FM 23-6 Basic field manual : U.S. Rifle, Caliber .30, M1917 1943

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WAR DEPARTMENT

BASIC FIELD MANUAL
* *

U. S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30,
M1917

28 October, 1943

SMMffiillNCtASSIFIED by

AuTHQBffv Qf DQD DIR. 5200. 1R

Diturmination of rentricted Blotter. — The Information contained fn re-
ttrlcted documents and the rosential characteristics of restricted awtd-tal
m»y be given to any person known to be in the service of the United States
and to persona of undoubted loyalty and discretion who are coo per a tins' in
Government work, but will not be communicated to the pablic or to the press
except by authorized military public relation* agencies. (See aim par- 18ft,
AB 880-5, 2S Sep 1M2.)

Hi u

FM 23-6

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

U. S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30,
M1917

Dissemination of restricted matter.—* The information contained in re-
stricted documents and the essential characteristics of restricted material
may be given to any per sun known ti> be in the service of the United States
and to persons of undoubted loyalty and discretion who are cooperating in
Government work, hut will not be communicated to the public or to the press
except by authorized military public relations agencies, (See also par. 1S6,
AK 380-5, 28 Sep 13420

UNITED STATES
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE
WASHINGTON ; 1943

WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington 25, D. C, 28 October 1943.

PM 23-6, Basic Field Manual, U. S. Rifle, Caliber .30, M1917,
is published for the information and guidance of all con-
cerned,

(A. G. 300.7 {15 Sep 43) .]

By ohder op the Secretary of War:

G. C. MARSHALL,

Chief of Staff.

Official :

J. A. ULIO,

Major General,

The Adjutant General.

Distribution:

Bn and H, 2-7, 0, 10, 17-19 (2); C, 2-7, 9, 10, 17-18 (1),
19 (3).

(For explanation of symbols, see FM 21-6.)

TABLE OP CONTENTS

Chapter 1, Mechanical training. Paragraphs

Section 1. General 1-3

II. Disassembly and assembly 4-7

ni. Care and cleaning 8-17

IV. Functioning 18

V. Spare parts, appendages, and accessories 19-21

VI. Instruments 22

VII. Ammunition 23-29

Chapter 2. Marksmanship — known-distance targets and
transition firing.

Section I. General 30-38

II. Preparatory marksmanship training 39—46

HI. Qualification courses 47-51

IV. Range practice 52—55

V. Equipment, targets, and range precautions. 56-58
VI. Small-bore practice 59-62

Chaptek 3. Marksmanship, moving ground targets.

Section I. General 63-84

II. Moving vehicles 65-67

HI, Moving personnel 68-69

IV. Moving-target ranges 70

Chapteh 4. Marksmanship, aerial targets.

Section I. Nature of aerial targets for rifle 71-73

II. Technique of fire 73 -77

III, Marksmanship training 78-82

IV. Miniature range practice 83-85

V. Towed-target and radio-controlled- airplane-
target firing 86-8B

VI. Ranges, targets, and equipment 90-95

Chapter 5. Technique of fire of rifle squad.

Section I. General 96-98

II. Range estimation 99-103

III. Target designation 104-107

IV. Rifle fire and its effect 108-114

V. Application of fire 115-122

VI. landscape -target firing 123-130

VII. Field-target firing 131-134

VIII. Destruction of ordnance materiel 135

Chapter 6. Advice to instructors.

Section I. General 138

II. Mechanical training 137

III. Marksmanship, known-distance targets 133-154

IV. Marksmanship, aerial targets 155-159

V. Technique of Are 160-167

VI, Safety precautions 168-160

Page

Iwdex 313

FM 23-6

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

V. S. KIFLE, CALIBER .30, M1917 (ENFIELD)

(This manual supersedes FM 23-6, 3 August 1942; including C 1,
5 November 1942, and C 2, 22 April 1943.)

Attention is directed to FM 21-7 for details as to how appropriate
training films and film strips are intended to be used and how
they are made available for use during training with the U. S. rifle,
caliber .30, M1917.

CHAPTER 1
MECHANICAL TRAINING

Paragraphs

Section I. General 1-3

II. Disassembly and assembly 4—7

III. Care and cleaning 8-17

IV. Functioning 18

V. Spare parts, appendages, and accessories 19-21

VI. Instruments 22

VII. Ammunition 23-29

Section I
GENERAL

■ 1. Object. — This chapter is designed to give the soldier
training that will insure his ability to take care of the rifle
and keep it in operation.

■ 2. Description of Rifle. — a. The U. S. rifle, caliber .30,
M1917 (fig. 1) is a breech-loading magazine rifle of the bolt
type. It is popularly referred to as the "Enfield rifle."
The ammunition is loaded in clips of five rounds. Ammu-
nition bandoleers for this rifle have six pockets with a total
capacity of 60 rounds.

V. S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M1917

2-3

Miscellaneous data:

Weight, without bayonet pounds— 9. 187

Weight, with bayonet do 10. 312

Length, without bayonet inches 46. 3

Length, with bayonet do 62. 3

Diameter of bore do . 30

Trigger pull:

Minimum pounds 3, 0

Maximum do 7. 0

Rifling:

Number of grooves 5

Twist, uniform, left hand, one turn

in inches 10

Sight radius (distance from top of front sight

to rear side of leaf, leaf raised) do 31. 76

Sight radius (battle sight) do 31. 69

Magazine capacity rounds 6

c. Rear sight. — The rear sight of this rifle has no windage
gage. The leaf contains a peep sight which moves vertically
on a slide and hence makes no correction for the drift of
the bullet. The battle sight is of the peep type and is at-
tached to the lower end of the leaf. It is raised to position
for aiming when the leaf is laid and is adjusted for a range
of 400 yards. The leaf is graduated from 200 to 1,600 yards.
It is graduated in multiples of 100 yards from 200 to 900
yards and in multiples of 50 yards from 900 to 1,600 yards
(fig. 2) .

d. Front sight. — The front sight is protected by wing
guards and is adjusted laterally during assembly at the arse-
nal. It is locked in position, after adjustment, by upsetting
part of the metal base into the lock seat with a punch.

■ 3. Organization For Instruction. — Instruction is con-
ducted by officers . and selected noncommissioned officers.
Squad leaders supervise the work of their squads, and the
remaining noncommissioned officers assist as directed.
Teaching is facilitated if the unit is divided into small
groups.

4-5

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

Figure 2.— Rear sight, TJ.B. rifle, caliper .30, M1917.

Section ir
DISASSEMBLY AND ASSEMBLY

■ 4. Beginning of Training. — This training will begin as
soon as practicable after the soldier receives his rifle. In any
case it -will be completed before any firing is done with the
rifle by the individual. Concurrently, instruction in the care
and cleaning of the rifle will also foe covered.

■ 5. Nomenclature (figs. 1, 2, and 3>. — The names of the
principal parts to which reference is made in mechanical

U. S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M1917

5-6

training are readily learned as this training progresses. In-
structors will therefore take care to name the parts clearly
and correctly. A sufficient knowledge of nomenclature is
gained by the soldier during instruction in mechanical train-
ing.

■ 6. Disassembly Which Soldier Mat Perform. — For clean-
ing, only the following parts of the rifle may be removed
by the individual soldier:

Floor plate.
Follower.
Magazine spring.
Gun sling.

Bolt (including striker, mainspring, sleeve, cocking
piece, and extractor) .

a. To remove and dissassemble floor plate and follower. —
Insert the bullet end of a cartridge through the hole in the
floor plate and press down on the floor plate catch. At the
same time press the floor plate to the rear with the left
thumb. This releases the floor plate, which may then be re-
moved together with the magazine spring and follower. Raise
the rear end of the magazine spring until it clears the spring
stops on the floor plate and draw it out of its mortise; in the
same manner separate the magazine spring from the
follower.

b. To remove and disassemble bolt. — Place the butt of the
rifle under the right armpit and hold the stock firmly against
the body with the right arm. With the left thumb, pull the
bolt stop to the left and at the same time raise the bolt handle
and draw out the bolt to the rear (figs. 4 and 5) , Hook a loop
of strong string on the dismounting hook on the cocking piece
lug and holding the bolt in the left hand and the string .in
the right, draw the cocking piece out until the lug clears the
end of the bolt (fig. 6) . Then by moving the right hand in a
circular path counterclockwise, unscrew the sleeve and with-
draw the sleeve, cocking piece, mainspring, and striker from
the bolt.

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

IT. S. RIFLE, CALIBER ,30, M19I7

6-7

Grasp the sleeve with the thumb and forefinger of the left
hand; place the point of the striker against a hard surface
and force the sleeve downward, compressing the mainspring
until the lug on the cocking piece clears the lug slot in the
sleeve as shown in figure 7.

Figube 4. — Removing bolt. (Note left thmnt) on bolt atop. )

Then with the right hand, rotate the cocking piece a
quarter turn in either direction to disengage it from the
striker and draw it off to the rear. Believe the spring from
the stress slowly and remove it and the sleeve from the
striker, being careful that the parts do not fly from the hand.
Turn the extractor to the right so that it covers the gas-
escape holes in the bolt. Place the right thumb about mid-
way between the extractor collar and the lower end of the
extractor and push downward and forward to force the ex-
tractor off the bolt (fig. fi).

■ 7. Assembly. — a. To assemble and replace bolt assembly. —
CD Turn the extractor collar until its lug is on line with the

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

gas- escape holes. Insert the lug on the collar in the under-
cuts in the extractor by pushing the extractor to the rear
until its tongue comes in contact with the face of the bolt;

PiGTJitK 5. — Eolt assembly and p&rts, U. S. rifle, caliber .30, M1S17.

press the hook of the extractor against some rigid object
until the tongue will slide over the end of the bolt. Turn
the extractor so that it lies over the unslotted or solid locking
lug (fig. 5).

(2) Slide the mainspring over the striker. Hold the point
of the striker against a hard surface; place the sleeve against

U. S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M191T 7

C0£K1NG_CAM

J DISMQUT-JT1NG HOOK

Ftgure 6. — Withdrawing cocking piece.

Figure 7. — Compressing mainspring.

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

Figure 8.— -Removing extractor.

the end of the spring with the flat sides in its bore coincident
with the flat sides on the striker; force the sleeve down on
the striker, compressing the mainspring. Holding the sleeve
with the mainspring fully compressed, replace the cocking
piece on the end of the striker and lock it by a quarter turn
so that its lug is alined with the lug slot in the sleeve. Then
let the sleeve return to its position slowly under the action of
the spring. Grasp the bolt in the left hand and start the
threads on the barrel of the sleeve into the threads in the end
of the bolt (fig. 7) . Hook the loop of string on the dismount-
ing hook and, holding the ends of the string in the right hand,
pull the cocking piece out and screw the sleeve home in the
bolt by turning it clockwise.

Note. — It is possible to assemble the cocking
piece improperly by placing the lugs on the
striker in the incorrect lug slot of the cocking
piece. This improper assembly allows the
striker to protrude through the face of the bolt
when the bolt handle is raised to unload the
rifle. To avoid injury when firing the rifle, the
following precaution should be taken: when
assembling the cocking piece, make certain that
both lugs on the striker are engaged with the lug
slot in the cocking piece. If correctly assem-
bled, the rear end of the striker will be flush with
the rear end of the cocking piece.

U. S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M1917 7 9

(3) Hold the rifle under the floor plate in the fingers of the
left hand, the thumb extending over the left side of the re-
ceiver. Take the bolt in the right hand with the cocking
piece lug down; press the rear end of the follower down with
the left thumb ; push the bolt into the receiver and lower the
bolt handle.

b. To replace floor plate. — To assemble and replace floor
plate, proceed in reverse order to that prescribed in para-
graph 6a.

Section III

CARE AND CLEANING

B 8. Importance. — Care and cleaning of the rifle is an im-
portant duty to be performed by all soldiers armed with this
weapon and merits the serious consideration of ali officers.
Experience has shown that the majority of the rifles that
become unserviceable do so through lack of intelligent care
and not from firing.

H 9. Lubricants, Cleaning Materials, and Rust Preventa-
tives.— The use of unauthorized cleaning materials, such as
abrasives, is prohibited- The following are the only materials
authorized for use in cleaning, lubricating, and preserving the
rifle:

Soap.
Water.

Cleaner, rifle -bore.
Oil, lubricating, preservative, light.
Oil, lubricating, preservative, medium.
Oil, lubricating, preservative, special.
Compound, rust-preventive, light.
Solvent, dry-cleaning.
Oil, linseed, raw.
Oil, neat's-foot.

Standard decontaminating agents.

a. Rifle-bore cleaner. — (1) Rifle-bore cleaner is issued for
cleaning the bore of the rifle after firing. This material
possesses rust -preventive properties and will provide tem-
porary protection against rust. It may be used for this pur-
pose in an emergency when preservative oils are not avail -

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

able. It is desirable, however, to dry the bore immediately
after using rifle -bore cleaner and to apply a thin coat of
light preservative lubricating oil to the metal.

(2) Rifle-bore, cleaner will freeze at temperatures below
32° P. If frozen, it must be thawed and shaken well before
using. Closed containers should not be more than three -
fourths full in freezing weather because full containers will
burst if the contents freeze.

b. Light preservative lubricating oil. — This oil has rust-
preventive as well as lubricating properties but cannot be
depended upon to provide protection from rust for long
periods. It is used for lubricating all moving parts and
affords short-term protection against rust for all metal parts
of the rifle. Its preservative action results partly from the
oily film on the metal parts and partly from chemical com-
bination of inhibitors in the oil with the metal. It will
therefore protect the metal surfaces from rust even though
no appreciable film of oil is present on the metal parts.
When used on moving parts, however, it is necessary to main-
tain a thin film of oil to provide the necessary lubrication.

c. Medium preservative lubricating oil. — This oil is su-
perior to light preservative lubricating oil, for small arms
exposed to salt water atmospheres. It is heavier and pos-
sesses better preservative characteristics for such condi-
tions. It contains rust inhibitors and forms a relatively
heavy film which resists the direct washing action of spray.
These characteristics make it useful for coating all parts of
the weapons prior to landing operations and' it should be
used in preference to light preservative lubricating oil under
such conditions. Use medium preservative lubricating oil
only where the rifle is to be exposed to the conditions de-
scribed in this paragraph. Under other conditions, use the
lubricant prescribed in b above.

d. Special preservative lubricating oil. — This is a thin oil
chosen for lubricating at low temperatures and providing
temporary protection against corrosion. Special preserva-
tive lubricating oil should always be used for preserving the
bore between times when the rifle is fired. It is applied after
the barrel has been cleaned. Frequent inspections should

U. B. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, MI917 9-10

be made to assure maintenance of an adequate protective
film of oil.

e. Light rust-preventive compound. — This compound is
issued for protecting metal parts for long periods of time
while rifles are boxed and in storage. It should be warmed
before application. However, when heating facilities are not
available, it can be effectively brushed onto the parts pro-
vided the temperature is above 80° F. Below 80° F., light
rust-preventive compound becomes sluggish, and its use
without preheating is uneconomical.

/. Dry-cleaning solvent. — This is a noncorrosive petroleum
solvent used for removing grease, oil, or light rust-preventive
compound from rifles. Dry-cleaning solvent is highly inflam-
mable and should not be used near an open flame. Smoking
is prohibited where it is employed. It is generally applied
with rag swabs to large parts and used as a bath for small
parts. The surfaces must immediately be dried thoroughly
with clean rags. To avoid leaving finger marks, which are
ordinarily acid and induce corrosion, gloves should be worn
by persons handling parts after cleaning. Dry-cleaning
solvent will attack and discolor rubber.

g. Raw Unseed oil. — This oil is used to prevent drying and
to preserve the stock and hand guards.

ft. Neat's-foot oil. — This is a pale yellow anim&l oil. It is
used for preserving leather equipment such as gun slings.

■ 10. Care and Cleaning When No Firing Is Dose. — a. This
includes the care of the rifle necessary to preserve its condi-
tion and appearance during the periods when no firing is
being done. Rifles in the hands of troops should be inspected
daily to insure proper condition and cleanliness. Training
schedules should allow proper time for cleaning rifles on ea,ch
day when rifles are used in training.

b. The bore of the rifle should be cleaned with the cleaning
rod. The use of the thong and brush will be confined to
occasions when the cleaning rod is not available. To avoid
possible damage to the rifling at the muzzle, Enfield rifles will
be cleaned from the breech, the bolt being removed for this
purpose. To clean the bore, assemble a cloth patch to the
cleaning rod and insert the rod into the bore at the breech

553417° — 43 2 13

10-11

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

end. Move the cleaning rod and patch forward and back-
ward several times through the bore and replace with a clean
patch. Be sure the patch goes all the way through the bore
before the direction is reversed. This will prevent the patch
and rod from getting stuck in the bore. Repeat until the
patch comes out clean. This cleaning removes accumu-
lations of dust, dirt, and thickened oil in the bore. After
the bore has been thoroughly cleaned, saturate a patch
with light preservative lubricating oil and push it through
the bore to apply a light film of oil. When issue patches are
not available, patches should be cut approximately 2 Vz inches
square to permit passage through bore without bending
cleaning rod.

c. To clean screw heads and crevices, use a small cleaning
brush or small stick. To clean metal parts of rifle, rub with
a dry cloth to remove moisture, perspiration, and dirt, then
wipe with a cloth dampened with a small quantity of light
preservative lubricating oil. The protective film of oil will
be maintained at all times. To clean stock and hand guard of
rifle, wipe off dirt with a clean cloth and oil with raw linseed
oil.

d. After cieaning and protecting the rifle as described
above, place it in the rack without covering and without a
plug in the muzzle end of the bore. Muzzle covers, gun covers,
rack covers, and plugs must not be used since they cause
sweating and promote rust. However, when barracks are
being swept, racks may be covered to protect the rifles from
dust. Covers must be removed immediately after the rooms
have been swept.

B II. Preparatory to Firing.— Before firing, take the follow-
ing steps to insure efficient functioning of the rifle:
a. Disassemble the rifle (par. 6) .

Z>. Clean the bore and chamber. Do not oil the chamber.

c. Clean all metal parts and apply a light coat of oil to
the parts which do not come in contact with the ammunition.
Use light preservative lubricating oil. Do not use grease.
Be sure to apply a thin coat of oil to all cams, working sur-
faces, and the bolt mechanism.

U. S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M191T

■ 12. After Firing. — The bore and chamber of the rifle must
be cleaned thoroughly not later than the evening of the day
on which it is fired — preferably immediately after cessation
of firing. In no circumstance will metal fouling solution be
used.

a. Cleaning procedure after firing. — Hold riSe with muzzle
down. Run several patches saturated with rifle-bore cleaner
entirely through bore. If rifle-bore cleaner is not available,
water may be used. Plain warm water is good, but hot soapy
water is better. The hotter the water, the more efficient will
be the cleaning. (If hot water in a container is available,
muzzle can be inserted directly into vessel containing the
water. The water can be pumped in and out of the bore as
the cleaning rod is moved back and forth.) Remove slotted
tip from cleaning rod and substitute cleaning brush; run
cleaning rod with cleaning brush assembled back and forth
through bore several times. Care should be used to insure
that brush goes all the way through bore before the direction
is reversed. Remove brush and replace with slotted tip and
patch. Again run several patches saturated with cleaner or
with water through the bore, removing them from muzzle end.
Follow this by dry patches until they come out clean and
dry. Then examine bore carefully for cleanliness. If it is
not free of all residue, repeat cleaning process; if it is clean,
saturate a patch in light preservative lubricating oil and push
it through the bore so that a light film of oil will be deposited
on the bore,

b. Complete cleaning. — Complete cleaning should be ac-
complished as soon as possible after the cleaning described in
a above, If the rifle is to be fired the next day, proceed as in
paragraph 11. If the rifle is not to be fired in the next few
days, repeat the procedure outlined in a above, for 3 days.
In addition, the following instructions will be observed :

(1) Chamber. — Deposits of primer salts attract water and
thereby cause rusting. They can be removed only by using
rifle -bore cleaner or water. Saturate a cleaning patch with
rifle-bore cleaner or with water and assemble to a small stick.
Clean by twisting the patch-covered stick in the chamber.
Dry the chamber, using successive dry patches on a stick as
described above. Inspect the chamber first visually and then

12-13

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

by inserting and twisting the little finger. If no discolora-
tion shows on the finger, oil the chamber lightly with light
preservative lubricating oil. This oil should be removed with
a dry patch before firing.

(2) Wipe off the exterior of the rifle with a dry cloth
to remove dampness, dirt, and perspiration. Wipe all metal
surfaces with light preservative lubricating oil. Oil the
stock and hand guards with raw linseed oil, and oil the sling
with neat's-foot oil.

(3) The face of the bolt should first be cleaned with a
wet patch. It should then be dried and given a coat of light
preservative lubricating oil.

■ 13. On Range, During Field Firing or Military Opera-
tions.— The rifle must be kept clean, free from dirt, and
properly lubricated. To obtain its maximum efficiency, the
following points must be observed:

a. Clean bore. — Never fire a rifle with any dust, dirt, mud,
or snow in the bore.

b. Clean chamber. — Keep the chamber free from oil and
dirt.

c. Obstructions. — Never leave a patch, plug, or other ob-
struction in the chamber or bore. Such articles collect mois-
ture and are also a hazard if the rifle is fired [see pars. Wd
and 169o Q5>J.

. d. Excessive friction. — Keep a thin coat of light preserva-
tive lubricating oil on all metal parts. If the rifleman notes
signs of excessive friction due to lack of lubrication, he should
apply additional oil to the cams and working surfaces. Fric-
tion is indicated if the bolt becomes difficult to operate.

e. Emergency cleaning. — In emergencies when the pre-
scribed lubricants, are not available, any clean light mineral
oil, such as engine oil, may be used. For cleaning the bore
and chamber, clean water may be used in place of rifle-bore
cleaner.

/. Range firing. — During range firing, a qualified man
should supervise the cleaning of rifles at the cleaning racks
or tables.

g. Oiler and thong case. — The oiler should be kept filled
with light preservative lubricating oil. When the cleaning

IT. S. RIFLE, CALIBES .30, M1917

13-H

rod is not available, the contents of the oiler and thong case
carried in the butt may be used to clean the rifle. In clean-
ing the bore with the thong, the brush or rag should be
drawn from the breech toward the muzzle. The oiler should
always be inserted into the stock with the leather-tipped cap
next to the butt plate cap. This eliminates noise when the
rifle is carried,

■ 14. Preparation for Storage. — a. Light preservative lubri-
cating oil is the most suitable oil for short-term protection
of the rifle mechanism. It is effective for storage over periods
of two to six weeks, depending on climatic conditions. How-
ever, rifles in short-term storage must be inspected every 4
or 5 days and the preservative film renewed if necessary. For
longer periods of time, rifles will be protected with light rust-
preventive compound.

b. Light rust-preventive compound is a semisolid material.
It is efficient for preserving the surfaces, the bore, and the
chamber for a period of approximately 1 year, depending on
climatic and storage conditions.

c. The rifles should be cleaned and prepared for storage
with particular care. The bore, all parts of the mechanism,
and the exterior of the rifles should be thoroughly cleaned
and then dried completely with rags. In damp climates,
particular care must be taken to see that the rags are dry.
After drying a metal part, the bare hands should not touch
that part. All metal parts should then be coated with either
light preservative lubricating oil or light rust-preventive
compound, depending on the length of storage required (a
and b above) . Application of the rust-preventive compound
to the bore of the rifle is best done by dipping the cleaning
brush into the compound and then running it through the
bore two or three times. The brush must be clean before it
is used. Before placing the rifle in the packing chest, see that
the bolt is in its forward position and that the striker is re-
leased. Then, handling the rifle by the stock and hand
guards only, it should be placed in the packing chest, the
wooden supports for the butt and muzzle having been painted
previously with rust-preventive compound. In no circum-
stance will a rifle contained in a cloth or other cover or with

14-16

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

a plug in the bore be placed in storage. Such articles collect
moisture, which causes the weapon to rust.

M 15. Cleaning op Weapons as Received Prom Storage. —
Weapons which have been stored in accordance with para-
graph 14 will be coated with either light preservative lubri-
cating oil or with light rust-preventive compound. Weapons
received from ordnance storage will usually be coated with
rust-preventive compound. Use dry-cleaning solvent to re-
move all traces of the compound or oil. Take particular care
that all recesses in which springs or plungers operate are
cleaned thoroughly — especially those of the bolt. After using
the cleaning solvent, be sure it is completely removed from
all parts by wiping with a dry cloth. Then follow the instruc-
tions in paragraph 10.

■ 16. Care When Sttbject to Gas Attack. — a. General. — (1)
It is important to prevent chemicals used in a gas attack from
coming into contact with the rifle, ammunition, and acces-
sories. When a gas attack is anticipated, the following action
will be taken: apply oil to all outer metal surfaces of the
rifle and accessories. If the rifle is not to be used, cover
rifle, accessories, and ammunition. Do not apply oil to
ammunition.

(2) After the attack, determine by means of detector crayon
or paper whether or not the materiel is contaminated. If un-
contaminated, clean materiel with dry-cleaning solvent.
Prepare for use as required in paragraph 10 or 11.

b. Decontamination. — If contaminated, the following action
Will be taken:

(1) A suit of permeable or impermeable clothing and a
service gas mask must be worn for decontamination.

(2) Materiel contaminated with chemicals other than mus-
tard or lewisite must be cleaned as soon as possible with dry-
eieaning solvent or denatured alcohol.

(3) Do not allow the chemical agents to come into contact
With the skin. Burn or bury all rags or wiping materials used
for decontamination. Extreme caution should be taken to
protect men against fumes created by burning.

(4) If the surface of the materiel is coated with grease or
oil and has keen in a mustard or lewisite attack, remove the

U, S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M1917

10-17

grease or oil by wiping with rags wet with dry-cleaning
solvent.

(5) Decontaminate the rifle with a solution of noncorrosive
decontaminating agent. Prepare this toy mixing one part of
noncorrosive decontaminating agent with fifteen parts of
solvent (acetylene tetrachloride) by weight, or by mixing
one part of noncorrosive decontaminating agent with six
parts of solvent by volume.

(6) After decontaminating, clean the materiel thoroughly
and prepare for use as required in paragraph 10 or 11.

c. References. — Detailed information on decontamination
is contained in FM 21-40, TM 9-850 and 3-220.

■ 17. Care and Cleaning Under Unusual Climatic Condi-
tions.— a. In cold climates, — (1) In temperatures below
freezing, it is necessary that the moving parts of the weapon
be kept absolutely free from moisture. It has also been
found that excess oil on the working parts will solidify to
such an extent as to cause malfunctioning or complete
failure.

(2) The bolt should be taken apart and completely cleaned
with dry-cleaning solvent before use in temperatures below
0° F. The working surfaces of parts which show signs of
wear may be lubricated by rubbing with a cloth which has
been wet with special preservative lubricating oil ; other parts
are left dry. At temperatures above 0° F. all metal surfaces
of the weapon may be oiled lightly after cleaning by wiping
with a slightly oiled cloth, using light preservative lubricating
oil.

(3) When brought indoors, the weapon should first be
allowed to come to room temperature. It should then be dis-
assembled, wiped completely dry of the moisture which will
have condensed on the cold metal surfaces, and thoroughly
oiled with light preservative lubricating oil. If possible,
such condensation should be avoided by providing a cold
place in which to keep rifles when not in use. For example,
a separate cold room with appropriate racks may be used,
or, when in the field, racks under proper cover may be set up
outdoors.

(4) If the rifle has been fired, it should be cleaned thor-

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

oughly and oiled. The bore should be swabbed out with an
oily patch, and when the weapon reaches room temperature,
it should be cleaned thoroughly and oiled as prescribed in
paragraph 12.

(5) Before firing, the weapon should be cleaned and oil
should be removed as prescribed in a (2), above. The bore
and chamber should be entirely free of oil before firing.

t>. In hot climates, — (1) Tropical climates. — (a) In tropi-
cal climates where temperature and humidity are high, or
where salt air is present, and during rainy seasons, the
weapon should be thoroughly inspected daily. It should
be kept lightly oiled when not in use. The parts should be
disassembled at regular intervals and inspected. If neces-
sary, parts should be dried and oiled,

(t>) Care should be exercised to see that unexposed parts
and surfaces are kept clean and oiled.

tc) Light preservative lubricating oil should be used.

(d) A light coat of raw linseed oil applied at intervals and
well rubbed in with the heel of the hand will help to keep
moisture out and prevent swelling of wood parts. Allow the
oil to soak in for a few hours and then wipe and polish the
wood with a dry, clean rag. (Care should be taken that lin-
seed oil does not get into the mechanism or in metal parts,
because linseed oil thickens when dry.)

(2) Hot, dry climates, — (a) In hot, dry climates where
sand and dust are likely to get into the mechanism and bore,
the rifle should be wiped clean daily, or oftener if necessary.
The rifle should be disassembled sufficiently for thorough
cleaning.

(b) When the rifle is being used under sandy conditions,
all lubricants should be wiped from the weapon. This will
prevent sand carried by the wind from sticking to the lubri-
cant and forming an abrasive which will ruin the mechanism.
Immediately upon leaving sandy terrain, the rifle must be
relubrieated with light preservative lubricating oil.

(c) In such climates, wood parts are likely to dry out and
shrink. A light application of raw linseed oil, applied as in
(1) (d) above, will help to keep the wood in condition.

(t£) Perspiration from the hands is a contributing factor
to rust because it contains acid. Metal parts should be wiped
dry frequently.

U. S. RIFLE, CALIBER ,30, M1917

17-18

(e) During sand or dust storms, the breech and muzzle
should be kept covered if possible.

Section IV

FUNCTIONING

■ 18. Operation. — a. To load (fig. 9). — (1) To load from clip
into magazine. — To load from a clip into magazine, draw
bolt fully to rear; place clip of cartridges in its slot in
receiver; with fingers of right hand under rifle against floor
plate and ball of thumb on powder space of top cartridge near
clip, press cartridges straight down with thumb into maga-
zine with a firm, steady push until top cartridge is caught
by right edge of receiver. Remove empty clip with the right
hand. When cartridges have been started into magazine,
do not remove pressure on top cartridge until process of
seating has been completed. If pressure of thumb is removed,
expansion of magazine spring may force clip from clip slot

Figure 9. — Loading from a full clip.
21

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

and cause clip to break when pressure is reapplied. After
loading magazine, to feed a round into chamber, close bolt.
As bolt is closed, top cartridge in magazine is pushed forward
into chamber.

(2) To load magazine without use of clip. — The magazine
may be loaded without use of clip by merely inserting six
cartridges one at a time,

( 3 ) To load with seven rounds. — To load with seven rounds,
place one round in chamber and six in magazine. Press
down on top cartridge in the magazine as bolt is closed in
order that bolt will ride over top of round.

(4) To operate as single loader. — When rifle is used as a

SIcuhe 10. — Positions of safety locfc,
22

U. S, RIFLE, CALIBER ,30, M1917

single loader, cartridges are inserted directly into chamber
with the hand.

b. Extraction. — Extraction of the empty case from cham-
ber by extractor is begun during the rotation of the bolt and
is completed as bolt is drawn to rear.

c. Ejection. — When bolt is drawn fully to rear, head of
empty cartridge case strikes against ejector point, and case
is ejected from receiver.

d. Follower. — When cartridges are fed into chamber from
magazine and after last cartridge has been fired and bolt
has been drawn fully to rear, follower rises and blocks path

18-19

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

of bolt, thus showing magazine is empty. The magazine may
be refilled, or bolt may be closed without reloading by forcing
follower down until it is below path of bolt.

e. To unload. — Move bolt forward and back until no car-
tridges remain in magazine or chamber.

/. Safety device (fig. 10.) . — To set at safe, turn the safety
lock to the rear as far as it will go. This locks bolt handle
in position, and lifts the sear notch off the sear nose. To
unlock, turn safety lock to the front.

g. To clear rifle. — (1) To clear rifle, open bolt and draw
it fully to rear, extracting and ejecting the cartridge from
the chamber. Remove the cartridges from the magazine as
described in e above, and leave the bolt open. Inspect the
magazine and chamber to insure that they are empty.

(2) In range firing, whenever firing ceases and the com-
mand to clear rifles is given, execute clear rifle as prescribed
above. (See also par. 1696 (8).)

h. Cocking. — The rifle cannot be cocked except by actua-
tion of the bolt. It is cocked by raising the bolt handle until
it strikes the left side of the receiver, pulling the bolt back-
ward until the sear notch engages the sear nose, and then
pushing it forward and turning the bolt handle fully down.

i. Use of dummy cartridges. — The corrugated dummy cart-
ridge may be used for instruction in functioning and opera-
tion. The use of the slotted, range dummy cartridge for
this purpose is prohibited. Special care must be exercised
in the use of dummy cartridges so that they do not introduce
dirt or grit into the chamber.

Section V

SPARE PARTS, APPENDAGES, AND ACCESSORIES

■ 19. Spare Parts. — a. The parts of any rifle will in time be-
come unserviceable through breakage or wear resulting from
continuous use; hence, spare parts are supplied. These are
extra parts provided with the rifle for replacement of the
parts most likely to fail. They should be kept clean and
lightly oiled to prevent rust. Sets of spare parts should be
kept complete at. all times. Whenever a spare part is used
to replace a defective part in the rifle, the defective part

TJ. S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M191T

19-20

should be repaired or a new part should be substituted in the
spare parts set as soon as possible. Parts that are carried
complete should at all times be correctly assembled and ready
for immediate insertion in the rifle. The allowance of spare
parts is prescribed in SNL B~4.

&. The breaking off: of the integral spring on the ejector
results in the ejector becoming unserviceable. The ejector
body can be reused if it has not been mutilated to such an
extent as to render it inoperative in its normal functioning
under spring pressure. The proper method or reassembling
the ejector with a new spring is as follows :

(1) Use side cutting pliers and snap off the remaining por-
tion of the spring as close to the position indicated in figure
11® as possible.

(2) Reassemble bolt stop, bolt stop spring, ejector and ejec-
tor spring (new type) . The slot in the ejector spring should
be rearward, toward bolt stop spring rest as indicated in
figure 11©.

c. Except for replacements with the parts mentioned in
a and & above, repairs or alterations to the rifle by using or-
ganizations are prohibited.

■ 20. Appendages. — Appendages for the rifle are the bayonet
M1917, bayonet scabbard M1917, and grenade launcher.

a. Bayonet. — The bayonet is a blade sharpened along the
entire lower edge. The bayonet guard is constructed so as to
fasten the bayonet securely to the rifle or its scabbard. Grips
on both sides of the tang provide a handle when the bayonet
is used as a hand weapon.

b. Bayonet scabbard. — The scabbard, shaped to receive
the bayonet, consists of a leather body with a leather rein-
forcement at its tip which contains a drain hole. The scab-
bard is held to the belt of the soldier by two hooks,

o. Grenade launcher. — U) Firing antitank grenades, anti-
personnel grenades, and ground signals. — Antitank and anti-
personnel grenades, and also ground signals, can be fired from
-the rifle with the aid of a launcher which the soldier attaches
to the muzzle of his rifle. A special cartridge, AT grenade,
caliber .30, M3, which is issued with the grenade, is used.
(2) Firing service ammunition with the launcher at-

SASIC FIELD MANUAL

tached. — Service ammunition may be fired with the grenade
launcher attached, but it should be noted that a shift in the
zero of the rifle can be expected (see par. 53& (3 ) ) . To fire

rTO BE BROKEN AT THIS POINT

EJECTOR

® Ejector and spring in position.
Figure 11.

service ammunition with the launcher attached, proceed as
follows :

(a) Make certain that a grenade is not in place on the.
launcher. Never in any circumstance use service ammunition
when a grenade is in place on the grenade launcher.

(b) Load and fire the rifle in. the normal manner.

2fi

IT. S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M1917 ,20-21

(3) Technique of firing and safety precautions. — For in-
formation concerning attachment of launcher, technique of
firing, and safety precautions to be taken, see PM 23-30.

■ 21. Accessories. — a. General. — Accessories include the
tools required for assembling, disassembling, and cleaning
the rifle, the gun sling, spare parts containers, covers, arm
locker, and similar items. Accessories should not be used
for purposes other than those for which they are intended,
and, when not in use, they should be stored in the places or
receptacles provided for them. The names or general
characteristics of several accessories indicate their uses or
application. Detailed descriptions or methods for the use
of such items are not outlined herein. However, accessories
of a special nature or those which have special uses are de-
scribed in b to h below.

b. Arm locker and rack, — The arm locker and the arm
rack are used to store or stack rifles and pistols to prevent
mishandling or pilfering.

c. Brush and thong. — The brush and thong are used for
cleaning the bore of the rifle (see par. 13ff) . The oiler and
thong case is partitioned so that one end contains the oil
and oil dropper and the other holds the tip, weight, thong,
and brush.

d. Cleaning rod Ml and cleaning brush M2. — The cleaning
rod has a handle at one end and is threaded at the other end
to receive the patch or brush sections. The patch section is
slotted to permit the insertion of a cleaning patch; the brush
section is used to clean the bore of the rifle after firing (see
par. 12a) .

e. Gun slings. — (1) Methods for attaching the three types
of gun slings are indicated below:

(a) Gun sling M 1907 (leather) (fig, 12©).

1. Place rifle on a flat surface, sights down and muzzle

pointing right.

2. Place short strap on a fiat surface, hook on left and

loop (D-ring) on right, smooth side of leather
down.

3. Place long strap on flat surface, hook on left, feed

end on right, and smooth side of leather down.

21 BASIC FIELD MANUAL

HOOK

SEWED FOLD

HOOK

FEED ENI> SHORT STRAP

U. S, HIFLE, CALIBER .30, M191T

4. Clench sewed Md of short strap in left fist. With

right hand, pick up hook of long strap and work
loop < D--ring) down over hook of long strap.

5. Take one of kfeopers in left hand, sewed side up,

and thrust it over hook of long strap.

6. With right hand, pick up feed end of long strap.

Push feed end through keeper and pull entire
length of long strap through.

7. Place long strap on table with smooth surface of

leather down. Pick up second keeper in right
hand, sewed side down. Insert feed end of long
strap through keeper.

8. Pick up feed end of long strap (smooth side of

leather down) in left hand. Raise lower band
swivel with right hand. Insert feed end through
lower band swivel and pull strap through in di-
rection of muzzle.

9. Pick up feed end of long strap in right hand. Take

hold of second keeper in left hand. Insert feed
end through keeper and pull strap in direction of
butt.

10. Pick up hook of long strap with left hand. Begin-

ning with pair of holes nearest feed end of long
strap, count off nine pairs of holes. Insert
prongs of hook. (A sling which has been in use
for some time may have stretched, in which
case the ninth pair of holes will not always give
correct adjustment.)

11. Pick up hook of short strap in right hand. Insert

hook through butt swivel. Take hook in left
hand and pull short strap through swivel.

12. Take hook of short strap in left hand. Locate

pair of holes nearest hook of long strap. Insert
prongs of hook.

13. To tighten sling, grasp inside strap with right hand

and force it firmly toward butt of rifle, at the
same time with left hand forcing outside strap
toward muzzle. To hold sling in taut position,
force upper keeper against lower band swivel

553417° — 43 3 29

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

and slide lower keeper toward muzzle until feed
end of long strap has been passed.

(b) Gun sling Ml (improved web) (fig. 12©).

1 . Place rifle on a flat surface, sights down and muzzle

pointing to left.

2. Snap hook into butt swivel with hook opening out.

3. Pick up strap, holding buckle end in left hand with

sewed fold down. With right hand insert feed
end of strap down through loop ( D-ring) on hook
and pull feed end toward muzzle of rifle.

4. Holding buckle in left hand, insert feed end of sling

through buckle slot nearest sewed fold. Work
buckle toward butt until it is 6 or 7 inches from
butt swivel. Insert feed end of sling through
remaining slot of buckle, which is outermost from
sewed fold.

5. With left hand pick up keeper. With right hand

retake feed end of sling and insert it through
keeper so that thumbpiece of keeper is uppermost
and closes toward butt.

6. Insert feed end of sling through lower band swivel

and pull it toward muzzle.

7. Take feed end of sling in left hand and insert it

through keeper. Work keeper and feed end of
sling in direction of butt and as close to buckle as
possible. Tighten sling by pulling on feed end.
Close the keeper.

1. Place rifle on a flat surface, sights down and muzzle

pointing left.

2. Turn butt swivel and lower band swivel toward

butt.

3. Pick up long strap, holding buckle end in right

hand with sewed fold uppermost. With left hand
insert feed end of strap down through lower band
swivel and pull feed end toward butt of rifle.

4. Pick up short strap, holding loop (D-ring) in left

hand with sewed fold down. With right hand,
insert feed end of short strap down through butt
swivel and pull feed end toward butt.

U. S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M191T

5. With right hand, pick up keeper. With left hand,

retake feed end of long strap and insert it through
keeper so that thumbpiece of keeper is upper-
most and closes toward muzzle of rifle.

6. With left hand, pick up small buckle, holding it so

that cross bars are uppermost and thumbpiece is
toward butt of rifle. Taking feed end of short
strap in right hand, bring end up through small
buckle at slot nearest thumbpiece and back down
through slot farthest from thumbpiece, allowing
about 8 inches of strap to come through buckle.

7. Regrasp feed end of long strap with left hand and

bring it up through loop CD-ring) on lower end of
short strap. Fold long strap back over top of
loop (D-ring) and insert end through keeper.

8. Still holding feed end of long strap, bring it up

through slot of large buckle nearest sewed fold
of long strap and continue it back down through
second slot from sewed fold, allowing 3 or 4 inches
of strap to come through.

9. Again pick up feed end of short strap and bring it

up through large buckle at slot nearest thumb-
piece and back down through one remaining open
slot. Continue end of strap back to small buckle
and insert it up through slot farthest from
thumbpiece and down through middle slot of
small buckle.

10. To tighten sling, grasp inside strap with right

hand and force it firmly toward butt of rifle,
at same time with left hand forcing outside strap
toward muzzle. Close keeper to hold sling in
its taut position.

11. When sling is properly adjusted and tightened,

large buckle is located at a position just below
lower band swivel and just above small buckle.
The keeper is well down toward loop (D-ring)
of short strap. This leaves sling free of obstruc-
tion for a considerable distance above and below
trigger guard of rifle, which allows the soldier

21 BASIC FIELD MANUAL

the maximum comfort while carrying rifle at
the shoulder. The small buckle should be in a
position above balance of rifle to prevent inter-
ference with left hand while performing the
manual of arms.
(2) Methods of adjusting three types of gun slings for
sling arms are indicated below:

(a) Gun sling M1907 (leather), — By reversing the pro-
cedure prescribed in (1) (a) 13 above, loosen sling until there
is sufficient slack to sling rifle comfortably on shoulder.

(b) Gun sling Ml (improved teeb) .

1. With right hand firmly grasping small of stock,

brace butt of rifle against right hip, at the same
time canting rifle to right so that trigger guard
is to left.

2. With left hand, open keeper and loosen sling by

sliding keeper and feed end of sling toward muz-
zle. In this manner loosen sling until there is
sufficient slack to sling rifle comfortably on
shoulder. Close keeper.

1. With right hand firmly grasping small of stock,

brace butt of rifle against right hip, at the same
time canting rifle to right so that trigger guard is
to left.

2. With left hand open keeper.

3. Again with left hand, grasp outside strap of sling

and force it toward butt. In this manner loosen
sling until there is sufficient slack to sling rifle
comfortably on shoulder. Close keeper.
/. Ruptured cartridge extractor. — The ruptured cartridge
extractor has the general form of a caliber .30 cartridge and
consists of three parts-^the spindle, the head, and the sleeve.
The ruptured cartridge extractor is inserted through the
opening of the ruptured case and pushed forward into the
chamber. The bolt is closed so that the extractor engages
the head of the ruptured cartridge extractor. As the bolt is
drawn to the rear, the ruptured cartridge extractor, holding
the cartridge on its sleeve, is extracted.

V. S. RIFLE, CALIBER ,30, M1917 21-22

g. Aiming device, M1923, modified .—This is an aid to the
coach in determining the difficulties experienced by pupils
u?oder-going marksmanship training. Any deviation from the
correct sight alinement can be observed immediately by the
coach as he looks at the image which appears on the glass in
the aiming device. This device serves as a check on those
who do not hold the breath properly, and it enables the coach
to assist the inexperienced rifleman to obtain the correct
sight picture. The device is fitted over the stock of the
rifle.

Section VI

INSTRUMENTS

■ 22. Binoculars. — a. General. — There are two types of
binoculars in use in the service: the M3 or M13 (the M13 is the
M3 waterproofed) (fig. 13®) and the type EE (fig. 13©) .

The M3 and M13 binocular will eventually replace the type
EE. The subparagraphs below apply to both models. Each
model consists of the binocular with its carrying case.

b. Description. — (1) The binocular consists of two compact
prismatic telescopes pivoted about a common hinge which
permits adjustment for interpupillary distances. A scale
graduated every 2 millimeters from 56 to 74 permits the ob-
server to set the telescopes rapidly to suit his interpupillary
distance, provided the spacing of his eyes is known. By
screwing the eyepiece in or out, they can be focused inde-
pendently for each eye. Each eyepiece is. provided with a
diopter scale for rapid setting when the observer knows the
correction for his eye. The zero graduations indicate the
settings for normal eyes.

(2) The left telescope is fitted with a glass reticle (fig. 14)
upon which are etched a vertical mil scale, a horizontal mil
scale, and a stadia graduated similarly to the sight leaf
graduation on the rifle M1917, but inverted.

c. Use. — The binocular is used for observations and the
measurement of small horizontal and vertical angles in mils.
The vertical stadia scale is used to pick up auxiliary aiming

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

points in direct laying and to determine troop safety for
overhead fire.

d. Preliminary adjustments. — (1) Interpupillary dis-
tances.— To adjust the binocular so that the eyepieces are the
same distance apart as the pupils of the eyes, point it at the

® Binocular M3 or M13.
FratnsE 13. — Binoculars.

sky and open or close the hinged joint until the field of view
ceases to be two overlapping circles and appears as one
sharply defined circle. Note the reading on the scale which
indicates the spacing of the eyes.

(2) Focus of eyepiece. — Screw the eyepieces all the way out.
With both eyes open, look through the binocular at an object

IT. S. RIFLE, CALIBER ,30, M19I7

several hundred yards away. Place the hand over the front
of one telescope and screw the eyepiece of the other in until
the object is sharply defined. Repeat this operation for the
other eye and note the diopter scale.

Figure 13 . — Binoculars — Continued.

e. Operation. — (1) In using the binocular, it should be held
in both hands and pressed snugly to the eyes so as to keep
the relation with the eyes constant without transmitting
tremors from the body. The bent thumbs should fit into the
Outer edges of the eye sockets in such a manner as to prevent

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

® Binoculars M3 or M13.
Figure 14. — Reticle patterns.

light from entering in rear of the eyepieces. When possible,
it is best to use a rest for the binocular or for the elbows.

(2) The horizontal and vertical angles between objects may
be read by superimposing the mil scale upon these objects
when looking through the binocular.

/. Care. — The binocular is a rugged, serviceable instru-
ment, but it should not be abused or roughly handled. The
lenses should be wiped only with clean soft tissue paper and
never with any substitute or with the fingers. The use of pol-
ishing liquids or pastes for polishing lenses is forbidden.

U. S. RIFLE, CALIBER ,30, M1917 23-24

Section VII
AMMUNITION

■ 23. General. — The information in this section pertaining
to the several types of cartridges authorized for use in the
U. S. rifle, caliber .30, M1917, includes description, means of
identification, care, use, and ballistic data.

■ 24. Classification. — a. (1) Based upon, use, the principal
classifications of the several types of ammunition (fig. 15)
used with this rifle are —

(a) Ball — for use in marksmanship training and against
personnel.

(to Tracer — for observation of Are and incendiary pur-
poses.

24-25

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

(d) Armor-piercing — for use in marksmanship training
and against armored vehicles, concrete shelters, similar bul-
let-resisting targets, and personnel.

Ce) Cartridge, AT grenade, M3 — for use in firing the anti-
tank grenade against armored targets; for use in firing the
antitank practice grenade; for use in firing the impact
fragmentation (antipersonnel) grenade M17; and for use
in firing: the Mk. II antipersonnel grenade with the grenade
projection-adapter, Ml (see par. 20c*.

(2) Other types of ammunition provided for special pur-
poses are —

(a) Guard — for guard purposes (gallery practice cartridge
also used for this purpose).

(b) Blank — for simulated fire, signaling, and salute.

b. The following three types of ammunition are similar to
ball ammunition in outward appearance, except as indicated
below.

(1) Armor-piercing is painted black for Vt inch from the
point.

(2) Tracer is painted red for Yt inch from the point.

(3) Incendiary is painted light blue for % inch from the
point.

■ 25. Lor Number. — When ammunition is manufactured, an
ammunition lot number is assigned which becomes an es-
sential part of its marking in conformity with ordnance
specifications. This lot number is marked on all packing
containers and on the identification card inclosed in each
packing box. The lot number is required for all purposes
of record, including grading and use, reports on condition,
functioning, and accidents in which the ammunition might
be involved. Only those lots or grades appropriate for the
weapon will be fired. Since it is impracticable to mark
the ammunition lot number on each individual cartridge,
every effort should be made to keep the ammunition lot num-
ber with the cartridges once the cartridges are removed from
their original packing. During marksmanship and combat
training, cartridges which have been removed from the orig-
inal packing and for which the ammunition lot number

TJ, S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M1917

INCENDIARY — LIGHT BLUE—,
ARMOR PIERCING — BLACK —
TRACER — RED-

INCENDIARY, ARMOR PIERCING,
AND TRACER

CARTRIDGE, AT GRENADE, M3

DUMMY (Corrugated) MUM

DUMMY, RANGE, Ml (Slotted)

Figuke 15. — Cartridges, caliber .30.

25-27

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

has been lost are placed in grade 3. It is therefore obvious
that when cartridges are removed from their original pack-
ings they should be so marked that their ammunition lot
number is retained.

■ 26. Grade. — Current grades of all existing lots of small-
arms ammunition are established by the Chief of Ordnance
and are published in Ordnance Field Service Bulletin No. 3-5.
No lot other than that appropriate to the weapon will be
fired. Color bands are painted on the sides and ends of the
packing boxes to identify the various types of ammunition.

The following color bands are used:

Armor-piercing Blue on yellow.

Ball Red.

Blank Blue.

Dummy Green.

Gallery practice Brown.

Guard Orange.

Tracer - Green on yellow.

Incendiary Red on yellow.

Cartridge, AT grenade, M3 Two blue.

■ 27. Care, Handling, and Preservation. — a.' Small- arms
ammunition is not dangerous to handle. Care, however,
must be observed to keep the boxes from becoming broken or
damaged. All broken boxes must be immediately repaired,
and care should be taken that all markings are transferred
to the new parts of the box. The metal liner should be air
tested and sealed if equipment for such work is available.

o. Ammunition boxes should not be opened until the am-
munition is required for use. Ammunition removed from the
airtight container, particularly in damp climates, is apt to
corrode and thereby become unserviceable.

e. The ammunition should be protected from mud, sand,
dirt, water, and chemical agents. If the ammunition gets
wet or dirty, wipe it off at once. If light corrosion forms on
cartridges, it should be wiped off. However, cartridges should
neither be polished nor oiled to make them look brighter,

d. During marksmanship and combat training, no caliber
.30 ammunition will be fired until it has been positively
identified by ammunition lot number and grade.

XT. S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M1917

27-29

e. Small-arms ammunition of all classes should never be
stored near radiators, hot water pipes, and other sources of
heat, since heat not only deteriorates ammunition but also
creates a fire hazard.

■ 28. ^Ballistic Data. — The approximate maximum ranges
and average velocities for the several types and models of
caliber .30 ammunition are shown below:

Type and model of enliher .30 cartridge)

Average .
velocity 73

fl!et from
muzzle (feet
per second)

Approximate
maximum
ranee
(yards)

Bail, M2__

2,800
2,600
2,640
2,700
2,SOO
1,100

3,500

6,500
3,450
3,500
3,500
2,000
20

Ball, Ml..

Ball, M1D06

Tracer. Mi

Armor-piercing, MS. _ ...

Qaard

Blank, M1809

■ 29. Precautions in Firing Blank Ammunition.' — a. It is
dangerous to fire blank cartridges at personnel at less than
20 yards, as the wad or paper cup may fail to break up within
this distance.

b. Misfires in which the primer explodes but fails to ignite
the powder charge may prove dangerous when blank ammu-
nition is being fired. In this type of misfire, some of the
powder may be blown into the bore of the weapon. A series
of such rounds in which the powder fails to ignite (because
of moisture or other causes) will result in serious damage
when the accumulated powder is ignited by a subsequent
cartridge. When misfires are encountered in blank ammuni-
tion in excess of 5 percent, the lot will be withdrawn and re-
. ported to the proper ordnance officer.

CHAPTER 2

MARKSMANSHIP — KNOWN-DISTANCE TARGETS
AND TRANSITION FIRING

Paragraphs

Section I. General 30-38

H. Preparatory marksmanship training 39-46

III. Qualification courses 47—51

IV. Range practice 53— &5

V. Equipment, targets, and range precautions 56-58

VI. Small -bore practice 59-62

Section I
GENERAL

■ 30. Purpose. — The purpose of this chapter is to provide
a thorough and uniform method of training individuals to
be good rifle shots and of testing their proficiency.

■ 31. Necessity tor Training. — a. Without proper training,
a man instinctively does the wrong thing in firing the rifle.
He gives tha trigger a sudden jerk, which causes flinching.
However, if he has been thoroughly instructed and drilled
in the mechanics of correct shooting and is carefully and
properly coached when he begins firing, he will rapidly ac-
quire correct shooting habits. It is much easier to develop
into an excellent shot a man who has never fired a rifle than
it is to correct the errors of a man who has done a great deal
of shooting under improper supervision.

b. Anyone who is physically and mentally fit to be a
soldier can learn to fire the rifle well if properly instructed.
The methods of instruction are the same as those used in
teaching any mechanical operation. The training is divided
into steps which must be taught in proper sequence. The
soldier is carefully coached and is corrected whenever he
starts to make a mistake.

■ 32. Fundamentals. — To become a good rifle shot, the
soldier must be thoroughly trained in the following essentials
of good shooting:

o. Correct sighting and aiming,
b. Correct positions.

IT. S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M1917

32-35

c. Correct trigger squeeze.

d. Correct application of sustained-fire principles.

e. Knowledge of proper sight adjustments.

■ 33. Phases of Training. — a. Marksmanship training is
divided into two phases —

(X) Preparatory marksmanship training.
(2) Range practice.

&. No soldier will be given range practice until he has
completed the entire course in preparatory marksmanship
training (see par. 3Pb>. Prior to taking up this training,
each soldier should demonstrate his proficiency in mechan-
ical training (ch, 1). Whenever practicable, selected officers
and all noncommissioned officers of the unit should be re-
quired to complete a thorough course and pass a rigid test
in preparatory marksmanship training immediately prior
to the preparatory marksmanship training for the unit. Re-
gardless of former qualification, no distinction will be made
between those who have previously completed range practice
and those who have not.

■ 34. Practice Seasons. — a. Regular. — In ordinary circum-
stances the regular practice season will cover a period of
about 3 weeks for each organization. Not more than 1 week
will be devoted to preparatory exercises, leaving 2 weeks for
range practice. However, due to limited range facilities and
the exigencies of the service, this time may be reduced to
approximately 1 week. When unforeseen circumstances
cause a delay during the period allotted for instruction, the
time may be extended by the appropriate commander.

b. Supplementary, — Supplementary practice is not neces-
sary when the regular practice season has been efficiently
conducted, except in cases where a large number of unquali-
fied men join the organization after the regular practice
season. The supplementary practice season is usually placed
as late in the fall as is consistent with efficient instruction.
However, this practice may be held at any time when circum-
stances make it advisable.

■ 35. Continuous Practice, — Rifle practice is not limited to
a particular season. Subject to ammunition allowances, com-
manding officers will adopt such measures as may be neees-

35-37

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

sary to maintain a high state of excellence in rifle firing
throughout the j'ear-. The particular measures adopted will
depend upon the facilities near the post or station. Measures
taken may include competition between individuals or organi-
zations and the encouragement of small-bore rifle teams.

■ 36. Individual Training. — As part of individual training,
all men armed with the rifle will be instructed in the funda-
mental elements of rifle marksmanship (par. 32) and in me-
chanical training as described in chapter 1. They will be
given a final examination and should Are one of the small-
bore qualification courses outlined in paragraph 62, Instruc-
tion in rifle marksmanship will commence with the initial
instruction of the soldier and will continue throughout the
period of individual training.

■ 37. Duties of Leaders and Commanders. — a. Squad leader. —
The squad leader —

(1) Organizes the work in his squad so that during the
preparatory period each man is occupied in the prescribed
form of training for target practice.

(2) Examines each man in his squad at the end of the
training in each preparatory step and grades him on the
Progress Chart (see par. 39/) showing state of training.

(3) Sees that each man takes proper care of his rifle and
that he cleans it at the end of each day's firing.

(4) Enforces correct aiming, position, and trigger squeeze
when firing is simulated in drills and maneuvers.

b. Platoon leader. — The platoon leader supervises and di-
rects the squad leader in training his squad; personally
checks each man in his platoon on the points enumerated in
the Progress Chart; and examines each man along the lines
outlined in paragraph 46.

e. Company commander. — The company commander re-
quires the prescribed methods of instruction and coaching
to be carried out carefully and in detail; supervises and
directs the squad and platoon leaders; in companies of fewer
than 60 men, performs the duties prescribed in b above for
platoon leaders.

d. Battalion commander. — The battalion commander re-
quires the officers and noncommissioned officers to be familiar

U. S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M191T

37-39

with the prescribed methods of instruction and coaching;
supervises the instruction within his battalion and requires
the companies to follow out carefully and in detail the pre-
paratory exercises and methods of coaching,

e. Instructors. — All instructors should become familiar with
sections I, II, and III, chapter 6, before beginning the instruc-
tion of their units.

■ 38. Preparatory Marksmanship Equipment. — All equip-
ment used in preparatory exercises must be accurately and
carefully made. One of the objects of these exercises is to
cultivate a sense of exactness and carefulness in the minds
of the men undergoing instruction. They cannot be exact
with inexact instruments, and they will not be careful when
working with equipment that is carelessly made (pars. 56 and
140).

Section n

PREPARATORY MARKSMANSHIP TRAINING

■ 39. General. — a. The purpose of preparatory marksman-
ship training is to teach the soldier the essentials of good
shooting and to develop fixed and correct shooting habits be-
fore he undertakes range practice.

b. Preparatory marksmanship training is divided into six
steps, as follows, and should be concentrated in the period of
time allotted:

<1) Sighting and aiming exercises.

(2) Position exercises.

(3) Trigger -squeeze exercises.

(4) Sustained-fire exercises.

(5) Instruction in the effect of wind, sight changes, and
use of the score book.

(6) Examination of men before starting range practice.

c. The first four steps are given in the sequence listed
above, since each succeeding step involves the use of tech-
nique learned in preceding steps. Instruction in the effect
of wind, sight changes, and the use of the score book is a
training step that may be given without adhering to any
particular sequence. However, this instruction should pref-

553417° — 43 1 45

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

erataly be given after sighting and aiming exercises. In any
event, it will be given before the examination, which is the
final step prior to range practice. This subject matter may
be taught indoors during inclement weather.

d. Each of the first four steps starts with a lecture by
the instructor to the assembled group. This lecture includes
a demonstration by a previously rehearsed squad which the
instructor puts through the exercises that are to constitute
the day's work. He shows exactly how to do the exercises
that are to be taken up and explains their application to rifle
shooting. He shows how the squad leader organizes the work
so that no men are idle and how men coach each other when
they are not under instruction by an officer or noncommis-
sioned officer. These lectures and demonstrations are an es-
sential part of the training. If properly given, they awaken
the interest and enthusiasm of the whole command for the
work and give an exact knowledge of how each step is to be
carried on — something that men cannot get from merely
reading a description. The instructor who gives these lec-
tures and demonstrations may be the platoon leader, unit
commander, or a specially qualified officer who has been
placed in charge of rifle instruction. The officers and non-
commissioned officers of the units undergoing training super-
vise and instruct the men In the performance of the exercises
that have been demonstrated to them.

e. The instruction must be thorough, and it must be given
individually. Each man must understand every point and
must be table to explain each one in his own words. Each
man must be brought to as high a state of proficiency on
all of the enumerated points as the time allotted for prepara-
tory work will permit. The unit commander will carefully
supervise the work. From time to time, he should pick out
men at random from the platoons and put them through a
test to see whether the instruction is thorough and whether
it is progressing satisfactorily.

/. The Progress Chart below will be kept by each squad
leader. It will also be kept by each platoon leader inde-
pendently of the squad leader. The form shows at a glance
how much each man knows about each subject.

V. S. BIFLE, CALIBER .30, M19I7

if"

Care and cleaning of the rifle

Sighting bar

Sighting and aiming with rifle

Shot group exercises— HO feet

[

Shot group exercises— 200 yards

Blackening sights

TJhc of gun sling

Holding the breath

Prone position

Prone position with sandbag

Sitting position

Kneeling position

—

Squatting position

Standing position

Assuming positions rapidly

Trigger squeeze (including taking up
slack)

Calling the shot

| Bolt manipulation

J Sustained flro

] Sight, changes

j Effect of light and wind

J Use of score book

Ability to couch

Final examination

| Gallery practice

j Pads '

METHOD OF MARKING

Unsat-
tory:

Satis-
fac-
tory :

IJas in'
sl.ruc-
tional
abil-
i t y:

39-41

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

g. Enthusiasm must be sustained, and everything possible
should be done to stimulate interest. As soon as the work
deteriorates into a perfunctory performance of physical exer-
cise, it does mors harm than good.

h. Careful attention will be paid to the essential points
brought out in the list of questions and answers in paragraph
46, This paragraph will be consulted by the instructor dur-
ing each step of the preparatory work. Each man should
be tested thoroughly before he is allowed to Are.

i. During preparatory exercises, the coach-and-pupil
method is used. The men are grouped in pairs and take
turns in coaching each other. The man undergoing instruc-
tion is called the pupil.

j. Correct shooting habits should be acquired during the
preparatory training period. All errors must be noted,
brought to the attention of the pupil, and corrective action
taken. Each soldier must be impressed with the importance
of exactness in every detail. For example, there is no such
thing as a trigger squeeze that is "about right"; it is either
perfect or it is incorrect.

k. Equipment used in the preparatory marksmanship
training is listed, in paragraph 56.

I. During preparatory training, only practice dummy car-
tridges (corrugated type) will be used. Either the corru-
gated type or the range (slotted type) dummy cartridges

may be used on the firing line.

(

■ 40. Blackening the Sights. — In all preparatory exercises
involving aiming and in all range firing, both sights of the
rifle, if not already sufficiently black, should be blackened.
Before blackening, the sights should be cleaned and all traces

■ of oil removed. The blackening is done by holding each
sight for a lew seconds in the point of a small flame which
will deposit a uniform coating of lampblack on th& metal.
A carbide lamp, kerosene lamp, candle, or small pine stick
can be used for this purpose. Carbide gas from a lamp is the
most satisfactory of the materials named.

■ 41. First Step: Sighting and Aiming. — a. Sight picture. —
The instructor shows the group the correct sight alinement
(relationship of front sight blade and peep sight) and the

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

correct aim on the bull's-eye (sight picture) (fig. 16). He
does this by the use of a model sight picture device or by
using the blackboard (fig, 17). He explains that although
the wings of the front sight are visible when the rifleman is
looking through the peep sight, they play no part in the sight
alinement and that as the rifleman progresses in his training
he quickly learns to ignore them (fig. 18) .

Fksttee 17. — Model Bight picture device.

b. First exercise. — (1) The instructor shows a sighting bar
(fig. 19) to his group and explains its use as follows:

(a) The front and rear sights on the sighting bar rep-
resent enlarged rifle sights,

(b) The sighting bar is used in the first sighting and aim-
ing exercise because it shows the sights on a large scale and

U. S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M1917

because with it small errors can be seen easily and explained
to the pupil.

<c) The eyepiece requires the pupil to place his eye in such
position that he sees the sights in exactly the same alinement
seen by the coach.

Figure 18. — Sight picture, U. S. rifle, caliber .30 M1917.

(tf) There is no eyepiece on the rifle, but the pupil learns
by use of the sighting bar how to aline the sights properly
When using the rifle.

(e) The removable target attached to the end of the sight-
ing bar provides a simple method of readily alining the
sights on a bull's-eye.

(2) The instructor explains that the removable rear sight
on the sighting bar can be adjusted so as to give a correct

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

sight alinement. He demonstrates a correct sight alinement
by means of a chart or the model sight picture device (fig.
17) . He explains that in the correct alinement the top of
the front sight falls on the horizontal diameter of the peep
sight and is "exactly centered." Thus, equal portions of the
front sight are to the right and left of the vertical diameter
of the peep sight, As soon as the pupils are shown the correct
position of the front sight within the rear sight, they will
demonstrate their ability to set the correct sight alinement
with the sighting device trig. 20) . In this exercise, the bull's-
eye of the sighting device is drawn up out of sight. The in-

TARGET

TARGET SLIT

FiCtjjie 19. — Sighting bar.

structor will check each pupil's sight setting for accuracy
and will correct all errors.

(3) The instructor adjusts the sights of the sighting bar,
with the target removed, to illustrate a correct alinement of
the sights. Each man of the assembled group looks through
the eyepiece at the correct sight alinement.

(4) The instructor adjusts the sights of the sighting bar
with various small errors in sight alinement and has each
man of the assembled group endeavor to detect and correct
the errors.

(5) Using a chart or model sight picture device, the instruc-
tor describes and demonstrates a correct aim. He explains
that the relation of the front sight to the peep sight is the
same as previously explained but in addition the middle point
of the top of the front sight just touches (is tangent to) the
bottom of the bull's-eye, so that all of the bull's-eye can be
clearly seen (fig. 18) .

U. S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M1917

(6) The instructor explains that, in aiming, the rifleman's
eye should first be focused on the target in order to ascertain
that he is firing on his own target. His eye is then focused
on the top of the front sight in order to insure that the line
of sight established is a line through the center of the peep
sight and over the top of the front sight. He also demon-
strates how a slight error in centering the front sight in
the peep sight will cause the line of sight, when it reaches
the target, to diverge greatly from the center of the bull's-
eye.

(7) The instructor adjusts the sights of the sighting bar
and the removable target so as to illustrate a correct aim and
then requires each man to observe through the eyepiece the
correct alinement of the sights and the target (fig. 21).

(8) The instructor adjusts the sights and the removable
target of the sighting bar so as to illustrate various small
errors and then requires each man in the group to attempt
to detect and correct the errors.

(9) The exercises described above having been completed
by the squad leader or some other instructor, the men are
plaeed in pairs and repeat the exercise by the coach-and-
pupil method.

(10) As soon as the pupil is considered proficient in the
first sighting and aiming exercise, he is put through the
second and third sighting and aiming exercises by the in-
structor. The pupils are placed in pairs to instruct each
other in these two exercises by the coach -and- pupil method.

c. Second exercise. — (1) A rifle with sights blackened and
set at 200 yards elevation is placed in a rifle rest and pointed
at a blank sheet of paper mounted on a box. Being careful
not to move the rifle or rifle rest, the instructor takes a
position (fig. 22) so that his body is at an angle of from 45°
to 60° to the line of the rifle extended to the rear. Both
elbows are on the ground. The chin rests in the palm of the
left hand. The right hand is free for signaling to the
marker. The cheek rests lightly on the stock and at such a
point that the eye is approximately the same distance from
the peep sight as it will be in actual firing. The instructor
then directs the marker by improvised arm-and-hand signals
to move the small disk until the bottom of the bull's-eye is

BULL'S-EYE

a RASP THI( *£CTIOM
WITH THUMB AND FOSE*
FINGER AM0 MOVE
BULL'S * EYE INTO

SIGHTING DEVICE

IN SIGHTING AND AIMING, THERE'S
MO SUCH THING AS ALMOST RIGHT

THE SIGHT PICTURE IS EITHER
100% RIGHT OR IT IS 10O% WRONG

Accuracy is more important
than speed . . . don't squeeze the
trigger until the tighls are right.

Ftowhe 20. — Sighting device.

U. S. RIFLE, CALIBER ,30, MIS17

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

in correct alinement with the sights. The breath should he
held when checking the final sight alinement with the bull's-
eye, The Instructor commands: HOIJ3, to the marker. The
instructor moves away from the rifle and directs the pupils
to look through the sights in order to observe the correct
aim.

(2) After pupils have seen the correct position of the rear
sight, front sight, and bull's-eye, they, will demonstrate their

Figure 21. — instructor adjusting sighting bat to show correct sight

picture.

ability to create the correct sight picture with the sighting
device. Instructors will check accuracy of the sight picture
and will correct errors (fig. 20) .

(3) The marker moves the disk out of alinement. Each
pupil in turn takes position and directs the marker to move
the disk until the bottom of the bull's-eye is in correct aline-
ment with the sights. The instructor looks through the
sights after each pupil to see if the alinement is correct.

(4) The instructor makes a series of slightly incorrect sight
alinements on the bull's-eye and then requires the pupil to
detect, describe, and correct the faulty alinements.

U. S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M1917

(5) The men are now placed in pairs and are required
to repeat the exercise by the coach-and-pupil method.

d. Third exercise, — (1) The object of this exercise is to
show the importance of uniform and correct aiming and to
instill into the mind of the pupil a sense of exactness. At

Figure 22.— Position for second and third sighting and aiming
exercises.

50 feet and with a small bull's-eye (Yg-inch in diameter), a
good group of three marks can be covered by the unsharp-
ened end of a lead pencil.

<2) The exercise is conducted as follows: The rifle, with
the sights blackened and set at 200 yards elevation, is placed

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

in a rifle rest and pointed at a blank sheet of paper mounted
on a box. The rifle rest and the aiming box on which the
marker sits should each be weighted with a sandbag or
rocks. Taking a prone position (fig. 22) and looking through
the sights without moving the rifle or rifle rest, the pupil
directs the marker by improvised arm-and-hand signals to
move the disk until the bottom of the bull's-eye is in correct
allnement with the sights. He then commands: HOLD, to
the marker. The breath should be held when the final sight
alinement with the bull's-eye is checked. The coach looks
through the sights to see if the alinement is correct and makes
a mental note of any errors. Then without comment to the
pupil, he commands: MARK. The marker, without moving
the disk, makes a dot on the paper with a sharp-pointed pen-
cil inserted through the hole in the center of the bull's-eye,
The marker then moves the disk to change the alinement.
The marker should hold the disk by pressing the handle
against the box with the fingers of one hand, the thumb
of the hand resting on top of the box. The other hand is used
to move the disk. The pupil and coach, without moving
the rifle or rifle rest, repeat this operation until three dots,
numbered, one, two, and three, respectively, have been made.
These dots form the shot group. The pupil's name is writ-
ten under the shot group so that when the paper is removed
from the box the triangle can be discussed with correct,
reference to dots as "high," "low," "right," and "left." The
size and shape of the shot group will be discussed and the
errors pointed out (fig. 23).

<o) A triangle the longer axis of which is vertical is the
result of one or both of the following errors:

1. Top o( front sight not exactly on the horizontal

diameter of the peep sight.

2. Bull's-eye not tangent to front sight (taking lin§

of white or raising front sight into the bull's-eye) .
(t>) If the longer axis of the triangle is horizontal, one or-
both of the following errors have been made:

1. Front sight not centered from right to left in the,

peep sight.

2. Bull's-eye tangent to front sight but not at the,

midpoint.

U. S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M1917

TOP OF FRONT SIGHT NOT
EXACTLY ON THE HORIZONTAL
DIAMETER OF PEEP SIGHT.

BULL'S-EYE NOT TANGENT
TO FRONT SIGHT.

EITHER KIND OF EBUOR lA OR S) WILL PRODUCE A
TRIANGLE SIMILAR TO 1 ABOVE.

FRONT SIGHT NOT CENTERED
FROM RIGHT TO LEFT IN
PEEP SIGHT.

BULL'S-EYE TANGENT TO
FRONT SIGHT BUT NOT AT
THE MIDPOINT.

EITHER KIND OF ERROR IC OR O) WILL PRODUCE A
TRIANGLE SIMILAR TO 2 ABOVE.

Ftgube 23. — Errors causing unsatisfactory triangles.

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

(3) This exercise will be repeated until a satisfactory
triangle is made. It should also be conducted over, a range .
of 200 yards (using a 10-inch movable bull's-eye) (fig. 24) .
The long-range exercise teaches the men to aim accurately at
a distant bull's-eye and, if properly conducted, helps greatly
to sustain interest. At 200 yards, a man should be able to
make a shot group that can be covered with a silver dollar
(a circle about 1 Vz inches in diameter) .

Figure 24.' — Making 200-yard triangles.

(4) For making triangles -at 200 yards, a blank screen
which corresponds in size (about 5 feet by 3 feet) to a 1,000-
inch machine-gun target may be used instead of the paper
on the aiming box in the 50-foot exercise (see (2) above).
One screen can be used by two groups simultaneously. Two
men for each group are stationed at the screen, one to hold
the disk and one to mark the point when the signal is given.
Tissue paper may be used to make tracings of each pupil's
long-range shot group. The name of the pupil is written
on the tissue paper under the shot group he has made. These
tracings are sent back to the firing line in order that the pupil
can see what he has done,

(5) The third sighting and aiming exercise, especially the

U. S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M1917

41-42

long-range shot group work, may be carried on concurrently
with the second and third preparatory steps. The purpose
of continuing these exercises is to bring backward men up to
the proper state of proficiency and to assist in keeping the
men interested.

(6) Competition between the individuals of a squad to see
which can make the smallest shot group is of value in cre-
ating interest in this exercise,

(7> Posting of the best triangles on the company bulletin
board stimulates interest and helps to develop a competitive
spirit.

H 42. Second Step: Positions. — a. General. — Instruction in
positions includes the use of the gun sling, holding the breath
while aiming, and aiming.

t>. Gun sling. — A properly adjusted gun sling is of great
assistance in shooting. It helps to steady the rifle and should
be adjusted to give firm support without discomfort 'to the
soldier. The instructor will assist each man to obtain the
correct adjustment for his sling. This adjustment should be
marked or remembered for each position. The hasty sling
and the loop sling are the two authorized adjustments used
in firing the rifle. The hasty sling is more rapidly adjusted
than the loop sling, but it gives less support in any but the
standing position.

(1) Loop sling. — Methods for adjusting the three types of
gun slings are indicated below:

(a) Gun sling M1907 (.leather) (fig. 12®> .

1. Place the rifle butt on the right thigh, extend the

right arm around the rifle so that the latter rests
on the inside of the right forearm. Both hands
are now free to adjust the sling. Disengage the
hook of the short strap. Talcing the loop (D-
ring) of the short strap in the right hand, pull
toward the muzzle of the rifle until the hook of
the short strap is 2 or 3 inches from the butt
swivel and then insert the prongs of the hook
into a pair of holes in the short strap (fig. 25) ,

2. The loop to be used in firing is formed by that part

of the long strap between the metal loop ( D-ring)

553417° — 43 5 61

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

of this short strap and the lower keeper. If the
proper length of the loop is not known, begin with
a loop which extends 1 or 2 inches below the small
of the stock. The length of the loop can be in-
creased by placing the hook of the long strap in
pairs of holes which are nearer the feed end of
the long strap.

3. Rotate the sling one-half turn to the left, insert the

left arm through the loop so that the loop comes
on or above the biceps.

4. Pull both keepers and the hook of the long strap as

close to the upper arm as possible so as to hold the
loop in place. The feed end of the long strap may
be threaded through the top keeper or may be left
hanging loose.

5. Move the left hand around the left side of the sling

and place it between the sling and the stock of the
rifle. Move the left hand forward to the lower
band swivel so that the rifle is in the crotch of the
hand and the sling lies flat along the back of the
hand and wrist. The short strap, not used in this
adjustment, should be loose enough to eliminate
any pull on it. Neither end of the sling is to be
removed from either swivel. The location of the
loop on the upper arm should be such that when
the rifleman is in position some light may be
seen between the sling and the crook of the elbow.
(&) Gun sling Ml (improved web) (fig. 12©) .

1. Place the rifle on a flat surface, sights down, barrel

pointing to the left.

2. Open the keeper, loosen the sling, unsnap the hook

from the butt swivel. Loosen strap through
buckle until the loop formed by the strap as it
passes through the two slots in the buckle is
large enough for the rifleman's arm.

3. Take the feed end of the sling in the left hand and

the hook in the right hand. With the left hand,
pull the feed end of the sling in the direction of
the butt. If the correct sling length is not known,
this adjustment (pulling the feed end toward the

TJ. 5. RIFLE, CALIBER ,30, Ml 9 17

butt) should be discontinued when the hook
reaches a point 10 or 11 inches from the butt
swivel. Pull the keeper as close to the buckle as
possible and close it. Now, with the right hand
firmly grasping the small of the stock, brace the
the butt of the rifle against the right hip, With
the left hand, rotate the loop one -half turn to the
left and insert the left arm through the loop so
that the loop comes on or above the biceps,
4. Move the left hand over the top of the sling and
grasp the rifle near the lower band swivel so as
to cause the sling to lie smoothly along the back
of the hand and wrist.

Note. — By experimentation, each rifleman
can decide the exact size of the loop required
for his use. He can leave the loop in this ad-
justment permanently. No adjustments for
size will have to be made thereafter. The pre-
cise length required for the loop sling can also
be determined by experimentation. Once this
has been done, the rifleman should note the
distance between the butt swivel and the hook
when the sling is in the correct adjustment.
This distance may subsequently be used as a
gage for setting the same length on the loop
sling.

1. Loosen the sling in the manner described for carry-

ing the rifle in the sling arms position (see par. 21e
(2) (en.

2. Next, detach the feed end of the short strap from

the large buckle. To prevent loss of the small
buckle and to prevent the feed end of the short
strap from sliding back through the butt swivel,
bring the feed end of the short strap up through
the middle slot of the small buckle and then down
through the slot farthest from the thumbpieee of
the small buckle.

3. Now, with the right hand firmly grasping the small

of the stock, brace the butt of the rifle against the
right hip. With the left hand rotate the sling

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

one -half turn to the left, insert the left arm
through the loop formed between the keeper and
the metal loop (D-ring) end of the short strap so

Figure 25. — Adjustment of loop sling.

that the loop to be used in firing comes on or above
the biceps. Bring the keeper close to the arm
and close it to keep tile loop in place.

U. S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M1917

4. Move the left hand over the top of the sling and
grasp the rifle near the lower band swivel so as to
cause the sling to lie smoothly along the back of
the hand and wrist.
(2) Hasty sling. — Methods for adjusting the three types of
gun slings are indicated below.

(a) Gun sling M1907 (leather) (fig. 12©).

1. Hold the rifle on the thigh and right forearm as ex-

plained above for the loop sling adjustment. Dis-
engage the hook of the short strap. Beginning
with the pair of holes nearest the hook of the long
strap, count off 10 or 11 pairs and insert the claws
of the hook of the short strap. (This adjustment
will vary. If the correct sling length is not
known, start with a length in which the lower end
of the sling extends 2 or 3 inches beyond the rifle
butt.)

2. Twist the sling one-half turn to the left,

3. Grasp the rifle just in rear of the lower band swivel

with the left hand. Grasp the small of the stock
with the right hand. Throw the sling to the
left and catch it above the elbow, high on the left
arm.

.4. Remove the left hand from the rifle. Pass the left
hand to the left under the sling and then to the
right and over the sling. Regrasp the rifle with
the left hand. If the sling has been given the
one- half turn properly, it will lie smooth and flat
along the back of the left hand and wrist (fig. 26) .
(6) Gun sling Ml (.improved weby (fig. 12©),

1. Loosen the sling in the manner described for car-

rying the rifle in the sling arms position (see par.
21e (2) (&)).

2. With left hand, grasp the rifle just in rear of the

lower band swivel. With the light hand give the
sling a half turn to the left. Move the sling to the
left and place it above the elbow and high on the
arm. Regrasp the rifle at the small of the stock
with the right hand,

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

U. S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M1917

3. Remove the left hand from the rifle, pass it under
the sling, then over the sling, and regrasp the rifle
with the left hand so as to cause the sling to lie
smooth and flat along the hand and wrist,
(c) Gun sling M1923 (web) (fig. 12®).

1. Loosen the sling in the manner described for car-

rying the rifle in the sling arms position (see par.
21e (2) (c)).

2. With the left hand grasp the rifle just in rear of the

lower band swivel. With the right hand, give the
sling a half turn to the left. Move the sling to the
left and place it above the elbow and high on the
arm. Regrasp the rifle at the small of the stock
with the right hand.

3. Remove the left hand from the rifle, pass it under

the sling, then over the sling, and regrasp the rifle
with the left hand so as to cause the sling to lie
smooth and flat along the hand and wrist.

c. Holding breath. — If a man breathes while aiming, the
body motions caused by breathing are transmitted to the
rifle, and an exact aim cannot be held. To eliminate this
movement of the rifle, the breath must be held while aiming.
To hold the breath properly, draw in an ordinary breath,
let out a little, and hold the rest by closing the throat —
not by muscular action of the diaphragm. The rifleman
should be comfortable, relaxed, and steady while aiming and
while squeezing the trigger. He should not attempt to hold
the breath so long as to become unsteady. In firing a sus-
tained-Are score, the rifleman should breathe after each
shot — never while he is squeezing the trigger. The important
point is to hold the breath throughout the time the trigger
is being squeezed.

d. General characteristics for all positions. — The following
characteristics apply to all firing positions. The exact de-
tails of a position for any particular individual will depend
on the conformation of his body.

(1) Each position must be steady and must require a
minimum of muscular effort for its maintenance during
prolonged firing. To accomplish this, the rifleman's frame

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

supports the rifle; that is, the bones and not the muscles
support the rule.

(2) When the rifleman assumes a position, there is some
point at which, the rifle aims naturally and without effort.
If this point is not the center of the target, the whole body
must be shifted so as to bring the rifle into proper alinement.
Otherwise the rifleman will be under a strain because for each
shot he will be pulling the rifle toward the target by muscular
effort,

(3) The right hand grasps the small of the stock. The
right thumb may be either around the small of the stock or
on top of the stock; it should not be placed alongside the
stock.

(4) The left hand is against or near the lower band swivel,
wrist straight, rifle placed in the crotch formed by the thumb
and index finger and resting on the heel of the hand.

(5) The elbow is directly under the rifle or as nearly in
that position a,s it can be placed without appreciable effort.
For untrained men, this will initially require strenuous effort.

(6) The trigger finger is in contact with the trigger at the
most comfortable point between the tip and the second joint,
the remainder of the forefinger being out of contact with the
stock. The exact part used depends on the size of the rifle-
man's hand and the length of his arm. It is desirable that
there be no contact between the trigger finger and the stock.
This insures that trigger pressure will be straight to the rear
and that all pressure will be applied on the trigger and not
partly on the i.tock.

(7> The cheek rests firmly against the stock, and if pos-
sible, on top of the thumb. This is best accomplished by
relaxing the neck muscles and allowing the head to drop
forward and downward.

(8) The butt of the rifle is held firmly against the shoulder.

(9) When firing at short ranges (up to 500 yards), a slight
cant of the rifle may be disregarded. Men who cant the
rifle usually do so uniformly for each shot.

(10) Left-handed men who have difficulty with the right-
hand position will be allowed to use the left-hand position.

TJ. S, KIFLE, CALIBER .30, M1917

(11) In all positions, the pupil should strive for complete
relaxation. This goal is reached only by continued applica-
tion and training. Perfection should be the ultimate aim.

(12) Different positions for slow and sustained fire should
not be taught. Slow fire is used to lay the foundation for
sustained Are. It is therefore obvious that a slow-fire
position which is unsound for sustained fire is a waste of
time and effort and should not be permitted.

Figure 27. — Prone position.

e. Prone position (fig. 27) . — (1) In the prone position, the
angle made by the body with the line of aim extended to the
rear should be about 30°, or a little less. This position behind
the rifle is essential in order that the recoil may be taken up
by the entire body of the rifleman rather than by the shoulder
alone. The feet are spread comfortably, apart, toes out, heels
as nearly on the ground as can be accomplished without
strain. The left elbow is under the rifle. The left hand is
against or near the lower band swivel, the rifle resting in the

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

V formed by the thumb and forefinger and on the heel of
the hand, with the wrist straight and the fingers relaxed.
Inability to get the left elbow under the rifle or the left hand
against or near the lower band swivel is usually caused by a
stiff or musclebound shoulder. Relaxation of the left shoulder
should make it possible to assume the correct position. The
shoulders are approximately level. The right upper arm
makes an angle of about 45° with the ground; the right elbow
is forward of the line of the shoulders in order to create a
hollow at the shoulder in which to secure the rifle butt. Full
contact of the right palm and the small of the stock is desir-
able. The thumb is on top of or across the stock; the eyes are
level and the line of vision is straight ahead — not sideways
over the bridge of the nose. The sling is tightened, and the
rifle butt is fixed firmly against the shoulder by the forward
pressure of the relaxed body weight.

(2) If the prone position has been taken correctly, the right
hand may be removed from the small of the stock while the
rifle remains snugly in place, requiring some effort on the
part of the coach to dislodge it. Another method for checking
the prone position is to tap down lightly on the barrel just in
rear of the front sight. With a good position, the muzzle
should rise straight up (not up to the right or left ) and then
return to the original point of aim. The pupil should make
the following final check: after he believes himself to be in
a correct position, he closes his eyes and relaxes completely
for several seconds. He then opens his eyes and checks his
sight alinement. If his position is correct, the rifle sights will
still be alined under the bull's-eye. If they are not alined on
the target, his position is faulty, and he should shift his whole
body in the direction and to the extent indicated by the error
and repeat the process just described.

(3) Errors most frequently found in taking the prone
position and the methods of correcting them are discussed
below:

(a) Body placed at too great an angle with rifle. — This
fault can frequently be detected by observing that the upper
part of the body is held too high off the ground and that the
eye is held too close to the cocking piece. This very com-
mon fault causes most of the recoil to be taken up by the

U. S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M19IT

shoulder instead of being absorbed by the entire body. The
error is usually caused by too short an adjustment of the
sling. The remedy is to loosen the sling by several holes
and move the body into position more directly behind the
rifle.

(b) Right elbow too close to body. —The right shoulder
will be observed to be much higher than the left. The back
may appear twisted. To remedy this fault, the right elbow
is moved out to the right and slightly forward.

(c) Left elbow not under rifle. — This is obvious. As a re-
sult of this error, the rifle is supported by the muscles of the

arm rather than by the bones. The remedy is to move the
left elbow farther to the right. This is best accomplished
with the rifle butt removed from the shoulder. Relaxation
of the left shoulder and continuous practice will assist in
placing the left elbow under the rifle where it should be.

(d) Left hand not against or near the lower band swivel. —
To remedy this error, the left shoulder should be relaxed
and the hand should be moved forward. Tightening the
sling one or two holes may assist in correcting this fault.
This error can occur in the other positions and should be
guarded against.

/. Sandbag rest position (fig. 28) .—(1) The sandbag rest
position is identical in every detail to the prone position
described above, except that a sandbag support is provided
for the left forearm, wrist, and hand. The sandbag should

Ptctthe 28. — Prone position with sandbag.

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

not support nor should it be in contact with the rifle, as this
rigid support will affect the zero of the rifle.

(2) The sandbag should be little more than half filled
with sand and should be tied near the top so as to leave
considerable free space within the bag for adjustment.

(3) It is important that the sandbag be high enough to
allow the pupil to take the prescribed prone position. The
tendency is to have the sandbag rest too low and flat on the
ground, causing; the elbows to be widely spread. This is a
faulty position that may cause lower scores to be fired than
if no rest at all were used. An improperly adjusted sandbag
is a handicap.

(4) Only those who have difficulty in applying the cor-
rect trigger squeeze during the first stages of training should
use the sandbag rest. Its purpose is not so much to teach
steadiness in holding as to assist the pupil in learning the
correct trigger squeeze. Consequently, the principal use
of the sandbag on the rifle range will be to assist riflemen
who have a tendency to flinch because of an unsteady posi-
tion which induces snap shooting. By using the sandbag,
the slight inherent unsteadiness is eliminated, and the rifle-
man will not be tempted to snap the trigger at the instant
he establishes a sight alinement with the bull's-eye. In
this way, he will be assisted in overcoming the tendency to
flinch.

(5) The coach adjusts the sandbag in the following
manner:

(a) Has the pupil assume the prone position and aim at
the target.

(b) Sets the sandbag top up and arranges it so that it is
slightly higher than the back of the pupil's left hand.

(c) Faces the pupil, straddles the rifle barrel, and slides
the sandbag against the pupil's left forearm so that the
narrow side of the bag supports his forearm and wrist, with
the back of the hand resting on the top of the bag.

(d) Lowers the sandbag to the required height by press-
ing down on the rifle at a point just over the pupil's left
hand.

0. Sitting position (fig. 29). — (X) In the sitting position,
the rifleman sits approximately half- faced to the right. The

TT. S. RIFLE, CALIBER .3D, M1B17

feet are spread apart from 20 to 30 inches, depending on the
conformation of the rifleman. The knees are raised about 8
inches off the ground and are closer together than the feet;
the heels are dug slightly into the ground; and the legs and
ankles are relaxed so that the toes point forward or inward —
they should never point outward or sharply upward. Heel
holes which slope sideways from the outside in will assist In
keeping the toes pointed in. If the rifleman is supple enough
to place both feet flat on the ground without raising, his knees
too high, he has an advantage. The left upper arm rests
along the left shin so that there is contact between the two
lor a distance of several inches, the weight being placed
straight down on the left leg. The left elbow is under the
rifle. The body is bent forward from the hips; the back is
approximately straight. The right upper arm rests along the
right shin in a position similar to that of the left arm and
leg but slightly on the inside of the right leg so that the shin
will act as a support for the right arm when the rifle recoils.
The sling is adjusted as previously explained. For most men,
the sling adjustment will be shorter in this position than it
is for the prone position. The relative positions of the rifle
and the hands and the method of holding the face to the
stock correspond to those explained for the prone position
(see e above) .

(2) The sitting position is second only to the prone position
for steadiness because the rifleman has a rest for each elbow.
The sitting position is suitable for use in th^field when high
grass or vegetation would obscure the rifleman's vision in the
prone position. When concealment is available, the sitting
position is also especially suitable for firing downhill.

(3) Because of unusual conformation, some men cannot
take the sitting position described above. The vast majority
oi such exceptions are men with unusually long legs and
relatively short arms and body. These men are physically
unable to place their- elbows in the prescribed position. In
such cases the instructor may authorize the soldier to modify
the prescribed position, using either the "cross-legged" or
the "crossed-ankle" positions. Each case is decided by the
instructor on its merit; in no circumstance will these modi-
fled positions be adopted at random by the riflemen.

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

(4) In the cross-legged position (fig. 29©) the rifleman
sits with his left leg crossed over his right leg, his feet drawn
up under him s:o that the outer part of the calf of each leg

Ptguke 2S. — Sitting positions.

rests on the inside of the opposite foot. The backs of the
upper arms are supported against the shin bones and are
very nearly at right angles to them. The remaining elements

U. S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M191T

of the position correspond to those of the normal sitting
position.

(5) In the crossed-ankle position (fig. 29©) the pupil sits
with the left ankle crossed over the right ankle, the legs well
extended. In this position, as in the cross-legged position,

Figure 29. — Sitting positions — Continued.

the upper arms are supported by the shins, but in this position
more contact is afforded than when the rifleman sits cross-
legged. However, the crossed-ankle position provides only a
two -point base of support and is therefore less stable than the
cross-legged position, which has a three-point base. For this
reason, the crossed-ankle position should be avoided, if pos-

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

sible, by men whose weight is less than about 170 pounds.
The amount of leg extension will depend upon leg conforma-
tion of the individual. At the same time, constant care must
be exercised to insure that the legs are relaxed and that the
knees are not held up by sheer muscular effort.

(6) Errors most frequently found in taking the normal
sitting position and the methods for correcting them are
discussed below.

(a) Elbows and knees ■placed so as to make point to point
contact. — Not only does this error result in an unstable sup-
port for the rifle but it puts the body in a position which is
too erect and which is therefore faulty when used in sus-
tained Are. To remedy this fault, have the pupil lower his
knees, bend his body well forward at the hips, and establish
contact between the upper arm and the shin bones. When
the left upper arm and the left lower leg both slope at exactly
the same angle, the rifleman is in a correct sitting position.

(b) Knees farther apart than feet. — This causes the ver-
tical support for the rifle to be obtained through unnecessary
muscular effort. It may be caused by —

1. Placing the feet too close together.

2. Turning the toes outward (which throws the knees

outward) .

3. Pushing out against, instead of down upon, the

shins.

To correct this position, have the pupil stretch both legs out
flat on the ground with the feet separated from 20 to 30
inches, depending on the conformation of the man; raise the
left knee about 8 inches off the ground; rest the left upper
arm along the top of the left shin; place the rifle butt to the
right shoulder; regrasp the rifle at the small of the stock;
and lower the right elbow and raise the right knee until good
contact is made between the right upper arm and right shin.
After taking this corrected position, if the pupil's rifle does
not point naturally at the target, the coach should require him
to shift his feet to the right or left, without otherwise dis-
turbing his position, until the rifle does point naturally at the
target.

U S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M191T

(c) Left elbow not under rifle- — Move the pupil's feet 5 or
6 inches to the right, taking care not to disturb the aim on the
target,

h. Squatting pcsition (fig. 30). — (1) To take the squatting
position, the rifleman stands half -faced to the right with his

Figure 30. — Squatting position.
653417°— 43 6 77

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

feet placed 12 inches or more apart. He then squats as low
as possible, keeping both feet flat on the ground. The backs
of the upper and lower legs should be in the fullest possible
contact from the knees downward. The back of the left
upper arm rests on the left knee, the elbow being directly
under the rifle. The right elbow is braced against the inner
part of the right knee. The body should be relaxed, and its
weight should be well forward over the left. leg. The rifle
rests in the crotch of the left hand and is grasped at the small
of the stock with the right hand. The face rests against the
stock in a manner corresponding to that described for the
prone position (e above).

(2) The squatting position is an excellent firing position.
It has several features which are advantageous in combat.
This position can be assumed quickly; it is inherently steady;
and it is particularly desirable when firing in mud, shallow
water, snow, or an area contaminated with gas.

(3) Errors most frequently found in taking the squatting
position and methods for correcting them are discussed below.

(a) Contact with ground made only with balls of feet. — As
a result of this error, the rifleman is in an unstable position
and will be thrown off balance -in firing. The remedy is to
force the heels down to the ground and to relax the body
and shift the weight well forward over the left leg. Sepa-
rating the feet more widely helps in setting the heels on the
ground.

(b) Body not relaxed and weight not shifted well forward
over left leg. — This position is unstable. It will cause the
rifleman to be thrown off balance as soon as he begins to
fire. The rifleman must make a conscious effort to relax —
especially in the legs — and shift the weight well forward over
the left leg.

i. Kneeling position (fig. 31). —CI) The rifleman kneels on
the right knee. The right thigh is at a 90° angle with the
line of aim. Continuous contact with the ground from the
toe to the knee is desirable and can be achieved after a few
days of practice. At first, the lack of suppleness may place
a strain on the instep. This may be eased by digging a small
toe hole in the ground. The rifleman sits so that the center
of the right buttock rests directly on the right heel. He then

V. S, HIFLE, CALIBER .30, M1917

rotates the right leg about the line knee-toe, so that the heel
inclines in the direction of the target. About 60 percent of
the body weight is thus shifted forward to the left leg. The
right foot and leg are then in a position to provide added
support in taking up the recoil of the rifle. The left leg
should be vertical when viewed from the front. It need not
appear vertical as viewed from the side. Many expert rifle-
men prefer to draw the left foot back, relaxing the body
weight forward so that solid contact is made between the
calf and thigh. The left toe may be pointed in the direction
which provides maximum comfort for the rifleman. The
left upper arm rests on the left knee, the left elbow being in
front of and below the knee. The left elbow and left knee
should be directly under the rifle. The rifle rests in the
crotch of the left hand, as explained for the prone position
(e above) . The grasp of the rifle by the right hand and the
position of the face against the rifle stock and hand are also
as described for the prone position. The right elbow is raised
to the height of, or slightly below, the shoulder, thus forming
a pocket or recess in which to seat the butt of the rifle. If
the elbow is held too low, too shallow a pocket is formed. This
is a serious disadvantage in sustained Are. The sling adjust-
ment may be the same as that prescribed for the sitting posi-
tion or it may be shorter, depending on the conformation of
the rifleman.

(2) . Bitting on the inside of the right foot throws the weight
of the body too much to the rear. Por this reason, it is not
a suitable position for sustained fire In exceptional cases
where the physical conformation of the man indicates unus-
ual difficulty in assuming the prescribed position, and after
the instructor has required the pupil to attempt to adapt
himself to the normal position, the instructor may authorize
the pupil to use this modified position.

(3) The kneeling position is used when brush or high grass
would obstruct the view if firing from the sitting, squatting,
or prone positions,

(4) Errors most frequently found in taking the kneeling
position and the methods for correcting them are listed
below.

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

U. 3. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M1917

(a) Left elbow and knee not under rifle. — Move left foot
to the right.

(b) Right thigh not at right angle to line of aim. — Draw
the right knee to the rear.

<c) Point to point contact between left elbow and knee. —
Move the body weight forward, forcing the elbow forward of
and below the knee.

j. Standing position (fig. 32) . — (1) The rifleman stands
faced about 85° to the right of the line of aim; feet are placed
from 14 to 20 inches apart; body is erect; weight is evenly

Figures 31. — Kneeling position — Continued.

distributed on both hips and both feet ; head is turned to the
left; cheek rests firmly against the stock. Grasp the small
of the stock with the right hand, placing the right thumb
well around (over) the stock; raise the rifle on the shoulder
so that about half of the butt is visible over the shoulder
when seen from the rear; raise the right elbow until it makes
an angle of 45° or greater above the horizontal and pull back
hard with the right hand to keep the butt tightly pressed
into the pocket of the shoulder. Without touching the rifle
with the left hand, it should now be possible to hold the rifle
in an approximate firing position, using only the right arm

U. S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M1917

and hand. This method of placing and holding the rifle
against the shoulder should be practiced as an exercise before
and during the standing position exercise. While the right
hand and arm keep the rifle in position, the left hand grasps
the rifle well forward of the balance and acts as a slight addi-
tional vertical support. The left elbow is approximately under
the rifle, the weapon resting in the crotch of the hand, be-
tween the thumb and the forefinger, and on the heel of the
hand. The hasty sling is used.

(2) An alternate, though less desirable, standing position
is called the "body rest" position. The left elbow is placed
firmly against the body with the left hand drawn back, even
as far as the trigger guard. This position requires more
training in order to attain adeptness in firing. It should be
used rarely and then only by those riflemen expressly author-
ized by the instructor.

(3) Errors most frequently found in taking the standing
position and the methods for correcting them are listed below.

(a) Feet placed too far apart. — Place the feet only as far
apart as you would if required to stand for an hour without
moving them.

(b) Weight not evenly placed on both hips. — Relax the
body weight straight down "into the belt."

(c) Neck, craned forward, or bent sideward to get cheek
on stock, — Hold the head and neck erect and raise the rifle
up to the face. A sling which is too short may be pulling
the rifle down. Lengthen the sling enough to permit placing
the rifle butt high on the shoulder.

k. Procedure in conducting position exercises. — (1) For
aiming points, 1,000-inch A targets (rifle) are normally used.
These bull's-eyes are placed at a range of 1,000 inches and at
different heights so that in aiming from various positions the
rifle will be nearly horizontal. Standard known-distance
targets may also be used. They are placed at distances used
on the known- distance range.

(2) Before taking up position exercises, the instructor
assembles his squad or group and —

(a) Shows the proper method of blackening the front and
rear sights of the rifle and has each pupil blacken his sights
if they are shiny.

42-43

BASIC FIELD M.lHUAL

(b) Explains and demonstrates the hasty sling adjustment
and assists each pupil to adjust his sling. He explains the
loop sling adjustment and assists each pupil to adjust his
sling.

(d> Explains the general rules which apply to all positions.

(e) Explains and demonstrates the position which the
pupils are to practice next,

(3) Following the explanation and demonstration for each
position, the instruction is conducted by the coach-and-pupil
method. Each pupil, after seeing that his sights are black-
ened, adjusts his sling, takes position, holds his breath, and
aims carefully. As soon as his aim becomes unsteady, the
exercise ceases. After a short rest, the pupil repeats the
exercise without further command. The trigger is not
squeezed in the position exercises. Exercises are conducted
in all positions.

I. Duties of coach, — In the position exercises, the coach sees
that the —

(1) Sights are blackened,

(2) Gun sling is properly adjusted.

(3) Proper position is taken,

(4.) Breath is held while aiming. (He checks the breathing
by watching the back of the pupil.)
(5) Pupil aims correctly,

■ 43. Third Step: Trigger Squeeze. — a. Importance. — (1)
The most important item in rifle shooting is to squeeze the
trigger in such a way as to fire the rifle without affecting
the aim. Misses and poor shots result because the aim
is spoiled Just before the discharge takes place. This is
done by jerking the trigger and flinching. It is important
to understand that disalinement of the sights is caused but
very slightly by the physical act of jerking the trigger finger.
The bigger movement — the one which spoils the aim — is a
body movement which occurs before the bullet leaves the
barrel. This movement, made in anticipation of the recoil
of the rifle, will occur if the rifleman knows in advance when
the recoil will come. It is called "flinching." The trigger

V. S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M1917 42-43

must be squeezed so steadily that the rifleman does not know
the instant the rifle will fire. If a man squeezes the trigger
so steadily that he does not know when the discharge will
take place, he will not spoil his aim by flinching, because
lie does not know when to flinch,

(2) No good shot attempts to discharge the rifle instantly
upon alining his sights on the target. He holds his aim
alined as accurately as possible on the target and maintains
a steadily increasing pressure upon the trigger until the
shot is fired. This method of squeezing the trigger must
be carried out in all simulated firing or the value of the
practice is lost.

(3) The correct method of squeezing the trigger may be
defined as the independent action of the forefinger straight
to the rear, with a uniformly increasing pressure (after the
slack has been taken up) so that the rifleman does not know
the instant the striker will be released.

(4) A mechanical means whereby the rifleman may help
himself in squeezing the trigger correctly — in order that
he may not know when the striker will be released — is de-
scribed as "taking up the slack with a heavy initial pressure."
The loose play in the trigger prior to meeting actual re-
sistance is called "slack." The rifleman takes up the slack
with one decisive motion, applying more pressure than just
that needed to take up the slack itself. In other words, the
rifleman takes up all the loose play and part of the trigger
resistance with a heavy initial pressure. Each time the
slack is taken up, a slightly different amount of pressure
will be applied. The pupil cannot know, nor should he
try to know, how much additional pressure is required to
release the striker. Therefore, if he continue to squeeze
steadily after the slack has been taken up, he will be sur-
prised when the striker is released. Since this process
may occasionally cause a shot to be fired almost at once, the
rifleman should follow the sequence —

(a) Hold the breath.

(b) Complete the sight alinement.

(d) Apply the correct squeeze to the remaining resist-
ance.

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

Then, even if the shot is fired before the rifleman is ready,
it will be a good shot because the sight alinement is correct
and the rifleman has been surprised in the firing of the
round.

<5) The important points in trigger squeeze are:
(a) Pressure is applied with the forefinger only.
(£0 After the slack has been taken up, pressure is steady
(uniformly increasing) and continuous — once started it is
never stopped. However, if the rifleman does not get off
the shot within a maximum of 8 or 9 seconds after the slack
has been taken up, the pressure should be released. Then
the rifleman draws breath and starts all over. In other
words, although the squeeze is continuous, it should not be
continued indefinitely. The only exception to this rule is
in firing from the standing position during a heavy wind
which may blow the line of sight off the target. In that
case, hold the pressure until the sights are again in the
vicinity of the bull's-eye and then apply additional steady
pressure,

(d) The mind must be divorced from the trigger finger.
The latter works independently, almost subconsciously, when
well trained. Concentrate on maintaining the correct sight
picture.

(e) Every shot must be a surprise to the rifleman. If he
knows when the striker will be released, he will anticipate
the recoil and flinch, no matter how experienced a shot he
may be.

(6) The difference between poor marksmen and good
marksmen is measured in their ability to squeeze the trigger
properly. Any man with fair eyesight and strength can aline
the sights on the target and hold them there for an appre-
ciable length of time. When he has acquired sufficient will
power and self-control to forget that there is to be an ex-
plosion and a shock and squeezes the trigger with a steady
increase of pressure until the rifle is fired, he has become a
good shot, but not until then. This squeeze of the trigger
applies to sustained fire as well as to slow Are. The in-
crease of pressure is faster in sustained fire, but the process
is the same.

If. S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M1917

(7) The impulse to "snap shoot," or to apply sudden, spas-
modic pressure to the trigger in order to get off a shot is
most evident in the kneeling and standing positions. The
natural desire to hit the bull's-eye tempts the riflemen to
fire the shot at the instant the sights come into correct aline -
ment. The result is always a bad shot. Men should be
taught to accept as natural the unsteadiness (wobble) in
these positions. The amount of wobble may be reduced by
position exercises but may never be entirely eliminated.
Therefore, riflemen should never try to "beat the wobble" by
snap shooting. They should squeeze the trigger in the
prescribed manner — with a continuous pressure.

b. Calling the shot. — (1) The pupil must always notice
where the sights are pointed at the instant the rifle is fired
and must call out at once where he thinks the bullet will
hit. Shots are called even when simulating fire at a target
in order to fix the habit and to develop a steady hold. No
man can become a good shot until he is able to call his shot
before it is marked. Inability to call a shot indicates the
rifleman did not know where the sights were pointing at the
time the rifle was fired; in other words, he shut his eyes first
and fired afterward. Shots are called by assuming the
bull's-eye to be a clock face with 12 o'clock at the top of
the bull's-eye. Examples of calls are "Center bull," "Bull's-
eye at four o'clock," "Just out at nine o'clock" or "A close
four at nine o'clock," "Well out at one o'clock" or "A three
at one o'clock."

(2) The procedure which will most effectively enable a
rifleman to call the shot is known as the "follow-through."
Follow- through is continuing to do for a few seconds after the
striker has been released exactly what was being done before
it was released. In preparatory marksmanship training, a
proper follow-through enables a man to detect his position
error(s). If he remains in position, continues to hold his
breath, continues to look through the sights, and continues
to apply pressure to the trigger, he may observe that the
sights come to rest somewhere else than directly under the
bull's-eye. This is an indication of a muscular relaxation
following the release of the striker. This in turn indicates a
faulty position which the alert pupil can then correct by shift-

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

ing his position until the natural aim is under the bull's-eye.

(3) On the range, correct follow-through will help to
eliminate such bad habits as a hurried removal of the rifle
from the shoulder, drawing the head away from the stock,
and similar faults,

c. Procedure in conducting trigge.r-sque.eze exercises. — (1)
The instructor explains to the assembled squad or group the
importance of correct trigger squeeze. He assures himself
by questions that each pupil understands what is meant by
a "steady increase of pressure." The instructor should re-
quire each pupil to squeeze the trigger at least once with the
instructor's Anger on the trigger and the pupil pressing on the
instructor's finger. In this way the instructor can feel
whether or not the pupil understands the mechanics of cor-
rect trigger squeeze. The instructor explains the necessity
for calling the shot.

(2) The pupil is first taught correct trigger squeeze in the
prone position. In this position he can hold steadily and is
not tempted to snap the shot the instant the front sight
touches the bull';;-eye. After he has learned the principles
of correct trigger squeeze in the prone position, he is in-
structed in the other positions, but during the first half of
this period, he is not allowed to squeeze the trigger except in
the prone position.

(3) During trigger-squeeze exercise, the pupil must not be
allowed to take too long to squeeze off any one shot. The
coach should watch for this point and if the pupil does not
get off his shot within 8 or 9 seconds of the time the slack
has been taken up, the coach should cause the pupil to re-
lease his pressure on the trigger, lower his rifle momentarily,
then start over.

(4) A great deal of carefully coached trigger -squeeze prac-
tice is required. Faulty trigger-squeeze practice is worse
than none.

(5) Soldiers should not be allowed to simulate fire until
they have been thoroughly instructed in trigger squeeze. In
all drills and field exercises where Are is simulated, they
should be cautioned to aim at definite objects and to carry
out the correct principles of aiming, squeezing the trigger,
and calling the shot.

IT. S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M1917

43-44

(6) The instruction is conducted by the coach-and-pupil
method under the supervision of the instructor. Aiming
targets like those mentioned for the position exercises are
used, and the exercise is conducted at will in the manner
outlined for the position exercises.

d. Duties of coach. — In the trigger-squeeze exercises, the
coach insures that the —

(1) Sights are blackened.

(2) Sling is properly adjusted.

(3) Proper position is taken.

(4) Breath is held while aiming. (He checks the breath-
ing by watching the back of the pupil.)

(5) Pupil aims correctly.

(6) Slack is taken up decisively in one motion with a heavy
initial pressure.

(7) Trigger is squeezed properly.

(8) Pupil follows through and calls the shot,

(9) Pupil is required to stop his squeeze, bring the rifle
down and then start over if he fails to get off a shot in 8 or 9
seconds after taking up the slack.

H 44. Fourth Step: Sustained Fire. — a. General. — (1) AH
principles learned in slow fire are applied in sustained
fire. It is especially important that the men understand
that the method of breathing and the aim and trigger
squeeze are the same as in slow Are. Time is gained by
taking position rapidly, by working the bolt rapidly and
smoothly, and by reloading quickly and without fumbling.
Accuracy must never be sacrificed for speed. Sustained fire
should be considered as an uninterrupted sequence of slow
fire shots delivered without loss of time.

(2) Careful coaching is essential to prevent acquiring the
habit of looking into the chamber while working the bolt.
The man who looks into the chamber works the bolt slowly.
He loses time in finding his own target again and often fires
on the wrong target. The application in combat is appar-
ent— the soldier who takes his eye off an indistinct target
to look into the chamber while working the bolt may be
unable to locate his target again.

b. Bolt-manipulation exercise. — (1) General. — (a) This
exercise is for the purpose of acquiring a smooth and rapid

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

bolt operation. The magazine floor plate, magazine spring,
and follower must be removed from the rifle or the follower
must be depressed to prevent it from blocking the bolt. A
convenient method of doing the latter is to place an empty
cartridge clip edgewise between the follower and the right
side of the receiver. Cam surfaces on the bolt should be
lubricated to avoid undue wear during the exercise.

(b) Practice in the bolt-manipulation exercise should be
held in all posi tions, and no pupil will be considered pro-
ficient until he can operate the bolt at least 20 times in 20
seconds while in the prone position. The first hour of sus-
tained-fire training should be devoted to bolt-manipulation
exercises. Thereafter each pupil should be given additional
practice from time to time until he is considered proficient.

(2) Procedure.— The exercise is conducted by the coach-
and-pupil method. The instructor explains and "demon-
strates that the follower is removed or depressed; that the
bolt is jerked fully back; and forced home with practically
one motion instead of by four distinct motions as men are
inclined to do at first; that the elbows and the butt of the
rifle remain in place; that the muzzle is allowed to drop
down and to the right as the bolt is opened and is returned
to the horizontal as the bolt is closed. Emphasis is placed
upon the detailed duties of the coach as listed in (3) below.
Exercises should not be continued longer than about 20
seconds at a time. Frequent changes of coach and pupil are
necessary to prevent undue fatigue. After requiring the
pupils to assume a firing position, the instructor commands:

1. BOLT-MANXPULATIOK EXERCISE, READY. 2. EXERCISE; 3.

CEASE FIRING; 4. REST.

(3) Duties of coach. — In the bolt-manipulation exercise,
the coach insures that —

(a) The bolt is operated properly and rapidly.

(b) The eye is kept on the target.

(c> The right hand is brought to the small of the stock,
the rifle to a horizontal position, and the cheek is placed
against the stock each time the bolt is closed.

(d) The butt of the rifle is kept against the shoulder,

(e) The elbows are kept in the proper place for the position
in which he is performing the exercise.

TJ. S. KIFLE, CALIBER ,30, M1917

4.i

(f) No attempt is made to aim or press the trigger.

c. Sustained-fire exercises. — (1) First sustained-fire exer-
cise (cadence exercise). — (a) The most important principle
in sustained fire is the development of correct timing in firing.
Correct timing in firing will vary from about 10 seconds per
shot for the beginner to about 4 seconds per shot for the
experienced man. The development of proper timing in
firing depends on the correct position of the rifleman. The
rifleman's position is not correct unless the sights return
automatically to the aiming point after each shot is fired.
With the follower depressed or removed, the rifleman then
manipulates the bolt, re -aims, concentrating on the sight
picture, and instantly begins to squeeze the trigger. This
procedure is repeated for each shot.

(b) Before conducting timing (cadence) exercises, the in-
structor assembles his group and explains and demonstrates —

1. The correct position.

2. The correct method of aiming,

3. The correct bolt operation.

4. The correct trigger squeeze.

5. What is meant by correct timing.

6. How speed in timing is gradually increased, as skill

Is acquired, until an approximate rate of 6 seconds

per shot is attained,
(c> Procedure. — Following the above explanation and dem-
onstration by the instructor, cadence exercises, using the
coach-and-pupil method, will be given in all positions except
standing. The purpose of these exercises is to familiarize
the rifleman with the time interval at which sustained fire is
delivered.

1. The pupil takes position and aims at a target.

2. The coach takes a position where he can observe the

pupil's eye and trigger finger (fig. 33) .

3. The instructor (one for each platoon or similar

group), with watch in hand, commands: BOLT
(or TIME or uses a whistle signal). Upon the
command or signal, each rifleman operates the
bolt and then takes up the slack with a heavy
initial pressure, continuing the pressure until the
firing pin is released. The instructor repeats the

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

command or signal at 10-second intervals for 1
minute, with approximately 1 minute between ex-
ercises. The exercise is conducted in all posi-

Pigube 33. — Position of Coaefci.

tions except standing until each pupil is familiar
with the 10-second interval. The pupil must be
taught not to hurry the trigger squeeze taut to
squeeze the trigger smoothly.
(6) After proficiency in all positions has been attained
with the 10-second time limit, subsequent exercises should

V. S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M1917 44

be conducted with a time allowance of 8 seconds. The time
should ultimately be reduced to 6 seconds. Cadence exercises
should never be given at a faster rate than 6 seconds per shot
because of the time required for manipulating the bolt.

Figure 34. — Assuming prone position rapidly.

(e) In order that the pupil will get a precise idea of the
time interval, he wiJl manipulate the bolt only upon signal,

(2) Taking positions rapidly. — (a) General. — At first, the
sequence of movements for each position is practiced slowly.

553417" — i3 7

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

The coach-and-pupil method is used. As proficiency is ac-
quired, speed and accuracy in assuming the positions are
obtained. The time required from the beginning of the ex-
ercise to the firing of the first round in sustained fire is
shown in (4) below.

{&) Prone position.— The movement is described by the
numbers for the purpose of instruction in the sequence of the

Figttke 34.— Assuming prone position rapidly — Continued.

movement. After the sequence is learned, the position will
be assumed in one continuous motion upon the command
targets up (commence firing) or as the target appeal's.
First assume the correct prone position and aim at the target.
Mark the places for the elbows and the point on the ground
just below the butt of the rifle in the firing position. The
pupil rises, first to his knees, then to his feet, keeping his
feet in place. The position is then assumed by the numbers
in five counts as follows:

U, S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M191T

1. Being at the ready, with sling adjusted, the left

hand just below the lower band swivel and the
right hand at the heel of the butt, bend both
knees to the ground (fig. 34® and ©) .

2. Place the toe of the butt of the rifle on the ground

at the point previously marked (fig. 34®).

3. Place the left elbow on the ground in the place

previously marked (fig. 340) .

4. Place the butt of the rifle against the right shoulder

5. Grasp the small of the stock with the right hand,

place the right elbow on the ground in the place
previously marked, and assume the aiming po-
sition (fig. 34©).
(In the field, a soldier can very quickly, easily, and
smoothly assume the prone position after a rush by
taking a short jump, landing with feet apart and pro-
ceeding in a manner similar to that described above.)
(c) Sitting position.

1. To assume the sitting position rapidly, break the

fall by placing the right hand on the ground to
the rear of the spot upon which the buttocks are
to rest.

2. Assume the correct sitting position and aim at the

target. Mark and prepare the position for the
heels. Mark the spot upon which the buttocks are
to rest and then rise, keeping the feet in place.
At the command targets up (commence
piking) or as the target appears, sit down on
the marked spot, breaking the fall with the right
hand; place the left arm in position; with the heel
of the right hand on the butt plate, place the butt
against the right shoulder; grasp the small of the
stock with the right hand and assume the aiming
position (fig. 34) . The eye is kept on the target
throughout the exercise.

3. An alternate method of taking the sitting position

rapidly is to take the prescribed sitting position,
mark and prepare the places for the heels, then.

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

cross the left leg over the right. Rise, and stand
with the legs crossed. Upon command, or when

Figure 35. — Assuming sitting position rapidly.

the target appears, bend the knees and sink to
the ground, uncross the legs, and place the heels

U. S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M1917

in the marked places. Place the left arm in posi-
tion. With the heel of the right hand on the butt
plate, place the rifle butt against the right

Fkjtjks 35. — Assuming sitting position rapidly — Continued,

shoulder and grasp the small of the stock: with
the right hand. Assume the aiming position.

id) Squatting position. — Assume the correct position and
aim at the target. Rise without moving the feet. Upon

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

command, or when the target appears, squat into the position;
place the left arm in position; with the heel of the right hand
on the butt plate, place the rifle butt to the shoulder; grasp
the rifle at the small of the stock and aim correctly.

(e) Kneeling position. — Assume the correct kneeling posi-
tion. Mark the position of the left foot and the right knee;
prepare the toe hole for the right foot, if required. Rise with
the right toe at its marked place and . the left foot in its
marked place. Upon command, or when the target appears,
kneel with the right knee on its marked spot; place the left
arm in position; with the heel of the right hand on the butt
plate, place the butt to the shoulder; grasp the small of the
stock with the right hand and assume the aiming position.

(3) Duties of coach, — The coach Insures that —

(a) The sights are blackened.

(b) The sling is properly adjusted.

(c) The correct position is taken.
«*) A breath is taken after each shot.
(e) The slack is taken up promptly.
(/) The trigger is squeezed properly.

(g) The bolt is worked rapidly and smoothly.

C/i) The eye is kept on the target. The elbows are kept
in place, and the butt of the rifle is kept to shoulder while
pupil is working bolt.

(4) Second sustained- fire exercise. — This exercise com-
bines the cadence exercise ((1) above) with taking positions
rapidly. When the rifleman has acquired proficiency in the
trigger -squeeze cadence and in taking the positions rapidly,
timing exercises are given in all positions. These exercises
are conducted with the follower depressed or removed. The
exercises are begun with the pupil in the standing position
after he has had an opportunity to check his firing position
and mark places for his elbows, feet, or knees, depending
upon the position to be assumed. The instructor commands:

1. FOUR KOUNIiS, SIMULATE LOAD; 2. LOCK; 3. READY ON THE
RIGHT; 4. READY OK THE LEFT; 5. READY ON THE FIKI3SC LINE J 6.

TARGETS UP (or COMMENCE FIRING) . At the announce-
ment, ready on the firing line, rifles are unlocked. At the
sixth command (or when the targets are exposed) , all rifle-

U. S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M1917

men take position and simulate firing four rounds. Reload-
ing is simulated, and five more "shots" are squeezed off. The
instructor keeps the group informed of the passage of time by
announcing "First shot," "Reload," "Fifth shot," "Ninth
shot," and "Cease firing," In all sustained -fire positions, 11
seconds are allowed for assuming position and squeezing off
the first shot, 11 seconds for reloading and squeezing off the
fifth shot, and 6 seconds for each other shot.

SUSTAINED-FIRE CADENCE

Standing to prone, sitting, or kneeling (nine rounds on
preparatory field and range) .

No. of shot

Time

No. of seconds...

2!)

4fl

(5) Reloading rifle. — id) During reloading in the prone,
sitting, and squatting positions, the rifle is held firmly with
the left hand, the toe of the butt being placed on the ground.
In the sitting and squatting positions, the butt may be, and
in the kneeling position it should be placed on the thigh.
The clip is taken from the belt and placed in the slot in the
receiver. Loading is completed in accordance with the di-
rections prescribed in paragraph 18. Before the reloading
practice is begun, the follower is either replaced or is no
longer depressed.

(b) Reloading the rifle without hurried movements and
consequent fumbling should be practiced in the prone, sitting,
squatting, and kneeling positions, using corrugated dummy
cartridges, until the required still is obtained,

(6) Third sustained- fire exercise, — (a) After the pupil is
properly trained in timing, taking positions rapidly, and
reloading, he is given additional practice in all of these
points in the third sustained-fire exercise. The group under
instruction is paired off as coach and pupil and is placed on
the firing line. Full-sized targets are placed at 200 and 300
yards from the men under instruction, with some simple
arrangement permitting the target to be exposed to view for

44-45

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

the prescribed Length of time. The exercise may be con-
ducted at shorter ranges, using targets proportionately re-
duced in size. Sights are set to correspond to the range
being used. The commands and procedure are the same
as those prescribed for sustained fire on the rifle range
except that practice dummy cartridges are used. For ex-
ample, the pupil stands with sights properly set and black-
ened, sling adjusted on his arm, clip containing four practice
dummy cartridges in his hand, and one full clip of practice
dummy cartridges in his belt. When using continuously
exposed targets, the instructor, after announcing the range
and the position to be used, commands: 1. four rounds,
load; 2. lock; 3. ready on the right; 4 heady on the left;
5. ready On the firing une; 6. TARGETS UP (or COMMENCE
FIRING) ; 7. CEASE FIRING. 8. UNLOAD. 9. CLEAR
RIFLES (par. IHg). (When using targets which are raised
and lowered from pits, the sixth and seventh commands are
omitted.) At the fifth command, the rifle is unlocked. At the
sixth command (or when the target is exposed) , the pupil
takes position rapidly and squeezes off four shots, The pupil
reloads from the belt with a clip of dummy cartridges and
fires five shots. Accuracy must not be sacrificed for speed.
Eleven seconds are allowed for assuming the position and
squeezing off the first shot, and 11 seconds are allowed to
reload and squeeze off the first shot after reloading. For
the remaining rounds in any position, 6 seconds are allowed
for each shot. Upon completion of the exercise, any dummy
cartridges remaining in the rifle are removed, and the bolt
it left open. During simulated firing, the pupil should never
take his eye from the target except to reload. He should
count his shots as he fires in order that he will know when
the receiver is empty. The exercise is conducted from the
standing position to the prone, sitting, and kneeling positions.

(b) Duties of coach. — The duties of the coach in this
exercise are the same as those prescribed in (3) above, and
in addition he insures that the magazine is reloaded quickly
and without fumbling.

■ 45. Fifth Step: Effect of Wind; Sight Changes; Use of
Scoke Book. — a. Wind. — (1) In firing at 500 yards or under,

100

U. S, RIFLE, CALIBER .30, 2YI1917

the effect of the weather conditions (except that of the wind)
on the bullet can be disregarded. The influence of wind must
be carefully studied.

(2) The horizontal clock system is used in describing the
direction of the wind. The firing point is considered the
center of the clock, and the target is at 12 o'clock. A 3
o'clock wind comes directly from the right. A 6 o'clock wind
comes straight from the rear. A 9 o'clock wind comes directly
from the left.

(3) The velocity of the wind is described in miles per hour.
The velocity of the wind may be estimated by throwing up
light dry grass, dust, or light paper and watching how fast it
travels, or by observing the danger flags. A rule of thumb
which will give the approximate wind velocity is: drop some
light grass or leaves from the height of the shoulder, then
point to the place on the ground where it settles. Divide the
number of degrees in the angle between the arm and body by
four. The result is the approximate wind velocity in miles per
hour. The same rule can be applied, using the smaller angle
between the danger flag and flag staff. In general, a light
breeze is a 5- to 8-mile wind; a fairly strong breeze is a
10- to 12-mile wind. Wind blowing 20 miles an hour is very
strong.

(4) Wind from either side blows the bullet out of its path.
For example, if the wind is coming from the right of the
rifleman (that is, blowing against the right side of the bul-
let) , the bullet will be blown to the left. The amount the
bullet will be blown from its path depends on the force and
direction of the wind and on (he distance to the target. Cor-
rection for this is made by moving the aiming point toward
the wind. This process is called "taking the windage." It is
accomplished by shifting the body so that the sights of the
rifle, instead of pointing at the normal point of aim, are
pointed to the right or left of the normal aiming point, de-
pending upon the direction of the wind. The point of im-
pact of the bullet will move in the same direction that the
aim is moved. For example, if it is desired to move the hits
to the left, the aim must be moved to the left; if it is desired
to make the hits strike further to the right, the aim must be
moved to the right.

101

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

(5) The amount of windage to allow for the first shot
can be determined by one of the methods described in (a)
and Cb) below.

(a) Refer to the windage diagram for the M1903 rifle
in the score book and note the value of the wind in points;
then extend the vertical mark on the bottom or top edge
of the recording target in the score book, corresponding to
the value of the wind; draw a light line tangent to the bot-
tom of the bull's-eye across the target; the intersection
of these lines is the point of aim for the first shot and for
successive shots: if the point proves correct.

(b) By the windage rule method (approximately only) ,
the range (expressed in hundreds of yards) multiplied by
the velocity of the wind and divided by 10 equals the num-
ber of auarter points to allow for a 3 o'clock or 9 o'clock
wind.

Example: At 500 yards the wind is blowing at 8 miles an

hour from 3 o'clock; equals 4 quarter points or 1 point

of windage. Refer to the corresponding windage mark on
the bottom or top edge of the recording target in the score
book for 500 yards; extend this mark up or down the re-
cording sheet; draw a light line tangent to the bottom of
the bull's-eye across the sheet; the intersection of these
lines is the point of aim on the target for the first shot,
and successive shots if the first one is found correct.

(6) If a further correction is necessary after the first
shot is fired, it is determined as follows: the shot is plotted
on the recording target; from the vertical center line through
the bull's-eye the proper correction is noted; and the
aiming point for the following shot is shifted in the proper
direction by this amount.

(7) As the direction of the wind gets nearer and nearer
to 12 or 6 o'clock, the required windage becomes less and
less. Winds 1 hour away from 3 and 9 o'clock (2, 4, 8, and
10 o'clock) require only slightly less windage (about 9io)
than 3 and 9 o'clock winds of equal velocity. For all prac-
tical purposes, the same windage can be used. Winds 1
hour away from 12 and 6 o'clock (11, 1, 5, and 7 o'clock)
require half as much windage as 3 or 9 o'clock winds of
equal velocity.

102

U. S. RIFLE, CALIBER ,30, M1911

(8) Winds at either 6 or 12 o'clock require no windage.
Strong winds from 12 o'clock tend to retard the bullet a little,
and winds from 6 o'clock tend to accelerate it, but the amount
is so slight that a correction in elevation is never used at
ranges up to 500 yards and is rarely used at greater ranges.

b. Elevation rule. — CI) Changing the elevation 100 yards
at any range will give a change on the target, in inches,
equal to the square of the range (expressed in hundreds of
yards) . The strike of the bullet will move in the same direc-
tion that the peep sight is moved, provided the same aiming
point is used.

Example: At 200 yards, changing the elevation 100 yards
makes a change of 4 inches on the target; at 300 yards, 9
inches; at 500 yards, 25 inches. This rule is not exact but
is near enough for all practical purposes.

(2) The horizontal lines in the model targets in the score
book also show how much change to make in the elevation
at each range. When a change in elevation is necessary, it
is best to consult the model target in the score book before
deciding how much of a change to make,

c. Light. — (1) Light has no effect on the flight of the
bullet but does affect the aim. Changes in light have very
slight effect on most riflemen. The correction for variations,
in light does not exceed 25 yaTds in elevation at any range..
Changes in light do not affect uniformly the aim of all',
riflemen,

(2) Usually men unconsciously aim a little lower in. a jreror
light than in good light and consequently need more; eleva-
tion when the light is poor. This lowering of the aimtiesuits'
from the fact that the outline of the bull's-eye is ruafc distinct,
in a poor light. As a rule, poor light exists on dark; dasys; when.
there is a haze in the air; on very bright, warmi diays- when
there is a decided mirage ; and when the sun is, behind1 the
target, The best conditions for shooting prevail' when the-
sky is uniformly overcast and their is sufficien&Ughbtaseethe.'
target clearly.

(3) Sunlight from one side has the same: effect with most;
men as wind from that side. This is because -the side of' the-
front sight toward the sun is more clear ly- defined and is;
unconsciously held under the center of the_bull!£-eye.. Such.

103

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

holding places the bullet toward the opposite side of the bull's-
eye -from the sun. When it is necessary to make allowance for
this, the aiming point is moved toward the sun.

d. Zero 0/ a rifle. — (1) The zero of a rifle for each range is
the elevation to be set on the rear sight, and the point on
the target on which the sights must be alined in order to hit
the center of the bull's-eye on a normal day when there is
no wind. This zero may not conform to the marks on the
scale of the sight leaf and the alinement of the sights on the
rifle. The zero of any rifle may differ with different men,
due to the difference in their hold or manner of aim.

(2) Each man must determine the zero of his own rifle for
each range (par. 53b). He does this by studying the data
Which he has written in his score book concerning elevation
settings on the rear sight, aiming points, changes in sight
settings and aiming points, light, and the direction and veloc-
ity of the wind. The zero of a rifle is best determined on a
day when the sky is overcast and there is no wind. Having
learned the zero of his rifle, the rifleman computes his eleva-
tion for the first shot from this zero and not from the zero
marked on the rifle sight unless the two correspond. Like-
wise, he determines his aiming point from the zero aiming
point and not from the normal six o'clock aiming point,
unless the two correspond.

(3) Where rifles are not available and where it is desired
to conduct exercises in zeroing the rifle, the reverse side of
the sighting device (fig. 20®) can be used.

e. Shooting up or down hill. — In shooting either up or down
hill, less elevation is required than when shooting on level
ground. The steeper the hill, the less elevation is required,
so that when firing vertically up or down no elevation at all
is required, no matter how distant the target. Slight slopes
that may be found on target ranges have no appreciable effect
upon the elevation used and require no correction.

/. Sight-setting and sight-changing exercises, — In these
exercises, the instructor uses the full-sized A, B, and D tar-
gets with spotters to indicate the position of the hits.

(1) Procedure. — The instructor assembles his squad or
group (each pupil having his rifle, score book, and pencil) and
conducts the exercise as follows:

104

U. S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, IH1917

(a> Points out the graduations on the sight leaf and
explains that the line directly opposite the number represents
the range; points out the index lines on the slide and ex-
plains that in setting the sight for any range these lines must
coincide with the graduations for that range on the sight leaf,
and that to retain the slide in adiusment the slide catch must
be engaged with the proper notch on the edge of the sight leaf.

(0) Explains the effect of wind and cautions the class to
disregard all atmospheric influences except wind.

id) Reads and explains the windage rule and elevation

rule. By asking questions, he assures himself that these rules

are understood.

(e) Explains the purpose of the vertical lines on the model

targets in the score book and assures himself that each man

understands the use of this diagram.

■ (/) Shows the pupils how to draw the windage lines for
each range on the blank targets of the score book.

(c) The above points having been explained to the as-
sembled group, the pupils are placed in pairs. The instructor
tests their ability to set the sights for the first shot by using
the windage rule (or diagram). Every time the sights are
set, each pupil examines the sight of the man paired with
him. If called upon, the pupil tells the instructor the sight
setting that was used.

ih) The instructor tests the ability of his pupils to change
sights intelligently after the first shot by referring to the
model target.

(1) Where rifles are not available and where a quick review
of the pupil's knowledge of sight setting is desired, the re-
verse side of the sighting device (fig. 20©) may be used.

(2> Sight- setting exercises. — Examples of sight-setting
exercises as given by the instructor will be as follows:

(a) "You are at 500 yards and estimate the wind to be
8 miles an hour from 3 o'clock. Plot on the recording
target in your score book the aiming point for the first shot.
Jones: where has Smith placed his aiming point? Each man
whose teammate did not place his aiming point to the right
of the bull's-eye at the intersection of a horizontal line
drawn tangent to the bottom of the bull's-eye and the verti-

105

BASIC MELD MAKUAL

cal line indicating 1 point windage, hold Up his hand." The
instructor, by questions, explanations, and illustrations as-
sists the men who have made mistakes.

(b) "You are at 300 yards and estimate the wind to be 7
miles an hour from 9 o'clock. Plot your aiming point on the
recording target in your score book for the first shot. Sup-
pose you fired and the spotter marked the hit here (placing
a spotter in the 4 space near the bull's-eye at 3 o'clock) and
you were sure your hold and trigger squeeze were good; plot
your aiming point to bring the next shot in the vertical
center line of the bull's-eye. Johnson, where has Williams
plotted his aiming point? Each man whose teammate has
not changed his aiming point for the nest shot to the left
on the 1 point line, hold up his hand." The instructor assists
those men who have decided errors by further explanation
and illustrations.

(3) Windage and elevation. — (a) The instructor gives a
number of examples, with the wind at different angles and
velocities and at various ranges, until the class thoroughly
understands the methods of determining the amount of
windage to take for the first shot and corrections, if neces-
sary, in aiming points for subsequent shots.

(b) Following the instruction in taking windage, the in-
structor puts the class through similar exercises which re-
quire changes in elevation.

(c) The instructor gives a number of examples which
require changes in both windage and elevation until the
principles of sight changing are well understood by the class.

(<Z> Then the instructor assumes the zero of the rifles to
be different from the normal both as to windage and eleva-
tion and repeats the exercises.

(4) Additional sight-setting exercises. — Additional ex-
amples of sight-setting exercises as given by the instructor
are as follows:

(a) "Set your sight at 550 yards and place your aiming
point on the 1 point left windage line. Suppose you fire
four shots hitting here (placing four spotters in the bull's-
eye), and your fifth shot goes here (placing spotter on 3
space at 11 o'clock). Edwards, what are you going to do
now? Pippen, what are you going to do? You should not

106

U. S. RIFLE, CALIBER .30, M1917

do anything to the sight. It is practically certain that in
firing the fifth shot you squeezed the trigger improperly and
flinched. Not even a very sudden and violent change in the
weather or light could cause that much difference. Don't
try to correct your own faults by changing the sights.

(b) "For your first score in sustained fire at 200 yards you
have set your sight at the same elevation and have taken the
same windage that you used in slow fire. Suppose this to be
200 yards in elevation and your group goes here (putting nine
spotters low and to the left). Set your sight to taring the
next score into the figure. Miller, what does Wright's sight
read? Where is his aiming point?"

(5) Variations in sight setting. — A shot group in sustained
fire should strike in the same place as a shot group in slow
fire. A sustained-fire shot group that varies in position from
a slow -fire shot group is the result of faulty position or aim.
If there is a constant variation in the two sight settings,
the rifleman should note it in his score book and, using an
aiming point, set his sight in sustained fire so as to make the
group count as much as possible. Shots scattered all over
the target cannot be corrected by changing the sight or aim-
ing point.

g. Use of score book. — (1) Each man must keep a score
book in which he records not only the value of the hits
but the location of each hit, the sight setting and sight
changes, the force and direction of wind, the kind of light,
the hour, the date, and such other data as may be of use
in the future. Spaces for these notes are provided on the
score sheets of the score book.

(2) The use of the score book on the range is important
for the following reasons:

(a) The plotting of the shots shows the rifleman the lo-
cation of his group.

(b) The windage diagram indicates the windage for the
first shot. The model target shows by means of vertical
lines the change in aiming point (windage) necessary to
place the group in the center of the target. By referring
to "Model Dimensions to Scale of A, B, and D Targets" on
page 13, W. D., A. G. O. Form No. 82 (1942) (Combination
Score Book) and applying the elevation rule, the change

107

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

in elevation necessary to place the group in the center of
the target may be computed.

(cJ) The data respecting sight settings and aiming points
used for various ranges and weather conditions are of great
assistance in setting the sight correctly and determining the
aiming point for subsequent firing. Where a number of
scores have been fired and recorded, the rifleman should
get his sight setting and aiming point from previous scores
fired on days that were similar as to light and wind.

(3) The score book will be kept personally by the man
firing. The coach assists him when necessary to decide what
to write down, but the coach will not plot the shots or enter
any data.

h. Score-book exercises. — The squad or larger group is
assembled in front of a full-sized B target, each man with
score book, pencil, and rifle. The class is divided into pairs.
Each man acts as coach for the other man of his pair.

(1) The instructor states the light and weather conditions
and the range. He then indicates eight successive shots on
the target by means of a spotter and requires each man to
plot each shot as it is indicated, to write down the data given
from time to time, to make the actual sight settings and cor-
rections on his rifle, and to plot the aiming point on the
recording target. Where rifles are not available, the reverse
side of the sighting device (fig. 20©) may be used. Weather
and light conditions assumed by the instructor and changes
announced during the exercise should be such as are likely to
occur on the rifle range.

(2) The pupils are told by the instructor to open their score
books at the first blank page and plot the shots and write in
the data as given to them. They are instructed to write
lightly so that erasures may be made, allowing the same page
to be used repeatedly. The example as given by the in-
structor will be substantially as follows:

(a) "You are at 500 yards on the rifle range. You are
getting ready to fire a slow-fire score. There is bright sun-
light. The wind varies from 8 to 12 miles an hour in velocity
and irom 1 to 3 o'clock in direction. When you are in posi-

108

IT. S. RIFLE, CALIBER ,30, M1917

tion ready to Are the first shot, the wind seems steady at 3
o'clock and is blowing about 8 miles an hour. Write in your
data, set your sight, and plot your aiming point. Jones,
where has Robinson set his sight and where has he plotted
his aiming point? Anderson, where has Farrell set his
sight? The windage called for is 1 point right, therefore, the
aiming point should be to the right of the bottom of the
bull's-eye at the 1 point windage line.

(b) "You fire your first shot, and the spotter marks it here
(putting spotter a close 4 at 7 o'clock) . Decide what you are
going to do; then set your sight and plot your aiming point.
Dodd, what does McLean's sight read? You should not
change your sight nor your aiming point until you get two
shots near each other, both fired with the same sight setting
and aiming point. Using the same setting and aiming point,
you fire a second shot.

(c) "Your second shot goes here (spotter a close 4 at 7
o'clock) . Now, Anderson, what change will you make? Since
the strike of the bullet was about 5 inches to the left and 11
inches below the center of the bull's-eye, corrections should
be made in elevation and aiming point for the next shot. The
elevation on the sights should be raised to 600 yards, and
the aiming point should be shifted to the right % point and
lowered 10 inches. Hence the new aiming point will be at
the intersection of the 1V4 point right windage line and the
lower 75-yard elevation (horizontal) line." The instructor
explains the reason for raising the sights 100 yards and lower-
ing the aiming point approximately 10 inches, to the 75-yard
elevation line. He points out that this procedure is better
than not raising the elevaton on the sight and raising the
aiming point the required 10 inches, because raising the aim-
ing point would partially obscure the bull's-eye, and since the
bull's-eye is used as the main reference object in aiming,
corrections in elevation should be made by using a combi-
nation change in the sight setting and the aiming point so
that all of the bull's-eye is always visible.

(d) "Your third shot hit here (spotter in bull's-eye near the
top) ; your fourth shot hit here (spotter in bull's-eye near the
bottom) ; your fifth shot hit here (close 4 at 9 o'clock) . The
wind seems to be a little stronger, but you are not sure. Your

553417° — 43 8 109

BASIC FIELD MANUAL

aim was correct. Havens, what are you going to do? Half
the correction indicated by the windage lines on the record-
ing target of the score book is correct. Plot your hit and
change your aiming point accordingly. The recording target
indicates full correction requires Y2 point right. Half cor-
rection would be Yt point right. Therefore, the aiming point
for the next shot should be moved to the right to the V/2 point
windage line, that is, you are now using iy2 point right wind-
age, Your sixth shot hits here (a bull's-eye near the edge
at 3 o'clock). Dillon, what are you going to do now? It
appears that the fourth and fifth shots were caused by faulty
trigger squeeze, so change your aiming point back to where
it was before (the intersection of the iy4 point right line and
the lower 75-yard elevation line) .

(e) "Before you fire your seventh shot you notice that the
wind has shifted to abo.ut 1 o'clock but is still blowing at the
same velocity (8 miles an hour). Dorsett, where is Miller's
aiming point now? Huntley, what does the book say about
a 1 o'clock wind? You need only about half as much windage
as for a 3 o'clock wind. Your aiming point should therefore
be moved to the left on the % point right windage line.
Place it there.

(/) "Your next shot goes here (a low 4 at 6 o'clock). Pell-
din, what correction has West made for his eight shot? You
should have made no change in your sight. Your windage is
apparently correct, and there has been no change in condi-
tions. Your low shot was the result of a poor aim or poor
trigger squeeze. Do not try to correct your personal errors by
moving the sight around. Your eighth and last shot goes
here (bull's-eye) . Write in your notes and exchange books
with your teammate, Allard, has Kirton plotted all the shots
correctly? Read the notes he has written in his book. What
does he have as his zero aiming point (windage) ? The zero
aiming point (windage) should be to the right of the bull's-
eye on the % point vertical line. Everyone should note care-
fully how this was obtained. The aiming point (windage)
for the final shots which hit the center of the bull's-eye was
on the % point vertical line to the right of the bull's-eye.
However, there was a wind of 8 miles an hour from 1 o'clock,
or a wind equal to Yz point of right windage. Since the zero

110

U. S. RIFLE, CALIBER ,30, MI917

45-46

aiming point (windage) is that setting used when there is
no wind blowing, you should deduct the value of the wind.
Therefore, V2 from % equal y4 point right windage. Since
no further changes in elevation were required after the sight
was set at 600 yards, the zero aiming point (elevation) is on
the lower 75-yard elevation (horizontal) line. Hence, the
zero aiming point is at the intersection of this line with the
!/4 point right windage line."

■ 46. Sixth Step: Examination of Men Before Starting
Range Practice. — a. (1) Time required. — These examinations
should not require an excessive amount of time. If each
step of the instruction in the preparatory marksmanship
training has been presented carefully and thoroughly, all
men should be well qualified by the time the examination is
held. Progress charts based on preliminary examinations
should have been kept on each man as prescribed in para-
graph 39/.

(2) Time 0} holding examination. — The examination
should be held sufficiently in advance of rang
…[truncated]

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