correct, or to obtain 
get hits. This is accomplished by successively 
itting the initial bracket. 

7. Ranging rounds. Ranging rounds are normally 
ployed to determine the S and d factors. 

„ To get on the line. When a burst cannot be 
ised positively for deflection because of its devia- 
n from the OT line, the amount of deviation is 
asured in mils, and a range correction to place 
e next burst on the line is determined by dividing 
e deviation by d and multiplying by 100. For 
ample: The observer senses deflection doubtful 
0 mils right of the OT line); the d is 20; the 
ece is on the right. The range change to place 
e next burst on the line is 80/20 x 100 — 400 
irds. The observer sends: ADD 400. It may be 
cessary to bracket the line with range changes to 
cure line shots. Because of dispersion and irregu- 
ground, it often may be difficult to obtain 
ccessive line shots. Minor deviations should be 
nored unless it is impossible to obtain sensings. 
d. To stay on the line. (1) When a line shot is 


159 


| 


obtained, a range change of 100 yards is made A 
each S deflection change in order to keep the by 
on the OT line. When a burst off the OT d 
sensed positively for deflection, the observe; 
range correction combines (a), the range chang 
to bring the off line burst to the line, and (b), th 
range change to stay on the line when the deflecti,, 
is changed. If the observer discovers that his , 
factor is in error, he makes the necessary correctio; 
at any time during the adjustment. 

(2) When a deflection bracket is obtained, it ; 
split. Thereafter, bursts are kept on or near th 
OT line by splitting the range bracket betwee. 
sensed rounds. If positive sensings cannot | 
obtained from bursts not on the OT line, th 
observer must modify the range bracket to brin 
off line bursts to the line, and then split the resuli 
ing bracket. An example of the procedure employe 
in keeping bursts on the OT line is as follow: 
During adjustment a line shot has been obtaine 
and the observer sensed deflection short; he decide 
to shift the deflection 2 S's. S is 70; the piece is o 
the right. He commands RIGHT 140, ADD 20 
The next burst is to the left of the OT line, bu 
he obtains a sensing of deflection over. With th 
use of the range factors, he determines that 
correction of DROP 40 would place the last bur: 
on the OT line; therefore, he would consider hi 
range bracket to be 160 yards instead of 200 yard: 
and his next correction should be LEFT 70 DRO 
120 (DROP 40 to get on the line, DROP 80 to spl 
his effective range bracket of 160 yards). Thi 
correction should place the next burst on or ver 


160 


near the OT line. The brackets are narrowed until 
the bursts are brought within effective bursting 
radius of the target, or until the target is hit. 


146. FIRE FOR EFFECT. a. Starting fire for 
effect. Fire for effect is started when a deflection 
bracket of 100 yards is split, or when target hits 
are obtained, or a salvo brackets the target for 


b. Report of observer. Upon completion of fire 
for effect, the observer reports as in range-bracket- 
ng procedure. 


17. EMPLOYMENT. a. Employ deflection-brack- 
Bing procedure when the observed deviation 
etween ranging rounds is greater than 200 yards 
target offset greater than 500 mils). 

b. Bring bursts to the OT line by making appro- 
iate range corrections. 

c. Keep bursts on the OT line by making a 100- 
yard range change for each 1-S deflection shift. 


48. PRECISION FIRE. a. Adjustment. The object 
Ё adjustment is to determine the trial deflection. 
"he trial deflection is a deflection giving a target 
hit, or a deflection for the center of a 1-S bracket, 
or a deflection for the center of a bracket of 80 
yards or less when S is greater than 80 yards. 

b. Fire for effect. (1) Start fire for effect at the 
ial deflection, and with a range correction which 
vill place the bursts on the OT line. The rounds 
re fired singly or in half-groups of three. ` 


161 


(2) Based upon positive deflection sensings, im- 
-prove the deflection until it is correct. Deflection 
is correct when a target hit is obtained, when a 
10-yard deflection bracket is split, or when deflection 
over and deflection short are obtained with the same 
deflection setting. 

(3) Obtain and report to fire-direction center a 
group of six usable range sensings. 


149. FLANK OBSERVATION. As the OT line 
approaches the perpendicular to the GT line, the 
observer must modify the procedure described 
above for staying on the line. The true value of S 
increases very rapidly as the observer's position 
approaches the flank of the target; for example, 
when the observer approaches to within 300 mils 
of the perpendicular to the GT line, the value of S 
has increased to approximately 340 yards. Based 
upon firing, the observer may find it necessary to 
make very small changes (or no change at all) in 
range to keep burst on the OT line when a deflec- 
‘tion shift is made. 


Section VI. CONDUCT OF THE BATTERY 


150. GENERAL. This section is concerned with 
the various duties, operations, and requirements 
pertaining to the firing battery. 


151. INITIAL LAYING. The executive (usually 
the platoon sergeant) lays the battery parallel 
initially and whenever he is ordered to record base 
deflection. 


162 


2. LAYING THE BATTERY PARALLEL. a. 
tic compass. The pieces are pointed in the 
eral direction of fire. The battery executive 
jjaces the compass on a stake or other support 
@ steady it and commands: AIMING POINT, 
THIS INSTRUMENT. The gunner, upon locating 
die position of the compass, reports: “Aiming point 
dentified." He then turns the elbow telescope in 
he direction of the compass. The executive meas- 
wes the azimuth to the sight. He subtracts the 
wimuth on which the guns are to be laid from the 
imuth which he has measured (adding 6400 if 
cessary). The remainder (minus 3200 if neces- 
sry) is placed on the sight. Without moving the 

ht, the tube is rotated until the sight is referred 
to the compass, at which time the gunner reports: 

o. 1, Ready.” The executive then commands: 
MING POINT. : REFER, MARK BASE 
ЕТ. ЕСТІОМ. Without disturbing the tube, the 
ht is referred to the designated aiming point, 
d the base deflection recorded. This process may 
tepeated for each of the pieces of the battery or 
the remaining guns may be laid reciprocally. 


р. Using aiming circle. The executive sets up 
aiming circle away from magnetic metals and at 
place where it can be used as an aiming point for 
pieces. He then— 4 


(1) Subtracts from the declination constant plus 
{#00 if necessary, the azimuth on ‘which the battery 
to be laid. 


2) Sets the remainder on the azimuth and 
crometer scales of the aiming circle. 


163 


(3) Release and center the compass needle usin, 
the lower motion. The 0-3200 line of the instr 
ment is now directed to the announced azimuth. 

(4) Reads the deflection to each gun with th, 
upper motion and commands: AIMING POINT 
THIS INSTRUMENT: DEFLECTION No. 1. 
No. 2__, etc. (The gunner of each piece repeats this 
deflection and sets it on his sight. He then move 
the tube so that the sight is referred to the aiming 
circle and repeats: “No. 1, ready for recheck.” This 
process is repeated until the error has been reduce 
to one mil or less). 

(5) Commands: AIMING POINT. 
FER: RECORD BASE DEFLECTION. 

c. Reciprocal laying. When one gun has been 
laid in the proper direction by any method, the 
remaining guns of the battery may be laid on the 
same azimuth as follows: At the command ON 
NUMBER LAY PARALLEL, the gunner 
of the specified’ gun turns his sight right or left, 
without disturbing the lay of the piece, until the 
vertical cross hair of his sight bisects the objective 
lens of the sight on the gun to be laid. He then 
takes the mil reading opposite the index on the 
deflection scale and announces it to the gunner 
of the gun to be laid. This gunner sets the т 


: RE. 


nounced reading on his own deflection scale, ап 
without disturbing this reading, moves the gun 
in deflection until the vertical cross hair of his 
sight bisects the objective lens of the sight on tht 
original gun. The first gunner checks his sight to 
see that rotation of the other gun has not throw" 
his sight off, If it has, he re-lays his sight on the 


164 


ght of the other gun and announces the new 
ading. The second gunner sets the new reading 
his sight and re-lays the gun so that his sight 
= back on the original sight. This process is re- 
ated until a difference in reading of 1 mil or less 
effected, at which time the second gun is parallel 


03. MINIMUM ELEVATION. As soon as the 
sition is occupied, the battery executive deter- 
nes the minimum elevation for mask (and if 
essary for troop) clearance (par. 165) and 
ords this figure. In case it is necessary to deter- 
е more than one minimum elevation in the 
gone of fire, the executive records it, for example: 

imuth 4850 to 5200, minimum elevation 55; 5200 
9650, minimum elevation 42. 


CONVERSION OF FIRE REQUESTS 
ID OBSERVER CORRECTIONS. Firing data 
Asmitted from the FO to the fire direction 
iter is in yards for range and deflection. In order 
‘this information to be of use to the gunner it 
ist be converted to mils. The fire direction center 
lverts yards of deflection to mils by means of 
i mil relation formula, a firing chart, or a deflec- 
n conversion table, and converts yards of range 
mils of elevation by means of a firing table. 


. FIRE COMMANDS. a. General. For general 
cussion of fire.commands, see paragraph 95. The 
owing subparagraphs discuss fire commands as 
lied to indirect fire. 


165 


b. Sequence. (1) The sequence for transmission 
fire commands for indirect fire is as follows: 

(a) Pieces to follow commands. 

(b) Type of ammunition. 

(c) Fuze. 

(d) Direction. 

(e) Distribution. 

(f) Pieces to fire. 

(g) Method of fire. 

(h) Elevation (the order to load the piece). 

(i) Command to open fire. 


(2) All бге commands follow the general sequen 
outlined above. However, in certain fire command; 
those elements which are not necessary for th: 
proper conduct of fire are omitted. 


c. Initial fire command. (1) Pieces to follow com. 
mands. When two or more guns are operating as 4 
unit, the word BATTERY designates that all piece 
are to follow commands. If it is desired that only 
one gun follow commands, the number of that gun is 
substituted. 

(2) Type of ammunition. The type of ammunition 
to be used is specified in the fire command as: HE, 
HEAT, etc. 


(3) Fuze. Unless otherwise specified, fuze supe 
quick is used. 


(4) Direction. Direction is indicated by BASE 
DEFLECTION or BASE DEFLECTION RIGHT 
(LEFT) (SO MUCH). 


(5) (a) Distribution. This element deals with th 
distribution of the bursts in the impact area. T? 


166 


lose the sheaf the command is ON NUMBER . 

SLOSE . . . To open the sheaf the command is 

N NUMBER. — OPEN. . The number of mils 

announced depends on the distance in yards that 

je bursts are to be moved and the range at which 
he battery is to fire. Upon receipt of this command, 
he gunners set off on their sights the product of 

е directed change and the number of intervals 

hich exist between their pieces and the one desig- 

ated, adding this product if the piece is to move 
the left and subtracting if it is to move to the 
ће. Then the gunners re-lay their pieces. Individ- 

] corrections to produce a regular sheaf are also 

cluded in this element of the fire command. 

(b) pU 

Sheaf. A sheaf consists of the planes of 
fire of two or more pieces. 

2. Width of sheaf. 'The width of the sheaf is 
the lateral interval between flank bursts. 

3. Parallel sheaf. A parallel sheaf is one in 
which the planes of fire are parallel. 

4. Converged sheaf. When the battery is fired 
with bursts converged on a point target, 
the planes of fire constituted converged 
sheaf (fig. 44). 

5. Obpen sheaf. An open sheaf is one covering 
the maximum front without shifting. (Max- 
mum front is based upon the effective 
bursting radius of the HE shell). 

6. Regular sheaf. A regular sheaf is one in 
which the bursts are approximately on a 
line for range and are equally spaced 
laterally. 


167 


Figure 43. Parallel sheaf. 


(6) Pieces to fire. This element of the fire command 
designates the specific weapon(s) which will fire. 

(7) Method of fire. The method of fire is always 
announced in the initial fire command. If the battery 
is the fire unit, the command may be No. 1 (3, etc., 


168 


4 „ек 
Е 
Q У wom oF 


Figure 44. Converged sheaf. 


hichever is the base gun) ONE ROUND. At 
€ command BATTERY RIGHT (LEFT), battery 
Ше is delivered successively from the right (left) 
nk at short fixed intervals. The normal interval is 
“Seconds. If a different interval is desired, the 


169 


command is: BATTERY RIGHT (LEFT), 4; 
(SO MANY) SECONDS; or BATTERY RIGH 
(LEFT), AT MY COMMAND. At the comman, 
BATTERY ONE ROUND (TWO ROUNDs 
etc.), all guns fire the first round simultaneously 
This is.known as volley fire. If a multiple numbe, 
of rounds are to be fired, the initial volley will }, 
fired on the command of the battery executive, and 
all subsequent rounds will be fired individually p, 
each gunner as soon as he can re-load and re-lay. 


(8) Elevation. The elevation is always announce) 
in all fire commands. The command for elevation 
is the command to load the piece. In the fire com. 
mand the word "elevation" does not precede th: 
numerical value unless required for clarity. 

(9) Command to open fire. This element is given а; 
FIRE. 


d. Subsequent fire commands. In subsequent 
commands only those elements which are to be 
changed are mentioned, with the exception of the 
elevation and the command to fire. 


156. CALIBRATION. a. Definition. Calibration i: 
the comparison of the shooting qualities of a given 
piece with those of another piece taken as standard 
A calibration correction is a correction to make a pied 
fire in agreement with the piece taken as standard. 


b. Necessity for calibration. The principles oí 
conduct of fire with a battery are based on the 
assumption that if all pieces of a battery are fired 
under the same conditions, the rounds will fall at 
approximately the same range. There are, however. 


170 


ariations due to slight differences in the dimen- 
ons of the chambers and in wear in the venturis. 
then the variations are determined by calibration, 
)mpensating corrections may be made. 


c. Method. Calibration is normally accomplished 
б registration of the individual guns on a common 
rget. (See par. 158.) 


Section VII. PREARRANGED FIRES 


7. GENERAL. a. Definition. (1) Prearranged fires. 
res for which firing data are prepared in advance 
e known as prearranged fires. Prearranged fires 
re used to aid in the support of an attack or de- 
ase, and for firing during periods of poor visibility 
darkness. Normally they are unobserved fires. 
pncentrations should be prepared for gaps in the 
'earranged close-defensive fires of other supporting 
eapons, for likely avenues of approach, for possible 
Ssembly areas, for known enemy positions, and 
)r areas which are likely to be occupied by enemy 
üpporting weapons or observers. Requests for 
)ncentrations on gaps in the prearranged close- 
efensive fires of other supporting weapons will be 
Пхеп first priority over requests for all other types 
f fire. 

(2) Concentration. A concentration is a volume of 
re placed on an area within a limited time. 


(3) Registration. Firing data will be corrected by 
]eistration on a known point, as near the time of 
ring as the tactical situation permits. 


171 


(4) K. The elevation correction factor obtained 
from registration on a base point is known as Қ 
(see par. 158). 


(5) Announcement of data. Data determined by 
precise methods will be announced to the smallest 
graduation of the scale involved. 

b. Direction. As prearranged fires are normally 
unobserved, the most precise methods of obtaining 
the initial data will be used, preferably by the em- 
ployment of maps. If maps are not available, data 
will be obtained by the employment of fire control 
instruments and rapid plotting. When using maps, 
the positions of the gun and the target are deter- 
mined and a line drawn connecting the two. The 
azimuth can then be measured directly with a 
protractor. 

c. Angle of site. Computed as in paragraph 123. 

d. Elevation. Determined as in paragraph 124. 

e. New targets. New targets are plotted and the 
shift measured with a protractor. 

f. Data cards. (1) Firing data are placed on a 
data card; a suggested form for such cards is shown 
in figure 45. Any other similar data card suiting 
the needs of the platoon or section leader is satis- 
factory. 

(2) Upon the occupation of a position, these 
cards should be prepared for the primary positions, 
and when time permits, for alternate and supple- 
mentary positions as 'well. 

(3) When a section (platoon) has a secondary 
target area, accurate data should be prepared for at 
least one concentration in that area. 


172 


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g. Notes on data card (fig. 45). Concentration, 
for the 75-mm rifle are identified by the number 75 
followed by the number of the concentration. The 
following subparagraphs are numbered to corre. 
spond to similarly numbered columns on the sug. 
gested data card. 


(1) Requests for fires are made by requesting 
“Concentration No. ( )", or in accordance with a 
prescribed signal. 

(2) In identifying a target, its location and de- 
scription are included (when necessary). 

(3) Time of fire is indicated in this column. 
Signals (if used) for firing particular concentrations 
are also included. 

(4) The range, GT, is entered as measured; below 
it is entered the corresponding elevation in mils. 
When the range GT, as measured, is other than in 
even 100 yards, the elevation is obtained by inter- 
polation. 


(5) Angles of shift measured at the OP from the | 
base point, and azimuths to the centers of the 
various concentrations, are entered in this column. 
Azimuth to the base point is always shown. 

(6) The range, OT, and the angle of site, OT, 
are entered in this column to permit ready sub- 
stitution in the mil relation. This column T 
employed in firing from defilade. 

(7) This column may show the method of adjust- 
ment. á 

(8) This column specifies the type of projectile; 
this and the data in the columns to the right form 
the basis for the necessary fire commands. 


174 


(9) The fuze setting is indicated only when it is 
be DELAY. 

(10) The angle of shift for the guns from base 
int to target is entered in this column. 

(11) If a command to close the fires is required, 
is inserted in this column. No. 3 gun is normally 
‚ base piece. 

(12) The elevation constant (K) is entered in 
is column. 

(13) The method of fire, including the number of 
ands, is shown. 

(14) The corrected elevation (see par. 124), deter- 

…[truncated]