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Chapter 4
SKILL AT ARMS
SECTION 1. INTRODUCTION
0401. A cadet will shoot on the range at various times during the course of his training. He will not shoot well and safely unless he understands the weapons which he
is going to fire the Air Rifle, the No. 8 (.22 inch) Rifle, the Cadet General Purpose
(GP) Rifle and the Light Support Weapon (LSW). The contents of this chapter explain
how these weapons work, how to look after them, and how to handle them with efficiency and safety. The chapter incorporates the contents of the provisional pamphlet
on the Cadet GP Rifle, amended in several instances in the light of experience
gained since the introduction of this new weapon in the Cadet Forces. The chapter
also covers subjects directly related to shooting, including Judging Distance,
Recognition of Targets and Fire Control Orders.

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SECTION 2. SAFETY WITH WEAPONS


A.

INSTRUCTORS NOTES

Aim
0402. To introduce recruits to the need for safety when handling or firing the Air
Rifle, No. 8 (.22 inch) and Cadet GP rifles.
Timings
0403.

Two 30 minute periods.

Method
0404.

An indoor lecture/demonstration.

Stores
0405.
Air Rifle
No. 8 Rifle
Cadet GP Rifle
5mm plywood 230 mm x 230 mm (9 x 9 inches)
(or Fig 11A veneer)
Aim Corrector
Penetration Block
Copy of Cadet Training Safety Precautions
(Army Code No. 70768)
.22 inch ammunition
Air Rifle Pellets
Ear Defenders

1
2
1
1
1
1
1
5 rounds
5
1 pair per instructor
and cadet

Preparation
0406. a. Lay both No. 8 rifles on the firing point, muzzles pointing towards the bullet catcher; one with cocking piece to the rear; both with the safety catch set
at safe.
b. Lay the Cadet GP rifle on the firing point, with the cocking handle facing
upwards, safety catch set at safe. Muzzle pointing towards the bullet catcher.
Magazine by the rifle.

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c. Lay the air rifle closed, on the firing point, muzzle point towards the bullet catcher.
d. Place the penetration block for the .22 inch firing demonstrations on the
target bench in front of the bullet catcher, and the plywood square of Fig 11A
veneer at 6 metres for the air rifle firing demonstration.
Miscellaneous
0407. a. This period should be conducted on a miniature or 25 yard/30 metre
range. However if this is not possible the .22 ammunition will not be included
in the stores (paragraph 0405) and the penetration block will be prepared by
firing into it on a miniature or 25 yard/30 metre range beforehand so that
cadets may see the results.
b. The air rifle range may be a contingent/detachment hut provided that the
appropriate safety regulations are complied with Volume II, Chapter 2,
Section 11).
c. The penetration block is made up of six pieces of soft wood measuring
115 mm x 76 mm x19 mm (6 x 3 x inches) spaced 19 mm ( inch) apart and
braced on each side by wooden battens each 76 mm x 210 mm x 13 mm (3 x
8 x inches). A 25 metre aiming mark should be secured centrally on the
front board to ensure that the three rounds fired from 25 metres are correctly
positioned. Ideally they should be spaced as in the illustration (see Fig 57).

Fig 57. The Penetration Block


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B.

CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Preliminaries
0408. Safety precautions will be carried out, leaving the weapons prepared as
described under Preparation at paragraph 0406.
Introduction
0409. a. Safety is of paramount importance whenever weapons are being handled
or fired.
b. It is essential that Skill at Arms training should promote the instinctive
ability to handle all weapons with due regard to personal safety and to the
safety of others.
c. Accidents are generally caused by faulty or careless handling of weapons
and ammunition. They can be minimized by skilful handling and strict compliance with the rules which are now to be explained. These rules are to be
rigidly adhered to at all times by all members of the CCF and ACF.
Rules for Handling Weapons at All Times
0410.

Explain and demonstrate where necessary:


a.

A WEAPON MUST NEVER BE POINTED AT ANYONE IN FUN.

b. A WEAPON MUST ALWAYS BE HANDLED SO THAT IT POINTS IN


SUCH A DIRECTION THAT THERE IS NO DANGER IF A ROUND IS ACCIDENTALLY FIRED.
c. WHENEVER A WEAPON IS PICKED UP WHICH HAS NOT BEEN
UNDER AN INDIVIDUALS DIRECT SUPERVISION IT MUST BE EXAMINED
TO MAKE SURE IT IS NOT LOADED.
d. WHENEVER A WEAPON IS HANDED TO SOMEONE ELSE HE MUST
FIRST BE SHOWN THAT IT IS UNLOADED. WHEN ANYONE ELSE HANDS
A WEAPON TO HIM HE MUST INSIST THAT THE SAME ACTION IS TAKEN.
e. THE MUZZLE OF A WEAPON MUST NEVER BE RESTED AGAINST
ANY PART OF THE BODY.
f. A WEAPON MUST BE IN THE UNLOADED STATE PRIOR TO TRAVELLING IN A VEHICLE OR DURING NON-TACTICAL MOVES ON FOOT.

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g. A CADET MUST NEVER BE ALLOWED TO FIRE A WEAPON UNLESS


HE HAS BEEN INSTRUCTED AND PRACTISED IN ITS USE UNDER
SUPERVISION.
0411.

Questions from and to the squad.

0412.

Explain and demonstrate:


a.

Rule 0410. c.
(1) Pick up the fired No. 8 rifle. The cocking piece is forward but to
make absolutely sure it is unloaded, point it in a safe direction, push forward the safety catch, open the breech and look into the chamber to
ensure there is no round in it. When you are satisfied it is empty, close the
breech, squeeze the trigger and put the safety catch to safe.
(2)

Replace the rifle on the firing point.

(3) Pick up the Cadet GP rifle and ensure that the chamber is clear by
carrying out the normal safety precautions. Take particular care to inspect
the body, chamber and face of the bolt to ensure that they are clear.
When satisfied that the rifle is empty operate the bolt release, put the
safety catch to fire and squeeze the trigger. Put the safety catch to safe
and close the dust cover. Inspect the rifle magazine and place it by the
weapon.
(4) Pick up the second No. 8 rifle. Draw attention to the cocking piece
which is to the rear and the safety catch which is set at safe. (The safety
catch could equally well NOT have been set at safe). You would not just
pick it up and operate the trigger it may be loaded. Open the breech
and examine the rifle in the same manner as the others were dealt with.
When you are satisfied that there are no rounds in it, close the breech,
squeeze the trigger and put the safety catch to safe.
(5) Pick up the air rifle. Point it in a safe direction and break open the
rifle without fully cocking the action. Look into the breech and ensure no
pellet is loaded and through the bore to ensure it is clear. When satisfied
that the rifle is not loaded, close it, operate the trigger and lay it on the firing point.
b.

Rule 0410. d.
(1) Pick up the Cadet GP rifle and using a cadet as an assistant, open
the breech and invite him to examine the chamber.
(2)

Also inspect the magazine.

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(3) When he is satisfied that there are no rounds in them, hand it to him
and get him to close the breech, operate the trigger and put the safety
catch to safe.
(4)
c.

Return the rifle to the firing point.

The No. 8 and air rifle will be treated in the same way.

0413.

Questions from and to the squad.

0414.

Sum Up.
a. Those are the rules and procedures for the safe handling of rifles and they
must be rigidly adhered to at all times.
b.

It is your responsibility to check that a rifle is safe to handle at all times.

c. You will be taught in more detail and exercised on each type of weapon you
are allowed to handle and fire in the appropriate stages of your training.
0415. Explain: Because of the small calibre of the .22 inch round there is a mistaken impression that it is not lethal. The types of ammunition made by different manufacturing firms vary considerably in power. The long .22 inch service ammunition
generally used contains 4 to 7 grains of powder and a bullet weighing 40 to 50 grains
with a muzzle velocity of 328 metres per second, plus or minus 7.5 metres per second. It has considerable power and a maximum range of up to 1550 metres when
fired at an angle of about 33 degrees.
0416. In order to give some idea of its penetrative capability, three rounds will be
fired at the target to the front.
a.

Demonstrate Fire three rounds from the prone supported position.

b.

Unload and check that the weapon is clear.

c.

Bring the penetration block to the firing point for examination by the squad.

Note: THIS DEMONSTRATION WILL ONLY TAKE PLACE IN A MINIATURE


OR ON A 25 YARD/30 METRE RANGE.
0417. Explain: Because of the small calibre of the air rifle, its relatively low muzzle velocity as compared with a .22 inch rifle and the fact that it fires an uncartridged
pellet, there is a mistaken impression that it is not lethal. Most .177 calibre air rifles
have a muzzle velocity in excess of 182 metres per second and the pellet is capable
of penetrating 5 mm plywood at a range of 25 metres.
0418. In order to confirm the penetrative capability, three pellets will be fired at the
plywood target to the front.

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a. Demonstrate by firing three pellets from the prone supported position.


Space the shots on the target.
b. Break open the rifle and ensure it is unloaded, the bore is clear and lay it
on the firing point open.
c.
0419.

Bring the target to the firing point for examination by the squad.
Questions from the squad.

Rules for Firing on Miniature Ranges


0420. Explain and demonstrate where necessary: There are certain rules and
regulations which apply to the use of the miniature range. At this stage you are not
required to commit them to memory. You will be reminded of them again during the
appropriate stages of training.
0421.

The rules are:


a. The .22 inch rifle and air rifle are the only weapons which a cadet may fire
on a miniature range. For air rifle firing see also Section 3.
b. Firing will only take place under the personal supervision of an authorized
officer in accordance with Cadet Training Safety Precautions Section 2, who
will be responsible for seeing that the following safety regulations are complied
with:
(1)

(2)

The following only will be allowed on the firing point:


(a)

Firing Point Officer in charge.

(b)

Supervising Officers in charge of groups of firers.

(c)

Coaches to individual cadets.

(d)

Cadets actually firing.

Ammunition will be issued only on the firing point by an officer.

(3) No weapon will be loaded without orders from the Firing Point
Officer.
(4)

Indiscriminate snapping is forbidden.

(5)

Drill rounds will not be taken on the range.

(6) The muzzle of a weapon will at all times be pointed towards the bullet catcher. This includes loading, firing, unloading and inspecting.
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(7) At the conclusion of any firing when it is necessary to examine the


targets, rifles will be unloaded and laid on the firing point with breeches
open. The firers will stand up and behind the firing point. No individual will
move forward of the firing point until the Firing Point Officer has inspected all weapons to ensure that they are clear.
(8) As each detail finishes firing and after the weapons have been
inspected (see (7) above), live rounds and empty cases will be collected
and separated under the orders of the Firing Point Officer. When this has
been completed, he may order the firers forward to examine their targets,
or have them brought to the firing point.
(9) No one will be allowed to fire or spectate unless they are wearing
proper ear protection.
c.

With regard to air rifles:


(1) Air rifle shooting in the Cadet Forces is restricted to the calibre and
type of air rifle not requiring a firearms certificate under the Firearms Act.
When cadets under the age of 14 years are using air rifles in range practice they must be supervised by someone aged 21 years or over.
(2) In no circumstances should any unofficial means be employed to
increase the power or velocity of air weapons.
(3) Air rifles may only be fired in a miniature range, or in a place
approved by the Contingent Commander/County Commandant as
premises or land suitable as a range, and then only under supervision of
an authorized adult as stated in Cadet Training Safety Precautions (Army
Code No. 70768).
(4)

Safety regulations for air rifle ranges will be complied with.

d. The Firing Point Officer will, at the conclusion of all firing, inspect all
weapons and equipment before anyone is allowed to leave the range, to
ensure that the weapons are unloaded and clear and that the firers are not in
possession of any live ammunition or empty cases.
e. The Firing Point Officer will warn all present at the range that it is an
offence to take live ammunition, empty cases or air rifle pellets away from any
range and he will personally take a declaration to this effect from each individual present.
f.

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Each individual will declare:


(1)

I have no live rounds or empty cases in my possession

(2)

I have no pellets in my possession.


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OR

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0422.

Confirm by questions.

Conclusion
0423.

0424.

End of Lesson Drill.


a.

Questions from the squad on the entire lesson.

b.

Confirm by questions.

c.

Safety precautions.

d.

Pack kit.

e.

Summary.

To include the following:

(1)

The importance of safe handling.

(2)

A forecast of the squads next lesson in this subject.

Reserved.

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SECTION 3. THE AIR RIFLE


General Introduction
0425. For the cadet the air rifle is the ideal weapon for his introduction to shooting,
without undue strain or fear from recoil and noise until he has mastered the principles of marksmanship (see Fig 58).
Training Value
0426.

The advantages of the air rifle are:


a. Economics. After the initial capital expenditure, training can be run quite
cheaply. Pellets are inexpensive and readily available.
b. Minimum Safety Limitations. Because of the small danger area, the rifles
can be used almost anywhere and relatively light protection is needed around
the target area. However, the importance of correct procedures for the safe
handling of weapons must be insisted upon at all times.
c. Security and Ease of Organization. Shooting training can easily be organized because weapons are readily to hand with few security problems.
Provided a substantial wooden cupboard or preferably a metal locker with a
sound lock is available, weapons can be safely stored. Pellets should be kept
in a separate store. The success of air rifle shooting is related closely to range
accessibility and the minimum restrictions.
d. Development of Skills. The basic skills of shooting holding, aiming,
breath control, trigger operation and follow through are common to all handheld, shoulder controlled weapons and can be further developed through air
rifle shooting.

Shooting Standards
0427. Rifle shooting in the APC is based on grouping. Firing with the air rifle at
5.5m (6 yards) the group sizes to be achieved are:
6.3mm ( inch) 12.7mm ( inch) 19mm ( inch) 25.4mm (1 inch)
Safe Handling
0428. Air rifles can cause serious wounds if handled without due care. Safe handling is a question of instilling good habits into a cadet and for this reason, air rifles
must be handled in accordance with the normal rules for service weapons.
0429.

Reserved.
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Fig 58. The Air Rifle

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THE AIR RIFLE SAFETY, LOADING, FIRING AND UNLOADING


A.

INSTRUCTORS NOTES

Aim
0430. To introduce the cadet to the air rifle and to teach him how to handle it with
safety.
Timings
0431.

One 30 minute period.

Method
0432.

An indoor lecture/demonstration period.

Stores
0433.
Air rifle
Pellets
Pellet catcher
Target holder
Sandbag rest
Groundsheet
Ear defenders

1
As required
1
1
1
1
1 pair per instructor
and cadet

Preparation
0434. a. Ensure the necessary safety precautions for firing have been carried out
(see Volume II Chapter 2 Section 11).
b. Position the pellet catcher, target and target holder at 5.5 metres (6
yards) from the firing point.
c.

Position the groundsheet and sandbag rest on the firing point.

d.

Lay the air rifle on the firing point.

e.

Arrange seating for the class to the right rear of the firing point.

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f. Where U type backsights are used, prepare aim diagrams to show a


correct aim picture.
g.

Ensure that the air rifle is zeroed.

h.

Have the pellets to hand.

0435. The subject matter contained in this lesson assumes that the air rifle being
used is of the usual break open design, fitted with an aperture backsight. Where
matters of detail in this lesson are at variance with the weapon possessed, the
instructor should consult the makers instructions.

B.

CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Preliminaries
0436. Safety Precautions.
the bore is clear.
0437.

Open the air rifle and ensure no pellet is loaded and

Revise the rules for handling weapons.

Safety
0438. Explain and demonstrate: Like any other weapon an air rifle must be
inspected to ensure it is unloaded. To do this the rifle must be broken open.
a. Pick up the air rifle, point the muzzle in a safe direction, grasp the small of
the butt firmly with the right hand, keeping the fingers clear of the trigger and
tuck the remainder of the butt under the forearm. Grasp the barrel with the left
hand as near as is comfortable towards the foresight block. Press firmly and
sharply down with the left hand and simultaneously force upwards with the right
hand, ensure you do not cock the air rifle.
b.

The rifle should now break open so that the breech can be inspected.

c. Look into the breech and ensure no pellet is loaded; look through the bore
and ensure it is clear. When satisfied that the rifle is unloaded, close the rifle
and keeping the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, operate the trigger (see Fig
59).
d. It is unnecessary to fully cock the action to inspect the rifle; furthermore it
is positively harmful to the piston head to cock and release the action unless a
pellet is to be fired.
0439.

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Practise the squad.

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Fig 59. Inspecting the Air Rifle

Loading
0440.

Explain and demonstrate:

Adopt the lying position (see Fig 60).

a. To load, break open the rifle and pull the barrel fully down until the sear on
the trigger engages the bent on the piston. When this happens, a distinct click
will be felt and heard.
b. Push the barrel forward until the inspection position is assumed and place
a pellet, nose leading, into the breech.
c. To close the rifle, keep the fingers clear of the trigger, hold the barrel firmly with the left hand and raise the butt until the locking action is completed.
d. A cadet of slight physique may have difficulty in cocking the action in the
lying position. It may, therefore, be necessary to provide an assistant to do this
for him. The assistant will kneel on one knee on the right hand side of the firer
(left side for left handed firers), take the rifle from the firer and, keeping the muzzle pointed in the direction of the target, break it open, cock the action, bring
the barrel up to the inspection position and hand the rifle back to the firer for
him to load. Under no circumstances will the assistant load the rifle.

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Fig 60. Loading the Air Rifle

Holding, Aiming and Firing


0441. The principles of holding, aiming, and firing a shot are the same as are
explained in detail in Sections 8 and 9 of this Chapter in respect of the Cadet GP
Rifle. Observance of the procedure for follow through is of vital importance if good
shooting results are to be achieved.
Unloading
0442.

Explain and demonstrate:


a. Once a pellet has been loaded it is difficult to remove, so it should be fired.
Hence there is no unloading procedure except that at the end of any firing practice the air rifle must be broken open, as for the inspection, and laid on the firing point.
b. The firer will be ordered to stand up behind the firing point. All rifles will be
inspected before anyone is allowed to go forward to change the targets.

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Conclusion
0443.

End of Lesson Drill.


a.

Questions from the squad.

b.

Practise the squad.

0444 0445.

Reserved.

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SECTION 4 THE NO. 8 (.22) RIFLE


SAFETY PRECAUTIONS, CARE AND CLEANING, SIGHT SETTING,
LOADING, UNLOADING AND AMMUNITION SAFEGUARDS
A.

INSTRUCTORS NOTES

Aim
0446. a. To confirm that the cadet knows the regulations for the safe handling of
the rifle and the rules of conduct in the miniature range.
b. To instruct him in the care and cleaning of the No. 8 (.22 inch) rifle and
the safe handling of the ammunition.
c.

To instruct him in sight setting and how to load and unload the rifle.

Timings
0447.

Two 30 minute periods.

Method
0448. A practical instructional period in the miniature range. Alternatively the period
may be taken outdoors on a 25 yd/30 m range.
Stores
0449.
No. 8 rifles
No. 6 cleaning rod with brush and cleaner
Flannelette cleaning rag and oil
Representative range target
Ammunition .22 inch
Table
Chairs (if range seating not provided)
Ear defenders

1 per cadet if possible


1 complete
As required
1
As required
1
1 per cadet
1 pair per cadet

Preparation
0450. a. Examine all rifles to ensure that they are unloaded and bores are clear.
Place them on the table with breeches open, muzzles pointing down the
range, together with all other stores. Put the ammunition on the firing point in
its box until required.
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b. Place the representative range target in the target holder in front of the
bullet catcher.
c.

Prepare pieces of flannelette 50 mm by 30 mm (2 inches by 1 inches).

d. If it is not possible to conduct the lesson on a range, the representative


range target and ammunition will NOT be included in the stores (see paragraph 0449) and the correct sequence of actions, detailed in paragraph 0462,
will be demonstrated dry only.
Miscellaneous
0451. a. Revise the rules for the safe handling of weapons and firing on a miniature range at Section 2.
b. The principles of holding, aiming and firing a shot are the same as are
explained in detail in Sections 8 and 9 of this Chapter in respect of the Cadet
GP Rifle, but instructors must adapt them to this weapon.

B.

CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Preliminaries
0452. Safety precautions will be carried out, leaving the rifles prepared as in paragraph 0450. a. Check that the ammunition is in its closed container, separated from
the rifles on the firing point, until required.
Introduction
0453. The No. 8 (.22 inch) rifle is to be maintained in a serviceable condition at all
times. The bore of the rifle is to be dry cleaned before firing and cleaned and lightly
oiled afterwards when particular attention is to be paid to the chamber, breech area
and the face of the bolt to ensure that all wax deposits are removed.
0454. Bulges in the barrels of rifles are caused by a bullet failing to clear the barrel before being struck by the next one fired. To minimize the risk of this occurring:
a.

The bores of .22 inch rifles will be inspected:


(1)

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Before and on the conclusion of firing.

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(2) Whenever the noise made by the explosion of the charge is less
than usual.
(3) Whenever the bullet is not heard or seen to strike the target or bullet catcher.
b. After firing, or whenever excessive fouling is noticed, the bore will be thoroughly cleaned and inspected before firing is resumed. This should only be
done by an adult instructor to ensure that damage to the bore is not caused by
misuse of the cleaning rod.
c. If a bullet becomes lodged in the barrel the rifle will be handed in for inspection and repair and a Defect Report (AFG 3600) forwarded to District
Headquarters. This report will include the batch and/or lot number and date of
manufacture of the ammunition which will be found on the ammunition container.
Cleaning
0455.

Explain and demonstrate:

To clean the barrel and breech:

a. Raise the backsight, push forward the safety catch and press down the bolt
head catch. Lift the bolt lever and pull the bolt fully to the rear. Release the bolt
head catch, raise the bolt head and withdraw the bolt from the rifle.
b.

Attach the cleaning brush to the cleaning rod and lightly oil the brush.

c. Lay the rifle on a table, insert the cleaning rod from the breech end and
clean the barrel and breech. Do not use undue pressure and avoid the rod
scraping the wall of the barrel or breech.
d. Attach the cleaner to the cleaning rod and with a piece of flannelette 50
mm by 30 mm (2 inches by 114 inches) dry out the barrel. To do this push the
rod from the breech end fully through the bore and remove the flannelette.
Carefully remove the cleaning rod.
e.

Examine the barrel and breech for cleanliness.

f. If firing is to follow leave the barrel and breech dry. If not, lightly oil and
store.
g.

Ensure that the cartridge platform, breech and ejector are clean.

h. With an oiled rag clean the face of the bolt and extractor, taking care not
to damage the extractor. Should there be excessive grease on the face of the
bolt which, when wiped, tends to gather in the firing pin hole, this can be
pushed out by turning the cocking piece anti-clockwise allowing the firing pin to
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ing piece back and rotate clockwise until the bent is aligned with the locking lug
on the underside of the bolt.
i. Abrasives such as emery cloth, sand paper or sand are not to be used for
cleaning.
j. Check that the foresight is not loose or bent, and that the backsight is
retained firmly in the vertical position when raised. Ensure that the backsight
adjusting screw and slide work freely and that the aperture is clean.
k.

With a clean dry cloth wipe over the woodwork.

0456. Before replacing the bolt, check that the number on it is the same as that on
the rifle. Ensure the bolt head is screwed fully home and that the cocking piece is
aligned with the locking lug. Raise the backsight, press down the bolt head catch,
insert the bolt and turn the head fully to the right. Push the bolt forward and release
the bolt head catch. Close the breech and operate the trigger.
0457. Check the action of the safety catch with the cocking piece to the rear and
then the fired position.
0458.

Questions from the squad.

Sight Setting
0459.

Explain and demonstrate (see Fig 61):


a. The backsight consists of a
leaf, adjusting screw and a slide
with aperture. The leaf is graduated in 25, 50 and 100 metres.
b. When the sight is folded
down the battle sight presents
itself and could be used for all
targets up to and including 300
metres. But this sight is not normally used on this rifle.
c.

Questions from the squad.

Fig 61. No. 8 Rifle: Sight Setting


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Ammunition, Loading and Unloading


0460. Move to the firing point and arrange the squad behind the firers position but
where all actions can clearly be seen. With a large squad, it may be necessary to
repeat the procedures.
0461. Explain: The No. 8 rifle requires each round to be hand fed into the chamber until resistance is felt. Failure to do this could result in the rim of the .22 inch cartridge being struck with sufficient force by the extractor as to cause a premature
explosion and possible injury to the firer.
Loading
0462.

Explain and demonstrate:


a.

Loading the rifle will be carried out in the prone position.

b.

On the command Adopt the prone position Down:


(1) Get down, breaking the fall with the hands. Take command of the
rifle by placing the left hand around the forestock and the right hand gripping the small of the butt. Ensure that the trigger finger is pointed forward
and outside the trigger guard.
(2) The body should be relaxed and slightly angled to the line of fire.
The left leg should be on the same line as the body, the leg muscles
relaxed and toes turned outwards. The right leg is positioned to form a
continuation of the line of fire, the right foot pointing outwards with the
heel on the ground.

c.

On the command With one round load:


(1) Push the safety catch fully forward with the thumb of the right hand
and open the breech by lifting up the bolt and pulling it to the rear using
the right hand.
(2) Hand feed the round into the chamber as previously explained and
close the breech. Apply the safety catch and return the right hand to the
small of the butt, forefinger pointed forward and outside the trigger guard.

Unloading
0463.

Explain and demonstrate:


a.

On the command Unload:

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(1) Push forward the


safety catch.
(2) Tilt the rifle sharply
to the right, open the
breech and move the bolt
slightly backwards and
forwards without lowering the bolt lever until the
round has been extracted.
(3) Look into the chamber and feel to check that
it is empty.

Fig 62. No. 8 Rifle: Unloading

(4) Close the breech, bring the rifle into the shoulder, aim at the target
or bullet catcher, squeeze the trigger.
(5) Lower the backsight, open the breech, lay the rifle down on its left
side. The rifle is now ready for inspection.
Misfires
0464. Explain: There may be occasions when, on squeezing the trigger, the
round does not fire. This is called a misfire. When this occurs, remain in the aiming
position for five seconds and if it does not fire in this time, unload the misfired round
and put it aside but separate from any other live rounds. Reload the next round to be
fired and carry on shooting.
0465. At the end of firing any misfired rounds will be handed in and dealt with separately. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES WILL ROUNDS THAT HAVE MISFIRED
BE LOADED IN AN ATTEMPT TO RE-FIRE THEM.
Conclusion
0466.

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End of Lesson Drill.


a.

Questions from the squad on the entire lesson.

b.

Confirm by questions.

c.

Safety precautions.

d.

Pack kit.

e.

Summary.

To include the following:


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(1)

The importance of safe handling.

(2)

How to deal with misfired rounds.

(3)

A forecast of the squads next lesson on this subject.

0467 0468.

Reserved.

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SECTION 5. THE L98A1 CADET GENERAL PURPOSE (GP) RIFLE:


GENERAL DESCRIPTION, SAFETY AND THE SIGHT SYSTEM
A.

INSTRUCTORS NOTES

Aim
0469.

To introduce the 5.56mm L98A1 Cadet GP Rifle.

0470.

To teach the fitting of the sling and carriage.

0471.

To teach safety precautions.

0472.

To describe the sighting system.

Timings
0473.

Two 30 minute periods.

Method
0474.

A basic indoor instructional period.

Stores
0475.
Rifle, complete with Iron Sight
Cleaning tool kit
Sling (not fitted)
Table
Weapon stand and pointer (if available)

1 per cadet
1 per cadet
1 per cadet

Preparation
0476.

Set up the table and stand. Mount the weapon on the stand.

Miscellaneous
0477. When handling the parts of the rifle the instructor is to name them and their
purpose. However, at this stage the cadet is not expected to memorize all the names.
The instructor should ensure that all rifles are clear before the lesson commences,
and inform the cadets of this fact. He is also to mention that the weapon is only to be

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fired from the right shoulder. The instructor should take care to identify all left handed
members of his squad and inform them each individually of this fact.

B.

CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Preliminaries
0478. Revise the rules for the safe handling of weapons (Cadet Training Safety
Precautions paragraph 0309).
Characteristics of the 5.56mm Cadet GP Rifle
0479. The L98A1 Cadet GP Rifle is a magazine fed hand-operated single shot
weapon, which is based on the British Army L85A1 Rifle. It is only to be fired from
the right shoulder. The magazine holds 30 rounds. It is robust, yet light, accurate
and easy to teach. Its low recoil and good adaptability to firers of differing physique
make it eminently suitable as a weapon for cadets. Technical details on the weapon
are at Annex A to this chapter.
The Parts of the Rifle
0480.

Point out the following on the rifle (see Fig 63):


a.

Muzzle, foresight, hand guard and top cover.

b.

Safety catch, pistol grip, trigger guard and trigger.

c. Cocking handle, cocking handle extension, ejection opening and dust


cover.

0481.

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d.

Holding open catch and bolt release catch.

e.

Butt and front and rear sling loops.

f.

Trigger Mechanism Housing (TMH) and front and rear TMH locking pins.

g.

Magazine housing and magazine catch.

h.

Backsight, carrying handle and cheek piece.


Confirm by questions.

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Fig 63. The L98A1 Cadet GP Rifle


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The Sling
0482. Description. Explain: The sling consists of two lengths of webbing type
material (see Fig 64). The first, longer piece has at one end a female part of a clip
and a flat plastic loop attached; the other end of the loop is clear. The second, shorter piece has the male part of the clip at one end and the quick release buckle and
loop at the other.
0483. Fitting. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating:
method (see Fig 65):

For a suggested

a. Take the longer strip and lay it flat along the weapon with the female clip
end towards the muzzle and the flat plastic loop pointing outwards. Feed the
clear end through the front sling loop (Stage 1) and then through the flat plastic loop on the strap. Pull tight (Stage 2).
b. Take the second strap and, holding it parallel with the first, and with the
male clip end pointing outwards, feed the clear end of the longer strap through
and over the ridged edge of the gate in the base of the male clip on the shorter strap (Stage 3); connect the male and female parts of the clip together (Stage
4).
c. Ensure that the longer strap remains untwisted and then feed the clear end
through the rear sling loop on the weapon (Stage 5).
d. Check that the shorter strap is not twisted and then feed the clear end of
the longer strap outwards through the main gate of the buckle bar. Finally
thread the clear end of the longer strap back through the gate of the buckle
(Stages 6 and 7). Note: The two parts of the sling can be joined together before
being fitted to the weapon. Cadets may find this method easier to understand.
0484. Removal. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating:
sling reverse the fitting procedure.
0485.

To remove the

Confirm by practice. (Leave slings fitted.)

Carriage
0486. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating: The sling can be used for
front slung carriage, with a side carriage variation, or back carriage (see Fig 66).
Note: The magazine need not be fitted.
a. The Front Slung Carriage. To adopt the front slung carriage, separate the
two straps and insert the head, right arm and shoulder through the loop formed
by the straps. The weapon will now be suspended from the left shoulder and
across the chest. The position of the weapon in relation to the chest can be
adjusted by pulling downwards on the spare material of the longer strap. The
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Fig 64. The Sling


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4-31

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Fig 65. Fitting the Sling Stages 1-3


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Fig 65. Fitting the Sling Stages 4-6


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a. Front

b. Side Variation
Fig 66. Carriage

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c. Back
Fig 66. Carriage
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Fig 67. The Sling Quick Release


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rifle can now be moved varying from muzzle upwards (see Fig 66a) to muzzle
pointing down (see Fig 66b), or kept parallel to the ground. (Note: Care must
be taken when carrying the weapon in this position, particularly when getting in
or out of vehicles, to make sure that the foresight is kept clear of the face.)
b. Quick Release. Operation of the quick release will allow the weapon to
be brought rapidly into the aim from the front slung carriage (see Fig 67).
c. The Back Carriage. To adopt the back carriage (see Fig 66c), re-fasten
the quick release and then separate the sling to form two loops. Put an arm
through each loop to position the rifle, muzzle down, in the centre of the back,
cocking handle uppermost. It is necessary to return to the front slung carriage
in order to aim and fire. (Note: Care must be taken when carrying the weapon
in this position to ensure that the muzzle does not stick into the ground.)
0487.

Confirm by practice.

Safety Precautions
0488. The safety precautions are to be carried out at the beginning and end of
every lesson, practice or range period, and immediately on returning from a patrol or
other exercise or duty, and when handing a rifle over to another person.
0489. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating:
inspection port arms:

On the command For

a. Adopt the Low Port position (see Fig 68). Advance the left foot, hold the
rifle by the pistol grip, forefinger outside the trigger guard. On the range bring
the rifle to the horizontal position at waist level; otherwise point the muzzle
upwards and rest the butt on the waist belt or right pouch. Place the left hand
on the hand guard and tilt the weapon to the right.
b.

Ensure that the safety catch is at Safe S.

c. Cock the weapon. To do this grip the cocking handle with the thumb and
forefinger of the right hand and pull and hold it fully to the rear.
Note: Some cadets may find it easier to keep the working parts held back if
they place the right thumb behind the carrying handle.
d. Pass the left hand under the butt, depress the holding open catch with the
fingers of the left hand, and ease the cocking handle forward so that the catch
arrests the forward movement of the carrier. Once this has happened, the left
hand is placed underneath the hand guard and the right hand is returned to
hold the rifle by the pistol grip.

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e. To inspect the rifle, or when it is to be inspected by another person, push


it forward and twist it to the left so that the ejection opening is uppermost. Look
into the opening and ensure that the body, chamber and face of the bolt are
clear of ammunition and obstructions (see Fig 69).
f. At night weapons are to be inspected with a torch to ensure that they are
clear.
0490. The instructor is to show his own rifle to a cadet in the squad to prove that it
is clear and then inspect the squads rifles to make certain that they are also clear.
0491.

On the command Ease springs keep the weapon in the horizontal position:
a. With the left hand press down on the bolt release catch and then grip the
hand guard.
b.

Put the safety catch to Fire F with the right forefinger.

c.

Operate the trigger.

d.

Put the safety catch back to S using the left thumb.

e. Close the dust cover with the right hand by folding it upwards and backwards so that it engages its slot. Put the rifle in the front slung position.
Note: If the sling is not fitted, ground arms ensuring that the cocking handle
is facing upwards.
f.

Unfasten both pouches and remove the contents.

0492. The instructors pouches and magazines are to be inspected by a cadet in


the squad.
0493. The instructor is to inspect all pouches, magazines and drill rounds to ensure
that there are no live rounds present.
0494. When the above drills are completed, the squad are to replace all magazines
in their pouches which are then to be fastened, pick up their weapons and adopt the
Low Port position.
0495.

Confirm by questions and practice.

The Iron Sights


0496. Explain: The iron sights consist of a foresight block and a carrying handle
which incorporates an aperture backsight (see Figs 70 and 71).

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0497. Foresight. Explain: The foresight consists of a blade mounted in the


foresight block. At the bottom of the block there is a female dovetail which fits into a
matching male dovetail on the top of the mounting block. The two are held together
by a retaining screw. The foresight is protected on both sides by extensions of the
block. The foresight can be adjusted for zeroing by means of the vertical adjustment
screw retained by a locking plunger.
0498. Backsight and Carrying Handle. Explain: The backsight is incorporated
into a carrying handle which is fitted to the sight base by means of matching dovetails.
The handle is positioned by a locating screw engaging one of four holes in the sight
base, and is secured by two retaining screws. The backsight has adjustable apertures
(from 100-500m) which are protected by extensions of the carrying handle. A horizontal
adjustment screw on the right side is used for zeroing and is not to be tampered with.
0499.

Confirm by questions.

Safe Handling: Rifle with No Magazine Fitted


04100. Explain and demonstrate: On handing over a rifle to another person, if no
magazine is fitted, or on picking up a rifle with no magazine, point the muzzle in a
safe direction and carry out the normal safety precautions. Before handing the
weapon over show the other person that the body, chamber and bolt face are clear.
The person receiving the rifle is to allow the working parts to go forward by operating
the bolt release catch. Put the safety catch to Fire (F), operate the trigger, put the
safety catch to Safe (S) and close the dust cover.
04101.

Confirm by practice.

Conclusion
04102.

End of Lesson Drill.

a.

Questions from the squad on the entire lesson.

b.

Confirm by questions and further practice if time permits.

c.

Safety precautions.

d.

Pack kit.

e.

Summary.

To include the following:

(1)

The importance of safe handling.

(2)

A forecast of the squads next lesson on this subject.

04103 04105.

Reserved.
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4-39

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Fig 68. The Low Port Position


4-40

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Fig 69. Inspecting the Chamber


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4-41

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Foresight Blade
Foresight
Extension

Vertical Adjustment
Screw

Locking
Plunger

Retaining
Screw

Dovetail Joint

Fig 70. The Foresight


4-42

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Fig 71. The Backsight


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4-43

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4-44

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SECTION 6. CADET GP RIFLE:


STRIPPING, ASSEMBLING AND CLEANING
A.

INSTRUCTORS NOTES

Aim
04106. To teach the cadet care and cleaning of the rifle and necessary stripping
and reassembly.
Timings
04107.

Two 30 minute periods.

Method
04108.

A basic indoor or outdoor period.

Stores
04109.
Rifle
Magazine and slings (fitted)
Container Cleaning Kit (complete)
Oil and cleaning materials
Ground sheet
Pointer
Table
Poster (enlarged diagram of parts)

1 per cadet
1 per cadet
1 per cadet
Sufficient to replenish
kits at end of lesson
1 per 2 cadets if lesson
is outdoors
1
1 (optional)
1

Preparation
04110.
a.

Ensure that:
Cleaning tool kits are complete.

b. There is sufficient flannelette for squad use during the cleaning phase of
the lesson.

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Miscellaneous
04111.

Stripping and Assembling.

a. Stripping is taught in a sequence devised to ensure that parts are stripped


without damage.
b. To prevent damage to parts, only the correct tools are to be used. Parts are
to be laid out with the locking pins uppermost.
c. To avoid possible damage to the rifle NO time limit is imposed during the
practice stage of stripping and assembling.
d. Components are to be laid out neatly in the sequence of stripping on a dry,
clean surface, and are to be clean before assembly.
e. Stripping, other than taught by the instructor, is to be carried out only by a
qualified armourer. If locking pins come completely out the fact is to be reported to the armourer.
f. The stripping of the bolt carrier assembly into its component parts will not
be taught to cadets and therefore is not included in this lesson. However, occasions may arise when instructors require to do this; the procedures for stripping
and reassembly are given in Volume II Chapter 2 Section 13.
04112. The instructor is to name the parts of the rifle and their function as he handles them.

B.

CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Preliminaries
04113.

Safety Precautions.

04114.

Revision.

Carry out normal safety precautions.

To include:

a.

Characteristics of the rifle.

b.

Safe handling rules.

c.

Removal and fitting of the sling (leave removed).

Introduction
04115. Explain: When a rifle is issued to a cadet it is his responsibility to maintain
it in a serviceable condition at all times. In order to carry out daily maintenance it is

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essential that the cadet can strip and assemble the weapon. The sequence of stripping is laid down in order to prevent damage to the various components. The weapon
must NEVER be stripped further than taught. Any defects noted during inspection
must be reported for subsequent attention by an armourer. Stripping and reassembly
causes wear and should not be carried out unless it is necessary. It should never be
done as a race.
Stripping and Assembling
04116.
a.

Preparation.

Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating (see Fig 72):

Check that the safety catch is at S.

b. Carry out normal safety precautions as described in Section 2. Do not operate the trigger, do not close the dust cover. The safety catch must remain on S
and the hammer must remain cocked throughout the time the weapon is stripped.
04117. The Trigger Mechanism Housing (TMH).
squad imitating:
a.

Explain and demonstrate, the

To Strip:
(1) Ensure the weapon is horizontal but upside down. Fully withdraw
the TMH rear and then the forward locking pins. By removing the rear pin
first, pressure on the forward pin is removed allowing easy withdrawal of
the pin. Note the grooves on the rear pin and push it back into the body
approximately 5 mm (see Fig 73) so that the groove nearest the body is
flush with the outside of its housing (a distinct click should be heard); this
ensures that the end of the pin retains the recoil rod assembly whilst the
TMH is being removed.
(2) Separate the TMH from the body by pulling the butt upwards, taking
care to ensure that the recoil rod assembly does not spring out by cupping the hand over the end of the body of the rifle. Disengage the TMH
from its front catch (see Fig 73).

b.

To Assemble:
(1) Check that the TMH front locking pin is fully withdrawn, then fit the
TMH by inserting the front end into the catch behind the hand guard.
Raise the back of the TMH and press the body and TMH together. Fully
engage the TMH rear and then the front locking pins (see Fig 74).
(2) Test the weapon. To do this, ensure the safety catch is at Safe, cock
it, engage the holding open device, operate the bolt release; with the
safety catch at S, operate the trigger; nothing should happen. Put the
safety catch to F, operate the trigger.
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(3)
04118.

Put the safety catch to S and close the dust cover.

Confirm by practice leaving the TMH removed.

04119. The Recoil Rod and Cocking Handle Assemblies.


strate, the squad imitating:
a.

Explain and demon-

To Strip.
(1) Place a hand over the rear of the recoil rod assembly, fully withdraw
the rear TMH locking pin and remove the recoil rod assembly under control (see Fig 75).
(2)

Do not separate the spring from the recoil rod assembly.

(3) Slide the cocking handle assembly fully to the rear, disengage the
turned-in end of the cocking handle extension from its recess in the bolt
carrier assembly and from the body of the weapon; continue sliding the
cocking handle assembly to the rear until it disengages from the main
body.
(4) Place a hand over the rear of the body; keep the rifle horizontal and
remove the bolt carrier assembly; do NOT strip it into its component parts.
b.

To Assemble.
(1) Fit the forward part of the cocking handle assembly onto the slide
rail on the main body.
(2) Ensure that the bolt is fully forward in the carrier. Insert the bolt carrier assembly into the main body of the weapon and position it so that the
cocking handle assembly rear connecting pin can be fitted into the recess
on it (see Fig 76). Move the bolt carrier and cocking handle fully forward
until the locking splines on the bolt have entered and locked into the barrel extension.
(3) With the TMH rear locking pin fully withdrawn insert the recoil rod
assembly into the body. Ensure that the bolt carrier assembly is central in
the body (if it is not central difficulty will be experienced in fully replacing
the recoil rod assembly). Align the recoil rods and spring with the holes in
the back of the carrier. Push the recoil rod assembly into the weapon until
the end of the assembly is flush to the end of the body (see Fig 77).
(4) Push in the TMH rear locking pin to engage the end of the recoil rod
assembly, but not sufficiently to obstruct the central area which accommodates the lug of the TMH.

04120.
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Confirm by practice leaving the rifle stripped.


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Fig 72. Stripping and Assembling

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4-49

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Fig 73. Removing the Trigger Mechanism Housing (TMH)

Fig 74. Repositioning the TMH


4-50

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Fig 75. Removing the Recoil Rod Assembly

Fig 76. Replacing the Cocking Handle Assembly


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4-51

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Use of the Cleaning Equipment


04121. The Cleaning Tool Kit. Explain: The rifle is to be kept clean and serviceable by using the following cleaning equipment and materials (see Fig 79):
a.

Three piece cleaning rod. (One set per five weapons.)

b.

Weighted pullthrough.

c.

Wire bore cleaning brush, used with the pullthrough.

d. Wire chamber/barrel extension cleaning brush, used with the three piece
rod, one per five weapons.
e.

Oil as issued contained in a special bottle.

f.

Combination tool (see Fig 78).

g.

Flannelette (approximately 45 mm x 45 mm swabs).

h.

Nylon general purpose cleaning brush.

04122.

Reserved.

04123.

Confirm by questions.

04124.

Explain and demonstrate:

a. The cleaning rod is used in conjunction with either the bore or the chamber
brushes. The sections of the rod screw together to form a rigid unit with a handle. If at any time the sections do not form a close, smooth joint they are not to
be used. When using the rod in the barrel insert it into the muzzle end only and
avoid rubbing it against the edges of the bore at the muzzle. If it has to be twisted within the bore only do so in a clockwise direction. The flat surfaces in the
rod fit into the combination tool which can be used to unscrew the rod.
b. The bore brush is only to be used to clean the bore; oil may be applied to
assist in removing fouling and stains from within the bore. It can also be
attached to the pullthrough; when used in this manner it is only to be drawn
from the chamber end of the barrel.
c. The chamber/barrel extension brush is not to be used for any other purpose than cleaning the chamber and the barrel extension. It is to be used only
with the cleaning rod.
d. The pullthrough can be used instead of the rod to draw flannelette or the
bore brush through the barrel; it must first be unravelled and stretched to
remove any kinks, and checked for undue wear. The weighted end must be fed

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Fig 77. Replacing the Recoil Rod Assembly

Fig 78. The Combination Tool


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4-53

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Container
Cleaning Kit

Three Piece
Rod
Flannelette Swabs
(45mm x 45mm)

Oil Bottle
Flannelette
Holder

Pullthrough
Bore Brush
Holder

Nylon Brush

Chamber and
Barrel Extension
Brush

Bore Cleaning
Brush

Fig 79. The Cleaning Tool Kit (less combination tool see Fig 78)
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in from the chamber end of the barrel until it protrudes from the muzzle. It must
then be pulled straight through the barrel in one single movement. Flannelette
can be fitted, folded in half lengthways, into the eyelet; an equal amount should
protrude either side. The chamber/barrel extension brush is not to be used with
the pullthrough. Should the pullthrough cord break, leaving the pullthrough
stuck in the barrel, this must be reported to an officer/AI/instructor.
e. Flannelette is mainly used to dry clean and lubricate the bore; if pieces any
larger than 45 mm x 45 mm are used they will jam in the barrel. It may also be
used for general cleaning.
04125.

Confirm by questions.

Cleaning
04126.
a.

Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating:


Carry out normal safety precautions and strip the weapon as described.

b. Using the nylon brush remove any loose fouling or debris from the weapon
and its components.
c.

With a piece of lightly oiled flannelette clean the outside of the weapon.

d. Fit the chamber/barrel extension brush to the cleaning rod and insert it into
the chamber. Using a clockwise rotating action dislodge any fouling and debris.
If the weapon is held muzzle pointing up, the fouling will fall out when the brush
is removed.
e.

Using the nylon brush and flannelette, clean the inside of the body.

f. Clean the barrel first with the bore brush, then pull it through with dry, clean
flannelette.
g. Examine the barrel for cleanliness. To do this hold it up towards the light
about 150 mm (six inches) away from the head, muzzle to the eye; keep both
eyes open and follow the lands and grooves throughout their length.
h. If necessary clean the barrel again. If, after a thorough cleaning, the barrel
does not appear to be clean, or there is something unusual apparent, show it
to an officer/adult instructor.
i.

Clean the working parts of the weapon, removing any carbon fouling.

j. Dry clean the whole of the weapon and examine it for damage, stains or
wear.

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k. Lightly oil the weapon and magazine (less the iron sight apertures and post
but including the knurled nut).
l.

Assemble the weapon and test that it functions correctly.

m. Put the safety catch to S, close the dust cover.


04127.

Confirm by questions and practice.

Cleaning in Adverse Conditions


04128.

Explain:

a. Heavy Rain and Damp Conditions.


remove it as normal.

Inspect frequently for rust and

b. Dry, Sandy or Dusty Conditions. In such conditions the rifle must be kept
dry; this will best be achieved by sweating it in the sun and wiping off any exuding oil. If rust appears remove it as normal but take care to remove any oil that
may have been used. Occasionally empty the magazines and tip out any grit.
Do the same to the TMH, first removing it from the rifle, but only when ordered
to do so.
Preparing the Rifle for Firing and Cleaning After Firing
04129. Introduction. Before firing the Cadet GP Rifle on the range or on exercise it must be properly prepared for firing otherwise stoppages will occur. Similarly
the rifle must be carefully cleaned after firing blank or live rounds.Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating:
a.

Preparing the Rifle for Firing.


(1) Strip the rifle as for daily cleaning, laying the parts on a clean surface.
(2) Dry clean the whole of the weapon and examine it for wear and
damage. Check that the barrel is clear.
(3) Lightly oil the bearing surfaces of the bolt and carrier, the piston
spring, the return spring and rods, the trigger mechanism, the body locking pins, the guide ribs, the magazine catch, the sight clamp screw
thread, the sight locating plunger and the slide rail for the cocking handle
extension rod. Ensure the bolt carrier assembly and guide ribs are free of
grit.
(4)

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All other components are to be left dry.

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(5)

Assemble the weapon and test that it functions correctly.

(6)

Fit the sling.

b. Cleaning After Firing. After firing, unload, carry out the normal safety precautions, strip the rifle and clean using the materials provided. The weapon is
easier to clean immediately after firing whilst it is still warm. If this is not possible, thoroughly oil all parts, paying particular attention to the front end of the bolt
head; this will assist in cleaning later. Cleaning is carried out as follows:
(1) Remove any loose fouling and debris from the weapon and its components using the nylon brush, oily flannelette and cleaning rags.
(2) Clean the chamber and barrel extension using the wire brush and
cleaning rod as taught, then inspect.
(3) Clean the barrel, first using the bore brush, then pull it through several times using lightly oiled swabs 45 mm x 45 mm. Dry clean the bore
and inspect it to ensure that all dirt and fouling have been removed.
Lightly oil the bore, chamber and barrel extension.
(4) Use oily rags/flannelette to clean all component parts of the bolt carrier and the recoil rod assemblies. Use carbon removing material to clear
fouling from the face of the bolt. Inspect and lightly oil.
(5) Use oily flannelette to clean the trigger mechanism and the magazine catch. Clean, inspect and lightly oil the magazines.
(6)
04130.

Assemble the weapon and test that it functions correctly.

Confirm by practice.

Care After Cleaning


04131.

Explain:

a. Under normal circumstances the bore and chamber must be thoroughly


cleaned, inspected and re-oiled daily for a minimum period of five days after the
rifle has been fired.
b. In very dusty conditions rifles must be dry cleaned and inspected daily.
If oil has to be used to remove rust, use it sparingly and remove all traces
afterwards.

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Magazines
04132.

Stripping.

Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating:

a. Magazines should only be stripped if they have been exposed to conditions


likely to produce a built up of mud, grit or rust. Great care must be taken when
stripping the magazine. Too much force used to disengage the bottom plate will
soon render the magazine unserviceable.
b. Hold the magazine in the left hand with the bottom plate uppermost (see
Fig 80). When using the Radway Green magazine depress the retaining
plunger located in the centre of the bottom plate with the tip of a finger, and
slide off the bottom plate clear of the magazine (see Fig 81). In the case of the
Colt magazine press the centre of the bottom plate and slide it off.
c. The spring and platform may now be carefully fed out through the bottom
of the magazine (see Fig 82).
d.
04133.

The platform must not be removed from the spring.


Assembling.

Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating:

a. Ensure that the platform is pointed in the right direction (see Fig 83) and
insert it and the spring into the magazine body.
b. Press the spring in and place the bottom plate between its guides. Push
the plate forward until it retains the spring.
c. Continue to push forward until the locking lugs ride over the rear wall of the
magazine and snap it into the lock position.
04134.

Do NOT confirm by practice.

Conclusion
04135.
a.

End of Lesson Drill.


Questions from the squad on the entire lesson.

b. Confirm by questions and practice as time permits and replenish the lubricants and cleaning materials as necessary.

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c.

Safety precautions.

d.

Pack kit.

e.

Summary.

To include the following:

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(1) The importance of carrying out preventive maintenance and reporting the fact if anything unusual is suspected.
(2) The need to use the cleaning equipment correctly and, in particular,
to use the correct size of flannelette.
(3) A reminder that stripping must only be carried out for a purpose,
such as cleaning and maintenance. The rifle must never be stripped further than taught; to do so is dangerous.
(4)
04136 04139.

A forecast of the squads next lesson on this subject.


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Fig 80. Magazine Bottom Plates

Fig 81. Removing the Magazine Bottom Plate


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Fig 82. Removing the Magazine Platform and Spring

Fig 83. Aligning the Platform and Magazine Body


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SECTION 7. CADET GP RIFLE:


MAGAZINE FILLING, SIGHT SETTING, LOAD, UNLOAD, MAKE SAFE
AND SAFE HANDLING
A.

INSTRUCTORS NOTES

Aim
04140.

To teach:

a.

Recognition, care and cleaning of ammunition and how to fill magazines.

b.

Sight setting.

c.

How to adopt the prone position.

d.

How to load, make ready, unload and make safe.

e.

Safe handling with a magazine fitted.

Timings
04141.

Two 30 minute periods.

Method
04142.

A basic instructional period best suited to indoors.

Stores
04143.
Rifle with sling and cleaning tool kit
Magazines
5.56 mm drill rounds
Flannelette
Ground sheet
Magazine platform depressors (2p coin)

1 per cadet
2 per cadet
10 per cadet
1 piece per cadet
1 per 2 cadets if
operating outdoors
1 per magazine

Preparation
04144.a.
b.

Lay out in position, or issue, all the stores required by each cadet.
Check adjustment of slings.
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Miscellaneous
04145.a. Note: If a weapon is cocked incorrectly with drill rounds in the magazine
stoppages may occur, resulting in damage to the drill rounds. Fitting an empty
magazine with a depressor will prevent this. If not issued, depressors can be
improvised using a small coin (2p piece).
b. The depressor is inserted below the lips of the magazine (see Fig 84),
depressing the platform and allowing the bolt carrier assembly to return forward when the weapon is cocked, instead of being held to the rear by an
empty magazine.

B.

CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Preliminaries
04146.

Safety Precautions.

Normal.

04147.

Organize the squad in pairs.

04148.

Revision.

Stripping and assembling the rifle.

Introduction
04149. Explain: It is important that the cadet should be able to recognize the various types of ammunition and can fill magazines quickly with loose rounds. It is
essential that the cadet is capable of maintaining his rifle in a state of readiness under
all conditions and is able to handle it safely at all times.
Description of Ammunition
04150.

Explain:

a. All ammunition issued for this weapon is rimless; its calibre is 5.56 mm and
this, together with manufacturing information, is stamped on the base of each
cartridge.
b. Ammunition is normally issued to cadets in cardboard cartons of 20
rounds.
c.

The following natures of ammunition are issued:


(1) Ball. This has a smooth brass cartridge case with a percussion
cap in the base and a jacketed bullet.

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(2)

Tracer.

Similar to ball but the tip of the bullet is painted red.

(3) Blank. A black plastic round with a brass base or a brass round,
both incorporating a percussion cap; there is no bullet.
(4)

LPTR.

A low powered training round is at present undergoing trials.

(5) Drill. A silver coloured grooved case with no percussion cap and a
copper jacketed bullet.
Care of Ammunition and Magazines
04151.

Explain:

a.

Always look after ammunition; keep it clean, dry and free from oil.

b.

Never let it lie in the direct rays of the sun as this can cause inaccuracies.

c. Avoid using a round as a tool. If a round is damaged do NOT attempt to


fire it; place it on one side and hand it to one of the instructors.
d. Do not apply pressure to the base of the round, either with a tool or another
round. There is a possibility of detonating the percussion cap and thereby firing the round.
e.

Tampering with ammunition is dangerous and is forbidden.

f. Magazines are to be inspected regularly. Damaged magazines will cause


stoppages.
04152.

Confirm by questions.

Filling Magazines with Loose Rounds


04153. Explain: The magazines will hold 30 rounds. During training put in the
number of rounds ordered. Before filling any magazine inspect it for signs of damage,
particularly in the area of the guide lips.
04154.

Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating:

a. After inspecting the magazine, grip it in the left hand and position it on a
firm surface, platform uppermost. Ensure that the back of the magazine is facing away from the body.
b. Push the rounds into the magazine, bullets towards the narrow end, one
by one. Make sure that the base of each round is right up against the rear wall.

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Fig 84. Improvised Magazine Depressor Fitted

Fig 85. Emptying the Magazine


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04155. Explain and demonstrate how to fit a depressor, e.g., a penny coin, to a
magazine as explained above. Order the squad to fit depressors to their magazines
(see Fig 84).
Emptying Magazines
04156. Hold the magazine in the left hand, rounds pointing down from the body.
Push the base of the round forward so that it disengages from the guide lips. It may
be necessary to twist and pull it clear with the free hand (see Fig 85). Ensure that the
rounds do not fall into the dirt.
04157.

Confirm by questions and practice.

Sight Setting
04158. Explain: The normal shooting position is with the leaf backsight pulled to
the rear. There is then a choice of five different ranges available: 100, 200, 300, 400
and 500 metres. The required range is set by turning the knurled wheel so that the
appropriate figure appears in the right hand aperture, e.g., figure 2 for 200 metres.
The single aperture displayed when the leaf sight is folded forward is for use as a battle sight for emergency shooting at ranges up to 300 metres, or when shooting
under bad light conditions.
04159.

Confirm by questions and practice.

Load, Ready and Unload


04160.

Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating:

a. The weapon is loaded when it has a magazine on it. It is ready to fire when
the weapon is cocked and a live round is in the chamber. It is unloaded when
it has no magazine on and no round in the chamber.
b.

Loading will always be carried out in the prone position.

c.

On the command Adopt the prone position Down:


(1) Advance the right foot, tilt the weapon to the right, maintain a firm
grip with the right hand on the pistol grip, lie down, breaking the fall with
the left hand, and ensuring that the muzzle is kept clear of the ground, but
not pointing up in the air.
(2) When fully down, tilt the weapon to the left and support it by placing
the left hand under the hand guard. The right hand remains on the pistol
grip, forefinger outside the trigger guard.

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(3) The body should be relaxed and slightly angled to the line of fire.
The left leg should be on the same line as the body, the leg muscles
relaxed and toes turned outwards. The right leg is positioned to form a
continuation of the line of fire, the right foot pointing outwards with the
heel on the ground.
(4) The rifle is supported by the left hand holding the hand guard and
the right hand firmly gripping the pistol grip. The trigger finger lies outside
the trigger guard.
(5) When getting up, place the left hand on the ground, stand up and
adopt the Low Port position.
d.

On the command Load:


(1) Check that the safety catch is at S; tilt the weapon to the right and
open the pouch with the left hand.
(2) Take a full magazine, or one containing the number of rounds
ordered, from the pouch, check that the top rounds are positioned correctly and push it firmly into the magazine housing, with the left hand,
making certain that it is secure.
(3) Fasten the pouch and place the left hand back under the hand
guard.

e.

On the command Ready, or a range being ordered:


(1) Check that the safety catch is at S. Set the sights to 300 or the range
ordered, bring the rifle in to the shoulder.
(2) Cock the rifle with the right hand. Ensure that the cocking handle is
released cleanly when it is fully to the rear; it should not be held back
before releasing and any attempt to assist it forward could cause a stoppage.
(3)

f.

Position the forefinger outside the trigger guard.

On the command Unload:


(1)

Ensure the right forefinger is outside the trigger guard.

(2)

Put the safety catch to S and open the pouch.

(3) Tilt the weapon to the right. Grip the magazine with the left hand,
and depressing the magazine catch with the thumb, remove the magazine and place it in the pouch.

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(4) IT IS ESSENTIAL FOR SAFETY REASONS THAT THE MAGAZINE


BE REMOVED AT THIS POINT.
(5) Keeping the weapon pointing in a safe direction (e.g., down the
range), rest it with the bottom of the pistol grip on the ground. Using the
right hand cock the weapon and engage the holding open catch. (Note:
Cadets may hook the thumb of the right hand round the rear of the carrying handle to assist in holding the rifle firmly whilst engaging the holding open catch with the thumb of the left hand.) Twist the weapon to the
left so that the ejection opening is uppermost. Replace the left hand on
the hand guard.
(6) INSPECT THE BODY, CHAMBER AND FACE OF THE BOLT
CAREFULLY TO ENSURE THEY ARE CLEAR. Look at the magazine
housing to ensure that the magazine has been removed. Once more
check the condition of the body, chamber and face of the bolt as an added
precaution to avoid a negligent discharge. Operate the bolt release catch.
(7) Place the safety catch to F and operate the trigger. Return the safety catch to S. Ensure the sights are set at 300, and lower the backsight.
(8) Close the dust cover, pick up the ejected round, clean and replace
it in the magazine and fasten the pouch. Note:At night an instructor must
check with a torch that the weapon is clear.
g.

If required order Stand up.

Notes:
1. To prevent possible injury to the face or eye from the ejected rounds the
weapon is not to be tilted to the left when cocking during the unload.
2. When unloading in darkness or thick vegetation, care should be taken to
direct ejected rounds close to the position so that the ammunition can be readily recovered.
04161. Confirm by practice using magazines with depressors fitted, leaving the
weapon loaded.
Making Safe
04162.
a.

Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating:


Order Ready.

b. On the command Make Safe, irrespective of the state of readiness the


weapon is in, unload as taught, then put on a full magazine.
04163.

Confirm by practice leaving the weapon unloaded.


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Safe Handling with a Magazine Fitted


04164. Explain: Once ordered to load the rifle, a cadet is to keep it loaded until
ordered otherwise. At all times he is responsible for the safe handling of his weapon
and he is to ensure that:
a. The safety catch is always at S unless the situation demands otherwise,
the finger is off the trigger and the muzzle is pointed in a safe direction.
b. The rifle is unloaded on command or when no longer able to ensure its
safety, such as when handing it over to, or leaving it under the guard of, another person. The rifle is never to be handed over loaded. The procedure for handing over the rifle once it has been unloaded is described in paragraph 04100.
c. If it is necessary to pick up a rifle with a magazine fitted, the weapon is unloaded as taught.
04165. Confirm by questions and practice. Use the commands Load, Ready,
Make Safe and Unload.
Conclusion
04166.

End of Lesson Drill.

a.

Questions from the squad on the entire lesson.

b.

Questions to the squad and final practice as time permits.

c.

Empty magazines and withdraw magazine depressors.

d.

Safety precautions.

e.

Summary.
(1)

To include the following:

The importance of cocking the weapon cleanly.

(2) The magazine being removed first before cocking the weapon during the unload.
(3)

The importance of safe and speedy but correct handling.

(4)

The need to keep ammunition clean.

(5)

A forecast of the squads next lesson on this subject.

04167 04169.

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SECTION 8. CADET GP RIFLE:


HOLDING AND AIMING IN THE PRONE POSITION
A.

INSTRUCTORS NOTES

Aim
04170. To teach the cadet to hold the rifle correctly in the prone position and to take
a correct aim.
Timings
04171.

Two 30 minute periods.

Method
04172.

A basic instructional period, preferably outdoors.

Stores
04173.
Rifle (fitted with sling)
Cadet or representative targets
Cadet 11 target with 75 mm by 100 mm aiming patch
Landscape target
Aim correctors
filled sandbags
Magazines
Magazine platform depressors
Cleaning tool kit complete
Screwdriver
Ground sheet

1 per cadet
As required
1
1 (if required)
1 per 2 cadets
1 per 3 cadets
2 per cadet
2 per cadet
1 per cadet
1 per instructor (for
adjusting eye relief)
1 per cadet

Preparation
04174.a. If the lesson is to be taken outdoors a suitable area should be selected
that offers a clear line of sight of not less than 30 metres.
b.

Put out targets at 100 metres or representative targets at a shorter distance.

c. If the lesson has to be taken indoors, sufficient floor space must be provided to allow aiming at representative targets and the use of the aim correctors.
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d. Until eye relief adjustments have been made ensure that all sights are
moved fully forward on the sight mount.
e.

Position, or issue, all the stores required by each cadet.

Miscellaneous
04175.a. The rifle is designed to be fired from the right shoulder only. Even if a
cadet has his left eye as his master eye, he is to be trained to aim using his
right eye.
b. Eye Relief. Rifles are of a standard length. The Iron Sight is adjustable
so that the optimum eye relief can be achieved.
c. Eye Relief Adjustment. This will not be done by cadets, but will be carried out on cadets rifles when necessary by instructors, as follows:
(1)

Loosen the clamping screws.

(2) Unscrew the retention stud and slide the sight unit forward or
backward.
(3) Adjust so that the retention stud is located in the hold in the sight rail
that gives the best possible eye relief.
(4)

Tighten the clamping screws.

(5) Explain to cadets that fine adjustment to obtain optimum eye relief
can be achieved by moving the position of the head.
04176.a. Aim Correctors. The aim corrector is designed to assist the instructor/
coach in the detection and correction of shooting faults. It allows him to check:
(1)

The aim picture.

(2)

The hold.

(3)

Breath control.

(4) Trigger operation. during the practice of firing a shot, enabling faults
to be identified and corrected quickly.
b. Fitting of Aim Corrector. To fit the aim corrector to the rifle, raise the
backsight to its upright position. Place the aim corrector with the prism facing
to the right and the open horseshoe shaped plastic grip over the rear sight.
The aim corrector will then be seated firmly on and supported by the battle
sight (see Fig 86).

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Fig 86. The Aim Corrector


c. Use of Aim Corrector. To view through the aim corrector, the instructor/coach will lie down at right angles to the firer on his right side and look
squarely into the reflector (see Fig 87). He will see the aperture, foresight, target and the aim produced by the firer. He will be able to detect any faults in aiming and holding; check the moment of breath control prior to perfecting the aim
picture and any movement of the rifle due to incorrect trigger operation when a
shot is fired. The follow through should also be observed.
d.

For practice:
(1)

Order Down.

(2)

With a magazine fitted with a depressor, load.

(3) Targets should be slightly staggered and numbered in order to make


the firer readjust his position for each engagement; the act of cocking the
weapon each time the rifle is fired will enable the instructor to judge
whether the cadet is taking up the correct aim consistently.
(4) When it is desired to change from one target to another, order
Target 2, change, etc.
(5) For initial practice, half filled sandbags may be used to support the
forward arm.
(6) Where a number of aim correctors are available, let the squad members use them to check each other.
(7)

Finish practice by unloading.


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Note: AIM CORRECTORS MUST NEVER BE USED DURING LIVE


FIRING. DRILL ROUNDS AND AIM CORRECTORS ARE NEVER TO BE
USED AT THE SAME TIME.

B.

CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Preliminaries
04177.

Safety Precautions.

04178.

Fit platform depressors to all magazines.

04179. Revision.
unloaded.

Normal.

Load, Ready, Make Safe and Unload, leaving the weapons

Fig 87. Using the Aim Corrector


Introduction
04180. Explain: The cadet should be capable of firing his weapon accurately and
instinctively under all conditions. This can best be achieved if he understands and
applies the following marksmanship principles:
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a.

The position and hold must be firm enough to support the weapon.

b. The weapon must be held upright and pointed naturally at the target without undue physical effort.
c.

Sight alignment (aiming) must be correct.

d. The shot must be released and followed through without disturbing the
position.
04181.

This lesson covers the application of the first three of these principles.

Prone Position
04182. Explain: The prone position is the basic shooting position since it gives
the firer the best support, presents a small target to the enemy and is the least tiring.
04183. On the command Adopt the Prone Position Down, adopt the position (as already taught in Section 7 paragraph 04160) (see Fig 88 top photo).
04184.

Confirm by practice.

Holding in the Prone Position


04185. Order Adopt the Prone Position Down, Load then Ready.
Explain and demonstrate (see Fig 88 bottom photo):
a. Place the butt into the shoulder and hold the rifle using a relaxed grip. Align
along the barrel axis and adjust the body line until the weapon is pointing naturally towards the target.
b. The position of the butt should be high, comfortable and secure in the
shoulder.
c. Open the left hand fully, fingers together and rest the hand guard across
the palm. Allow the fingers to close lightly around the guard and without strain
place the left elbow as close as possible to a point below the weapon. This will
provide maximum bone support.
d. No attempt should be made to grip the guard tightly or to pull backwards.
The left hand should only support the weight of the weapon and maintain
steadiness.
e. The right hand is the controlling hand and must grip the pistol grip firmly.
To achieve this, raise the right elbow slightly and open the hand. Position the
web of the forefinger and thumb as high as comfortably possible on the pistol

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grip and directly behind it, then wrap the fingers around the grip. Without disturbing the hold and without tilting the rifle, lower the right elbow to a natural
position to provide support.
f.

Place the forefinger along the trigger guard.

g. Lower the head to place the cheek lightly onto the cheekpiece. It is important to keep the head as upright as possible. With the head in this position the
right eyebrow should be 25 mm (1 inch) or more from the aperture to give correct eye relief (see Fig 89). Where a cadet wears glasses the backsight should
be about 25 mm (1 inch) from the lens.
04186.

Confirm by practice.

Aiming with the Iron Sight


04187. Where to Aim. Explain and demonstrate using diagrams, landscape and
figure targets (see Fig 90):
a. The influence of wind and other factors affects the fall of shot. It will frequently be necessary to aim away from the centre, and at times off the target
to attain a central hit.
b. A target may be located by muzzle flash, smoke or movement. When
engaging a large target such as a hedgerow, the section commander may indicate an enemy position or positions. In every case select the point of aim (POA)
that will apply fire to the target.
c. In the early stages of shooting training a white patch is superimposed on
the target. Always aim at the bottom centre of the patch. Initially it serves as a
defined POA for grouping practices. Later, the patch will be used as a datum
point for zeroing.
d. When engaging targets without a patch, select a POA that will apply fire to
the target centre.
04188.

How to Aim.

Explain and demonstrate using diagrams:

a.

Align the body and rifle onto the target area as taught.

b.

Position the head to gain optimum eye relief.

c. Close the left eye. Look through the centre of the aperture and centralize
the tip of the foresight in the aperture. The backsight will be too close to the eye
for the edges of the aperture to be clearly seen. However a clear area in the
centre of the aperture will become apparent. Ensure the foresight is upright and
clearly in focus.
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Fig 88. The Prone/Rest Position

Fig 88. The Prone/Ready Position


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d. It may be necessary to move the head slightly in order to achieve correct


sight alignment; it is essential however, once it has been achieved, that the
position of the head remains unchanged.
e. Maintaining this alignment, focus the tip of the foresight and superimpose
it on the selected POA to complete the aim picture. It should be noted that the
POA will become blurred (see Fig 90).
f.

Check that the tip of the foresight is still in the centre of the aperture.

g. Eye relief for successive shots must be constant. By ensuring this the
apparent size of the aperture will remain the same and centralization of the
foresight tip will be simplified.
04189. Confirm by question and practice. Allow squad to use aim diagrams to illustrate their answers. Give practice in central aiming and aiming up/down, left/right on
figure and natural targets.
Testing and Adjusting in the Prone Position
04190. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating: Order In the Prone
Position, Down, Load then :
a. On adopting a firing position the rifleman must align the body and rifle onto
the target as previously taught and practised.
(1) Before the first or subsequent shots are fired it is essential that fine
adjustments are made to the body position to ensure that the rifle points
naturally along the intended line of fire.
(2) Adjustments must be made by moving the lower part of the body.
Apart from holding and supporting the rifle correctly the hands and arms
remain passive. There must be no pushing, pulling or lifting of the arms
to force the rifle onto the POA.
b.

To finalize the position:


(1) It is essential that the weapon is held correctly and the head and
body are correctly positioned.
(2) Keep the arms passive and adjust the body position until the aim is
correct. Numerous small movements may be necessary to achieve this.
(3) For lateral adjustments move the lower body left or right; to adjust
for elevation move the lower body forward or backwards. Remember to
keep the arms passive and avoid moving the left elbow.

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c. To confirm that the position has been correctly adjusted, close both eyes,
lower the muzzle, relax the hold. Raise the muzzle, hold the weapon and position the cheek as taught, then open the aiming eye. The aim picture should be
on or very close to the aiming mark. If it is not carry out further adjustment as
already taught.
d. With practice it will become instinctive to adopt a position that requires little or no adjustment.
04191.

Confirm by practice.

Conclusion
04192.

End of Lesson Drill.

a.

Questions from the squad on the entire lesson.

b.

Confirm by questions and practice as time permits.

c.

Safety precautions.

d.

Pack kit.

e.

Summary.

To include the following:

(1) The importance of accurate, consistent aiming, together with firm


and correct holding.
(2) The need to achieve correct eye relief by moving the position of the
head or by correct positioning of the sight.
(3)
04193 04194.

A forecast of the squads next lesson on this subject.


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Fig 89. Eye Relief

Fig 90. The Correct Aim Picture


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SECTION 9. CADET GP RIFLE: FIRING IN THE PRONE POSITION


A.

INSTRUCTORS NOTES

Aim
04195. To teach how to fire the weapon in the prone position by combining the four
marksmanship principles.
Timings
04196.

One 30 minute period.

Method
04197.

A basic instructional period suitable for indoors or outdoors.

Stores
04198.
Rifle (with sling fitted)
Cadet or representative targets
Magazines
Magazine platform depressors
filled sandbags (for forearm support)
Cleaning kit complete
Aim correctors
Ground sheet

1 per cadet
As required
2 per cadet
1 per magazine
1 per 3 cadets
1 per cadet
1 per 2 cadets
1 per cadet

Preparation
04199.

Put out the targets.

Miscellaneous
04200.a. The cadet can only be taught to shoot properly on a range. However, in
this lesson the techniques and procedures required to achieve correct shot
release can be covered without his worrying about the effect of firing a round.
b. After this lesson, if there is extra time for practice, cadets may be divided
into two groups, half the squad firing and the other half checking using aim
correctors. DRILL ROUNDS ARE NOT TO BE USED WHEN AIM CORRECTORS ARE IN USE.
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c. Magazines are to be fitted with platform depressors in the preliminaries


after the safety precautions have been carried out.

B.

CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Preliminaries
04201.

Safety Precautions.

04202. Revision.
necessary.

Normal.

Holding and aiming in the prone position adjusting sights as

Introduction
04203. Explain: The final marksmanship principle is: The shot must be released
and followed through without disturbing the position. If this is carried out correctly,
providing that the correct aim and hold are adopted, the bullet will go in the direction
in which the barrel is pointing. This lesson deals with the technique the cadet requires
in order to put into effect this principle; it also combines the four marksmanship principles, so that he will achieve correct shot release.
Firing a Shot
04204. Explain: The shot should be fired without disturbing the aim. In order to
do this the position and hold must be stable and the weapon must point naturally at
the target. Providing the rhythm of breathing is controlled and the trigger is operated
smoothly, the shot will be released and the bullet will leave the muzzle without any
undue movement of the weapon.
a. Breath Control. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating:
Breathing is a natural bodily function which will continue at a steady rate and
without strain, until an individual does something to disturb the cycle. It is
important, therefore, to regulate and control the breathing during the time of
shot release, and to do it without strain. This can best be achieved as follows:
(1) Take a few slow deep breaths; this helps to increase the amount of
oxygen in the bloodstream which in turn reduces strain.
(2) Slightly extend the natural pause between exhaling and inhaling to
no longer than six seconds. (The lungs should not be fully emptied.)
(3) Release the shot within the six seconds and continue to breathe
normally. If the shot is not released, relax and recommence a fresh cycle
(see Fig 91).

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Fig 91. Breath Restraint


b. Trigger Operation. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating:
During the period of breath restraint the aim must be perfected and the trigger
so operated as to achieve shot release without any alteration to the aim, or to
the grip with the right hand. To achieve correct shot release:
(1)

Put the safety catch to F.

(2)

Place the second pad of the finger on the trigger.

(3) Take a few slow, deep breaths and at the same time take up trigger
slack.
(4) Hold the breath, perfect the aim and apply steadily increasing pressure to the trigger until the weapon fires.
(5) Maintain pressure on the trigger after shot release and concentrate
on the aim picture until the weapon has settled.
(6)

Release the trigger and continue to breathe normally.

Follow Through and Declaration


04205. Follow Through. Explain and demonstrate: Operation of the trigger
does not complete the sequence of firing a shot. The firer must remain on aim, watching the movement of the foresight until it has settled. The foresight will normally settle at or close to the point of aim. By maintaining the position for about two seconds
after operating the trigger, the follow through will tend to eliminate any movement
of the rifle caused by the firer relaxing or raising his head before the bullet has left
the barrel.
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04206. Declaration. Explain: As the shot is fired the recoil action causes the
wapon to move and the direction of this movement should be consistent for successive shots. In training, if the aim picture at the moment of firing was imperfect, it
should be declared as incorrect and, if possible, the direction of the error stated, e.g.,
High right or Low left. The firer should also note the direction of movement of the
foresight and if this is not consistent for other shots, he should inform the coach. If a
shot has been declared as incorrect the coach should order the firer to rest and
briefly discuss the fault and its remedy.
04207. Confirm by questions and practice.
Conclusion
04208.
a.

Questions from the squad on the entire lesson.

b.

Confirm by questions and practice as time permits.

c.

Safety precautions.

d.

Pack kit.

e.

Summary.

04209.

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End of Lesson Drill.

To include the following:

(1)

The importance of breath restraint when a shot is fired.

(2)

The need to follow through.

(3)

The importance of declaration, particularly in training.

(4)

A forecast of the squads next lesson on this subject.

Reserved.

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SECTION 10. CADET GP RIFLE: FIRING DRILLS


A.

INSTRUCTORS NOTES

Aim
04210.

To teach the types of fire and firing drills required from a cadet.

Timings
04211.

One 30 minute period.

Method
04212.

A basic instructional period for indoors, but can be taught outdoors.

Stores
04213.
Rifle (fitted with sling)
Magazines and platform depressors
Aim correctors
Cadet or representative targets
Ground sheet

1 per cadet
2 per cadet
1 per 2 cadets
2 per cadet
1 per cadet (if
lesson is outdoors)

Preparation
04214. Put out representative targets for the cadets to aim at. Select a suitable
piece of ground if lesson is to be taken outdoors, and position targets not less than
30 metres away.
Miscellaneous
04215.a. This lesson is important as it teaches cadets, for the first time, how to fire
the rifle correctly; it is not just to teach them the types of fire that the cadet is
required to produce.
b. Unlike the L85A1 Regular Army rifle, the Cadet GP Rifle has to be
recocked each time it is fired and the cadet must be taught during this lesson
how to carry this out correctly and to establish a proper rhythm to his firing by:

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(1)

Taking up a correct firing position.

(2)

Controlling his breathing.

(3)

Taking proper aim.

(4)

Firing.

(5)

Following through.

(6)

Recocking the rifle correctly (see Section 7 paragraph 04160.e.(2)).

(7)

Re-establishing the correct sight alignment (aim).

(8)

Firing ........ etc.

c. New words of command are introduced in this lesson that will be used
when the cadet fires his rifle on the range or on exercise. It is important that
these are explained to the cadet and the action that he is to take on each, practised, i.e:

d.

(1)

At the targets to your front Go on.

(2)

Watch and Shoot.

(3)

Fire.

(4)

Rapid Fire.

(5)

Rest.

(6)

Stop (a long drawn out command).

Magazines are to be empty and platform depressors fitted.

e. During confirmation of snapshooting, give the commands Up and


Down to signify target exposures, and start off with a time limit of four seconds per shot, reducing the limit according to progress. Occasionally order
Miss so that the cadet has to fire a second shot.
f. At suitable stages throughout this lesson take the opportunity to emphasize the value of good fire control and the need for effective fire, not wasteful
ammunition expenditure.
g. When firing, the rifle should be cocked so as to disturb the aim of the firer
as little as possible. The weapon must be cocked vigorously to eject the spent
case, and then the working parts must be allowed to go forward freely.

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B.

CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Preliminaries
04216.

Safety Precautions.

04217.

Revision.

Normal.

a.

Holding and aiming checking correct eye relief adjustment.

b.

Firing in the prone position.

Introduction
04218. Explain: The cadet should be able to shoot accurately and quickly, when
necessary, at a variety of targets and is required to produce different types of fire on
orders from his section commander, or on his own initiative. He must be familiar with
these different types of fire and how to use them quickly and to best effect.
Types
04219.

The types of fire which the cadet must be capable of producing are:

a. Deliberate. A slow rate of fire normally not more than ten rounds per
minute. This is the normal rate of shooting when taking well aimed shots. It is
generally ordered after the fire fight has been won in order to prevent the
enemy returning aimed fire, observing or moving.
b. Snapshooting. Intermittent, opportunity shooting at targets which expose
themselves for short periods.
c. Rapid Fire. Rapid fire (from 15 to 20 rounds per minute) is used to win
the fire fight or when the enemy are assaulting our position. Its use must be
carefully controlled to conserve ammunition.
04220.

Confirm by questions.

Deliberate Fire
04221. Explain and demonstrate:
a range, then indicate a target:

Order Down, Load then Ready, or give

a. When the target has been indicated check that the safety catch is at F, aim,
test and adjust as previously taught.

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b. On the command Fire, control the breathing, perfect the aim, fire and follow through. In training declare the shot.
c.

Lower the muzzle and observe the target area.

d. Continue firing at the deliberate rate, keeping a count of the number of


rounds fired or left in the magazine.
e. On the command Stop (which is given as a long drawn out command),
put the safety catch to S, place the forefinger outside the trigger guard and
lower the muzzle; this is the Alert position. Observe and await further orders.
f. On the command Go on, come back into the Aim, put the safety catch
to F and continue firing.
04222. Confirm by practice. Order Stop Make safe at the conclusion of
practice.
Snapshooting
04223. Explain: Firing at targets that show themselves for short periods only is
called snapshooting. It is similar to deliberate shooting except that the cadet speeds
up the sequence of firing and reduces the interval between each shot, usually firing
one or two shots during breath restraint. Instead of Fire the command Watch and
shoot is given.
04224. Explain and demonstrate:
get and give Watch and shoot:

OrderReady, or give a range. Indicate a tar-

a. Check that the safety catch is at F. When the target appears, restrain the
breathing, aim and fire quickly but with accuracy.
b. Continue to recock the rifle and fire until the target falls or goes to cover;
stop firing having recocked the rifle, apply the safety catch to S and continue to
observe the target area over or through the sight and be ready to fire again.
c. Actions on the command Stop, Go on, and the need to count rounds
are as for deliberate shooting.
04225. Confirm by practice. Order Stop Make safe, at the conclusion of
practice.
Rapid Fire
04226. Explain: Firing a number of shots in quick succession is called rapid fire.
It is similar to snapshooting, except that the cadet may fire more rounds so that a

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large volume of fire will be applied to a group of enemy or an area target. When rapid
fire is required, the order Fire is preceded by the indication Rapid.
04227. Explain: It is important in rapid fire to try to fire with rhythm. This will enable
breath restraint, aim perfection, trigger operation and follow through to be performed
in their correct sequence. Alternatives to breath restraint as previously taught are:
a.

Very shallow breathing between shots for the periods of rapid fire.

b. Breath restraint covering release of two or three shots provided that it does
not cause strain.
04228. Explain and demonstrate: Order Ready, or give a range. Indicate a target and give the command Rapid.
a.

Check that the safety catch is at F and aim at the target indicated.

b. On the command Fire, fire as quickly as possible with accuracy, re-cocking the rifle each time. Change and adjust to a fresh target as each one falls.
c. When covering a number of different targets within a wide arc make sure
that the body is quickly realigned for each target. Keep firing until there are no
more targets at which to fire.
d. Actions on the command Stop, or Go on, the need to count rounds
and change magazines are the same as for deliberate shooting.
04229.

Confirm by practice. Order Stop Unload.

Conclusion
04230.

End of Lesson Drill.

a.

Questions from the squad on the entire lesson.

b.

Confirm by questions and practice as time permits.

c.

Safety precautions.

d.

Pack kit.

e.

Summary.

To include the following:

(1) The importance of applying the sequence of firing a shot to all types
of shooting.
(2)
04231.

A forecast of the squads next lesson on this subject.

Reserved.
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SECTION 11. CADET GP RIFLE: MECHANISM OF THE WEAPON,


IMMEDIATE ACTION AND POSSIBLE STOPPAGES
A.

INSTRUCTORS NOTES

Aim
04232. To teach the cadet how the weapon operates and how to recognize and
remedy stoppages.
Timings
04233.

Two 30 minute periods.

Method
04234.

A basic indoor or outdoor instructional period.

Stores
04135.
Rifle with sling
Magazines
Magazine platform depressors
Representative targets
5.56mm drill rounds
Ground sheet
Poster: Mechanism

1 per cadet
2 per cadet
2 per cadet
As required
3 per cadet
1 per cadet (if
outdoors)
1

Preparation
04236.a.

Site representative targets as required.

b. Load a few drill rounds into a magazine, having one magazine empty and
another two fitted with depressors.
Miscellaneous
04137.a. Allow the squad to use their weapons to aid any explanation they may
make in answer to questions on mechanism.

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b. The rifle is used to explain the mechanism teaching. The poster may be
used in addition to amplify any further explanation.
c. Care must be taken when using drill rounds to explain the mechanism of
the rifle and during stoppage drills as they can cause stoppages in their own
right.
d. The squad is to test and adjust position, aim and fire as taught on completing any stoppage drill.
e. To prevent the bolt carrier assembly being held to the rear on cocking the
weapon with an empty magazine fitted, all magazines used during stoppage
drills must be fitted with depressors.
f. During initial teaching and practice the following words of command should
be used to indicate stoppages, the condition of the rifle and the Immediate
Action (IA) to be taken (see paragraph 04242 below):
(1)

Rifle firing all right rifle stops.

(2) On examining the body and chamber Body and chamber clear
empty magazine Rounds in magazine, chamber clear or
Obstruction in body/chamber Obstruction clear.
(3)

On resumption of firing Rifle firing all right.

g. Actions on examining the body and chamber: the instructor can signify the
cause of the stoppage/condition of the rifle by using the appropriate words of
command or by showing an empty magazine, a magazine with rounds correctly in place, or a magazine with the top round misplaced.
h. At suitable opportunities the instructor should impress on the squad that
unauthorized modifications to the rifle or other tampering with the mechanism
is dangerous and is forbidden.

B.

CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Preliminaries
04238.

Safety Precautions.

04239.

Revision.

4-92

Normal.

Name parts to assist understanding of mechanism.

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Introduction
04240. Explain: If the weapon, magazines and ammunition are kept clean and
correctly maintained and the weapon is cocked correctly, few stoppages will occur. If
the cadet knows how the weapon functions and is able to recognize the symptoms
of a particular stoppage he will be able to determine the cause and carry out the necessary remedial actions, thereby getting the weapon firing properly again as quickly
as possible. Although based on the L85A1 Rifle, which is a gas-operated automatic
and semi-automatic weapon, the Cadet GP Rifle has no gas system. Having fired a
round the working parts must be pulled to the rear by a slick operation of the cocking handle. When fully to the rear the cocking handle must be released immediately
to allow the recoil spring to drive the working parts forward cleanly. Warn cadets
against tampering with the mechanism or carrying out unauthorized modifications.
Basic Mechanism
04241. The weapon should be loaded and made ready with the magazine containing drill rounds. During instruction the TMH may be removed or replaced to assist in
explanation of various actions. An additional stripped down weapon can be used to
aid in the explanation. Explain and demonstrate:
a.

When the safety catch is at S the trigger cannot be fully operated.

b. Squad to look in through dust cover recess. When the safety catch is at F
and the trigger is pressed, the hammer is released and hits the rear of the firing pin, driving it forward on to the cap in the base of the round. The round is
fired and the bullet driven up the barrel.
c. When the weapon is cocked the bolt is unlocked by the rearward movement of the carrier forcing the cam stud down the cam stud slot.
d. Cock, hold back and look in ejection opening. The carrier and bolt go back
together, cocking the hammer as they go. The empty case is withdrawn from
the chamber by the extractor and ejected out of the weapon to the right. The
return spring on the guide rod is also compressed at this stage. Rearward
movement of the carrier and bolt ceases when the working parts have been
pulled back fully to the rear.
e. When the cocking handle is released the return spring reasserts itself and
drives the carrier and bolt forward. As it does so the bolt feeds the next round
out of the magazine and into the chamber. The extractor grips the round and
the ejector is compressed. The bolt is rotated to lock into the barrel extension
by the continuing forward movement of the bolt carrier, forcing the cam stud to
slide up the cam stud slot. It is only when the parts are fully forward and locked
that the safety sear can operate allowing the hammer into its ready position.
This in turn can only happen on the trigger being released. A distinct click will
be heard. The weapon is now ready to fire again.
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f. The above actions will be repeated each time the trigger is operated and
the weapon recocked, until the last round in the magazine has been fired and
the weapon recocked. The working parts will then be held to the rear by the
holding open catch being lifted up by the magazine platform. Operation of the
bolt release catch will depress the magazine platform and allow the working
parts to travel forward.
04242.

Confirm by questions.

Immediate Action
04243.

Order Down, Load, Ready, Fire.

04244. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating: If the weapon fails to fire or
stops firing the following Immediate Action (IA) is to be carried out:
a.

Apply the safety catch.

b.

Cock and engage the holding open catch.

c.

Look into the body and the chamber.

Stoppage Drills
04245. Subsequent action will depend on what is found when looking into the
weapon. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating:
a. If on cocking the weapon the cocking handle is found to be already fully to
the rear and the magazine is empty: change the magazine, operate the bolt
release catch, reaim, test and adjust and having put the safety catch to F, continue firing.
b. If the chamber is empty and there are rounds in the magazine, ensure the
magazine is correctly fitted, operate the bolt release, reaim, test and adjust, put
the safety catch to F, and continue firing.
c. If a live round, empty case or other obstruction is in the body or chamber,
remove the magazine, clear the obstruction, replace the magazine, operate the
bolt release, put the safety catch to F, reaim, test and adjust and continue firing.
Notes:
1. If whilst clearing the obstruction the bolt carrier assembly is inadvertently moved
forward, recock the rifle, apply the holding open catch and check that the body, chamber and face of the bolt are clear. Operate the bolt release catch, refit the magazine,
recock the weapon, put the safety catch to F, reaim, test and adjust and continue firing.

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2. It is important that any round involved in a stoppage, whether it appears damaged or not, is not loaded into a magazine, nor any attempt is made to fire it. Such
rounds should be returned to the ATO for disposal.
04246.

Confirm by practice explaining words of command.

Further Action
04247. If an obstruction in the chamber cannot be removed during the initial remedial action, the chamber is being repeatedly obstructed, the weapon is hard to cock
or the weapon will not fire after carrying out an initial remedial action, then cadets are
to take no further remedial action themselves but are to report the fault immediately
to the officer/AI present by remaining in the prone position, making sure the safety
catch is on S, raising their right hand and calling for assistance.
Conclusion
04248.
a.

End of Lesson Drill.


Questions from the squad on the entire lesson.

b. Confirm by questions and practice as time permits, with cadets using their
own rifle mechanisms, to illustrate their answers.
c.

Remove depressors from magazines.

d.

Safety precautions.

e.

Pack kit.

f.

Summary.

To include the following:

(1) The importance of maintaining the weapon and ammunition in a


clean condition.

04249.

(2)

The importance of cocking the weapon correctly.

(3)

A forecast of the squads next lesson on this subject.

Reserved.

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SECTION 12. CADET GP RIFLE: AIMING OFF AND MISS DRILL


A.

INSTRUCTORS NOTES

Aim
04250. To teach how to correct errors by altering the POA, the allowances to make
for different types of wind, and the correct miss drill.
Timings
04251.

One 30 minute period.

Method
04252. A basic instructional period best taught after the initial grouping practices
and immediately before live firing(application of fire) practices on the range.
Stores
04253.
Rifle complete with sling
Magazines
Figure targets:
Cadet 11
Cadet 11 on 1.22m screen
Cadet 12
Chalkboard, chalk, pointer
Aiming aids
Map pins

1 per cadet
2 per cadet
1
1
1
As required
1 per 2 cadets
As required

Preparation
04254.a.

Prepare and lay out training aids as necessary.

b.

Examine all sights.

c.

Prepare chalkboard if required.

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Miscellaneous
04255.a. The wind allowances to be taught provide the cadet with simple to follow
rules which will increase the probability of a first round hit on the target.
b. When explaining corrections the Corrected Point of Aim (CPOA) should be
shown in relation to strike. Strike can be illustrated with map pins, chalk, etc.
c. Three Cadet 11 targets can be used to illustrate Aim off for wind (see
Fig 92, which also includes a simple Wind Table).

B.

CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Preliminaries
04256.

Safety Precautions.

Normal.

Introduction
04257. Explain: When shooting, the strength and direction of the wind have a
direct influence on the flight of the bullet. It is essential that the cadet makes
allowances to counter this influence to achieve a first round hit on the target. It is also
important to know how to react should the shot miss the target.
Range Targets
04258. Explain: When a cadet can achieve a satisfactory grouping standard and
has had his weapon zeroed, he will progress to shooting at other forms of target.
These targets will no longer have aiming patches but will be superimposed on witness screens. The screens will eventually be removed and the cadet will be confronted with just the straightforward target i.e., Cadet 11 and Cadet 12 targets.
04259.

Confirm by questions.

Aiming Off for Elevation and Direction


04260. Explain and demonstrate: Errors in elevation and direction can be overcome by changing the point of aim, e.g., if, from the POA, the shot is seen to be high
(300 mm) and to the left (100 mm), reaim low (300 mm) and right (100 mm) of the
original POA. When firing at small targets at ranges of 200 metres or less aim at the
bottom of the target.
04261.

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Confirm by practice.

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Aiming Off for Wind


04262.

Explain:

a. Only a wind blowing directly across the front at ranges greater than 100
metres will make the bullet veer enough so that account must be taken of it. To
allow for this, aim off into the wind; the direction of the wind can be determined
by its effect on the face, trees, dust and smoke and on large flags. The amount
to aim off is determined by the strength of the wind; with the Cadet GP Rifle
only two types of wind need be taken account of:
(1) Fresh Wind. A fresh wind has an appreciable effect on bushes
and thin branches of trees, and can be distinctly felt on the side of the
face. It would cause range flags to stand halfway out from the pole.
(2) Strong Wind. A strong wind has a noticeable effect on tree tops
and lifts dust off dry ground. Range flags would tend to strain away from
their poles.
b. In windy conditions, at ranges of greater than 100 metres, the following
points of aim relative to the Fig 11 target should be used for Fresh Wind (10
km/h) and Strong Wind (20 km/h): (see Fig 92)
(1) Fresh Wind 200 metres. POA is halfway between the centre and
edge of the figure target. This is the first POA (Fig 92).
(2) Strong Wind 200 metres.
is the second POA (Fig 92).

POA is the edge of the figure target. This

(3) Fresh Wind 300 metres. POA is the edge of the figure target. This
is also the second POA (Fig 92).
(4) Strong Wind 300 metres. POA is one figure targets width from the
centre line of the figure target. This is the third POA (Fig 92).
04263.

Confirm by practice.

Miss Drill
04264.

Explain:

In the event of continually missing a target and strike is not seen:

a. Aim and fire at the base of the target and adjust the POA from the observation of strike.
b. Ensure that sight adjustment and sight picture remain correct when adjusting the POA.
04265.

Confirm by practice.
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Conclusion
04266.

End of Lesson Drill.

a.

Questions from the squad on the entire lesson.

b.

Confirm by questions and practice as time permits.

c.

Safety precautions.

d.

Pack kit.

e.

Summary.
(1)

To include the following:

The importance of aiming off for wind and applying the miss drill.

(2) Subsequent live firing will provide practice and confirmation for this
lesson and begin the build up of experience for all future shooting.
(3)
04267 04268.

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A forecast of the squads next lesson on this subject.


Reserved.

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1st Point of Aim


2nd Point of Aim

3rd Point of Aim

Wind Table
Range in metres

Wind Strength

100

Point of Aim

Do not aim off

200

Fresh
Strong

First
Second

300

Fresh
Strong

Second
Third

Fig 92. Aiming Off for Wind


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SECTION 13. CADET GP RIFLE: FIRING FROM OTHER POSITIONS


A.

INSTRUCTORS NOTES

Aim
04269. To teach the cadet how to fire from the kneeling, sitting, squatting and
standing positions, and to adopt the rest and alert positions appropriate to each.
Timings
04270.

Two 30 minute periods.

Method
04271.

A basic instructional period best suited to a dry training area outdoors.

Stores
04272.
Rifle with sling
Magazines
Cadet targets
Magazine platform depressors
filled sandbags

1 per cadet
2 per cadet
As required
1 per magazine
As required

Preparation
04273.a. Select an area that will allow the squad to adopt the ideal kneeling, sitting, squatting and standing positions.
b. Site the targets in relation to the instructional position; a clear line of sight
to at least 100 metres is desirable.
Miscellaneous
04274.a.

DRILL ROUNDS ARE NOT TO BE USED DURING THIS LESSON.

b. All magazines are to be fitted with platform depressors after the Safety
Precautions have been carried out in the Preliminaries.

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B.

CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Preliminaries
04275.

Safety Precautions.

Normal.

04276. Revision. Revise Rules for the Safe Handling of Weapons (Cadet
Training Safety Precautions).
Introduction
04277. Explain: It is often impossible to engage targets from the prone position
because of undergrowth, crops, or cover in streets and buildings. The cadet, therefore, must learn to adopt other firing positions such as kneeling, sitting, squatting or
standing. Whatever position is decided upon it must be adopted quickly and the maximum stability and comfort achieved.
Additional Safety Precautions
04278. As the positions being taught are less stable than the prone position, it is
extremely difficult to keep the weapon absolutely steady when aiming. With its short
barrel, the cadet rifle can be swung quickly through a wide arc, so close supervision
and additional safety precautions are necessary. The following rules apply:
a. Cadets are not to use these positions when live firing. (See Cadet Training
Safety Precautions (Revised 1994) paragraph 0311.d.)
b. Even when using blank ammunition the cadet is normally only to fire from
the prone position.
c. When ordered cadets may fire blank ammunition from the sitting or kneeling positions only when it is an essential part of a tactical exercise and in daylight, and then only when closely supervised.
d. Cadets may not fire blank ammunition from the standing or squatting
positions.
e.

Cadets may fire blank ammunition from a fire trench.

f. Cadets are never to fire their rifle when moving. (See Cadet Training
Safety Precautions (Revised 1994) paragraph 0403.c.) When moving,
weapons are to be in the Make Safe state.
g.

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Weapons are only to be loaded in the prone position.

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Kneeling Position
04279.

Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating (see Fig 93):

a. The kneeling position can be quickly and easily adopted particularly when
advancing. It is convenient when using low cover. It gives reasonable stability
and providing the knee can be suitably positioned it can be maintained for fairly lengthy periods without undue discomfort.
b. Face half right to the line of fire. Kneel on the right knee, keeping it well out
to the right, and sit on the heel or side of the foot. The boot may be positioned
toecap downwards or with the forward part of the sole flat on the ground.
c. The left foot must be positioned flat on the ground. The left knee should
afford good support to the left elbow.
d. Support the weight of the weapon in the left hand, rest the left forearm
behind or in front of the left knee. Grip the pistol grip with the right hand and
rest the butt on the right thigh. This is known as the Rest (see Fig 93a).
e. On the command Ready adopt the Alert position (see Fig 93b). The
butt will be higher in the shoulder than in the prone position because of the
need to keep the head upright. Place the left elbow either in front of or behind
the knee, and support the weapon by the hand guard. Lower the muzzle slightly and look over the sights. The body should remain relaxed with the weight
over the right heel.
f. The sequence and drill for firing a shot are as for the prone position (see
Fig 93c). It is important to test and adjust the position before firing.
g. On the command Stop put the safety catch to S, place the finger outside
the trigger guard, remain in the Alert position looking over the sights.
h. On the command Rest or Make safe the weapon is brought out of the
shoulder, supported on the knee, and the normal drills then carried out.
04280.

Confirm by practice.

Sitting Position
04281.

Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating (see Figs 94 and 95):

a. The sitting position applies particularly when firing from a forward slope,
low cover, in an ambush position or at moving targets at short ranges.

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b. Sit with legs crossed or apart and the feet in a comfortable position, digging the heels in if necessary. Slightly angle the lower part of the body to the
target. Hold the weapon as in the kneeling position (see Figs 94a and 95a).
c. On the command Ready adopt the Alert position (see Figs 94b and
95b). Lean forward, curve the spine and position the elbows either behind,
inside, or in front of the knees. It is important to avoid positioning the point of
the elbow with any boned area of the knee joint.
d.

Support the weapon by the hand guard and keep the head upright.

e. The sequence and drill for firing a shot are the same as for the prone position (see Figs 94c and 95c).
04282.

Confirm by practice.

Conclusion
04283.

End of Lesson Drill.

a.

Questions from the squad on the entire lesson.

b.

Confirm by questions and practice as time permits.

c. Normal safety precautions. Remove and withdraw magazine platform


depressors.
d.

Pack kit.

e.

Summary.

To include the following:

(1) No matter which position is adopted the four marksmanship principles are to be applied.
(2)
04284 04290.

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A forecast of the squads next lesson on this subject.


Reserved.

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a. Rest

b. Alert

c. Firing
Fig 93. The Kneeling Position
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4-107

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a. Rest

b. Alert

c. Firing
Fig 94. The Sitting Position Legs Crossed
4-108

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a.
a. Rest
Rest

Alert
b.b.Alert

c. Firing
Firing
c.
Fig 95. The Sitting Position Legs Apart
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4-109

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Fig 96. Reserved


4-110

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Fig 97. Reserved


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4-111

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Intentionally left blank

4-112

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Intentionally left blank

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4-113

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Intentionally left blank

4-114

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SECTION 14. CADET GP RIFLE: USE OF COVER, CARRIAGE OF


THE WEAPON AND REACTION TO EFFECTIVE ENEMY FIRE
A.

INSTRUCTORS NOTES

Aim
04291.

To teach:

a.

How to use cover.

b.

How to carry and move with the weapon.

c.

How to react to effective enemy fire.

Timings
04292.

One 30 minute period.

Method
04293. A basic outdoor instructional period. It can be taught in three phases with a
centralized demonstration followed by squad instruction and practice for a larger
number (more than one section). For smaller numbers squad instruction throughout.
Stores
04294.
Rifle with sling
Magazine with platform depressors
Cadet targets
Camouflage cream

1 per cadet
2 per cadet
As required
As required

Preparation
04295.a. Select ground with the following types of cover: a properly constructed
fire trench, ditch, scrub, long grass, rubble, standing and fallen trees, walls,
etc.
b. Site the figure targets in suitable positions relative to the cover, ideally so
that the demonstrators may engage the targets from a number of positions.
c.

Rehearse demonstrators.
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4-115

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Miscellaneous
04296.a. For Phase 1 (Introduction) a minimum of one instructor and two demonstrators are required if a centralized demonstration is to be given.
b. Demonstrators, when in position, are to be partially camouflaged; there
should be obvious faults in the way they are using the cover. The instructor
should then, by discussion and correction, bring out the best use to be made
of cover.
c. On completion of Phase 1 squads should go with their individual instructors, previous lesson drills should be revised and cadets should prepare for
action. Personal camouflage should be inspected.
d. To confirm Phases 1 and 2 (Methods of Carriage) organize the squad in
pairs allocating each a piece of ground. The arc of responsibility and bounds
are to be pointed out. One of the pair should occupy the position and the other
should point out to the remainder of the squad its advantages and disadvantages.
e. This lesson should be limited to the instruction given as part of the
Fieldcraft syllabus: Camouflage and Concealment, and Moving with
Weapons. It is to be taught as a basic tactical lesson, and blank ammunition
is NOT to be used.

B.

CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Preliminaries
04297.

Safety Precautions.

04298.

Revision.

Normal.

Firing from other positions.

Phase 1 Introduction
04299. Explain: In defence, fighting is normally carried out from a fire trench. In
the attack or when patrolling the cadet must make the best use of whatever cover is
available to conceal himself from view, to protect himself from fire and to provide himself with a firing position.
Fire Positions
04300.
a.
4-116

Explain and demonstrate:

The ideal fire position offers:

Free use of personal weapons and grenades.


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b.

Protection against HE and small arms fire.

c.

Cover from view and a concealed route in and out.

d.

An unobstructed view of a wide and deep arc of fire.

04301. Cover from view can be obtained by use of buildings, trees, crops and a skilful use of ground. Permanent defensive positions require to be camouflaged. In selecting a fire position at night, the danger of dead ground near the position and the importance of places where you and the enemy will be silhouetted must be considered.
04302.

Confirm by questions.

Use of Cover
04303.

Explain and demonstrate how to use cover:

a. Use the right side of the cover (see Fig 98). Firing from the left shoulder is
dangerous.
b. Always try to rest the forearm and elbows. If the forearm cannot be supported, rest the back of the hand on the cover (see Fig 99). Failing that, rest the
hand guard on the cover, keeping the hand as close to it as possible.
c.

Do not rest the barrel as this will displace the shots fired.

d.

Adapt firing positions previously taught to suit the particular cover used.

e. No matter how cover is used, the four marksmanship principles are to be


applied.
Muzzle and Ejection Clearance
04304. Explain: The sight line on the rifle is high in relation to the axis of the bore.
It is possible to achieve a clear line of sight to the target and at the same time have
the barrel obstructed by cover. Obstruction may be less apparent a few metres in
front of the position than directly in front of the muzzle.
04305. When adjusting for muzzle clearance the firer must beware of exposure to
the enemy. If solid cover, close to the weapon, obstructs clear ejection, the cases
may bounce up into the face of the firer or back into the weapon causing injury or a
stoppage.
04306.

Confirm by questions and practice.

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4-117

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Fig 98. Firing Round Cover


4-118

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Fig 99. Resting Back of the Hand on Cover

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4-119

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Trenches
04307.

Explain and demonstrate:

a. To get the best firing position select one where both elbows can be rested
(see Fig 100).
b. The maximum protection is usually obtained from the cover when against
the front edge of the trench.
c. If the trench is shallow a lower position can be adopted by kneeling, squatting or standing with the feet apart.
d. If the trench is deep stand on an ammunition box, sandbag or similar
object.
Bushes, Trees and Buildings
04308.

Explain and demonstrate:

a. Fire round the right side of cover unless better concealment is being afforded by shadow on the other side enabling the firer to use the right shoulder.
b.

If the cover is narrow, get directly behind it and keep the legs together.

c.

Cover from view is not bulletproof should you be observed.

Scrub
04309. Explain and demonstrate: When firing from scrub, the squatting or kneeling position may be used for short periods. If the position is to be occupied for some
time, use the sitting position, which is the least tiring.
Low Banks and Folds in the Ground
04310.

Explain and demonstrate:

a. To obtain maximum protection in the position, muzzle clearance is kept as


close to the top of the bank or the crest of the fold as possible (see Fig 101).
b. The shape of the ground may necessitate lying at a greater angle to the
line of fire than is normal.

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Fig 100. Firing from a Trench

Fig 101. Firing from Behind a Low Bank


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4-121

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Walls and Houses


04311.
a.

Explain and demonstrate:


In street fighting, walls and houses provide useful cover for fire positions.

b. When possible, remove a few bricks near ground level and fire through a
wall, rather than over the top. When firing from inside a building keep back within the room to make use of trapped shadow.
c. A wall, one brick thick, gives little protection from fire but is useful for concealment.
04312.

Confirm by practice.

Phase 2 Methods of Carriage


04313. Explain: When moving in close country, on patrol or in a built-up area, the
enemy may fire and attack at close quarters. In such situations it is the quickness and
accuracy of the first shots which gain success. The cadet is, therefore, to carry his
weapon in an alert manner best suited to the type of terrain over which he is moving.
The High Port
04314.

Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating: (see Fig 102)

a. Operate the sling quick release buckle, bring the weapon up across the
body, left hand on the hand guard, right hand around the pistol grip and the barrel pointing upwards.
b.

Move the safety catch to S and place the finger outside the trigger guard.

c. This position is used when going through scrub or when crossing obstacles. If the cadet stumbles when using this position, the muzzle of the weapon
will not get entangled, nor get filled with dirt, nor point at his comrades.
d. The cadet is responsible for the safe handling of his weapon and is to
Make safe prior to moving with his weapon or changing positions.
04315.

Confirm by questions and practice.

The Alert Position


04316.
a.
4-122

Explain:
The position is as previously taught.
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Fig 102. The High Port


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4-123

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b. The cadet is responsible for the safe handling of his weapon and his weapon
is always in the Made Safe or Unloaded state when moving. Particular care
must be taken to observe the safety rules when crossing obstacles.
The Low Port
04317.
a.

Explain:
The position is as previously taught (see Fig 68).

b. It is used when the tactical situation does not necessitate the use of the
High Port or Alert positions, in particular when one hand is needed to be used
for searching personnel, checking documents or moving a barrier.
c. Ensure that the sling does not interfere with the handling of the weapon.
The sling does allow free use of both hands if necessary, whilst securing the
weapon to the body.
04318. Confirm by questions and practice. (Leave weapons Made Safe at the end
of practice.)
Moving With the Weapon
04319. Explain: The basic carrying positions are suitable when the cadet is
upright; when crawling he may have to adopt different techniques. When moving with
the weapon:
a.

Keep the muzzle out of the dirt.

b. Keep the sights off the ground; try and protect them with the forearm using
an underhand grip.
c.

Try to keep the cocking handle uppermost. The dust cover should be closed.

d. The cadet is responsible for the safe handling of his weapon and is to
ensure that it is in the Made Safe or Unloaded state before moving or changing position.
04320.

Confirm by questions and practice.

Phase 3 Reaction to Effective Enemy Fire


04321.

Explain and demonstrate:

a. During the advance the cadet will move in predetermined bounds. He will
continue to do so until ordered to take cover.
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b.

On the command Take cover:


(1) Dash towards the nearest cover or the cover previously indicated by
the section commander.
(2) Get down and crawl into the position and observe. Keep the weapon
behind cover.
(3) Check that the sight is correctly set and fire at any visible enemy or
target indicated by the section commander.
(4) Actions on the commands Ready, Fire, Watch and shoot,
Go on, Make safe, are the same as for firing in the open. Keep
behind cover as much as possible and vary your position.
(5)

During any lull in firing, refill magazines from behind cover.

(6) On the command Prepare to advance or Prepare to move,


the weapon is to be Made safe. Make sure that magazines are complete
and that there is sufficient ammunition in the magazine on the rifle,
pouches are fastened and that sights are at 300 metres (the battle setting).
(7) On the command Advance, or Move, break cover from a different place from that in which firing took place, and advance in the direction and in the formation indicated.
04322.

Confirm by practice.

Conclusion
04323.

End of Lesson Drill.

a.

Questions from the squad on the entire lesson.

b.

Confirm by questions and practice as time permits.

c.

Safety precautions.

d.

Pack kit.

e.

Summary.

To include the following:

(1) Making the best possible use of the ground and adapting the firing
position to the cover to ensure maximum application of the marksmanship
principles. Resting the forearm whenever possible.
(2)

Problems of muzzle and ejection clearance.


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4-125

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(3)

Methods of carriage.

(4)

During an advance do not take cover until ordered to do so.

(5) The importance of breaking cover in a different place from the last
fire position.
(6) Prior to leaving a position, ensuring that the weapon is Made safe
and that all magazines and equipment are secured.
(7)

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A forecast of the next lesson.

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SECTION 15. TRAINING TESTS: NO. 8 (.22) RIFLE,


CADET GP RIFLE AND LIGHT SUPPORT WEAPON
No. 8 Rifle
04324. The introduction into service of the Cadet GP Rifle has raised a safety
requirement to test cadets on their competence to handle the No. 8 Rifle. The
Training tests on the No. 8 Rifle are set out in Annex B to this chapter.
Cadet GP Rifle
04325. The Training Tests on the Cadet GP Rifle are given in Annex C to this
chapter.
The Light Support Weapon (LSW)
04326.

The Training Tests on the LSW are given in Annex D to this chapter.

Notes on Training Tests


04327.

The following notes apply to all the above Training Tests.

a. The cadet is to have each test explained to him before it is set, and he will
be allowed to ask questions if he does not understand the explanations.
b. Once the test is started he may not receive help in any way until the test
has been completed.
c. He should be told the result of each test and, if necessary where he went
wrong.
d. Cadets must pass the Training Test on any of the above weapons before
being allowed to fire that weapon on the live firing range.

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4-128

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SECTION 16. VISUAL TRAINING AND JUDGING DISTANCE


Introduction
04328. The subject is covered in four lessons as follows:Visibility, Unit of Measure
Method, Appearance Method and Aids to Judging Distance.

LESSON 1. VISIBILITY
A.

INSTRUCTORS NOTES

Aim
04329.
object.

To show the various factors which affect the degree of visibility of any

Timings
04330.

One 30 minute period.

Method
04331.

A basic instructional outdoor period.

Stores
04332.
Webbing
Various pieces of military equipment
Loud hailer
Signal flag
Demonstrators

1 set per cadet


See Miscellaneous
paragraph below
As available
1
As necessary

Preparation
04333.a. Reconnoitre the training area and position the equipment in such a way
as to demonstrate clearly one of the factors (shape, silhouette, etc). This is
best done immediately prior to the lesson so that there is less chance of daylight conditions changing and the demonstration losing effect.
b.

Rehearse the demonstrators involved.


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Miscellaneous
04334.a. Where possible there should be at least two of each item of equipment;
one to be used at the squad position to explain the factor (shape, shine, etc),
and the other located in the open at a suitable range to demonstrate it.
b. If using a signal flag to control demonstrators, rehearse them in the signals and actions before sending them to their demonstration positions.

B.

CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Preliminaries
04335.

Safety Precautions.

04336.

Revision.

Normal as applicable to the equipment being used.

Nil. Indicate the area to be used for the demonstration.

Approach
04337.
a.

Explain:
Visual training is training in observation and concealment.

b. To OBSERVE is to see through the enemys CONCEALMENT; to CONCEAL yourself is to defeat his OBSERVATION. Once you are trained in both
you can find and engage the enemy without being seen.
c. You can find out a lot about the enemy by watching him; by concealing
yourself you can deceive him and, if he attacks, you can meet him with short
range fire where he least expects it.
d.

The important things are:


(1)

See without being seen.

(2)

Notice details.

(3) Learn to understand the meaning of what you see, and make the
right deductions.
Demonstration
04338. Explain, as a commentary to the demonstration, the various factors which
affect the visibility of a person or object:

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a. Shape. You can recognize some things instantly by their shape, particularly if it contrasts with the surroundings; for instance, the clear cut shape of a
cadets outline.
b. Shadow. In sunlight an object may cast a shadow that gives it away.
Always keep in shade if you can; the shade itself affords cover and there is no
telltale shadow. Remember that as the sun moves so do the shadows.
c. Silhouette. Anything silhouetted against a contrasting background is conspicuous. Any smooth, flat background, like water, a field or, worst of all, the
sky is dangerous. Always try to put yourself against an uneven background
such as a hedge, trees, a bush or broken ground. A thing may be silhouetted if
it is against a background of another colour.
d. Surface. If anything has a surface that contrasts with its surroundings, it
is conspicuous. White skin contrasts violently with most backgrounds and
needs disguising.
e. Spacing. In nature things are never regularly spaced. Regular spacing
means man-made objects.
f. Movement. Nothing catches the eye quicker than sudden movement.
However well you are concealed you will give yourself away when you move
unless you are careful.
Conclusion
04339.

End of Lesson Drill.

a.

Questions from the squad on the entire lesson.

b.

Confirm by questions and practice.

c.

Normal safety precautions.

d.

Pack kit.

e.

Summary.

To include the following:

(1) The importance of knowing why things are seen and what to do to
assist in concealment.
(2)
04340.

A forecast of the squads next lesson in this subject.

Reserved.

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4-131

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LESSON 2. UNIT OF MEASURE METHOD


A.

INSTRUCTORS NOTES

Aim
04341.

To teach cadets to judge distance by the unit of measure method.

Timings
04342.

One 30 minute period.

Method
04343.

A basic instructional outdoor period.

Stores
04344.
Loud hailer
Large flags on sticks
Small flags on sticks
100 metre measuring tape
Signal flag
Demonstrators
Rifles

As available
4
12
As available
1
3 (minimum requirement)
1 per demonstrator

Preparation
04345.a. Put out the large flags at various places 100 metres from a central viewpoint so that they can be seen across different types of ground, rising, falling
or flat, and open or broken.
b. Choose a number of objects up to 400 metres from the viewpoint and lay
a small flag every 100 metres between viewpoint and objects, but so that a
cadet cannot see them from the viewpoint. Distances must be accurate.
c. Rehearse the demonstrators, preferably immediately prior to the squad
arriving. If using a signal flag to control demonstrators, rehearse the signals
and actions before sending the demonstrators to their positions.
d. When the cadets have judged a range, always make them set their sights
at it; they get practice in sight setting and they are not influenced by other
cadets answers.
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B.

CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Preliminaries
04346.

Safety Precautions.

04347.

Revision.

Normal.

Nil. Indicate area of observation for the demonstration.

Approach
04348. Explain: It is important to be able to judge distances correctly, so that fire
may be fully effective and observers reports accurate on this point.
04349. Explain: There are several ways to judge distance; this lesson deals with
a way known as the Unit of Measure.
The Unit of Measure
04350.

Explain:

a. Take 100 metres, or any smaller better recognized distance as your unit
and see how many units you can fit in between yourself and an object.
b. This method is no good unless you can see all the ground between yourself and the object, nor for distances over 400 metres.
04351. Get the cadets to look at the large flags from all firing positions, and try to
remember what 100 metres looks like. Show them how difficult it is if there is any
dead ground between them and the object.
04352. For practice make the cadets put themselves 100 metres from a given
object. Discuss each cadets error with him and go on until the cadets get consistent
results. Some may consistently overestimate or underestimate; they must remember
this when fitting in their 100 metre units.
04353. Get the cadets to judge the distance to the objects that you chose before
the lesson and to show how they fitted in their units. Then get someone to put up the
small 100 metres flags and discuss the cadets results with them.
Conclusion
04354.

End of Lesson Drill.

a.

Questions from the squad on the entire lesson.

b.

Confirm by questions and practice.


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c.

Normal safety precautions.

d.

Pack kit.

e.

Summary.

To include the following:

(1) The importance of remembering individual tendency to under/over


estimate when using this method.
(2)
04355.

A forecast of the squads next lesson in this subject.

Reserved.

LESSON 3. APPEARANCE METHOD


A.

INSTRUCTORS NOTES

Aim
04356.

To teach cadets how to judge distances by the Appearance method.

Timings
04357.

One 30 minute period.

Method
04358.

A basic instructional outdoor period.

Stores
04359.
Loud hailer
Signal flag
100 metre measuring tape
List of known ranges
Military equipment
Chalkboard
Demonstrators
Rifles

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As available
1
1
1
As necessary
1
6 (minimum requirement)
1 for demonstrator

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Preparation
04360.a. Before the lesson starts, station cadets up to 600 metres away and
choose or put out other things trees, bushes, vehicles etc up to 1000
metres and measure the distance to each.
b. If an open range is available put the objects on, or in line with, the firing
points.
c. Rehearse the demonstrators, preferably immediately prior to the squad
arriving. If using a signal flag to control demonstrators, rehearse the signals
and actions before sending the demonstrators to their positions.
Miscellaneous
04361. By using demonstrators show what an individual cadet looks like at ranges
up to 600 metres in the standing, kneeling and prone positions.

B.

CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Preliminaries
04362.

Safety Precautions.

04363.

Revision.

Normal.

Revise Unit of Measure.

Approach
04364. Another way to judge the distance to an object is to study what it looks like
compared with its surroundings; this is called the appearance method. It takes a lot
of practice under varying conditions to become good at it.
Appearance Method
04365.

Explain and demonstrate:

a. The amount of visible detail of a cadet at various ranges gives a good indication of the distance he is away:
(1)

At 100 metres clear in all detail.

(2) At 200 metres clear in all detail, colour of skin and equipment
identifiable.

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(3) At 300 metres clear body outline, face colour good, remaining
detail blurred.
(4)

At 400 metres body outline clear, remaining detail blurred.

(5)

At 500 metres body begins to taper, head becomes indistinct.

(6)

At 600 metres body now wedge shaped, no head apparent.

b. What other objects look like up to 1000 metres away and how the prevailing conditions affect their appearance.
04366.

Things seem closer than they are when:

a.

The light is bright or the sun is shining from behind you.

b.

They are bigger than other things around them.

c.

There is dead ground between them and you.

d.

They are higher up than you are.

04367.

Things seem further away than they are when:

a.

The light is bad or the sun is in your eyes.

b.

They are smaller than other things around them.

c.

You are looking across a valley or down a street or a ride in a wood.

d.

You are lying down.

Practice
04368. Make the squad judge the range to various cadets and objects. Set a time
limit for each problem and tell the cadets to set their sights at the estimated range.
Conclusion
04369.

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End of Lesson Drill.

a.

Questions from the squad on the entire lesson.

b.

Confirm by questions and practice.

c.

Normal safety precautions.

d.

Pack kit.
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e.

Summary.

To include the following:

(1) The importance of the factors affecting appearance when judging


distance using this method.
(2)
04370.

A forecast of the squads next lesson in this subject.

Reserved.

LESSON 4. AIDS TO JUDGING DISTANCE


A.

INSTRUCTORS NOTES

Aim
04371.

To teach and practise the use of aids to judging distance.

Timings
04372.

One 30 minute period.

Method
04373.

A basic instructional outdoor period.

Stores
04374.

Rifles and a list of known ranges.

Preparation
04375.a. Reconnoitre the training area and select an area with prominent features
both natural and artificial, the true ranges of which are known to the instructor and recorded on a card.
b.

Select the objects to be used and the sequence of use during practice.

Miscellaneous
04376.a.
b.

All your ranges must be accurately measured.


Make the cadets practise in proper firing positions.

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B.

CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Preliminaries
04377.

Safety Precautions.

04378. Revision.
Methods.

Normal.

Revise judging distance by Unit of Measure and Appearance

Approach
04379. Explain: You already know the two main ways of judging distance but
there are several other devices to help you.
Method
04380.

Explain and demonstrate each aid and then make the cadets practise it.

04381. Halving. Choose a point that you think is halfway to your target; estimate
the distance to that point and double it.
04382. Bracketing. Say to yourself The target could not be more than x metres,
nor less than y metres away, add x to y and halve the result; the answer is the range.
For instance, if x is 300 and y is 100, the range is about 200. The farther the target
is away the wider should be your bracket.
04383. Key Ranges. If you know the range to any point in your arc you can estimate the distance to other objects from it.
04384.

Practise the two methods and the aids, checking one against another.

Conclusion
04385.

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End of Lesson Drill.

a.

Questions from the squad on the entire lesson.

b.

Confirm by questions and further practice.

c.

Normal safety precautions.

d.

Pack kit.

e.

Summary.

To include the following:

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(1) The importance of being able to use the appearance and unit of
measure methods skillfully.
(2) The value of being able to improve accuracy through the use of the
aids to judging distance.
(3)
04386.

A forecast of the next lesson in this subject.

Reserved.

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SECTION 17. ELEMENTARY OBSERVATION


A.

INSTRUCTORS NOTES

Aim
04387.

To teach how to systematically search an area of ground.

Timings
04388.

One 30 minute period.

Method
04389.

A basic outdoor instructional period.

Stores
04390. Pieces of military equipment boots, weapons and clothing.
Demonstrators as necessary
Preparation
04391.a. Reconnoitre the training area and select an area of ground to divide into
foreground, middle distance and distance.
b. Position demonstrators and equipment so that they provide varying
degrees of contrast in colour, tone, surface, shape and shadow. This is best
done as close to the lesson start time as is possible.
Miscellaneous
04392.a. Rehearse the demonstrators in their actions prior to sending them to their
locations.
b. Some equipment need not be too well concealed but all demonstrators
should provide realistic battle type targets.

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B.

CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Preliminaries
04393.

Question the cadets on why things are seen.

How to Search Ground


04394. Explain: The normal way to search ground is to divide it into foreground,
middle distance and distance, and search each of them, in that order, from right to
left. In that way you are sure that you do not leave out any of the ground; but there
are other ways of dividing the ground up which may sometimes be better, particularly if the ground is very broken. The ground may be divided into arcs, left or right of a
specified centre line. Areas that are likely to be occupied by the enemy may be specially indicated for thorough searching.
Scanning and Searching
04395. Explain and demonstrate: Scanning is a general and systematic examination of an area to detect any unusual or significant object or movement. Searching
is a thorough examination of certain features in the area. Both require complete concentration combined with a knowledge of why things are seen and the principles of
camouflage and concealment.
a.

Scanning.
(1)

Divide the area into foreground, middle distance and distance.

(2) Scan each area horizontally starting with the foreground. To obtain
maximum efficiency, move the eyes in short overlapping movements.
Moving the head will minimize eye fatigue. The speed at which scanning
is carried out will depend upon the type of country being observed and
the amount of cover it affords to possible targets.
(3) When horizontal scanning is completed, scan along the line of any
features which are angled away from the observation position.
b.

Searching.
(1) Searching may take place at any stage during scanning i.e., if the
cadets position is dominated by a piece of ground, he should search that
area thoroughly before continuing with scanning. Furthermore, any significant movement or object, suspected camouflage, etc., spotted during
scanning would require an immediate search of that area.

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(2) Search for each of the factors of why things are seen in turn. The
weather may assist, i.e., frost will reveal tracks made during the night or
a hot sun will alter the tone and colour of foliage used for camouflage by
withering its leaves.
(3)

Search across hedgerows or a row of trees, not along them.

Practice
04396. Get the cadets to divide the ground into foreground, middle distance and
distance. Discuss their answers.
04397. Tell the cadets to search the area and write down the bits of military equipment that they see.
04398. Ask the cadets what they have seen, why some things were easier to see
than others, and how they identified things of which they could only see part.
Conclusion
04399.

End of Lesson Drill.

a.

Questions to and from the squad.

b.

Sum up and point out how observation and concealment are related.

04400.

Reserved.

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SECTION 18. RECOGNITION OF TARGETS


A.

INSTRUCTORS NOTES

Aim
04401.

To teach cadets how to recognize targets.

Timings
04402.

Two 30 minute periods.

Method
04403.

A basic outdoor instructional period.

Stores
04404.
Rifles
Aiming rests
Landscape targets
Diagrams
Chalkboard
A list of known ranges
Miscellaneous
04405. Cadets get false impressions about direction from landscape targets, so
teach the lesson in the open if you can. If you have to use landscape targets remember that:
a.

It is impossible to judge distances.

b. The landscape is so narrow that no target on it can be more than slightly


left or right. Three adjoining landscape panels give better results if the cadets
are not more than ten metres away from them.
04406. Choose your ground carefully, and pick the sort of target that might have to
be recognized in battle, and at realistic ranges.
04407. Have a diagram of the clock ray to use on the landscape target; the best
sort of diagram is black figures on talc.
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04408.

The sequence for instruction in recognition is:

a.

Indicate the target.

b.

Order Aim.

c.

Check the aims and discuss them.

04409. Examples are given but it is always better to choose your own examples on
the ground.
Preliminaries
04410. Safety Precautions.
aiming rests.

B.

Carry out normal safety precautions. Fit rifles in

CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Approach
04411. Explain: When your section commander indicates a target you must be
able to recognize it so that you can shoot at it. To make it easier there are certain
methods of indication that everyone uses.
Arcs of Fire
04412. Explain and demonstrate: It is easier to recognize a target if you know the
area in which it is likely to be; such an area is known as an arc of fire. When your
section commander shows you the arc of fire he:
a.

Points out the axis or middle of the arc.

b.

Shows you its left and right boundaries.

c. Points out a number of prominent objects, or reference points which must


be easy to identify and a reasonable distance apart, gives each one a name,
and tells you the range of it; and if any object is large, like a copse, tells you
what bit of it he is using as a reference point.
Methods of Indication
04413.
a.

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Direct Method (see Fig 103).

Explain and demonstrate:

Obvious targets are indicated by what is known as the direct method.

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Axis of Arc
1/4 Left
1/2 Left

Slightly
Left

200
mils

Slightly
Right
1/4 Right
400
mils

2
/1 Right

800 mils

0p Left

p
0 Right
1600 mils

Left

Observer

Right

Fig 103. The Direct Method


b. The section commander tells you the range and where to look and
describes the target; the terms he uses are:
(1)

Axis of arc for targets on or very near the axis.

(2)

Left or Right for targets 90 degrees from the axis.

(3) Slightly, quarter, half or three quarters, and left or right for
targets between the axis and left and right.
c.
04414.

An example might be 300 half right lone bush.


Reference Points.

Explain and demonstrate:

a. For less obvious targets the section commander may use reference points
and the direct method together, and perhaps above or below as well.
b.

Examples are:
(1) 300 bushy topped tree (reference point) slightly right small
bush (the target).
(2)

200 corner of copse slightly right and below small bush.

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04415. For practice indicate some targets to the squad by the direct and reference
point methods.
04416.

Clock Ray (see Fig 104).

Explain and demonstrate:

a. For more difficult targets the section commander may use a reference point
and a clock ray.
b. Imagine a clock face standing up on the landscape with its centre on the
reference point. If you have a talc clock face, put it against the landscape target.
c. To indicate a target the section commander tells you the range, the reference point and whether the target is to be the left or right of it, and the appropriate hour on the clock face to give you the direction to look in from the reference point.
d. An example which refers to the picture which follows: 300 windmill
right 4 oclock small bush.
04417.

The observer must never think of himself as the centre of the clock.

04418.

Give the squad some clock ray indications for practice.

04419.

Further practice in all methods if there is time.

Conclusion
04420.

End of Lesson Drill.

a.

Questions to and from the squad.

b.

Sum up.

04421 04422.

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Reserved.

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11

12

1
2

10
9

3
8
7

Target
6

4
5

Observer
Fig 104. The Clock Ray Method

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SECTION 19. FIRE CONTROL ORDERS


A.

INSTRUCTORS NOTES

Aim
04423.

To teach cadets what to do when they are given fire control orders.

Timings
04424.

Two 30 minute periods.

Method
04425.

A basic outdoor instructional period.

Stores
04426.
Rifles
Aiming rests
Landscape targets
A list of known ranges
Miscellaneous
04427.

This section may also be used to train NCOs in giving fire control orders.

B.

CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Preliminaries
04428. Safety Precautions.
aiming rests.
04429.

Revision.

Carry out normal safety precautions. Fit rifles in

Organize an arc of fire and revise Recognition of Targets.

Approach
04430. Explain: Your section commander gives you a fire control order so that
you may recognize the target and fire at it effectively. Your duty is to obey the order.

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Sequence
04431. Explain: There is an unvarying sequence when giving out fire control
orders based on the mnemonic GRIT and that the method of giving them out is based
on the mnemonic CLAP as below:
G

GROUP

No 1 Section, Rifle Group


or Fire Support Group so that all
concerned know to whom the order
is being given.

CLEAR

RANGE

The range is given to enable those


concerned to know how far away to
start looking for the target. The
rifle sight should remain at the range
ordered for all targets indicated up
to and including this range.

LOUD

INDICATION

So that all concerned know what to


look for and in what direction to look.

AS AN ORDER

TYPE OF
FIRE

So that all concerned know whether


to fire slow or rapid with the rifle
and single rounds or bursts with the
LSW.

WITH PAUSES

Types of Fire Control Orders


04432. Explain each type and give an example on the ground or on the landscape
target, rather than the one given here. Then practise the cadets at acting on each type.
04433. Full Fire Control Orders. These orders are only given if there is time.
Example Gun group 300 ruined house left end enemy machine gun
bursts fire.
04434. Brief Fire Control Orders. These orders are given when there is little
time and the target is obvious. Example Quarter left rapid fire.
04435. Delayed Fire Control Orders. These orders are used when the section
commander can guess what either our own attacking troops or the enemy are going
to do; he gets his men ready to open fire, but waits till the right moment to order
Fire. Examples:
a. No 2 Section 300 farm house immediately below enemy in
hedgerow No 1 Section is moving through the copse on our right; we are
going to cover their advance when they get into the open rapid await my
order then when No 1 Section is about to come into the open, Fire.
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b. No 3 Section 200 quarter right small wood when the enemy


comes out this side rapid then, when the enemy are in a suitable position
Fire.
04436. Individual Fire Control Orders. These orders give you a chance to fire
quickly when a target appears. Example: No 3 Section 200 slightly left farm
buildings enemy in that area watch and shoot.
04437.

Tracer.

Explain:

a. Tracer may be used to indicate an extremely difficult target, or to indicate


a target to a tank.
b.

An example is 300 watch this tracer where it hits enemy.

Conclusion
04438.

End of Lesson Drill.

a.

Questions to and from the squad.

b.

Sum up.

04439 04440.

Reserved.

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SECTION 20. INTRODUCTION TO THE LIGHT SUPPORT WEAPON


(LSW), GENERAL DESCRIPTION, SAFETY AND THE IRON SIGHT
A.

INSTRUCTORS NOTES

Note: Although the LSW can be fired from any of the conventional fire positions, the cadet is to fire the LSW in the prone position only.
Aim
04441. To introduce the LSW, teach how it differs from the L98A1 Cadet GP Rifle
and how to fit the iron sight.
Timings
04442.

One 30 minute lesson.

Method
04443.

A basic indoor instructional period.

Stores
04444. LSW complete with sling and SUSAT
Magazines
Spare parts inside tool roll
Iron sight and combination tool
Weapon stand

1 per 3 cadets
2 per weapon
1 per weapon
1 per weapon
1 per squad

Preparation
04445. a. Carry out the safety precautions on each weapon and check all magazines are empty.
b.

Check that the sights are serviceable and easily removed.

c.

Set up the table and stand.

d. Number the squad into teams and allocate them to LSWs. Explain the
actions on the command Ones or Twos out and Change.
Miscellaneous
04446. a. When handling parts of the LSW the instructor is to revise names and
functions.
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b.

No time limit is to be imposed during the lesson.

c. The Sight Unit Arms Trilux (SUSAT) is the sight for the LSW. In the event
of a SUSAT failure the LSW may be fitted with a spare Iron Sight.

B.CONDUCT OF THE LESSON


Preliminaries
04447.

Safety Precautions.

04448.

Revision.

Inspect all LSWs, magazines and pouches.

Safe handling rules.

Introduction
04449. Explain: The LSW is the long range version of the 5.56 mm GP rifle. It
can produce a high volume of effective fire at longer ranges for immediate and close
support of the section. The LSW can only remain effective if it is maintained carefully and thoroughly. Care of the sight is essential. Any member of the section must be
able to take over the LSW from the gunner.
Characteristics
04450.

Explain:

The characteristics of the LSW are:

a. It is a 5.56 mm magazine fed, Light Support Weapon capable of firing single rounds or bursts and providing:
(1) Quick, accurate fire at short range opportunity targets in single
shots or bursts.
(2) A high rate of accurate rapid fire at ranges up to 800 metres in single shots.
b. It has a bipod which provides a stable support when firing from the prone
position or a fire trench. With the bipod folded, the LSW can be fired in the GP
rifle mode from all the basic firing positions.
c. It is fitted with an extremely accurate optical sight SUSAT which in itself
can be used as an effective surveillance aid. It can be fitted with an Iron Sight
as a temporary measure, should the SUSAT be damaged.
d. The magazine can hold 30 rounds and is common to both the LSW and
the GP Rifle.

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e. The parts (less the Gas System) which can be removed are interchangeable with the GP Rifle.
Parts of the Weapon
04451. Put the LSW on its stand and point out those parts not common to the
cadet GP Rifle. They are:
a.

Bipod and outrigger.

b.

Muzzle, flash eliminator.

c.

Gas plug and small hand guard.

d.

SUSAT clamping nuts and lifting plate.

e.

Cocking handle.

f.

Change lever.

g.

Rear pistol grip.

h.

Butt with shoulder strap.

04452. The Bipod. Explain and demonstrate: To fold the bipod legs adjust
them to their minimum height; hold them together in one hand and fold inwards
towards the butt; fold the butt strap (if it has been in use) to its closed position (see
Fig 108).
04453.

Confirm by questions, then put the stand away.

Normal Safety Precautions


04454. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating: On the order Prone
position down get down behind the weapon, check that the safety catch is at safe
(S) and the change lever is at repetition (R). Grip the rear pistol grip with the left
hand. Grip the forward pistol grip with the right hand and the forefinger outside the
trigger guard. Keep the rear pistol grip on the ground and bring the weapon into an
upright position with both legs together. Then order:
a.

For inspection clear guns. With the squad imitating:


(1)

Put the safety catch to S and the change lever to R.

(2) Cock the weapon by tilting it slightly to the right and using the left
hand over the top of the weapon, grip the cocking handle with the thumb
and forefinger and pull it fully to the rear.
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(3) Hold the cocking handle back with the forefinger and depress the
holding open catch with the thumb. Then ease the cocking handle forward so that the holding open catch arrests the forward movement of the
carrier and replace the left hand on the rear pistol grip.
(4) To inspect the weapon push the butt up as far as possible with the
left hand and twist it to the left so that the ejection opening is uppermost.
Look into the opening and ensure that the body, chamber and face of
the bolt are clear of ammunition or obstruction. The weapon is to be presented for inspection by raising the butt so that the instructor can look
inside the chamber.
(5)
b.

At night use a shielded torch to inspect the weapon.

Ease Springs.

With the squad imitating:

(1) Press down on the bolt release catch with the left hand and tap forward on the cocking handle.
(2)

Reposition the left hand on the rear pistol grip.

(3) Put the safety catch to F with the right forefinger and operate the
trigger in an aimed shot.
(4) Lower the butt, put the safety catch back to S, with the left hand
ensure that the change lever is at R and close the dust cover.
(5) Leave the LSW on the floor tilted to the left with the cocking handle
uppermost and stand up.
Note: The instructors pouches, magazines and drill rounds are to be inspected by
a member of the squad. The instructor will inspect the squad in the same way and
then all magazines are to be fastened in pouches. Cadets are to remain standing.
04455.
tion:
a.

Remind:

These safety precautions are to be carried out in a prone posi-

At the beginning and end of every lesson, practice or range period.

b. Immediately on returning to barracks, bivouac or operational base, and on


completion of any patrol or duty.
04456.

Confirm by practice as necessary.

Iron Sight, Fitting and Removing


04457. Explain and demonstrate as necessary: (see Fig 109). The Iron Sight is
an emergency replacement sight should the SUSAT become damaged. It is carried
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with the LSW tool roll. It consists of a foresight block and a carrying handle incorporating a dual leaf aperture backsight.
Fitting the Iron Sight
04458.

Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating: To fit the Iron Sight:

a.

Remove the damaged SUSAT.

b.

Loosen the foresight retaining screw fully, using the combination tool.

c. Ensure the TRILUX element is facing to the rear and mate the dovetail
with the dovetail on the gas assembly. Check that it is flush front and rear,
then tighten the screw. DO NOT overtighten.
d. Using the combination tool, loosen the carrying handle retaining screws
and undo the locating screw sufficiently for the handle to slide easily along the
dovetail on the sight base.
e. Open the top cover and slide the carrying handle rearwards onto the sight
base. Adjust for correct eye relief (25 mm) and tighten the locating screw,
ensuring that it has engaged one of the three holes. Tighten the two retaining
screws. DO NOT overtighten.
f.

Close the top cover.

Removing the Iron Sight


04459.

Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating:

To remove the Iron Sight:

a.

Fully undo the foresight block retaining screw, using the combination tool.

b.

Slide the foresight block off the dovetail and tighten the screw.

c. Open the top cover. Loosen the retaining screws and the locating screw
on the carrying handle, then slide the handle forwards and clear of the sight
base.
d.
04460.

Close the top cover.


Confirm by practice.

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Conclusions
04461.

End of Lesson Drill.

a.

Questions from the squad.

b.

Confirm by questions and practice as time permits.

c.

Safety precautions.

d.

Pack kit.

e.

Summary.

To include the following:

(1) Preventive maintenance: report to an NCO or armourer any case of


damage or malfunction.
(2)

Remind when NSPs must be carried out.

(3)

A forecast of the squads next LSW lesson.

04462 04463.

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Reserved.

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Bipod

Fig 105. The Light Support Weapon (LSW)

Outrigger

Rear Pistol Grip

Butt Strap

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4-161

4-162

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Trilux Brightness
Control

Bracket Mounting Shoe

Eye Piece

Range Drum
Vertical
Adjustment Nut

Clamping Nut

Horizontal
Adjustment Nut

Emergency
Battle Sight

Fig 106. The Sight Unit Small Arms Trilux (SUSAT)

Lifting Plate

Eye Piece

Sight Cover

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a. Correct Aim Picture SUSAT

b. Correct Aim Picture Iron Sight


Fig 107. The Central and Correct Aim Picture
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4-163

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Butt Strap

Minimum Height
(adjustment on Bipod Legs)
Fig 108. Bipod and Butt Strap
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Horizontal
Adjustment Screw

Leaf Aperture
Daylight

Foresight Blade

TRILUX
Element
Leaf Aperture
Low Level Light

Vertical
Adjustment Screw
Locking
Plunger
Retaining
Screw

Locating Stud
Retaining
Screw

Fig 109. The Iron Sight


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SECTION 21. THE SIGHT UNIT SMALL ARMS TRILUX (SUSAT)


A.

INSTRUCTORS NOTES

Aim
04466. To introduce the sighting system and to teach the fitting, removing and
cleaning of the SUSAT.
Timings
04467.

One 30 minute lesson.

Method
04468.

A basic indoor instructional lesson.

Stores
04469. LSW complete with SUSAT sight and cover
Cleaning kit
Sling
Table
Weapon stand and pointer

1 per 3 cadets
1 per weapon
1 per weapon
1 per squad
1 per squad

Preparation
04470.

Set up and mount LSW on the stand with sight cover fitted to the weapon.

B.

CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Preliminaries
04471.

Safety Precautions.

04472.

Revision.

Normal.

Name the parts common to the LSW.

Introduction
04473. Explain: The Sight Unit Small Arms Trilux (SUSAT) is fitted to the LSW.
It is essential that all members of the section understand the safety precautions and
care of the sight.
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The Sights
04474. Explain: The weapon may be fitted with one of two types of sight, either
the SUSAT or Iron Sight.
Safety: The Trilux Source
04475. Explain: The TRILUX lamp used in the SUSAT contains Tritium gas. In
the event of breakage the following precautions are to be taken:
a.

The escaping gas is not to be inhaled.

b.

Cigarettes are to be extinguished immediately.

c.

Broken parts are not to be handled with bare hands.

d. If a breakage occurs indoors, doors and windows are to be opened to


allow the gas to clear, and any gas or flame heating system is to be turned off.
e. All breakages are to be reported to the Medical Officer and the unit
armourer as soon as possible.
04476.

Confirm by questions.

The SUSAT
04477. Explain: (see Fig 106). The SUSAT consists of an optical body fixed to a
mounting bracket. On top of the optical body is the Emergency Battle Sight (EBS).
Each sight has its own individual serial number which is stamped on the underneath
of the optical body on the left hand side.
04478. The Optical Body. Explain: The body is constructed from a lightweight
alloy and contains the optical system, with a magnification of times four (x4) and a
narrow field of view. The following are the parts of the body:
a. The Eyepiece. This is made of rubber and is of a standard length to
ensure that the eye is correctly positioned. It is designed to keep water off the
lens and is glued permanently to the body.
b. The Pointer. This is located within the optics and is seen by the firer in
his field of view. Visual in daylight, it appears as a dark pillar with a clear centre. At night the tip of the pointer can be illuminated by the TRILUX lamp. The
light is reflected up into the pointer and is seen as a reddish gleam.
c. The Brightness (TRILUX) Control Knob. This is located on the right rear
of the body. It is knurled and can be rotated clockwise to vary the light reaching the pointer from zero to full brightness.
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d. The EBS. This consists of a blade foresight and aperture backsight; it is


matched to the optical centre of the SUSAT lenses during manufacture and
therefore cannot be zeroed. It is used in an emergency should the SUSAT
become damaged, until such time as an Iron Sight can be fitted.
e. The Objective Lens Hood. The body is shaped at the front to overhang
the objective lens in the form of a hood, so reducing reflection from the lens
and keeping it dry.
The Bracket
04479.

Explain:

The bracket consists of:

a. A Mounting Shoe. This is dovetailed to match the sight base on the


weapon. The shoe is secured to the base by two clamping nuts. A locating
plunger protrudes through the shoe and engages one of the three holes in the
sight base. This ensures the sight is correctly positioned and provides
adjustable eye relief. When correctly adjusted to the individual, the locking
hole selected will be marked. A lifting plate is attached to the plunger; it sticks
out on the right side of the bracket.
b. The Sight Mount. The mount links the mounting shoe and the optical
body. It is fitted at the front with a horizontal adjustment screw and at the rear
with a vertical adjustment nut. Immediately below the eye piece is a range
drum which is marked from 3-8 in increments of 100 metres.
04480.

Confirm by questions.

Removing the SUSAT (see Fig 106)


04481. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating:
SUSAT:

In order to remove the

a. Note the position of the lifting plate in relation to the sight base. This is
done so that the sight can be accurately replaced.
b. Hold the LSW by the pistol grip with the right hand so that it is horizontal
and upright; open the top cover and undo the clamping nuts.
c. Grip the SUSAT with the left hand. With the forefinger raise the lifting
plate so that it disengages the locating plunger from the sight base. Slide the
SUSAT forward and off the sight base. Close the top cover.
Fitting the SUSAT (see Fig 106)
04482.

Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating:


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In order to fit the SUSAT:


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a. Check that the serial number of the sight is correct for that particular
weapon.
b. Rotate the range drum so that the 300 metre setting is facing directly to
the rear. Release the clamping nuts and open the top cover.
c.

Hold the LSW with the right hand and grip the SUSAT with the left.

d.

With the forefinger raise the lifting plate to withdraw the locating plunger.

e. Align the rear of the shoe with the front of the sight base and slide the
sight rearwards until it is correctly repositioned.
f. Release the lifting plate and check that the locating plunger has engaged
in the correct recess on the sight base. Test by trying to slide the SUSAT forward or backward.
g.

Tighten the clamping nuts; DO NOT overtighten. Close the top cover.

h.

Point out that the SUSAT can also be fitted to the L98A1 GP Rifle.

04483.

Confirm by practice.

Cleaning the SUSAT


04484.

Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating:

To clean the SUSAT:

a. Use the nylon brush and oily swabs to remove fouling or debris from the
sight bracket. Avoid smearing oil on the rubber eyepiece.
b.

Dry clean the whole of the exterior of the sight.

c. Blow away any dust from lenses. Using a lens cleaning cloth or a tissue,
gently polish the lenses with a circular motion, working from the centre of the
lens outwards. If stains or scratches are apparent report them to the unit
armourer.
d. Lightly oil the shoe, then fit the sight back onto the weapon if detached.
The SUSAT is to remain fitted for cleaning if practicable.
04485.

Confirm by questions and practice.

Cleaning in Adverse Conditions


04486. Explain: To clean in adverse conditions, keep the muzzle cover and sight
cover fitted for as long as possible. (The LSW can be fired in an emergency with the
muzzle cover fitted.) Inspect frequently for rust and remove it.
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Conclusion
04487.

End of Lesson Drill.

a.

Questions from the squad on the entire lesson.

b.

Questions to the squad and practice as time permits.

c.

Safety precautions.

d.

Pack kit.

e.

Summary.

To include the following:

(1) The importance of carrying out preventative maintenance and


reporting if anything unusual is suspected.
(2)

The need to use the cleaning equipment correctly.

(3)

Forecast of the squads next lesson on the LSW.

04488 04489.

Reserved.

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SECTION 22. STRIPPING, ASSEMBLING AND CLEANING THE


LSW AND SIGHT SETTING WITH THE SUSAT
A.

INSTRUCTORS NOTES

Aim
04490.

The aim of this lesson is to:

a.

Teach stripping and assembling the LSW gas system.

b.

Teach cleaning the gas system and SUSAT.

c.

Teach sight setting with the SUSAT.

Timings
04491.

One 30 minute period.

Method
04492.

A basic indoor instructional period.

Stores
04493. LSW with SUSAT
Tool roll complete with cleaning kit
Oil and cleaning materials

1 per 3 cadets
1 per weapon
As necessary

Preparation
04494.

Ensure that:

a.

Tool rolls are complete (see Fig 110).

b.

Sufficient lens cleaning tissues are available.

Miscellaneous
04495.

All cocking of the LSW is to be with the left hand.

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Preliminaries
04496.

Safety Precautions.

Normal.

Revision
04497. a.
b.

TRILUX.

Revise the safety rules by questions to the squad.

Practice removing and fitting the SUSAT.

Introduction
04498. Explain: When a LSW is issued to a cadet it is the cadets responsibility
to maintain it in a serviceable condition at all times. NEVER strip further than taught.
Cadets must also know how to clean the weapon and set the sight to give accurate
fire support to their section.
Stripping and Assembling the LSW
04499. Explain and demonstrate, if required, the squad imitating: The LSW is
the same as the GP Rifle except for the cocking handle and gas system. Carry out
the safety precautions, but do not operate the trigger. Check that the safety catch is
at S and the change lever at R; ensure that they remain there until the weapon is
assembled. Fold the bipod legs and butt strap during stripping, unfold the bipod legs
when assembly is complete.
04500.

Cocking Handle.

Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating:

a. To Strip. Having removed the Recoil Rod Assembly:


handle to the rear and withdraw it from the bolt carrier.
b.

Pull the cocking

To Assemble.
(1) Place the bolt carrier into the weapon and push far enough forward
to place the cocking handle recess adjacent to the cocking guide in the
body.
(2) Replace the cocking handle through the side of the body and into
the recess in the carrier (see Fig 111). Push the carrier fully forward until
the locking spines on the bolt have entered and locked into the barrel
extension.
(3)

04501.

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Replace the recoil rod as taught.

Confirm by practice. Leave the weapon stripped.

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The Gas System


04502. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating.
assemble the Gas System act as follows:
a.

To strip, clean and

To Strip:
(1) Ensure that the weapon is level, but upright; open the gas assembly top cover.
(2) Grip the gas cylinder with the left hand. With the right hand push
the piston to the rear against the action of its return spring, move the piston out of alignment with the cylinder, release the pressure and withdraw
the piston and its spring from the weapon (see Fig 111a). DO NOT try to
separate the spring from the piston.
(3) Remove the gas cylinder from the gas plug by pulling it to the rear
(see Fig 111b). Point out the gas setting positions (N = Normal; E =
Excess; O = Off).
(4) To remove the gas plug, depress the plunger on the front of the
plug, ensuring it is NOT in the 12 or 6 oclock position, and withdraw the
plug backwards through the gas block. Then remove it from the weapon
(see Fig 111c).

b. Cleaning. Wipe clean the piston, the gas cylinder and the gas plug then
lightly oil. Carbon fouling is removed by the scrapers on the combination tool
and will be practised after the Introductory Shoot.
c.

To Assemble.
(1) To replace the gas plug, insert it into the rear of the gas block,
depress the plunger, ensuring it is NOT in the 12 or 6 oclock position
and push the plug through the block. Rotate the plug until the plunger is
aligned with the recess on the front of the gas block marked N (Normal).
(2) Fit the cylinder back onto the rear of the plug and hold it in position
with the left hand.
(3) Turn the weapon on its side and carefully feed the spring end of the
piston back into the central hole above the barrel extension; push the
piston against the action of its spring and align, then engage the front of
the piston with the recess at the rear of the cylinder. If it is difficult to
locate the central hole, look through the ventilation slits in the body.
(4)

Close the top cover.

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04503.
a.

Sight Setting SUSAT.

Explain:

To sight set with the SUSAT:

The range drum is graduated in units of 100 from 300 to 800 metres.

b. Sights are set at 300 metres. This is called the battle setting and is used
to engage targets from 0-300 metres.
c. To set a range, turn the drum until the required figure is facing straight to
the rear.
04504. Confirm by practice leaving the range drum at 300 metres at the end of the
practice.
04505.

End of Lesson Drill.

a.

Questions from the squad on the entire lesson.

b.

Questions to the squad on the entire lesson and practice as time permits.

c.

Safety precautions.

d.

Pack kit.

e. Summary. A reminder that the weapon can be stripped in any sequence


providing that normal safety precautions are observed.
f.

A forecast of the next lesson on the LSW.

04506 04507. Reserved.

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1.
2.
3.
4.

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11

Bore Cleaning Brush


Three Piece Rod
Combination Tool
Oil Bottle

10

Unpacked

Fig 110. The Tool Roll

5. Muzzle Cover
6. Weighted Pullthrough
7. Nylon Brush
8. Chamber/Barrel
Extension Brush

12

9. Flannelette Swabs
10. Carbon Removing
Pads (Scotchbright)
11. Flannelette
12. Tool Roll

Packed

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Fig 111. Replacing the Cocking Handle


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Fig 111a. Removing the Piston


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Fig 111b. Removing the Gas Cylinder

Gas Setting
Plunger

Fig 111c. Removing the Gas Plug


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SECTION 23. LSW PRACTICE 1 LESSONS 1-3


A. INSTRUCTORS NOTES
Aim
04508. To revise the facts and practice the skills taught in LSW Lesson 1, 2 and 3:
a. Replacement of SUSAT with Iron Sight.
b. Stripping, assembling, care and cleaning.
c. Safety: Trilux Source.
Timings
04509. One 40 minute period.
Method
04510.

An indoor practice period.

Stores
04511. LSW with sling, SUSAT and Iron Sight
Chalk board and chalk
Score sheet

1 per 3 cadets

Preparation
04512. a.
b.

Read Practice Periods guidance at Annex E to Chapter 4.


Prepare a chalk board for final practice.

Team/Name

Safety Rules
Trilux Source

SUSAT/Iron
Sight
Replacement

Stripping/
Assembling

Total
Points

HPS (5)

HPS (10)

HPS (15)

(30)

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c.

Check layout of weapons and stores.

Miscellaneous
04513. a. Work out a fair system and realistic faults/penalty scoring system for
competitions, but no time limit.
b. Number the squad in pairs or threes and allocate teams to each LSW.
Explain the system for change round. Use master and pupil method
between or within teams as appropriate.
c. Practices based on those outlined may be varied by the instructor
keeping in mind the standard of his squad and training test objectives.

B.

CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Preliminaries
04514. a.
b.

Safety Precautions.
Revision.

Normal, then allocate teams to each LSW.

Nil.

Introduction
04515. Explain: Every member of the section must be proficient in handling and
firing the LSW. Cadets need to be thoroughly familiar with the weapon and master
the skills. Only by much practice will safe, correct and speedy actions be developed
until they become instinctive.
Suggested Practices
04516. a. A Quiz.
ing etc.
b.

Test on weapon characteristics, Safety Trilux Source, clean-

SUSAT and Iron Sight Replacement.


(1) Explain the sight system is vital. An iron sight is immediately available as a replacement if the SUSAT is damaged.
(2) Practice the removal and replacement of sights. Order Change
to ensure that all cadets can quickly take over and that all are equally
practised.

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c.

Stripping and Assembling.


(1) Explain the conditions of the training test and state that a fail will
be given for mistakes involving safety.
(2) Practice in teams: complete stripping, cleaning and assembling as
necessary.

04517. Master and pupil method may be employed within or between teams for
spotting mistakes.
Conclusion
04518.

End of Lesson Drill.

a.

Questions to/from squad on the entire practice.

b.

Safety precautions.

c.

Pack kit.

d.

Summary.

04519.

To include the following:

(1)

Overall standard achieved and any weak points for further practice.

(2)

A forecast of the next lesson/practice on this subject.

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SECTION 24. THE LOAD AND UNLOAD


A.

INSTRUCTORS NOTES

Aim
04520.

To teach:

a.

How to load, and unload.

b.

How to make the weapon ready to FIRE.

Timings
04521.

One 30 minute period.

Method
04522.

A basic instructional period best suited to indoors.

Stores
04523. LSW
Sight and tool roll
Magazines with depressors

1 per 3 cadets
1 per weapon
2 per weapon

Preparations
04524. a.
b.

Issue or layout in position all the stores required by each cadet.


Check adjustment of slings.

Miscellaneous
04525. a. If a weapon is cocked incorrectly with drill rounds in the magazine stoppages may occur, resulting also in damaged drill rounds. Fitting an empty
magazine with a depressor will prevent this happening.
b. Explain that each time the LSW is ordered into the prone position the
bipod and butt strap are to be extended ready for an LSW task. They must
be clipped away on standing up. Before changing individuals order
Unload. When the unload has been completed order Stand up,
Change etc.

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c. The SUSAT should initially be fitted in its most forward position. After
holding has been taught it can be adjusted to each cadet to achieve correct
eye relief.
d. Holding in the prone position is the same as the GP Rifle when the bipod
and butt strap are not in use.

B.

CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Preliminaries
04526. Safety Precautions.
DURING THIS LESSON.

Normal. DRILL ROUNDS ARE NOT TO BE USED

Organization
04527. a.

Fit depressors to all magazines.

b.

Organize the squad into teams and allocate weapons.

c.

Organize the arc of fire and indicate reference points.

Introduction
04528. Explain: One member of the cadet section will have the LSW as a personal weapon, but every member is required to handle and fire it proficiently. It is
essential that the cadet is capable of maintaining the LSW in a state of readiness
under field conditions and is able to handle it safely.
04529. Explain and demonstrate: When in the prone position with both the bipod
and the butt strap in use, the following points must be considered:
a. All cocking of the weapon will be carried out with the left hand including
the tap forward on the cocking handle.
b.

The bipod assists in handling as it provides support.

c. The butt strap makes it difficult to cant the LSW to the right or left. To
inspect the body or chamber it is necessary to push the butt forward away
from the shoulder.
d. The firing position is to be modified to ensure the body is directly behind
the LSW and therefore better able to accept rapid and repeated recoil.

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Load, Ready and Unload


04530. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating. The weapon is loaded
when it has a magazine on it. It is ready to fire when the weapon is cocked and a
live round is in the chamber. It is unloaded when it has no magazine on and no
round in the chamber.
a.

Order.

Adopt the prone position. On the command Load:

(1) Check that the safety catch is at S and the change lever is at R, tilt
the weapon to the right and open the pouch with the left hand.
(2) Take a full magazine from the pouch or one containing the number
of rounds ordered, check that the top rounds are positioned correctly
and push it firmly into the magazine housing, making certain that it is
secure and rest the weapon.
(3)
b.

Fasten the pouch and return the left hand to the rear pistol grip.

On the command Ready or a range being ordered:


(1) Adopt the Alert position, bring the butt into the shoulder, point the
muzzle in a safe direction.
(2)

Check that the safety catch is at S and the change lever is at R.

(3) Set the sights to 300 metres or the range ordered. Cock the LSW,
with the left hand. Ensure that the cocking handle is released cleanly
when it is fully to the rear. Ensure the bolt is fully locked by tapping forward on the cocking handle with the left hand.
(4)
c.

Avoid breathing on the SUSAT lens.

On the command Unload.


(1)

Ensure the right forefinger is outside the trigger guard.

(2) Put the safety catch to S and change lever at R and open the
pouch.
(3) Tilt the weapon to the right, grip the magazine with the left hand,
depressing the magazine catch with the thumb, remove the magazine
and place it in the pouch.
(4) IT IS ESSENTIAL FOR SAFETY REASONS THAT THE MAGAZINE BE REMOVED AT THIS POINT.

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(5) Tilt the LSW slightly right and cock it and engage the holding opening catch. Twist the weapon to the left so that the ejection opening is
uppermost.
(6) Inspect the body, chamber and face of the bolt carefully to ensure
they are clear. Look at the magazine housing to ensure that the magazine has been removed. Once more, check the condition of the body,
chamber and face of the bolt as an added precaution to avoid a negligent discharge. At night use a shielded torch. Allow the working parts to
go forward, tap forward on the cocking handle.
(7) Place the safety catch to F and operate the trigger. Return the
safety catch to S. Rest the weapon. Ensure the sights are set at 300
metres.
(8) Close the dust cover, pick up the ejected round, clean and replace
it in the magazine and fasten the pouch.
Note: To prevent possible injury to the face or eye from ejected rounds, the
weapon is not to be tilted to the left, when cocking during the unload.
Making Safe
04531. Explain and demonstrate as necessary.
unload as taught then put on a full magazine.

On the command Make Safe

Safe Handling with a Magazine Fitted


04532. Explain: Once ordered to load the LSW, the cadet is to keep it loaded
until ordered to unload. At all times he is responsible for the safe handling of his
weapon and he is to ensure that:
a. The safety catch is always at S unless the situation demands otherwise,
the finger is off the trigger and the muzzle is pointed in a safe direction.
b. The change lever should be at R. Only set it on A when it is necessary
to engage or preparing to engate, in bursts.
c.

Only an unloaded weapon is to be carried in a vehicle or on an aircraft.

d. The LSW is unloaded on command or when no longer able to ensure its


safety such as when handing it over to, or leaving it under guard of another
cadet.
e. If it is necessary to pick up a LSW with a magazine fitted, the weapon is
unloaded as taught.
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f.
04533.

The LSW is never to be pointed at anyone in jest.


Confirm by practice.

Conclusion
04534.
a.

End of Lesson Drill.


Questions from the squad on the entire lesson.

b. Questions to the squad and practice using the commands LOAD 500
UNLOAD.
c.

Pack up remove depressors from magazines.

d.

Safety precautions.

e.

Summary.
(1)

To include:

The importance of cocking the weapon cleanly.

(2) The magazine being removed first, before cocking the weapon during the unload.
(3)
f.
04535.

A forecast of the next LSW lesson.

Look forward.
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4-190

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Fig 112. Reserved


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4-191

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Fig 113. Reserved


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SECTION 25. HOLDING AND FIRING THE LSW


A.

INSTRUCTORS NOTES

Aim
04536.

To teach:

a.

The use of the bipod, butt strap and pistol grip in the prone position.

b.

Testing, adjusting and burst fire follow through with the LSW.

c.

Light support fire and rates of fire.

Timings
04537.

One 30 minute period.

Method
04538.

A basic instructional period, preferably outdoors.

Stores
04539. LSW complete with sling and SUSAT fitted
Magazines with depressors fitted
Cadet targets
Landscape targets

1 per 3 cadets
2 per weapon
As required
As required

Preparation
04540. a.
b.

Place figure targets to hand.


Lay out weapons and figure targets.

c. Number the squad in teams and allocate them to the LSW. Explain the
actions required on the command Ones or Twos and Change.
Miscellaneous
04541. a. DRILL ROUNDS ARE NOT TO BE USED IN THIS LESSON. All magazines used in weapon drills are to be fitted with depressors.

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b. The SUSAT should be fitted in its most forward position. After holding
has been taught it can be adjusted to each gunner.
c. Holding in the prone position is the same as the GP Rifle when the
bipod and butt strap are NOT IN USE.
d. After the initial practice, subsequent practice can be made more realistic by dividing the squad into pairs, one is to act as firer while the other
cocks the action using a length of cord. This simulates the recoil of the
weapon and enables the firer to press the trigger of a cocked weapon each
time is fires.
e. When demonstrating the instructor should always get one of the squad
to assist him by recocking the weapon.

B.

CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Preliminaries
04542. Safety Precautions.
DURING THIS LESSON.

Normal. DRILL ROUNDS ARE NOT TO BE USED

Organization
04543. a.

04544.
a.

Fit depressors to all magazines.

b.

Organize the squad into teams and allocate weapons.

c.

Organize the arc of fire and indicate reference points.

Revision.

Confirm the marksmanship principles:

The position and hold must be firm enough to support the weapon.

b. The weapon must be held upright and pointed naturally at the target without undue physical effort.
c.

Sight alignment (aiming) must be correct.

d. The shot must be released and followed through without disturbing the
position.

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Introduction
04545. Explain: One member of the cadet section will have the LSW as a personal weapon but every member is required to handle and fire it proficiently. When
armed with the LSW it is the gunners duty to be able to produce immediate fire support in the attack and in defence. This fire support will consist of a greater volume of
fire, often at longer ranges, than that expected of the riflemen. This fire support must
be effective.
04546. Explain and demonstrate: All drills remain as taught with the rifle.
However, when in the prone position with both the bipod and butt strap in use, the
following points must be considered:
a.

The bipod assists in handling as it provides support.

b. The butt strap makes it difficult to cant the LSW to the right or left. To
inspect the body or chamber it is necessary to remove the butt from the
shoulder.
c. The firing position is to be modified to ensure the body is directly behind
the LSW and therefore better able to accept rapid and repeated recoil.
Holding
04547. Bipod and Butt Strap. Explain: If you are required to fire at long
ranges or from a static defensive position, make use of the bipod, butt strap and
rear pistol grip to ensure maximum accuracy in both burst and single shot fire.
04548. Target Alignment. Explain and demonstrate:
"Load" and when a range is ordered, act as taught. Then:

On the command

a. After the target has been indicated, place the left hand under the hand
guard, and with the butt in the shoulder move the weapon and body so that
the target, weapon and body are in line. Move the body up to the butt. The
folding butt strap acts as an aid to stability. Initially the legs should be together
whilst perfecting the alignment of target, gun and firer. Due to differences in
build, the ground and equipment carried, some firers may feel more evenly
balanced and stable if the legs are opened to a comfortable angle. If the legs
are together the heels should be touching and the toes pointing downwards. If
apart the toes should point outwards and the heels touch the ground.
b. The bipod must be at right angles to the line of fire and the legs positioned firmly on the ground.
c. Keep the butt in the shoulder and put the change lever to the required
position.

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Fig 114. Holding Prone Position Single Rounds

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Fig 114a. Holding Prone Position Bursts

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04549. Holding Single Rounds. Explain and demonstrate: The bipod


removes the need for the left hand to come into contact with the LSW (see Fig 114).
It can be placed, for comfort, under the gun and resting lightly on the right forearm.
Alternatively, it may be clenched under the pistol grip to add further stability by producing another point of direct contact with the ground.
04550. Holding Bursts. Explain and demonstrate: During the firing of a
burst, the LSW has a tendency to twist to the right, even when rested on the bipod.
To control this movement you must modify the hold of the weapon as follows:
a.

The alignment of target, LSW and firer remain as taught.

b. The butt strap should be in firm contact with the top of the shoulder. This
is achieved by pulling directly to the rear with a firm right hand grip.
c. The right elbow is critical in ensuring not only a consistent position for the
right hand but also the angle and height of the right shoulder.
d. The left hand should grip the rear pistol grip (see Fig 114a) with the heel
of the hand against the left side of the grip. The wrist should be held rigid to
present the heel of the hand as a block against the rotation of the weapon.
The fingers of the left hand should be curled around the grip to ensure consistent contact. It is important that the left hand does not influence contact, also
that the left hand does not influence the weapon by pushing or pulling the
weapon in any direction.
e. Minor alterations in elevation may be achieved by moving the elbows
inwards or outwards. Major adjustments can only be achieved by alteration of
the bipod height. To adjust the bipod height, check that the safety catch is
applied and rest the weapon. Crawl alongside the LSW and adjust the bipod.
f.

Adjustments for direction must include body and leg re-alignment.

g. Limbering Up. A good indication of what will occur during a burst can be
gained by rocking the body backwards and forwards by pressure of the toes
against the ground. If the pointer moves upwards and downwards (12 o'clock
to 6 o'clock) through the POA this is a good indication that the burst will form a
regular pattern. Any other direction of movement means that the position and
hold are incorrect and must be rebuilt.
04551.

Confirm by practice.

Firing and Rates of Fire LSW Role


04552. Explain: Rates of fire can be achieved with either single rounds or automatic fire. When firing rapid, area targets are best engaged with bursts, but many
types of small point targets such as windows or slits in pill-boxes can be more effec4-198

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tively and accurately engaged with rapid single shots. Rapid fire can only be sustained if magazine changing is carried out quickly. If the gunner is aware that he is
about to carry out a rapid fire engagement he should place a few magazines beside
the weapon; otherwise magazines are to be taken from the pouch. Magazines that
have been placed on the ground should be cleaned at the first opportunity.
Normal Firing LSW Role
04553.
a.

Explain and demonstrate:

Normal firing is described as:

Repetition.
(1) On the command "Fire put the change lever to R and, as soon as
the hold and aim are correct, control the breathing, operate the trigger
and follow through.
(2)

Observe the target area and note the fall of shot.

(3) Make any alteration to the range drum or POA and continue to fire
at the normal rate. Establish a rhythm and maintain the rate during the
engagement. Up to 30 rounds per minute can be achieved.
(4) On the command "Stop" release the trigger, put the safety catch to
S and watch the target area. Remember to count the number of rounds
fired and change magazines if necessary.
(5) On the command "Go on" put the safety catch to F and continue
the engagement at the normal rate of 30 rounds per minute.
b.

Automatic Fire.
(1) On the command "Bursts, fire" put the safety catch to F and the
change lever to A and as soon as the hold and aim are correct control
the breathing and operate the trigger long enough to fire a burst of two
or three rounds. Once released, the trigger must be allowed to go fully
forward.
(2) Follow Through and Declaration. The firer must continue to
observe through the sights and be able to make a three part statement.
First, was the original POA correct; second, what was the movement of
the pointer during the burst and third, where was the pointer on completion of the burst?

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Rapid Firing LSW Role


04554.

Explain and demonstrate:

Rapid firing is described as follows:

a. When Rapid Fire" is ordered, the gunner is to put the safety catch to F
and the change lever to A or R as ordered and fire using single shots or bursts
of two to three rounds as appropriate. Rapid fire can only be achieved by swift
magazine changing. When firing rapid single shots, fire approximately one
round a second. Take care to maintain the same POA. It is possible to
achieve much more accurate shooting using rapid single shots than when firing bursts.
b. When firing bursts, the movement of the weapon as it is fired should be
controlled by maintaining a correct hold throughout the firing of each burst. As
soon as the weapon settles and the aim is correct, fire again.
c. The gunner must establish a firing rhythm making any corrections from
the observation of strike and counting rounds in order to change magazines
as required. During a rapid fire engagement the magazine is best changed
before it is empty.
d. The need to estimate the number of rounds fired is particularly important
during rapid fire. With experience up to 60 rounds per minute can be fired,
either in single rounds or bursts of two to three rounds.
e.

The actions on the command "Stop and "Go on" are as for normal fire.

f. During any lull in rapid fire immediately cock and engage the holding
open catch in order to allow the weapon to cool, and check that the chamber
is clear. Pick up the ejected round and replace it in a magazine. On the command "Go on" depress the bolt release catch, re-aim and continue the
engagement.
04555.

Confirm by practice.

Conclusion
04556.

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End of Lesson Drill.

a.

Questions from the squad on the entire lesson.

b.

Confirm by questions and further practice as time permits.

c.

Remove magazine platform depressors.

d.

Safety precautions.

e.

Pack kit.
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f.

Summary.

To include the following:

(1) The need to establish a firing rhythm and keep a mental estimate of
the number of rounds fired.
(2) The need to be aware of the overheating problem and the need to
conserve ammunition.
(3) The importance of testing the position after a magazine change
and before continuing to fire.
(4)
04557.

A forecast of the squad's next LSW lesson.

Reserved.

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SECTION 26. MECHANISM, IMMEDIATE ACTION AND POSSIBLE


STOPPAGES
A.

INSTRUCTORS NOTES

Aim
04558. To teach how the weapon operates and how to recognize and remedy
stoppages.
Timings
04559.

One 30 minute period.

Method
04560.

A basic indoor or outdoor instructional period.

Stores
04561. LSW
Magazines
Magazines platform depressors
Cleaning roll complete
Representative targets
LSW tool roll complete with combination
tool and spare parts
Groundsheets (if outdoors)
Poster (Army Code No. 71381 - Sheet 4)
Drill Rounds if required
(Instructors use only)

1 per 3 cadets
2 per gun
1 per magazine
1 per weapon
As required
1 for instructor
1 per weapon
1
5 rounds

Preparation
04562. a.

Site representative targets as required.

b. Load a few drill rounds into a magazine, have one magazine empty
and another two fitted with depressors.
Miscellaneous
04563. a. Allow the squad to use their weapons to aid any explanation they may
make in answer to questions on mechanism.
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b. The rifle is used to explain the mechanism teaching. The poster may be
used in addition, to amplify any further explanation.
c. The squad is to test and adjust position, aim and fire as taught on completing any stoppage drill.
d. To prevent the bolt carrier assembly being held to the rear, on cocking the
weapon with an empty magazine fitted, all magazines used during stoppage
drills must be fitted with depressors.
e. During initial teaching and practice the following words of command
should be used to indicate stoppages and the condition of the gun:
(1)

(2)

Immediate Action (IA).


(a)

Gun firing alright gun stops.

(b)

Cocking handle forward.

(c)

On resumption of firing Gun firing alright.

(d)

Gun firing alright gun stops.

(e)

Cocking handle not fully forward.

(f)

Rounds in the magazine.

(g)

Obstruction Obstruction Clear.

(h)

On resumption of firing Gun firing alright.

Gas Stoppage.
(a) After IA and resumption of firing Gun fires one or two
rounds and stops again.
(b)

On examination Rounds in magazine, chamber clear.

(c) After remedial action and resumption of firing Gun firing


alright.
g. When teaching the empty magazine drill tell the squad to cock the
weapon and apply the holding open device. Start the drill by ordering Gun
Stops. Subsequent drill is then realistic.
h. Further practice can be conducted with the cadets working in pairs, one
firer and one cocker. A stoppage is signified when the latter fails to cock the
LSW after a dry shot is fired, or when he cocks it and applies the holding open

4-204

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device. Cockers are to watch the instructor for a signal to leave the bolt forward or held back.
i. Actions on examining the body and chamber: The instructor can signify
the cause of the stoppage/condition of the LSW by using the appropriate
words of command or by showing an empty magazine, a magazine with
rounds correctly in place or a magazine with the top round misplaced.
j.

Ensure that the gas regulators are frequently reset to allow more practice.

k. At suitable opportunities the instructor should impress on the squad that


unauthorized modifications to LSW or other tampering with the mechanism is
dangerous and constitutes an offence.

B.

CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Preliminaries
04564.

Safety Precautions.

04565.

Revision.

Normal. Fit magazines with depressors.

Name parts which will assist in teaching the mechanism.

Introduction
04566. Explain: If the weapon, magazines and ammunition are kept clean and
correctly maintained, few stoppages will occur. If the cadet knows how the weapon
functions and is able to recognize the symptoms of a particular stoppage he will be
able to determine the cause and carry out the necessary remedial actions, thereby
getting the weapon firing properly again as quickly as possible. The cadet must not
tamper with the mechanism or carry out unauthorized modifications.
Basic Mechanism Change Lever at Repetition
04567. Explain and demonstrate: (The weapon should be loaded with the magazine containing drill rounds.) During instruction the TMH may be removed or
replaced to assist in explanation of various actions, in addition the top cover should
be opened when explaining the gas parts:
a.

When the safety catch is at S the trigger cannot be fully operated.

b. (Squad to look in through dust cover recess.) When the safety catch is at
F and the trigger is pressed, the hammer is released and hits the rear of the
firing pin, driving it forward on to the cap in the base of the round. The round is
fired and gases are produced which drive the bullet up the barrel.
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4-205

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c. (Open the top cover.) Some of this gas enters the gas block and is diverted by the gas plug into the gas cylinder driving the piston to the rear and compressing the piston spring.
d. The rear of the piston strikes the carrier, forcing it backwards. The compressed pistol spring re-asserts itself and forces the piston forward again.
e. The bolt is unlocked by the rearward movement of the carrier forcing the
cam stud down the cam stud slot.
f. (Cock, hold back and look in ejection opening.) The carrier and bolt go
back together, cocking the hammer as they go. The empty case is withdrawn
from the chamber by the extractor and ejected out of the weapon to the right.
The return spring on the guide rod is also compressed at this stage. Rearward
movement of the carrier and bolt ceases when the rear of the carrier strikes
the buffer.
g. The return spring re-asserts itself and aided by the buffer drives the carrier and bolt forward. As it does so, the bolt feeds the next round out of the
magazine and into the chamber. The extractor grips the round and the ejector
is compressed. The bolt is rotated to lock into the barrel extension by the continuing forward movement of the carrier forcing the cam stud to slide up the
cam slot. It is not before the parts are fully forward and locked that the safety
sear can operate allowing the hammer into its ready position. This in turn can
only happen on the trigger being released. A distinct click will be heard.
h.

The weapon is now ready to fire again.

i. This action will continue each time the trigger is operated until the last
round has been fired and rearward action takes place. The working parts will
then be held to the rear by the holding open catch being lifted up by the magazine platform.
Basic Mechanism Change Lever at Automatic
04568. Explain: (see Figs 115 and 116A-D) The basic mechanism as previously explained applies equally to the automatic role. The difference being that the
weapon will continue to fire as long as the trigger is kept pressed and there are
rounds left in the magazine. The safety sear allows one shot only per trigger operation with the change lever at R. With the change lever at A the safety sear is held
out of its working position and automatic fire results.
04569.

4-206

Confirm by questions. Reassemble the LSW.

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Immediate Action (IA)


04570. Order Prone position, down, Load, Ready, Fire. Explain and
demonstrate, the squad imitating: If the weapon fails to fire or stops firing, the following IA is to be carried out. Put the safety catch to safe and ensure the change
lever is at R. Tilt the weapon to the left and look at the position of the cocking handle:
a. If the cocking handle appears to be fully forward, tap forward on the cocking handle with the left hand and continue firing.
b.

Confirm by practice.

c. If the cocking handle is in a position other than fully forward or fully to the
rear or if the weapon fails to fire after carrying out the drill for cocking handle
fully forward, tilt the weapon slightly to the right and cock the weapon, applying the holding open device and look into the body or chamber.
Actions on Examining the Body and Chamber
04571.

Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating:

a. If there are rounds in the magazine and the chamber and body are clear,
check the magazine is correctly fitted, operate the bolt release catch, tap forward on the cocking handle and continue firing.
b. If there is an obstruction in the body or chamber, remove the magazine,
clear the obstruction, replace the magazine, operate the bolt release, tap forward on the cocking handle and continue firing.
04572. Tell squad to cock actions and apply holding open device and then explain
and demonstrate:
a. If the LSW stops firing and you find that the cocking handle is fully to the
rear, and the magazine is empty, change the magazine, operate the bolt
release, tap forward on the cocking handle and continue firing.
b. Any round involved in a stoppage or used as a tool is not to be reloaded
or fired.
c. Stress the need to adjust position after any stoppage and before continuing firing.
04573. Confirm by practice, using cockers to set the bolt into the required positions. Explain the signals and words of command to be used.

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4-207

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Gas Stoppage
04574. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating: If, after carrying out the IA
and the remedy for an empty chamber and rounds in the magazine, the weapon
fires one or two more rounds and stops again, and, after repeating the IA you find
the same condition, operate the bolt release, tap forward on the cocking handle and
using a round or the combination tool, depress the plunger and turn the gas plug so
that the plunger engages the Excess (E) gas setting. Put the safety catch to F, aim,
test and adjust and carry on firing.
04575. As soon as is practicable the gas assembly is to be cleaned, reset at
Normal (N) and the combination tool returned to the cleaning roll.
04576.

Confirm by practice, explaining the words of command.

Further Action
04577. If continual stoppages occur, the weapon is to be thoroughly cleaned and
examined. Particular attention must be paid to the gas affected parts. These should
be cleaned and gauged using the combination tool scrapers. If the chamber does
not appear obstructed and there are no damaged parts, examine it for a separated
case. If one is found consult a REME armourer.
04578.

Tools taken from the tool roll must be returned as soon as possible.

Conclusion
04579.

End of Lesson Drill.

a.

Questions from the squad on the entire lesson.

b.

Question the squad on entire lesson and practice as time permits.

c.

Remove depressors from magazines.

d.

Safety precautions.

e. Pack kit, check that all gas plugs are correctly set to N and the cleaning
roll is complete.
f.

Summary.

To include the following:

(1) The importance of maintaining the weapon and ammunition in a


clean condition.
(2)

4-208

A forecast of the squads next lesson.

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Fig 115. Mechanical Safety


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4-209

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Round

Carrier

Cam Stud

Cam Stud Recess

Bolt
Safety
Sear

Trigger

Return Spring
Hammer

Fig 116A. Forward Action Change Lever at A

Cam Stud Recess


Round

Carrier
Bolt

Cam Stud

Trigger Bar Spring

Trigger Bar
Trigger

Safety
Sear

Main Sear
Hammer

Fig 116B. Trigger Released Change Lever at A


4-210

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Bullet

Cartridge

Firing Pin

Trigger
Bar

Trigger

Trigger Bar Spring

Main Sear

Safety
Sear

Interceptor Sear
Hammer

Fig 116C. Action on Operating the Trigger Change Lever at A

Piston and Spring

Trigger

Fired Case

Carrier

Cam Stud

Trigger
Bar
Safety
Sear

Cam Stud Recess

Main Sear
Hammer

Fig 116D. Rearward Action Change Lever at A


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4-211

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4-212

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SECTION 27. LSW PRACTICE 2 LESSONS 4-6


Aim
04580. To revise the facts and practice the skills taught in LSW Lessons 4, 5 and
6 including:
a.

Aiming with the SUSAT and the Iron Sight.

b.

Load, unload, ready and make safe.

c.

Holding, aiming, firing and rates of fire.

d.

IA and possible stoppages.

Timings
04581.

One 40 minute period.

Method
04582.

An indoor or outdoor practice period.

Stores
04583. LSW, sling and tool roll
Magazines and platform depressors
Sight picture/representative targets
Aiming rests (improvised)
Paper sheets and drawing pins
Chalkboard and chalk
Score sheet

1 per 3 cadets
2 per gun
As required

Preparation
04584. a.

Read Practice Period guidance at Annex E to Chapter 4.

b.

Position targets.

c.

Position and test aiming rests.

d.

Prepare and position chalkboard.

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4-213

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Load
Aiming
Ready
SUSAT &
Make Safe
Iron Sight
Unload

Team

HPS (10)

e.

(10)

Holding
&
Firing

Rates
of
Fires

IA & Gas

Total

(10)

(10)

(10)

(50)

Check all stores and aids are in position.

Miscellaneous
04585. a. Work out a fair and realistic scoring system for competitors in the final
stages.
b. Number the squad in pairs or threes and allocate to each LSW. Explain
the system for change round. Use master and pupil method as appropriate.
c.

Holding.

Test steadiness by balancing a small coin on the barrel.

d. Aiming. The Golden Shot. Pin a sheet of paper to a flat, vertical surface with the LSW in a rest four metres away. The firer gives directions for
the representative target to be positioned giving a correct aim picture without moving the LSW. This is repeated five times, a pin hole being made
through the centre of the representative target into the paper each time.
The size of the final group of five holes will indicate how consistent the firer
is aiming.
e. When practising firing, IA and gas drills use assistants to cock the
weapon after each shot or burst.

B.

CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Preliminaries
04586. Safety Precautions.
IN THIS LESSON.
04587.
4-214

Revision.

Normal. NO DRILL ROUNDS ARE TO BE USED

Nil.
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Introduction
04588. Explain: In battle the soldier must shoot accurately and fast. The section
will rely on its LSW particularly for supporting fire and taking on targets at longer
ranges. It is also important that the soldier is able to recognize and remedy quickly
any stoppages in order to keep the LSW in action. His ability to do this depends on
a great deal of practice. Training tests will assess these skills.
Suggested Practices
04589. a.

Aiming.
(1)

Practice the correct aim picture using:

Sight picture aim diagrams for the SUSAT and Iron Sight.

(2) LSW in aiming rests at representative targets from four metres distance.
(3)
b.

The Golden Shot (see Instructors Notes ).

Load, Ready, Unload and Make Safe.


(1)

Explain the training test conditions and safety penalty.

(2) Practice each member of each team. As proficiency improves vary


the sequence of words of commands to ensure alertness.
c. Holding and Firing the Shot. Practice in teams, non firers as critics.
Give fire control orders as necessary. Check:

d.

(1)

Target alignment, bipod position and left elbow placement.

(2)

Establishing of the right hand grip and shoulder contact.

(3)

Head upright, cheek lightly on cheekpiece.

Practice:
(1)

Combining breathing, pause and aim.

(2)

Trigger operation and follow through.

Rates of Fire
04590.
a.

Question on the following:


Normal and rapid rates.

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4-215

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b.

Length of bursts.

c.

Practice:
(1)

Firing at the normal rate.

(2) Firing at the rapid rate of fire, include actions on the command
STOP, GO ON and RAPID GO ON.
IA and Gas Stoppage
04591. a. The instructor is to arrange a simple hand signal to assistants when
they are NOT to cock the LSW. Indicate the condition of the magazine by
showing prepared examples.
b.
Practice the squad in the IA and the actions on examining the body
and chamber. In the training test full marks are awarded to the cadet who
carries out the correct actions leading up to and including the gas stoppage
drill. One mark is deducted for each mistake unless it involves safety, in
which case five marks are deducted.
Conclusion
04592.

End of Lesson Drill.

a.

Questions to and from the squad on the entire lesson.

b.

Safety precautions.

c.

Pack kit.

d.

Summary.

04593.

To include the following:

(1)

Standards achieved and any further practice needed.

(2)

Forecast of the squads next lesson on this subject.

Reserved.

Fig 117. Reserved


4-216

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ANNEX A TO
CHAPTER 4

THE CADET GP RIFLE


TECHNICAL DETAILS
Ammunition
Calibre (mm)
Types

5.56
Ball
Tracer
Blank
Low power
Training

Firing Mode

Single shot only

Firing Characteristics
Muzzle velocity (m/s)
Recoil (Joules)
Number of barrel grooves
Pitch of rifling (mm)
Twist of rifling

900
4.5
4.0
1 turn in 175
Right hand

Sighting
Foresight
Backsight
Range (m)

Post
Adjustable aperture
100-500

Weights (kg)
Weapon (complete with loaded magazine)
Magazine full
Magazine empty

4.1
0.48
0.12

Lengths (mm)
Weapon
Barrel

755
495

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4A-1

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4A-2

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SAFETY

SAFETY

(b)

(a)

Subject

Test

Rifle
1 Table
1 Chair

(c)

Stores
(e)

Conditions
(f)

Assessment

Before the cadet is called


forward, lay the rifle on
the ground unloaded, bolt
closed and the safety
catch not applied.

RESTRICTED

Note: The cadet passes the


test only if he answers all
questions correctly.

(3) (a) & (b)


Inform the Firing Point
Officer

Order the cadet to pick up the rifle and The cadet passes the test
put it on the table. Keeping the muzzle only if he carries out all
pointing in such a direction that no
actions correctly.
damage will arise in the event of an
accidental discharge, he should:
a. Pick up the rifle.
b. Push the safety catch fully forward.
c. Open the breech by moving the
bolt to the rear.
d. Check the chamber is empty/
clear.
e. Lay the rifle on the table with the
bolt open.

(3) What action would take if:


(a) A bullet is not heard or seen to
strike the target?
(b) The noise made by the explosion of the round going off is less
than normal?

(2) Why must a .22 round be hand fed (2) If the round is not correctinto the chamber until resistance is
ly seated in the chamber it
felt?
may cause a premature
explosion.

Tell the cadet to sit down QUESTION


(1) The cadet must state:
and taken his name and
(1) What must you NOT do with a mis- Under no circumstances will
enter it on the assessment fired .22 round?
a misfired round be resheet.
loaded in an attempt to refire
it. The misfired round must
be kept separate.

(d)

Preparation

TRAINING TESTS: NO. 8 RIFLE

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ANNEX B TO
CHAPTER 4

4B-1

4B-2

RESTRICTED

(c)

SIGHT
Rifle Only
SETTING AND
MISFIRE DRILL

Rifle Only

1 Table

LOAD

(b)

SAFETY

(a)

(d)

(e)

(f)

1. Order PRONE POSITION


DOWN LOAD. The cadet is to go
through the actions of loading the rifle.

Order the cadet to hand you the


The cadet passes the test
weapon from the table.
only if he carries out all
Keeping the muzzle pointing in such a actions correctly.
direction so that no danger will arise in
the event of an accidental discharge,
he should:
a. Pick up the rifle.
b. Push the safety catch fully forward.
c. Open the breech by moving the
bolt to the rear.
d. Check for himself that the chamber is empty/clear.
e. State the rifle is unloaded.
f. Hand it over to the instructor with
the bolt open.

1. The cadet passes if he


makes 2 or less mistakes.
2. If the cadet fails to comply
with any rule of safety whilst
carrying out the test he fails
regardless of success in any
other part of the training test.

1. Order a range (25/30m).


The instructor is to check the sights.
2. Order 1 ROUND IN YOUR
OWN TIME GO ON.

2. The action is completed when the


2. The rifle is to be laid on bolt is closed and the safety catch is
the floor, bolt open, safety set at safe.
catch forward.

1. No ammunition to be
used for this or any other
test. This is to be
explained to the cadet.

The rifle is laid on the


table, bolt closed and
safety catch not applied.

RESTRICTED

(b)

UNLOAD

(a)

Rifle Only

(c)

(d)

(e)

(f)

RESTRICTED
2. Order STAND UP.
a. Push the safety catch fully forward.
b. Open the breech by moving the
bolt to the rear.
c. Lay the rifle down on its left side.
d. Stand up, leaving the rifle on the
floor.

1. Order UNLOAD. The cadet should: The cadet passes the test
a. Open the breech by moving the
only if he carries out all
bolt to the rear. Look into the cham- actions correctly.
ber to ensure it is clear, then close
the bolt.
b. Bring the rifle into the shoulder,
aim at the target or bullet catcher
and operate the trigger. Put the safety catch safe and lower the back
sight.

3. Order MISFIRE.
a. Remain in the aiming position for
5 seconds.
Order ROUND NOT FIRED.
b. The cadet should then unload
the misfired round and place it
aside.
c. Reload the next round and carry
on firing.

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4B-3

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4B-4

RESTRICTED

Subject

(b)

SAFETY

Ser

(a)

1 GP Rifle
1
Magazine
(fitted with
depressor)
1 Chair

(c)

Stores

2. Tell him to sit down,


take his name and enter it
on the assessment sheet.

1. Before the cadet is


called forward lay the rifle
on the ground, (empty
magazine fitted) and the
safety catch not applied.

(d)

Preparation

1. Order the cadet to hand you the


rifle. He should:
a. Lie down behind the rifle.
b. Ensure that it is pointing in a
safe direction.
c. Put the safety catch to S.
d. Remove the magazine. Check
the magazine and place in the
pouch. Cock the weapon and
check that the breech is empty.
e. Allow the working parts to go
forward.
f. Put the safety catch to F.
g. Operate the trigger.
h. Put the safety catch to S.
i. Close the dust cover.
j. Stand up.
k. Cock the weapon, operate the
holding open catch, check for
himself and then show you that
the body, chamber and bolt face
are clear and then hand over the
rifle.
l. The instructor having received
the rifle will operate the bolt
release catch, put the safety catch
to Fire F, operate the trigger, put
the safety catch to Safe S and
close the dust cover.

(e)

Conditions

TRAINING TESTS: CADET GP RIFLE

The cadet passes the test


only if he carries out all
these actions correctly.

(f)

Assessment

RESTRICTED

ANNEX C TO
CHAPTER 4

RESTRICTED

4C-1

4C-2

RESTRICTED

MAGAZINE
FILLING

LOADING IN
PRONE
POSITION

(b)

STRIPPING AND
CLEANING

(a)

(c)

(d)
Arrange the stores on the
table.

1 Rifle
with sling
fitted
2
Magazines
2 Drill
rounds
1 Ground
sheet

(e)

3. Cadet standing at ease,


both magazines in the
pouch with the pouch fastened.

2. Cadet adopts prone position

2. Ensure that the cadet


has 1 magazine filled with 2
drill rounds and 1 magazine
with depressor fitted.

3. Order With a magazine of 2


rounds load.

1. Order Adopt the prone position.

2. Order the cadet to empty the


magazine.

1. Order the cadet to fill 10


rounds.

3. Order the cadet to reassemble


the rifle.

2. Ask the cadet to answer or


demonstrate the answers to three of
the following:
a. Cleaning the barrel using the
cleaning rod.
b. Cleaning the barrel using the
pullthrough.
c. What is the maximum size of
flannelette that can be used to
clean or lubricate the bore?
d. Show how you would remove
any fouling or debris from the
chamber.
e. Show how you would examine
the barrel for cleanliness.
f. When should magazines be
stripped?
g. Strip and assemble a magazine.

1. Order the cadet to strip the rifle


(the bolt carrier assembly is to be
removed but NOT stripped into its
component parts).

1. Lay out the ground


sheet.

1 Magazine Start with the magazine


10 loose
empty.
drill rounds
1 Table

1 GP Rifle
with sling
fitted.
Cleaning
Kit
complete
Flannelette
1 Table

(f)

The cadet passes this test


if no mistakes are made.

The cadet passes the test if


he fills and empties the
magazine correctly. (Target
time 20 secs.)

4. NO time limit to be set.

3. If he fails to comply with


any rule of safety whilst
carrying out the test he fails
regardless of success at 2
above.

2. The cadet passes if he


makes no more than two
mistakes.

1. The main purpose of the


test is to assess the cadets
ability to strip and assemble
the rifle.

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STOPPAGES

MAKING SAFE

(b)

(a)

(d)

As for Test The cadet will be in the


No 4
prone position. (Following
Test 5)

As for Test The cadet will be in the


prone position. (Following
No 4
Test 4)

(c)

(e)

(f)

RESTRICTED
7. Cadets should carry out IA.

6. On completion of drill order Rifle


firing alright rifle stops.

5. On examination of body and chamber order Rounds in the magazine,


chamber clear.

4. Cadets should carry out IA.

3. After completion of drill order Rifle


firing alright rifle stops.

2. Cadets should carry out IA and then


empty magazine drill after firing 2
rounds.

1. Order Ten rounds in your own


time, go on.

2. Order Ready.
The cadet passes this test
only if no mistakes are
made.

1. Order With a magazine of 2 rounds The cadet passes the test


make safe.
only if no mistakes are
Irrespective of the state of readiness made.
the weapon is in the cadet should
unload as taught, then put on a magazine of 2 rounds.

5. Order Ready.

4. The action is complete when the


safety catch is applied, the pouch fastened and the left hand back under
the hand guard.

RESTRICTED

4C-3

4C-4

RESTRICTED

UNLOADING

(b)

(d)

As for Test The cadet will be in the


prone position. (Following
No 4
Test 6)

(c)

(e)

2. The cadet unloads as taught. His


final actions should be to close the dust
cover, pick up the ejected rounds,
clean then replace them in the magazine, fasten the pouch, stand up and
stand at ease.

1. Order Unload.

10. Order Stop.

9. The test is not complete until the


safety catch is a F, the weapon
reaimed and the trigger operated.

8. On examination of body and chamber order Obstruction.

The cadet passes the test


only if no mistakes are
made.

(f)

Note: During the Training Test the instructor should watch the way the cadet cocks the weapon and bring any faults
to his attention during the debrief.

(a)

RESTRICTED

MAGAZINE
FILLING

STRIPPING AND
CLEANING

(b)

SAFETY

(a)

Subject

Test No

Before the cadet is called


forward place the LSW on the
ground, empty magazine on the
weapon and the safety catch on
FIRE.
Bipod legs extended.
Order the cadet to sit down, take
the cadets name and enter it in
the assessment sheet.
Check the cadets pouches.

(d)

Preparation

RESTRICTED

20 loose drill Start with the magazine empty.


rounds
Place the magazine and 20 loose
Magazine
drill rounds on a clean surface.
Stop watch

LSW
Arrange the stores on the table.
No sling
Place the LSW on the ground with
Cleaning kit bipod legs extended.
Flannelette
Oil
Cleaning
rods
Groundsheet

LSW less
slings, 2
magazines
with
depressors

(c)

Stores

Order the cadet to fill 20 drill rounds by


hand.
Order the cadet to empty the magazine.

Order the cadet to strip the LSW for


normal daily cleaning. Without further
directive the cadet is to:
a. Adopt the prone position.
b. Carry out the pre-strip NSPs.
c. Strip the weapon as for daily cleaning.
d. Stand up.
Order the cadet to:
a. Dry clean the whole of the weapon and
examine it for damage.
b. Lightly oil the bearing surfaces of the
bolt, cam stud and guide rods.
Order the cadet to reassemble the
weapon.
a. The cadet is to assemble the weapon
and test that it functions correctly.
b. Stand up leaving the weapon on the
ground with bipod legs extended.

Order the cadet to pick up the weapon


and place it on the table.
The cadet without further directive is to:
a. Adopt the prone position.
b. Unload the weapon as taught.
c. Stand up, fold the bipod legs back into
position and place the weapon on the
table.

(e)

Conditions

TRAINING TESTS: LIGHT SUPPORT WEAPON

The cadet passes the test if


the magazine is filled
correctly.
Target time is 40 seconds.

The main purpose of the test


is to assess the cadets
ability to strip, clean and
assemble the LSW.
The cadet passes if two or
less mistakes are made.
No time limit is to be made.
If the cadet fails to comply
with any rule of safety while
carrying out the test, the
cadet fails.

The cadet passes the test


only if all drills are carried out
correctly.

(f)

Assessment

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ANNEX D TO
CHAPTER 4

4D-1

4D-2

LOADING
(prone
position)

MAKING SAFE

IA AND GAS
STOPPAGE

(b)

(a)

Subject

Test No

LSW as per
Test No. 5

As for Test
No. 4

LSW
2 magazines
with depressors fitted
Ground
sheet

(c)

Stores

The cadet is to be in the prone


position with the weapon in the
ready state.
(Following Test No. 5)

The cadet will be in the prone


position with the weapon in the
loaded state.
(Following Test No. 4)

Lay out the groundsheet.


Ensure the cadet has two
magazines fitted with depressors
in their left-hand pouch.
Cadet standing at ease.

(d)

Preparation

Order Bursts in your own time and go on.


Order Gun firing alright gun stops.
Cocking handle fully forward. Cadet is to
carry out the IA and continue firing.
Order Gun firing alright, gun stops.
Cocking handle not fully forward. Cadet is
to carry out the IA, on examination of body
and chamber.
Order Rounds in magazine chamber
clear. Allow cadet to complete the drill and
fire.
Order Gun fires one or two rounds and
stops again. Once the cadet has carried
out the IA
Order Cocking handle not fully forward.
On examination of the body and chamber
Order Rounds in the magazine, chamber
clear.

Order With a magazine fitted with a


depressor Make Safe.
Irrespective of the state of readiness of the
weapon the cadet is to unload as taught,
then put on a magazine fitted with a
depressor.
Order Ready.

Order Adopt the prone position.


Order Using a magazine with a
depressor fitted LOAD.
The action is complete when the safety
catch is applied, the pouch fastened and
the cadet has both hands correctly on the
weapon.
Order 500.

(e)

Conditions

The actions tested are those appertaining to the IA and gas stoppage only.
The cadet is to be told that no time limit
is imposed but all actions should be
carried out quickly and correctly.
The cadet passes only if no mistakes
are made.

The cadet passes the test only if no


mistakes are made.

The cadet passes the test if no


mistakes are made.
The cadet is to be told that no time limit
is imposed but all actions should be
carried out quickly and correctly.

(f)

Assessment

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As for Test
No. 6

(c)

Stores

S = SKILLED
P = PASS
F = FAIL

UNLOADING
(Prone position)

Markings:

(b)

(a)

IA AND GAS
STOPPAGE

Subject

Test No

This test follows on from Test No. 6.


Give the command Unload. When the
drills have been completed the cadet is to
remain in the prone position, recover the
ejected round, replace it in the magazine
and fasten the pouch.
Order Stand up.

The cadet should operate the bolt release,


tap forward on the cocking handle, apply
the safety catch and, using the combination tool, adjust the gas regulator. The test
is not complete until the safety catch is set
at F, the weapon re-aimed and the trigger
operated.
Order Stop.

(e)

Conditions
(f)

Assessment

The cadet passes the test if no


mistakes are made.

All drills correct and no hesitation.


Unspecified number of minor mistakes not affecting safety.
Safety errors/totally unfamiliar with correct drills.

Following on from Test No. 6.


In the prone position.

(d)

Preparation

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4D-3

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4D-4

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ANNEX E TO
CHAPTER 4

PRACTICE PERIODS
INTRODUCTION
General
1. Training must be progressive, unnecessary repetition is bad instructional practice. A cadet learns skills and facts in the basic lesson which should be taught only
once. The cadet then needs practice to speed up his or her actions and establish
the facts firmly in their minds. This is achieved by practice periods.
2.

The sequence of a practice period is:


a.

Remind by explanation.

b.

Assess Weakness by practice or test.

c.

Improve on Weakness by practice.

d.

Progressive Practice by competitions.

3. The practice periods are intended to reinforce and confirm basic instruction, by
providing progressive, interesting practice, leading to training tests pass standards
and as a guide to the best way of exercising cadets during basic and continuation
training. The instructor should plan the period on an assessment of the cadets
weak points.
4. Faults should be brought to the notice of the cadet and corrected immediately
otherwise the cadet will go on making the same mistakes.
5. It may become obvious during a practice period that the cadets have failed to
grasp a particular skill or fact. The instructor will therefore have to teach that part of
the basic lesson again.
Competition
6. The incentive of competition will always help to make practice more interesting,
provided cadets can achieve acceptable skills standards. If not, additional practice
will be necessary before competition is worthwhile. Some points on framing competitions are:
a.

They may be on an individual or on a team basis.

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4E-1

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b. If run on a team basis the instructor must ensure that selected teams are
all fairly equal as regards performance. The more advanced members of the
team will help along the weaker members.
c. Marks can be earned up to a given total, or a total started with and marks
lost for mistakes as the competition progresses.
d. A chart drawn on a chalk board or a sheet of paper on which to mark up
results should always be used.
e. Further interest can be developed by making one team or individual
match another, criticising and awarding or deducting marks.
f. Above all the instructor must make certain that competitions are simple,
realistic and relevant i.e., that they exercise the cadets in the facts and skills
related to their basic instruction and appropriate to their stage of training.
Master and Pupil
7. The master and pupil method of practice, in its simplest form is for one cadet
(the pupil) to work under the supervision of another (the master); the instructor
keeps an eye on both.
8. At all stages of training it stimulates interest, keenness and attention to detail. It
is particularly useful with large squads and in competitions. Used regularly, it also
develops initiative and leadership, and potential leaders may well be discovered by
matching the masters at work.

4E-2

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