MARKSMANSHIP TRAINING
This chapter is an aid for trainers in preparing and conducting
marksmanship training for the M249 in the automatic rifle mode.
Marksmanship training is conducted in three phases--preliminary
marksmanship; basic marksmanship; and advanced marksmanship,
which is combat techniques of fire discussed in Chapter 6.
Marksmanship begins with nonfiring individual skill proficiency and concludes with collective proficiency firing during demanding conditions.
b. Adjustment of Fire. The automatic rifleman must observe the strike of the rounds when the initial burst is fired. If not on target, he manipulates the M249 until the rounds do strike the target. He must be proficient in observing the strike of rounds, in observing and using tracers, and in rapidly laying the M249 AR on the target during firing.
c. Speed. Speed is also essential to good marksmanship; it is attained by practice in both dry-fire and live-fire exercises. It is an acquired skill gained through extensive training that combines other skills when delivering fire. Speed should not be stressed to the detriment of accuracy.
b. Basic Marksmanship. In this phase, the soldier applies the fundamentals in live-fire exercises during day, night, and NBC conditions. This includes zeroing, 10-meter firing, field zeroing, and transition firing. (See Section III.)
c. Advanced Marksmanship. In this phase, the soldier is trained on combat techniques of fire and techniques of employment. (See Chapter 6.)
b. The training strategies contain two components: initial training and sustainment training. Both may include individual and collective skills. Initial training is critical because a task that is taught correctly and learned well is retained longer. When an interim of nonuse occurs, well-trained skills are more quickly regained and sustained. The more difficult and complex the task, the harder it is to sustain the skill. Personnel turnover plays a major factor in the decay of collective skills, since the loss of critical team members requires retraining to regain proficiency. If a long period elapses between initial and sustainment training sessions or training doctrine is altered, retraining becomes necessary.
c. The training strategy for M249 marksmanship begins in the institutions and continues in the unit. Figure 5-1, illustrates an example of this overall process, which provides a concept of the flow of unit sustainment training. Combat arms IET provides field units with soldiers who are familiar with standards in basic marksmanship tasks. The soldiers graduating from these courses have been trained to maintain their M249s and to hit a variety of targets. They have learned range determination, target detection, application of marksmanship fundamentals, and other skills needed to engage a target.
d. Additional skills trained in the institution include techniques for employment, classes of fire, and fire commands. These skills must then be reinforced in the unit. Related soldier skills of camouflage, cover and concealment, maneuver, and preparation and selection of a fighting position are addressed in STP 21-24-SMCT, which must be integrated into tactical training.
e. Training continues in units on the basic skills taught in combat arms IET. Additional skills, such as suppressive fire and supporting fire, are trained and then integrated into collective training exercises, which include squad and platoon live-fire exercises. (A unit M249 marksmanship training program is explained in Appendix A.) The strategy for sustaining the basic marksmanship skills taught in combat arms IET involves periodic preliminary marksmanship training, followed by 10-meter, transition firing, and qualification range firing. However, a unit must establish a year-round program to sustain skills. Key elements include training the trainers and refresher training of nonfiring skills.
f. In the unit, individual proficiency and leader proficiency of marksmanship tasks are integrated into collective training that includes squad, section, and platoon drills and STXs. The collective tasks in these exercises, and how they are planned and conducted, are in ARTEP 7-8-MTP and ARTEP 7-8-DRILL. Collective tasks are evaluated to standard and discussed during leader and trainer after-action reviews. Objective evaluations of both individual and unit proficiency provide readiness indicators and future training requirements.
g. A critical step in the Army's overall marksmanship training strategy is to train the trainers and leaders first. Leader courses include limited M249 AR training, but unit publications will help develop officer and NCO proficiency necessary to plan and conduct marksmanship training and to evaluate the effectiveness of their programs. Proponent schools provide training support materials to include field manuals, training aids, devices, simulators, and programs that are doctrinal foundations and guidance for training the force.
h. Once the soldier understands the weapon, knows how to zero, and has demonstrated proficiency at 10-meter and transition ranges, he should be exposed to more difficult ranges and scenarios.
i. IET culminates in the soldier's proficiency assessment, which is conducted on the 10-meter and transition and record fire ranges. Unit training culminates in a collective, live-fire, tactical exercise that provides an overview of unit proficiency and training effectiveness.
Figure 5-1. Unit marksmanship sustainment strategy.
b. Enemy personnel are seldom visible except when assaulting.
c. Most combat fire must be directed at an area where the enemy has been detected or where he is suspected of being but cannot be seen. Area targets consist of objects or outlines of men irregularly spaced along covered and concealed areas (ground folds, hedges, borders of woods).
d. Most combat targets can be detected by smoke, flash, dust, noise, or movement, but they are visible only for a moment.
e. Some combat targets can be engaged by using reference points, predetermined fire, or range card data.
f. The nature of the target and irregularities of terrain and vegetation may require a firer to use a variety of positions to place effective fire on the target. The most stable position for the automatic rifleman is the prone bipod-supported position.
g. Most combat targets have a low contrast outline and are obscured. Therefore, choosing an aiming point in elevation is difficult.
h. Time-stressed fire in combat can be divided into three types: a single, fleeting target that must be engaged quickly; distributed targets that must be engaged within the time they remain available; and a surprise target that must be engaged at once with instinctive, accurate fire.
Once a soldier is proficient in the characteristics and mechanical training of the M249, he is ready to be trained on the four fundamentals of marksmanship. As the automatic rifleman learns the fundamentals, he should be required to manipulate the sights, use his body to shift and lay the sights on the target, and respond to fire commands. Dry-fire exercises are an excellent method for training to proficiency.
b. Aim. To aim the M249 AR, the automatic rifleman must align the sights, focus his eye, obtain a correct sight picture, control his breathing, and maintain trigger control.
(2) Focus of the eye. A good firing position places the eye directly on line with the center of the rear sight. Focus on the tip of the front sight post. The natural ability of the eye to center objects in a circle and to seek the point of greatest light (center of peep sight) aids in providing correct sight alignment.
(3) Sight picture. A correct sight picture has the target, front sight post, and rear sight aligned. The sight picture consists of sight alignment and placement of the aiming point on the target. Align the tip of the front sight post in the center (Figure 5-2) of the rear peep sight and then align the sights with the target. Align the top of the front sight post on the center base of the target.
c. Breath Control. Two types of breath control are used. When firing single shots, as in zeroing, the automatic rifleman stops breathing after most of the air has been exhaled during the normal breathing cycle. He fires before he feels any discomfort. During automatic fire, ideally, the automatic rifleman exhales and stops his breath when pressing the trigger. He does not have time to take deep breaths between bursts. He must hold his breath before each burst or adapt his breathing by taking quick shallow breaths or taking deeper breaths between several bursts.
d. Trigger Control. Pressing the trigger straight to the rear and releasing it helps control the number of rounds in each burst and prevents disturbing the lay of the weapon. For a three-round burst, the automatic rifleman presses the trigger to the rear, says "Press, release;" and releases the trigger.
Figure 5-2. Sight picture.
(2) Spread your legs a comfortable distance apart with heels as close to the ground as possible and yet still be comfortable.
(3) Grasp the pistol grip with your firing hand with the fleshy end of the index finger resting lightly on the trigger. Place your nonfiring hand on the small of the stock with your thumb curled underneath. Slide your nonfiring hand forward until your little finger touches the receiver, so your aiming point will always be the same.
(4) Place your cheek against the forefinger of your nonfiring hand to form a stock weld. Try to position your nonfiring hand and cheek at the same spot on the stock each time you fire the weapon. The stock weld should provide for a natural line of sight through the center of the rear sight aperture to the front sight post and to the target. Relax your neck so that your cheek rests on your forefinger naturally.
(5) Apply a firm, steady pressure rearward and down, holding the weapon tightly into the hollow of your shoulder while aiming and firing.
(6) Keep your shoulders level and elbows about an equal distance from the receiver of the weapon (Figure 5-3).
Figure 5-3. Prone position, bipod-supported.
(2) Place your right (firing side foot) foot sideways against the rear of the fighting position and lean forward until your chest is squarely against the forward wall.
(3) Raise the folding shoulder rest and place it on your firing shoulder. Keep your shoulders level or parallel to the ground.
(4) Grasp the pistol grip with your firing hand with the fleshy end of the index finger resting lightly on the trigger. Place your nonfiring hand on the small of the stock with your thumb curled underneath.
(5) Place your cheek against the forefinger of your nonfiring hand to form a stock weld. Try to position your nonfiring hand and cheek at the same spot on the stock each time you fire the weapon. The stock weld should provide for a natural line of sight through the center of the rear sight aperture to the front sight post and to the target. Relax your neck so that your cheek rests on your forefinger naturally.
(6) Apply a firm, steady pressure rearward and down, holding the weapon tight into the hollow of your shoulder while aiming and firing.
(7) Keep your shoulders level and elbows about an equal distance from the receiver of the weapon.
(8) Adjust the bipod legs as needed (Figure 5-4).
Figure 5-4. Fighting position, bipod-supported.
b. Aim. Various modifications are necessary when aiming the M249 AR at night. When firing unassisted, the automatic rifleman uses off-center vision instead of pinpoint focus. Both eyes are open and focused downrange on the target and not on the sights. Rather than aim using the sights, the automatic rifleman looks over the sights and points the M249 AR where he is looking. The normal tendency is to fire high so the automatic rifleman must improve weapon-target alignment by pointing slightly low to compensate. When using NVDs, the automatic rifleman uses the necessary aiming process to use the device.
c. Breath Control. This fundamental is not affected by night firing conditions; however, wobble is more pronounced when using NVDs, because they magnify the field of view.
d. Trigger Control. There is no change to this fundamental during night firing. The objective is to not disrupt alignment of the weapon with the target.
b. Aim. The automatic rifleman may have to rotate (cant) the M249 AR to see through the rear sight aperture. He should rotate only enough to align the sights, and only if necessary. Ballistics cause rounds to impact low in the direction of the cant at long ranges. If canting at targets beyond 175 meters, the automatic rifleman must adjust his point of aim. The best technique is to aim at center base of the target initially and then make adjustments based on the strike of the rounds. Right-handed firers adjust point of aim to the right and high; left-handed firers to the left and high (Figure 5-5).
c. Breath Control. Although breathing is somewhat restricted and more difficult while wearing the protective mask, the impact is negligible. Care must be taken, however, to avoid hyperventilating during burst fire. The amount of oxygen inhaled by taking quick shallow breaths or deeper breaths between bursts is significantly reduced.
d. Trigger Control. Trigger control is affected when the automatic rifleman wears gloves. The effect cannot be accurately predicted for each soldier; therefore, practice and training under these conditions are required.
Figure 5-5. Aiming the M249 AR while wearing NBC gear.
Figure 5-6. Vehicle lead table.
Figure 5-7. Moving target aiming points.
b. Tracking Techniques. The automatic rifleman aims at a point ahead of the target equal to the estimated number of leads, maintains this lead by tracking the target (manipulates the weapon at the same angular speed as that of the target), and then fires. Tracking puts the automatic rifleman in position for a second burst if the first one misses.
c. Trapping Techniques. The automatic rifleman establishes an aiming point forward of the target and along the target path. He presses the trigger as the target reaches the appropriate point in regard to lead.
d. Bipod Techniques. For targets moving directly away or at the automatic rifleman using a bipod, the same procedures are used. From a prone position, the automatic rifleman may be required to adjust his position quickly depending on range, angle, and speed of the target.
(2) Aim. You must determine angle, speed, and range quickly; acquire the appropriate lead; and engage the target. Align the front sight post in the proper relationship to lead the target. For targets moving directly away, place the front sight post above center of mass. For targets moving directly at you, align the front sight post below center of mass. For all other targets, align the front sight post with center base of the target with the appropriate lead.
(3) Breath control. There are no changes except that you must hold your breath quickly because of the fleeting nature of moving targets.
(4) Trigger control. There is no change in the application of this fundamental.
b. Search. Searching is moving the muzzle of the weapon up or down to distribute fire in depth. To make changes in elevation, the automatic rifleman moves his elbows closer together to lower the muzzle or farther apart to raise the muzzle. Gross errors in range are corrected by adjusting the range setting with the elevation knob.
b. Adjusted Aiming Point Method. In this method of fire adjustment, the automatic rifleman uses his sight but does not make sight corrections. This is the quickest method. If the automatic rifleman misses the target with his initial burst, he must rapidly select a new aiming point the same distance from the target as the center of impact of the initial burst, but in the opposite direction. For example, if the strike of the rounds of the initial burst is 20 meters beyond and 10 meters to the right of the target, he rapidly selects an aiming point about 20 meters short and 10 meters to the left of the target, lays on that aiming point, and fires (Figure 5-8). When selecting a new aiming point, he may have to shift his shoulders slightly to the left or right for windage corrections. For elevation changes, he moves his elbows closer together (lowers the impact) or farther apart (raises the impact). For large corrections, he must move his elbows and realign his body to remain directly behind the weapon. He does this by redistributing weight to his elbows and toes and raises his body off the ground. He shifts his body using his toes, to the right or left, pivoting on his elbows until he is on line with the target. Then he assumes a steady position, obtains the sight picture, and engages the target.
Figure 5-8. Adjusting aiming point method.
Figure 5-9. Clock method.
Figure 5-10. Effects of winds.
b. Wind Measurement. Wind is highly variable and sometimes quite different at the firing position than at the target position. Even though the wind is blowing hard at the firing position, the bullet path could be protected by trees, brush, or terrain. The wind can vary by several miles per hour between the time a measurement is taken and when the bullet is fired. Therefore, training time should not be wasted trying to teach automatic riflemen an exact way to measure wind speed. They should know that even though wind can affect trajectory, it can be overcome by adjusting fire. A wind gauge can be used for precise measurement of wind velocity. When a gauge is not available, velocity is estimated by one of the following methods.
(a) Winds under 3 mph can barely be felt, but the presence of slight wind can be determined by drifting smoke.
(b) Winds of 5 to 8 mph constantly move the leaves of trees.
(c) Winds of 8 to 12 mph raise dust and loose paper.
(d) Winds of 12 to 15 mph cause small trees to sway.
(2) Pointing method. A piece of paper or other light material can be dropped from shoulder height. By pointing directly at the spot where it lands, the angle can be estimated. As shown in Figure 5-11, this angle is also divided by the constant number 4 to determine the approximate wind speed in miles per hour. However, this only indicates conditions at the firing position; they may be different at the target.
Figure 5-11. Pointing method.
b. Direction. Direction is given as FRONT since the targets appear to the automatic rifleman's front on the basic range.
c. Description. Description is given as PASTER NUMBER (pasters 1 through 8 as appropriate), at which time the automatic rifleman lays his weapon on the announced paster.
d. Range. An elevation of 700 meters on the rear sight assembly is always used on the basic range. This is announced as SEVEN HUNDRED, at which time the automatic rifleman must ensure that his rear sight assembly has the correct elevation setting.
e. Method of Fire. Firing on the basic range is at a point target, so the method of fire is announced as FIXED. The automatic rifleman fires either single rounds or bursts at a rate slower than the sustained rate; therefore, the rate-of-fire element is omitted.
f. Command to Open Fire. This is announced as AT MY COMMAND. When the automatic rifleman is ready, he announces "Up." When all automatic riflemen are ready to fire, the command FIRE is given.
b. Immediate-Action Exercise. This exercise is conducted using linked dummy rounds and the basic machine gun target (see paragraph 5-18). The instructor should use salvage links to link the dummy rounds together.
(2) Being conscious of the sight picture, press the trigger and the bolt goes forward (simulate firing the weapon). If you disturbed the sight picture, check your position and grip, and maintain better control of the weapon.
(3) If you have a stoppage, apply immediate-action procedures and continue to fire.
c. Operational Exercise. The automatic rifleman aims and simulates firing each dummy round at the aiming paster on the basic machine gun target.
(2) If at the completion of the firing cycle you observe significant movement of the sight picture, your position is not steady enough.
(3) Apply immediate action after firing each shot to extract and eject the dummy cartridge and return the bolt to the cocked position. Return the cocking handle to the forward position.
d. Sight Setting and Sight Change Exercises. These exercises are to train the automatic rifleman in the operation and adjustment of the rear sight.
(2) To make adjustments for windage, traverse the rear sight across the sliding scale.
Figure 5-12. Sight adjustments.
e. Traversing and Searching Exercise. After the automatic rifleman knows the principles of sighting and aiming and can assume a satisfactory firing position, he learns how to make minor and major body changes to obtain an accurate initial lay by using body position changes. He practices shifting the direction of the weapon to successive points by manipulating his body. The basic machine gun target is placed 10 meters from the weapon for this exercise.
(2) Make major elevation changes by adjusting the elevation knob. Make minor elevation changes by adjusting your elbows.
(3) Traverse and search the target by sighting on the initial aiming paster (number 5 or 6) and then shifting to each of the other pasters in order (5 through 6 or its reverse).
(4) Upon receiving a fire command, repeat the instructions, set the sights, lay the weapon on the designated paster, assume the correct position, and report UP.
(5) At the command FIRE, simulate firing two single shots, then shift to the next paster and simulate firing until the exercise is complete.
f. Dry-Fire Proficiency (Performance) Examination. An automatic rifleman must demonstrate skill in all the tasks of the dry-fire proficiency examination before he is allowed to progress to 10-meter live firing. This examination emphasizes learning by doing. Proficiency is tested on a pass or fail basis. (The proficiency test is in Appendix B.)
g. Remedial Training. Remedial training must be given to soldiers who fail the performance objectives. Automatic riflemen who have passed the proficiency test may be used to assist in the training of soldiers having difficulty. Following retraining, the soldiers are retested in those tasks.
Figure 5-13. Range layout.
Figure 5-14. Basic machine gun target.
b. Area Targets. Area targets on the basic machine gun target consist of pasters 5 through 6, and 7 through 8 of sections A, B, C, and D. Target group 5 through 6 provides the automatic rifleman with targets in depth and allows him to use a series of aiming points to disburse fire across the target by using body position changes. Target group 7 through 8 provides the automatic rifleman with linear targets with depth. This series of targets uses a series of aiming points to disburse fire across the target and in depth by using body position changes.
c. Grid Square Overlay. This device assists the automatic rifleman in zeroing his weapon at 10 meters, while using the basic machine gun target (Figure 5-15). The grid square overlay is used the same as an M16 25-meter zero target, except the material can be made of plastic or view graph transparency. Each square is equal to 1 cm.
Figure 5-15. Grid square overlay.
(2) After firing the second three-round shot group (Figure 5-16), place the grid square overlay over the pasters (1 and 2) (Figure 5-17) and count the number of clicks it will take for rounds to impact on the black aiming paster. (Corrections for Figure 5-17 would be turn the windage knob toward the muzzle (clockwise) two clicks.)
Figure 5-16. Shot group on basic machine gun target.
Figure 5-17. Overlay placed over pasters.
Figure 5-18. Common errors of marksmanship.
a. The total possible score is 51 points. A minimum of 35 points is required to qualify on the 10-meter course of fire.
b. Soldiers failing to achieve minimum standards must be retrained and retested in a dry-fire mode until proficiency is demonstrated. They do not go on to transition firing. Soldiers should refire the 10-meter portion with close supervision and coaching to ensure that the fundamentals of marksmanship are applied during live fire.
In basic marksmanship, the automatic rifleman applies the fundamentals in live-fire exercises during day, night, and NBC conditions. This includes 10-meter zeroing, 10-meter firing, field zeroing, transition firing, and record firing.
b. Three-Round Group. The automatic rifleman fires three single rounds loaded individually at the center base of the aiming points on the basic machine gun marksmanship target. He fires the three rounds without making any adjustments to the sights. The shot group must be about a 4-cm circle or smaller to establish the center of the group in relation to the center base of the aiming paster. Establishing a smaller shot group is difficult, because the M249 AR is an open-bolt weapon. Sight alignment is disturbed somewhat as the bolt moves forward during firing.
c. Grid Square Overlay. For a more accurate adjustment, the automatic rifleman moves downrange and places the grid square overlay over pasters 1 and 2. He ensures that he aligns the overlay with the pasters and squares.
(2) Upon completion, return to the firing line to make corrections to the weapon. Figure 5-19 illustrates a zero group size on which adjustments can be made and a group that is too loose for adjustments. If a group is too loose, check your position and grip.
Figure 5-19. Zero group size.
e. Elevation Correction. Before making elevation adjustments, the range knob must be at its highest setting. If the center of the shot group is above or below the aiming point, the automatic rifleman rotates the peep sight clockwise to lower the strike of the round or rotates the peep sight counterclockwise to raise the strike of the round. One 180-degree turn in either direction moves the strike of the round « cm at 10 meters.
f. Confirmation. The automatic rifleman fires another three-shot group (loaded singly) after making his corrections for windage and elevation. If the center of the group is still off the aiming point, he adjusts further until the group is centered on the point of aim.
g. Recording. There is no reason to record the 10-meter zero, because it applies only to firing at the 10-meter basic machine gun target.
b. Fire a Three-Round Burst. The automatic rifleman assumes a good stable position and fires a three-round burst at the center base of the target and notes where the burst strikes.
c. Correct for Windage. If the center of the beaten zone is to the left or right of the target, he corrects for windage. Each click moves the strike of the rounds « mil or 6 inches at 300 meters. He adjusts the windage knob accordingly.
d. Correct for Elevation. If the center of the beaten zone is high or low in relation to the target, he corrects for elevation. Because determining that relationship is difficult, automatic riflemen rely on trial and error to gain sufficient experience in making reliable estimates. He makes corrections in the same manner as 10-meter zeroing.
e. Confirm. After making corrections for windage and elevation, he fires a confirming burst of three rounds. If the target is not hit, he repeats the procedures.
f. Record Zero. Upon confirming the zero, he records it by counting the number of clicks (half-turns) he moved the peep sight for elevation in relation to the initial setting of 5. For example, if he made two half-turns up, he records UP 2. If he made two half-turns down, he records DOWN 2. Adjustments for the windage scale are not recorded; instead, he loosens the windage sliding scale screws and aligns the scale so that the large index line is under the windage mark on the sight. Then, he tightens the screws.
b. Task 2, Controlled-Burst Firing. Using point targets, the automatic rifleman fires three-round bursts. This task exposes automatic riflemen to automatic fire and the action of the weapon and at the same time introduces trigger control.
c. Task 3, NBC Traverse and Search Fire. This task requires the automatic rifleman to make body position changes to engage area targets in depth, to use controlled-burst firing, and to use a series of aiming points to disburse fire across the target, while in protective mask and gloves.
d. Task 4, Traverse and Search Fire. This task requires the automatic rifleman to make position changes to engage area targets with width and depth, to use controlled-burst firing, and to use a series of aiming points to disburse fire across the target.
e. Task 5, Traverse and Search Fire. This task exposes the automatic rifleman to a series of point targets, to controlled-burst fire, and to trigger control during timed conditions.
f. Task 6, NBC Traverse and Search Fire. This task requires the automatic rifleman to engage area targets with width and depth, while making position changes during timed conditions, and while in protective mask and gloves.
g. Task 7, Traverse and Search Fire. This task requires the automatic rifleman to make position changes to engage area targets in depth during timed conditions.
(2) The automatic rifleman assumes a good position.
(3) The tower operator instructs the automatic rifleman to prepare a single round.
(4) The following fire command is given. The automatic rifleman and coach repeat each element of the fire command as it is given.
AUTOMATIC RIFLEMAN (The automatic rifleman loads and moves safety to FIRE) FRONT (Focuses on target or target area) PASTER ONE (Locates target) SEVEN HUNDRED (Adjusts sights and acquires sight picture) FIXED, ONE ROUND (Method of fire) COMMENCE FIRING (Fires on command of tower operator, but when ready)
(5) The automatic rifleman loads one round, obtains the proper sight picture, and gives an UP to the coach.
(6) The coach relays the READY signal to the tower operator.
(7) The tower operator gives the command COMMENCE FIRING.
(8) The automatic rifleman engages paster 1 with three single shots when he is ready.
(9) The automatic rifleman moves downrange to observe, mark, and triangulate the shot group. Sight adjustments using the rear peep sight and windage knob are made at this time if the shot group is tight enough. If not, the automatic rifleman should fire another three rounds to ensure he has mastered the fundamentals before adjusting the sights.
(10) Steps 2 through 8 are repeated, but the automatic rifleman fires at paster 2.
b. Task 2, Controlled-Burst Firing.
(2) When the fire command is given, the automatic rifleman and coach repeat each element as it is given.
AUTOMATIC RIFLEMAN FRONT PASTER THREE SEVEN HUNDRED FIXED, THREE-ROUND BURSTS AT MY COMMAND
(3) The automatic rifleman acquires the proper sight picture and gives an UP to the coach.
(4) The coach relays the READY signal to the tower operator.
(5) The tower operator gives the command to FIRE.
(6) The automatic rifleman fires the first burst of three rounds at paster 3.
(7) Steps 2 through 6 are repeated, but the automatic rifleman fires at paster 4.
c. Task 3, NBC Traverse and Search Fire.
(2) The tower operator gives the order to mask by stating GAS. Once the soldiers are masked and have their gloves on, he gives the fire command.
(3) When the fire command is given, the automatic rifleman and coach repeat each element as it is given.
AUTOMATIC RIFLEMAN FRONT PASTERS FIVE THROUGH SIX SEVEN HUNDRED TRAVERSE AND SEARCH, THREE-ROUND BURSTS AT MY COMMAND
(4) The automatic rifleman acquires the proper sight picture and gives an UP to the coach.
(5) The coach relays the READY signal to the tower operator.
(6) The tower operator gives the command to FIRE.
(7) Using the traverse and search technique, the automatic rifleman engages pasters 5 through 6, firing a three-round burst for each paster. Once complete, the soldiers are given the order ALL CLEAR.
(8) The automatic rifleman restores his mask to the carrier, removes his gloves, and moves downrange to observe and analyze his targets.
d. Task 4, Traverse and Search Fire.
(2) When the fire command is given, the automatic rifleman and coach repeat each element as it is given.
AUTOMATIC RIFLEMAN FRONT PASTERS SEVEN THROUGH EIGHT SEVEN HUNDRED TRAVERSE AND SEARCH, THREE-ROUND BURSTS AT MY COMMAND
(3) The automatic rifleman acquires the proper sight picture and gives an UP to the coach.
(4) The coach relays the READY signal to the tower operator.
(5) The automatic rifleman engages pasters 7 through 8, firing a three-round burst at each paster, using the traverse and search technique.
(6) The automatic rifleman may move downrange to observe and analyze his targets.
e. Task 5, Traverse and Search Fire.
(2) When the fire command is given, the automatic rifleman and coach repeat each element as it is given.
AUTOMATIC RIFLEMAN FRONT PASTERS ONE THROUGH FOUR SEVEN HUNDRED FIXED, THREE-ROUND BURSTS AT MY COMMAND
(3) The automatic rifleman acquires the proper sight picture and gives an UP to the coach.
(4) The coach relays the READY signal to the tower operator.
(5) The tower operator gives the command to FIRE.
(6) The automatic rifleman engages pasters 1 through 4 in 20 seconds, firing a three-round burst at each paster.
(7) The automatic rifleman may move downrange to observe and analyze his targets.
f. Task 6, NBC Traverse and Search Fire.
(2) The tower operator gives the order to mask by stating GAS. Once the soldiers are masked and have their gloves on, he gives the fire command.
(3) When the fire command is given, the automatic rifleman and coach repeat each element of as it is given.
AUTOMATIC RIFLEMAN FRONT PASTERS SEVEN THROUGH EIGHT SEVEN HUNDRED TRAVERSE AND SEARCH, THREE-ROUND BURSTS AT MY COMMAND
(4) The automatic rifleman acquires the proper sight picture and gives an UP to the coach.
(5) The coach relays the READY signal to the tower operator.
(6) The tower operator gives the command to FIRE.
(7) Using the traverse and search technique, the automatic rifleman engages pasters 7 through 8 in 40 seconds, firing a three-round burst at each paster. Once complete, the soldiers are given the order ALL CLEAR.
(8) The automatic rifleman restores his mask to the carrier, removes his gloves, and moves downrange to observe and analyze his targets.
g. Task 7, Traverse and Search Fire.
(2) When the fire command is given, the automatic rifleman and coach repeat each element as it is given.
AUTOMATIC RIFLEMAN FRONT PASTERS FIVE THROUGH SIX SEVEN HUNDRED TRAVERSE AND SEARCH, THREE-ROUND BURSTS AT MY COMMAND
(3) The automatic rifleman acquires the proper sight picture and gives an UP to the coach.
(4) The coach relays the READY signal to the tower operator.
(5) Using the traverse and search technique, the automatic rifleman engages pasters 5 through 6 in 40 seconds, firing a three-round burst at each paster.
(6) The automatic rifleman may move downrange to observe and analyze his target, and the coach scores it.
Table 5-1. Firing Table 1.
b. Stoppages. If a stoppage occurs, the automatic rifleman must apply immediate action. If the stoppage is reduced, he continues to fire the course.
(2) Once the stoppage is reduced, the automatic rifleman completes firing beginning with the next task.
(3) If a stoppage is caused by an error on the part of the automatic rifleman, additional time is not permitted. The automatic rifleman receives the score he earned before the stoppage occurred.
(4) If it is necessary to replace the M249 AR, the automatic rifleman must zero the new weapon. He may refire the exercise.
(5) Automatic riflemen who cannot fire a task or cannot complete firing in the time allowed (because of malfunctions) can finish the exercise in an "alibi run" after all other automatic riflemen complete firing. They fire only those tasks they failed to engage because of the malfunction.
c. Penalties. Five points are deducted from the score of any automatic rifleman who fails to stop firing at the command or signal to cease fire. If an automatic rifleman fires at the wrong target or exercise, he loses the points for those rounds. An automatic rifleman whose target was fired upon by another automatic rifleman is permitted to refire the exercise.
d. Scoring. Scores are tabulated IAW paragraph 5-20. Automatic riflemen do not score their own targets when firing for qualification. During qualification firing, at least 35 points must be achieved on Firing Table I. DA Form 7304-R is used to record scores (see paragraph 5-30).
e. Position. Based on his METL, the commander selects either the bipod-supported prone position or bipod-supported fighting position for qualification.
b. Targets. Two target configurations using E-type silhouette targets may be used--single or double. The double represents an enemy automatic weapon, which for the automatic rifleman is a priority target (Figure 5-20). The targets are at various ranges that an automatic rifleman might engage. All targets should be plainly seen from the firing positions. Electrical targets are desirable.
c. Stoppage. The same procedures used in Firing Table I qualification firing are used (page 5-37).
d. Penalties. The same procedures used in Firing Table I qualification firing are used (page 5-37).
e. Scoring. Five points are given for each target hit, whether hit on the first or second burst. The total possible points is 55. The automatic rifleman must hit at least 7 (35 points) targets out of 11 exposures to qualify. DA Form 7304-R is used to record scores (see paragraph 5-30).
f. Position. Based on his METL, the commander selects either the bipod-supported prone position or the bipod-supported fighting position for qualification.
Figure 5-20. Single E-type and double E-type silhouette targets.
(2) The automatic rifleman assumes a good position.
(3) The tower operator instructs the automatic rifleman to prepare a 12-round belt.
(4) When the fire command is given, the automatic rifleman and coach repeat each element as it is given.
AUTOMATIC RIFLEMAN FRONT TARGETS: TROOPS IN THE OPEN THREE HUNDRED FIXED, THREE-ROUND BURSTS COMMENCE FIRING
(5) The automatic rifleman loads one 12-round belt of ammunition, obtains the proper sight picture, and gives an UP to the coach.
(6) The coach relays the READY signal to the tower operator.
(7) The tower operator gives the command COMMENCE FIRING.
(8) The automatic rifleman fires a three-round burst at the target when ready.
(9) The automatic rifleman observes the beaten zone. If the rounds miss the target, he makes adjustments for windage and elevation.
(10) After adjustments have been made, the automatic rifleman repeats steps 8 through 9 with the remaining rounds until rounds are impacting on the target. He records his zero.
b. Task 2, 200-Meter, Single E-Type Silhouette.
(2) When the fire command is given, the automatic rifleman and coach repeat each element as it is given. It is only given once for Tasks 2 through 8.
AUTOMATIC RIFLEMAN FRONT TARGET: TROOPS IN THE OPEN ONE HUNDRED TO FOUR HUNDRED METERS FIXED, THREE-ROUND BURSTS AT MY COMMAND
(3) The automatic rifleman gives an UP to the coach.
(4) The coach gives the READY signal to the tower operator.
(5) The tower operator gives the command FIRE.
(6) The automatic rifleman scans the sector.
(7) A 200-meter, single E-type target is exposed for 5 seconds.
(8) The automatic rifleman determines the range, places the proper setting on the rear sight, assumes the proper position, obtains the correct sight alignment and sight picture, and fires a three-round burst.
(9) If the automatic rifleman fails to hit the target, he fires another three-round burst using the adjusted aiming point method of fire adjustment.
c. Task 3, 400-Meter, Double E-Type Silhouette.
(2) A 400-meter, double E-type target is exposed for 10 seconds.
(3) The automatic rifleman determines the range, places the proper setting on the rear sight, assumes the proper position, obtains the correct sight alignment and sight picture, and fires a three-round burst.
(4) If the automatic rifleman fails to hit the target, he fires another three-round burst using the adjusted aiming point method of fire adjustment.
d. Task 4,100-Meter, Single E-Type Silhouette.
(2) The automatic rifleman continues to scan the sector.
(3) A 100-meter, single E-type target is exposed for 10 seconds.
(4) The automatic rifleman determines the range, places the proper setting on the rear sight, assumes the proper position, obtains the correct sight alignment and sight picture, and fires a three-round burst.
(5) If the automatic rifleman fails to hit the target, he fires another three-round burst using the adjusted aiming point method of fire adjustment.
e. Task 5, 300-Meter, Single E-Type Silhouette.
(2) A 300-meter, single E-type target is exposed for 15 seconds.
(3) The automatic rifleman determines the range, places the proper setting on the rear sight, assumes the proper position, obtains the correct sight alignment and sight picture, and fires a three-round burst.
(4) If the automatic rifleman fails to hit the target, he fires another three-round burst using the adjusted aiming point method of fire adjustment.
f. Task 6, 100-Meter and 300-Meter, Single E-Type Silhouettes.
(2) A 100-meter and a 300-meter, single E-type target are exposed for 20 seconds.
(3) The automatic rifleman determines the range, places the proper setting on the rear sight, assumes the proper position, obtains the correct sight alignment and sight picture, and fires a three-round burst at each target.
(4) If the automatic rifleman fails to hit the target, he fires another three-round burst using the adjusted aiming point method of fire adjustment at each target.
(5) The tower operator gives the order ALL CLEAR. The automatic rifleman and coach restore their masks to their carriers and remove their gloves.
g. Task 7, 200-Meter Single E-Type and 400-Meter Double E-Type Silhouettes.
(2) The 200-meter single E-type and the 400-meter double E-type targets are exposed for 20 seconds.
(3) The automatic rifleman determines the range, places the proper setting on the rear sight, assumes the proper position, obtains correct sight alignment and sight picture, and fires a three-round burst at each target.
(4) If the automatic rifleman fails to hit the target, he fires another three-round burst using the adjusted aiming point method of fire adjustment at each target.
h. Task 8, 100- and 200-meter single E-type and 400-Meter Double E-Type Silhouettes.
(2) The 100-meter and 200-meter single E-type and 400-meter double E-type targets are exposed for 25 seconds.
(3) The automatic rifleman determines the range, places the proper setting on the rear sight, assumes the proper position, obtains correct sight alignment and sight picture, and fires a three-round burst at each target.
(4) If the automatic rifleman fails to hit the target, he fires another three-round burst using the adjusted aiming point method of fire adjustment at each target.
Table 5-2. Firing Table II.
b. Stoppage. The same procedures used in Firing Table I, page 5-37.
c. Penalties. No penalties are used.
d. Scoring. No points are used; commanders can use this training for assessment. DA Form 7304-R, provided in the back of this manual, can be used to record the number of hits.
e. Conditions. Firing Table III is for engaging targets out to 400 meters under ideal moonlight or during daylight conditions. If visibility is limited because of a lack of ambient light, commanders may use field-expedient means to identify targets.
f. Targets. Single E-type silhouette targets or double E-type silhouette targets are used.
g. Position. Based on his METL, the commander selects either the bipod-supported prone position or bipod-supported fighting position.
When mounting an AN/PVS-4 to the mounting bracket, make sure that the
hole for the screw in the AN/PVS-4 is aligned and flush against the
bracket screw. If not, the screw will strip the threads in the screw
hole of the AN/PVS-4 and prevent use with the M249 AR.
(2) Remove the screw cover behind the rear sight assembly, and screw the bracket knob in until it is tight.
(3) Position the AN/PVS-4 on top of the bracket so that the mount of the AN/PVS-4 is aligned with the mounting knob of the bracket.
(4) Turn the mounting knob clockwise until the AN/PVS-4 is tight (Figure 5-21).
b. Seating the Device. Once the device is mounted, the automatic rifleman fires a three-round burst to seat the device, checks and tightens the mounting knob, and then fires another three-round burst. He checks the device to ensure it is settled and securely fastened and tightens the mounting knob if necessary. He does not fire at the boresight target during this procedure.
c. Centering the Reticle in the Field of View. The automatic rifleman turns the device on and centers the reticle pattern in the field of view by using the azimuth and elevation actuators. To be accurate, he does this by rotating the elevation and azimuth actuators from one side to the other and from top to bottom, while counting the number of clicks. (The elevation actuator has the down direction marked DN with an arrow. This moves the strike of the round. The azimuth actuator has the right direction marked with RT with an arrow. This also moves the strike of the round. He divides the number of clicks for each by two and moves the elevation and azimuth actuators that number of clicks. This manually centers the reticle in the field of view horizontally and vertically. This enables the automatic rifleman to reach an accurate boresight between the point of aim (reticle) and the center of the bore (Figure 5-22).
Figure 5-21. Mounting the AN/PVS-4.
Figure 5-22. Centered reticle pattern.
Figure 5-23. Reticle aiming point and the target aiming point.
Figure 5-24. Shot group.
(3) If you miss the 25-meter zero target with the first round but strike the 10-meter machine gun paster target, make a large adjustment with the elevation and azimuth actuators. Continue this process with three-round groups and adjustments until the rounds strike the desired location.
(4) Once the AN/PVS-4 is mounted and boresighted, fire a three-round burst at the center base of the target and note the strike of the rounds. While maintaining the reticle aiming point on the target, move the reticle aiming point to the strike of the rounds by manipulating the elevation and azimuth actuators.
(5) Acquire a good sight picture on the target with the reticle aiming point once again and fire another three-round burst. Note the strike of the rounds and repeat the process until the rounds impact on target.
Table 5-3. Firing Table III.
EXPERT 90-106 AUTOMATIC RIFLEMAN 1st CLASS 80-89 AUTOMATIC RIFLEMAN 2d CLASS 70-79 UNQUALIFIED 0-69
The trainer uses DA Form 7304-R (Scorecard for M249 AR) for recording the automatic rifleman's performance on the M249 AR qualification range. The instructions for completing the scorecard are on its reverse side. An example of a completed form is in Figure 5-25. A blank locally reproducible form is in the back of this manual. The following is a summary of ammunition required:
TABLE ROUNDS TYPE
I Practice 57 Ball
I Record 51 Ball
II Practice 78 4:1
II Record 66 4:1
III Instructional 60 4:1
III Practice 36 4:1
Figure 5-25. Example of completed M249 AR scorecard, front.
Figure 5-25. Example of completed M249 AR scorecard, back; continued.
