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One Bullet

Of"eEnemy

I ,

By

Brig Jagmal Singh. Rathore, VrC, VSM

• 1

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Published by

Shri Murli Manoharji T~s~. @ RANlHAL HOUSE'

228, SADUL GANJ . BlKANER, RAJASTHAN

... Distributors

WBI

CMP Centre andSchool Bangalore, Karnataka

First Edition: 1992

Copy Right Reserved .

© Brig. [agmal Singh Rathore, VrC, VSM

DEDICATED TO

MY LORD

KODANDPANIBHAGWANSHREERAMA

111111111111111111111111

13498

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I express my gratitude to Lt. Col Nihal Singh Yadav, Subedar Sube Singh Yadav; Subedar Hawa Singh Pilania and all ranks of the Corps of Military Police who, with their dedication and untiring work, proved that every soldier can become a Marksman, thus making my dream a reality.

FOREWARD

Marksmanship is an indispensable trait of soldiery, not only for an Infantrier but for every soldier, may he be sailor, airman or policeman - in fact anyone who is authorised to carry a weapon. It is a matter of pride to hit the target and drop it dead with the first shot,be it the enemy, terrorist or dacoit. Therefore, a considerable part of our training resource is devoted to this basic aspect.

I am glad to write the foreward for "ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY" by Brig. IS Rathore, VrC, VSM. It is it novel-work which is concise and to the point yet graphic and easy to understand. It is the only book based on practical experience where the author assures of achieving ninety per ~ent marksma~ship and has demonstrated his achievement by training all Militarjt Police and other soldiers to become hundred per cent marksman.

The methodology is based on age old teaching, and has been made easy to understand and effective by emphasising the salient points. The author has gone beyond the three basic principles of shooting ie, aiming, holding and trigger operation. He has highlighted the unique part played by mind on the accuracy of shooting. To harness the latent power of the mind he suggests a simple way of Aiming Box exercise and gazing on an object without winking the eye lids to develop concentration. To eradicate fear he suggests giving a magazine filled with unspecified number of rounds to eradicate the resultant mistakes. His emphasis on natural alignment, firing position, shooting practices, targets, firing point mannerisms, relaxation and above all the care of the weapon has paid dividends beyond imagination. These simple techniques would do good to anyone who aspires to be a crack shot.

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

Brig Rathore and the Corps of Military Police have set an example and placed their services at the disposal of the aspirants. I am sure Commanders at all levels will take advantage of it and accept the challenge to achieve hundred percent Marksmanship in- their Command.

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

is a soldier's book. However all can benefit from it.

~~ .. ~

Place: Bangalore

Date: 10th January, 1992

K.M. Cariappa Field Marshal

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

ii

PREFACE

1. Shooting standard of small arms in our Armed Forces, Para Military Forces and the Police is poor. In fact it would be appropriate to call it very poor. The results reflected in our firing record books are not the true indicators. The truth would be revealed if you make your unit fire in your presence. What to talk of the marksmen, forty to fifty per cent of the soldiers may not even qualify to be a standard shot. The worst is that we have reconciled to the situation and make no efforts to improve it. I was taken aback to hear from a very senior officer when he saw the shooting of my men, "So these are attainable, I was told - the contrary and we were thinking of making the practices easier". What a retrograde situation! Thank God, he happened to see encouraging results with us. It makes one wonder whether our weapons are capable of shooting straight or the fault lies with the man behind the gun or in our training. What aim have we set for ourselves in weapon training? It was a horrifying revelation that the aim of weapon training as usually spelt out was to teach "Technical and tactical handling of weapons". Were the weapons invented for this purpose or to kill an enemy? If you agree with the latter then there cannot be a better aim than "one bullet one enemy".

2. Shooting has been a passion for me. When it was found that despite giving more than an year of training,people were not able to improve even to an extent that every body become a standard shot, I took cudgels myself to see the upper limit attainable. The trials started in Mar 89. The target was set to make fifty per cent of soldiers marksmen. It was attained. This target was then raised to hundred per cent. There was an uproar and apprehension that this may not be possible but persuasion made them try Sincerely. The Area Commander was shown the performance. He was very pleased and remarked "a very high standard of shooting". Next came the Colonel Commandant - "a nearly hundred per cent marksmen result". The word went around. Next to

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

iii

follow were DGMT & GOC-in-C Southern Anny. The CMP Centre became a focal point to learn marksmanship. The teams started pouring in from all over. The demand of hand outs started increasing. Therefore, the author thought it wise to have the articles published, For the benefit of larger readership it was written in Hindi and English titled "Lakshya Bhedan" and "Skill at Arm'!!' respectively and printed in Sainik Samachar of 14 Oct '90.

3. As the demand continued to increase, it was decided to encompass the experience in a booklet, both in Hindi and English titled ''EK GOLI EK DUSHMAN" and "ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY" respectively, The book covers all the four personal weapons ie, Rifle, Carbine, Pistol and LMG.

4. Our methods are not only capable of attaining what has not been heard of in any Army but are economical both in time and ammunition. A recruit spends 145 periods on weapon training and continues to spend a good amount of his time later, year after year, in the name of training/firing and ultimately fades away without being able to shoot straight. Whereas with the technique propounded here, he shall commence his service as a marksman and would wear the badge of a marksman throughout the service with pride. It takes just two weeks to become a marksman. He would subsequently need no weapon training except a brushing up, co-ordination of mind, eye and index finger.

5. The methodology dwells around the mind, making it free of fear, develop concentration and establish co-ordination with the eye and the index finger. Every firing practice and weapon have their crunch points which need to be understood, followed in practice in their entirety and made

a habit. .

6. This book is the quintessence of my last thirty years of experience. If sincerely tried out I assure you of ninety per cent marksmen in your unit against eight to ten per cent as of now. Our achievements have been hundred per cent. A

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

iv

study carried out on platoon weapon course around 1968 did not give more than 13% and 9% marksmen in officers and 9% and 6% marksmen among NCOs with 13% to 19% failing in Rifle & LMG shooting respectively. It was heartening to see . the other day that every successive recruit platoon at AMC Centre and School was passing out with 71% marksmen

results. They were the first to adopt our techniques. Pioneer Corps Training Centre was the next. They are also very happy with their laudable achievements. Hopefully some of our Inf Divs. would also have similar break through. Their battalion teams are under training with us. The results are enclosed as Appx 'A: for information.

7. The book is a narration of tried out system of marksmanship training and its resultant achievements. It contains all we need to know to make our men marksmen. At the same time it is concise and free of pedantic theory. The preliminaries and explanations have been avoided keeping in mind that the reader would have the basic knowledge of weapons.

8. The views expressed in the book are my own and do not reflect any official thinking. No official material or document has been used.

Place: Bangalore

Date: 31st January, 1992

Brig J.S. Rathore, VrC, VSM

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

v

INDEX
1. Definitions Page No.
2. Part I
(a) Aiming 1-7
(i) Bifocal
(ii) Shifting
(iii) Recruit Aiming Teacher (RAT)
(b) Holding 8-11
(i) Right hand
(ij) Left hand
(iii) Shoulder
(iv) Alignment
(v) Breathing
(c) Trigger 12 -16
(i) Co-ordination
(ii) Trigger Operation Exercises
(d) Mind 17 -19
(i) Fear
(ii) Initiation
3. Part II 20
(a) Position 21- 32
(i) Lying
(ii) Sitting
(iii) Kneeling
(iv) Standing
(v) Battle Crouch
"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY" vi (b) Target 33-38
(c) Shooting Practice 39-43
(i) Grouping
(ii) Deliberate
(iii) Snap
(iv) Timed
(v) Burst
(vi) Battle Crouch
(vii) Moving Target
(viii) Night Practice
4. Part III 45
(a) Range 46-49
(i) Butt
(ii) Firing Point
(iii) Firing point officer
(iv) Coach
(v) Initiation
(vi) Sequence of firing a shot
(b) Weapons 50-52
(i) Light Machine Gun
(ii) Pistol
(c) Sequence of Training 53-54
(d) Reiteration 55-:-56 "ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

vii

DEFINITIONS

1. Marksman. A person who obtains the prescribed or more marks in one or a set of shooting practices. It is the highest of the gradations in shooting standards.

2. Trigger Operations (TO). It isa technique to operate the trigger mechanism in such a way that the weapon remains steady.

3. Recruit Aiming Teacher (RAT). It is a device with target, fore-sight and aperture with a control to move any of them to bring all the three in alignment to teach Aiming to

Recruits. -,

4. Zeroing. It is the process of synchronizing fore-sight and aperture of back sight to the aiming style of the firer with the point of aim to eliminate error in alignment.

5. Cord Wear. It is a wearing out of muzzle portion of the barrel by frequent rubbing of pull-through cord. Resultantly the weapon becomes inaccurate.

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

viii

PART 1

1. Sword and soldier can be termed as synonymous. They are made for each other. A weapon without its wielder and a soldier without a weapon are of no avail. It is dismal to see a soldier inept in the use of his weapon. Like the early bird who catches the worm, the one who strikes first and decisively wins. Therefore, a soldier has no option but to aim at "one bullet one enemy". To achieve that dexterity it is . essential to understand the intricacies of the weapon and the lapses a human being is liable to. The operation of a weapon is not so much by physical body but more so by the subtle mind. Therefore, success would rest more on control of the mind than anything else.

2. We shall first dwell on three basics of firing ie., aiming, holding and trigger operation. Thereafter, fear, firing positions, different types of fire and the way training should be organised.

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

ix

Lesson 1

AIMING

1. Aiming is the first requirement Hone wants to shoot from a weapon. Only two parts - foresight and backsight are involved in it. In other words we may call it an alignment of these two with the target. The precision would depend on consistency of aligning the tip of the foresight through the centre of aperture of back sight, if U sight is in use, in the centre and line of the shoulders of the U and on the point of aim. It will be futile to proceed further unless this aspect is perfected. The assumption that a soldier knows this . invariably turns out to be wrong.

2. It is essential that the weapon is held straight and not tilting to left or right. TIlting is caused by undue pull by the right hand. A glance at the weapon by standing behind the firer would reveal whether it is straight. The next requirement is to close an eye. Left eye if firing from right shoulder and vice-versa when firing from left shoulder. Aim can be taken even with both the eyes open but for that much of practice is required, hence not suggested for the forces where mass training is carried out. There is no requirement of even trying to establish master. eye as there is little chance of changing if it happens to be other than the one with which one is habitual of firing.

3. The eye has four functions to perform:-

(a) Establish the centre of aperture.

(b) Focus the tip of foresight.

(c) See the target.

(d) Maintain consistency in the three above.

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

1

4. Bifocal aim. It is important to und~rstand that focus on tip of foresight would make the target look blurred. The firer then would shift his focus on to the target as a natural instinct; resultantly the bullets thus fired would hit at a different point than those fired with focus on the tip. This is termed as bifocal grouping. Aiming box exercise is very good to detect and eradicate this habit. A group should be of five bullets / markings.

5. Shifting. Position of foresight tip is shifted up-down and right-left in aperture. Similarly the point of aim on the target is also changed with every fresh aim. These can be explained with the help of charts and corrected with aiming box exercise. See Fig 1, 1A and 11.

6. RAT. Recruit Aiming Teacher is best for teaching aim. A man should be tested thrice by making him take aim with a rifle rested on an aiming rest. The second test should be of aiming box grouping wherein a successful man should have all the five markings of pencil in an area of pencil end. See Fig 2 and 3.

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

2

UP

DOWN

RIGHT UP

FIG. -1.

COMMON FAULTS IN AIMING WHILE lOOKING AT FORESIGHT TIP

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

3

LEFT DOWN

RIGHT DOWN SLANTING

LEFT DOWN SLANTING

CORRECT

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

Fig.-l

4

UP

DOWN

RIGHT UP

LEFT DOWN

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

5

RIGHT DOWN SLANTING

LEFT D{)WN SLANTING

CORRECT

COMMON FAULTS IN AIMING WHILE LOOKING THROUGH APEKl1lRE - FIG.'~ ZA

"0NE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

6

RECRUIT AIMING TEACHER MODIFIED DEVICE - FIG - 2

SIMPLE DEVICE FOR CHECKING AIM (AIMING WALL/AIMING REST) - FIG - 3

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

7

Lesson 2

HOLDING

1. The second requirement is hold, without which a weapon can neither be aimed nor fired. It's purpose is to provide maximum possible stability to the weapon at the time and during fire. Its essentials are :-

(a) Weapon should be in alignment with the point of aim.

(b) There should be no undue exertion to the body.

(c) Hold should be relaxed in between the fire.

2. There is no doubt that hands play an indispensable role jn holding. But shoulder and head are equally important. We should therefore understand the part played by each of them:-

(a) Right hand. It is the master hand. It secures the weapon from pistol grip or the small of the bu tt, pulls it firm in the shoulder and operates trigger by the index finger. The common mistakes often committed are as under:-

(0 Pulling the pistol grip to left or right thereby tilting the weapon as has been brought out in the chapter on Aiming.

(ii) Loose hold of pistol grip, particularly with thumb and little finger.

(iii) Weapon not held firmly in the shoulder. (iv) Inconsistent hold.

(b) Left hand. It is a supporting hand. Its function is to provide support. Mere resting on it is good enough. A

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

8

shot fired with the palm of the left hand open can fly straight to its point of aim. However while firing burst or timed fire hold with this hand also should be firm but not so much as that of the Right hand.

(c) Shoulder. It is used to provide stop to the butt. Butt should be rested on the fleshy portion and the clavicle should be avoided at all cost.

(d) Head. It is the heaviest portion of the body. If just rested on the butt it shall prevent the latter from going up. However, no force should be applied. See fig 4 and 5.

3. Alignment. The weapon can be pointed in any direction with firm hold but that would be a situation demanding extra force making the body uncomfortable, yet the weapon would not hesitate to revert to its natural position the moment the hold relaxes. Therefore, the weapon should point to its point of aim in a natural way without application of force. This should be ensured before commencing fire. See fig. 6 and 7.

4. Breathing. Though the weapon shall become a part of the body after proper hold yet it will continue to move along with the body while breathing. Therefore, breathing should stop at the time of firing but not for too long lest it becomes counter productive. A couple of seconds are enough for this purpose.

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

9

CORRECT HOLD WITH RIGHT HAND, SHOULDER AND CHEEK/HEADFIG.·4

CORRECT HOLD WITH RIGHT HAND ON PISTOL GRIP AND POSITION OF LEFT HAND- FIG.· 5

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

10

\

NATURAL AUGNMENT PART I WITH PROPER HOLD - FIG. - 6

NATURAL AUGNMENT PART II. THE HOLD IS ABSOLUTELY RELAXED TO LET THE WEAPON MOVE IN THE DIRECTION IT WANTS TO GO - FIG. -7

Lesson 3

TRIGGER

1. The last of the three basics of firing is the trigger operation.

It is an art, which if followed properly, would help in maintaining the stability of the weapon and make the other two principles also fruitful. The trigger should never be pulled but pressed gently in a way that even the veins of the wrist do not move. Precision shooters and hunters go to the extent of having hair - light trigger which goes off with the slightest touch but this becomes unsafe and is also not permitted in competitions. Army weapons have triggers with double pulls. The first pull is comparatively light. It should be taken as soon as the weapon is adjusted in the shoulder.

2. Co-ordination; The co-ordination of the mind, the eye and the index finger should be such that the moment aim is taken, the mind commands index finger to squeeze the trigger. The concentration should be such that the firer does not know when the trigger is pressed. There are five trigger operation exercises to develop habit of squeezing and co-ordination of the mind, the eye and the index finger.

3. TO Exercises.

(a) TO -1. It isdone by holding the left hand wrist the way pistol grip of a weapon is held. The index finger is moved as if squeezing a trigger. Eyes should be on the tendons of right wrist to see that they do not move. It also helps in improving consistency of the hold.

(b) TO - 2. It is done with closed fist of the right hand.

The index finger should be moved operating the trigger but tendons of the wrist should not move.

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

12

(c) TO-3-S. These are done with the rifle. In TO 3 the rifle is rested on ground and the head on left hand. The firer p~esses the trigger and also calls ON. Both should happen simultaneously. In TO 4, the only addition is that firer fixes his eye on an object as if he is aiming at it. TO 5, is done with proper hold and aim, as is done while firing a shot. The purpose of all the last three TOs is to develop co-ordination among - the mind, the eye and the index finger. See Fig. 8 to 10.

(d) All the five exercises can be done easily on 9MM carbine.

Switch the change lever to 'R' and squeeze the trigger holding the pistol grip as has been explained above. The fire would be indicated by a click sound. On release, the trigger is recharged. The practice can thus be continued for any length of time.

(e) 'The trigger should be pressed with centre portion of the finger. Use of the tip may result in pulling and jerking. The most difficult trigger operation is while firing a burst. To avoid long burst the firer uses the tip and also releases the trigger with jerk, which makes the, fire erratic. Develop the habitto use the centre portion of the finger and also to release the trigger only to the extent that it stops firing yet the trigger is not fully released requiring taking of first pull again. It should stop at a spot from where the second stage of trigger operation commences. This will avoid taking the first pull of the trigger to fire a second shot or burst.

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

13

TRIGGER OPERATION No.1. PRACTICE CONTROLLED MOVEMENTS OF INDEX FINGER AND TENDONS WHILE HOLDING THE WRIST TIGHTLY AS IF PISTOL GRIP IS HELD.

NOTE - TmS TRIGGER OPERATION ALSO CAN BE PRACTISED IN SPARE TIME-FIG.-8.

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

14

TRIGGER OPERATION No.2. PRACTICE CONTROLLED MOVEMENTS OF INDEX FINGER AND TENDONS.

NOTE - IT CAN BE PRACTISED IN SPARE TIME, EVEN WHILE IN BARRACKS-FIG. - 9..

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

15

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

16

Lesson 4

MIND

1. It is the most important factor yet so little emphasised. The normal belief is that ability to shoot straight is related to physical prowess. Stronger the body the better.would be the fire. Nothing could be farther from truth than this. If it were so Bheem would have been the master archer and not Arjun. While conducting a classification fire I came across a Subedar Sahib ~ a clerk by trade and infirm on legs. I was sure that he could be added to the list of failures but the results proved me wrong. He proved a marksman not once but repeatedly. The famous answer of Arjun to his guru Drona that ~ he saw only the eye of the bird, most appropriately brings home the

. importance of the mind factor. The Subedar Sahib had better . concentration hence could perform better,despite not being so robust.

2. The effect of mind are both positive and negative.

Concentration is the positive aspect and fear the negative aspect. Both are inter-related yet cannot co-exist. If one has attained concentration fear would disappear automatically. Similarly, if fear prevails then concentration cannot be attained. Aiming box exercise helps in development of concentration. See Fig 11. The other way is the yogic way. It can be taught by gazing at a point without winking the eyes. The second aspect of fear needs only to be dispelled. However hard we, may try to attain concentration yet one would come across some people who are afflicted with fear. Therefore it becomes important to know the mistakes originating out of fear and their remedial measures.

3. Fear. It can cause any of the following mistakes while firing:-

(a) Perspring and shivering.

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

17

(b) Pushing with the shoulder.

(c) Closing the eye.

(d) Lifting the head.

(e) Pulling the trigger.

(f) Bringing the weapon down with left hand.

4. Through the picture painted by bullets on a target one can read mistakes, which requires vast experience to interpret, and yet may not be accurate. The surest and easiest method is to follow the random shot method. In this method the firer is told to fire fixed number of rounds, say five, in between, without the knowledge of the firer that he is given a magazine filled with say only three rounds. He would attempt to fire the 4 th time with the same state of mind as if he was firing a live bullet and would commit the same mistakes. Since it was an empty fire the mistakes would be evident to the coach and others watching. The best part is that even the firer would feel the mistakes he has made. Thus by and by the mistakes arising out of fear can be eradicated.

5. Initiation. Initiation to firing is another very important aspect which is not paid attention to. It is the first occasion when a recruit handles live ammunition, hence he is bound to be afflicted with fear of explosion as well as consciousness. of his performance. Any fear developed at this stage may be imprinted on his mind and stay for ever. Therefore, it is essential that the initiation is smooth and under a capable instructor. It was a very good system to inititate new firer through .22 rifles in the past. In the sixties, the training centres were authorised these rifles which unfortunately were taken away without giving a proper thought. If these can be re-introduced it would be better, otherwise air guns/rifles may be used as a substitute.

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

18

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I I

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

19

PART II

In this part we shall study the salient features of firing positions, practices and targets. Their contribution to good firing is seldom visualised but in precision shooting one cannot afford to ignore

any of them.

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

20

Lesson 5

. POSITIONS

1. What position to adopt depends upon the type of cover available, situation under which one is firing and the weapon being used. Normally all positions are covered under the following five categories-

(a) Lying.
(b) Sitting.
(c) Kneeling.
(d) Standing.
(e) Battle crouch. 2. Before we embark upon details of each, it would be better to know the common points. These are mentioned below:-

(a) Position should be such that the weapon is automatically aligned to the target.

(b) It should provide maximum relaxation.

(c) There should be nothing pricking underneath to divert the attention.

(d) It should be as per the cover available.

3. Points to be taken care of in each position are as under:-

(a) Lying. It is a very good position because it provides maximum grip with the ground as three fourth of the body hugs the ground. It is also less tiring and provides

"ONE BULLET ONE ThTE?-.rf" \ ~ ~ : l 21

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good support and stability to weapon. It should have the following:-

(i) Inclined to left by approximately 4S degrees. Right shoulder and right leg should be in line with the target. It will enable alignment of weapon with the target.

(ii) Legs should be spread comfortably, heels touching the ground but no force be used.

(iii) Mark the position of both the elbows once the alignment has been taken. See Fig 12 and 13.

(b) Sitting. This position should be 4S degree right of the target. Heels firmed on the ground, knees comfortably raised to rest the elbows. This stance will enable the weapon to come in line with the target. See Fig.14.

(c) Kneeling. The left knee should be in front providing rest to the left elbow and the right knee resting on the ground. Body weight should be borne by the heel. It is essential to keep the heel so adjusted that one does not soon get tired. The left elbow is rested on the left knee but the right hand elbow be kept parallel to the ground in line with the shoulder. See Fig. 15.

(d). Standing.

(i) The left foot should be in line with the target and slightly bent at the knee. The right leg should be stretched straight and anchored behind. The left hand hold may be as far forward as comfortable. The right hand should be as explained in the kneeling position. It is a difficult position being tiring. Therefore, the weapon should be brought down to rest after every fire. See Fig. 16.

(ii) There is another stance also in this position but not

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

22

taught in the Army. I don't know why. In this stance both the legs are kept erect and the left hand elbow is rested against the stomach and the rifle on the fingers stretched or magazine rested on the palm. It is adopted by class firers. In this stance left shoulder will be in line with the target. The firer will face 90° to the right. See Fig. 17.

(iii) Sling is another example of things not being made use off, though available. It can be wrapped around the wrist and upper arm in every unsupported firing position. It provides good stability to the weapon. See Fig. 18 & 19.

(iv) While firing from a trench left leg should be hugging the wall. See Fig. 20.

(e) . Battle Crouch. It is similar in stance to the standing position except that the forward incline is more than in the standing position. The weapon is secured to the side around the line of the belt. Alignment is more pivotal in this position than any other position as shooting , depends entirely on it. It is explained at length under lesson 7 shooting practices. See Fig. 21. Carbine can also be fired with the Butt pressed against stomach. In this stance both the legs will be kept square to the target. It is better than the usual stance in accuracy and easy to learn. See Fig. 22.

;'IONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

23

LYING POSITION - UNSUPPORTED - FIG. - 12.

LYING POSITION WITH SUPPORT - FIG. -13

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

24

SITTING POSITION - FIG.-14

. KNEEUNG POSmON - FIG. -15

I/ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

25

STANDING POSITION - FIG. -16

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

26

ANOTHER STANDING FIRING POSITION (MAGAZINE SUPPOKfED BY LEFT HAND. WHILE WAIST SUPPORTS tue LEFTELBOW)-FIG.-17

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

27

VARIATION OF STANDING FIRING POSmON

(SUNG SUPPORTING THE WEAPON WITH LEFT ARM) - FIG. 18

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

28

O~l!.,",

ANomER VARIATION OF FIRING POSmONWITH THE HELP OF SUNG (SUNG IS WRAPPED AROUND WRIST AND FORE ARM) -FIG. -19

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

29

STANDING POSmON IN FIRE TRENCH WITH SUPPOKf -FIG. _ 20

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

30

BArrLE CROUCH rosmou - FIG. 21

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

31

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BAITU: CROUCH POSmON. BUTT ON tne STOMACH NOTE: FIRER MUST STAND SQUARE TO THE TARGET - FIG. - 22

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

32

Lesson 6

TARGETS

1. The enemy is the real target for a soldier but to carryout varying types of practices paper targets have been designed. These mostly resemble the human form as seen from a distance or field fortification as encountered on a battle field. There are targets other than these also like 4x4 feet. Targets are made difficult or easy depending upon the range at which they are used. Most commonly used targets are fig 11 and 12. Fig 11 is three feet in height and one foot and seven inches in width. Fig 12 is lesser by a foot in height but in width it is identical to fig 11. The point to understand is that there is some scope to absorb vertical error in figure eleven but a little error horizontally would take the bullet away. 'The fig 12 is difficult in both aspects. Target 4x4 is used mainly at initial stages for grouping. Bunker target is meant for hip fire. See Fig 23 to 27.

2. There are innumerable types of targets in use in civil competitions. Their description here would be of little use. What one needs to understand about a target is that the firer should set the shape in his mind and locate its centre and point of aim.

3. Moving targets are yet another variety. These are of non specified shape and size. Similarly their speed is also unspecified. Since a soldier's practices are related to battle conditions we should assume the speed to be around that of a running soldier i.e., about a hundred yards a minute.

4. The height of the target should be such that it comes in line with the firer without straining him.

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

33

30 eMS GROUPING TARGET

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"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY" .

34

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35

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

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"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

Lesson 7

SHOOTING PRACTICES

1. The purpose of having different practices is to develop the ability to fire accurately under varying battIe conditions. They are mainly as under:-

(a) Grouping.
(b) Deliberate.
(c) Snap shooting.
(d) TImed fire.
(e) Burst.
(f) Battle crouch.
(g) Moving targets.
(h) Night fire.
2. The salient features of each are as under:- (a) Grouping

(i) It is an ability to place a fixed number of bullets, normally five, in the' closest proximity making a group. It is an indicator of consistency in aiming,

11 trigger operation and holding. It is also an ! i indicator of one's shooting ability. A four inch , grouper may spread his bullets in eight inches at

200 yds and twelve inches at 300 yds. A firer making a group of eight inches and more would have less chances of becoming a marksman. It should be given due importance as it is also a way

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

39

of zeroing a weapon. The smaller the group the better would be the zeroing and resul tant accuracy.

(ii) It is commonly believed that all the shots should be fired maintaining the same aim and hold without bringing the weapon down. But this is wrong. With every bullet fired fatigue would increase, ultimately resulting in spoiling the fire. Therefore, it would be beneficial if the firer brings the weapon down, rests and fires after becoming fresh. All he needs is to remember the point of aim and position of the foresight in relation to aperture and the target.

(b) Deliberate. It is an own time fire which provides full scope to develop the firing skill. There should be just no hurry to fire. Every bullet should be fired after full relaxation and making the eyes fresh. The aim should be to put every bullet in the Bull's eye. It is the most useful practice to learn correct shooting.

(c), Snap shooting. This practice calls for quick fire. A . target props up for a short duration and disappears. It may appear difficult but is very easy for the reasons that target appears at a fixed place, at fixed interval and for a fixed duration. The firer should make a note of these. He should remain set to fire with second pull of the trigger to squeeze as soon the target props up. There will be, enough time to recheck the aim. But the time in between the exposures should be used to relax the hold and the eyes and yet be ready before the next exposure. The firer should develop the habit to count in mind to assess time. One should not bring the weapon down in this practice for want of time.

(d) Timed Fire.

(i) In this practice firing is required to be completed within prescribed time. Though there is enough

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

40

time to take proper aim and fire every bullet, the stipulation creates a psychological pressure resulting in hurried fire ignoring the basic principles. It is essential to guard against this. It is better to fire less bullets but score all than to fire all and hit none.

(ii) This practice calls for a firm hold with the left hand also.

(e) Burst

(i) This practice is for the weapons like carbine and LMG firing automatic. Success depends on firing bursts of not more than two rounds. Like the timed fire this also creates a mental fear of bJrsts becoming longer. Consequently the whole attention centres on the trigger operation. The firer is in a hurry to release the trigger, hence he uses the tip of the finger. He pulls the trigger instead of squeezing it and releases it with a jerk which results in bullets not touching the target. Therefore in this practice it is essential to develop a habit of correct trigger operation. The trigger should be operated by the centre portion of the finger and squeezed taking both the pulls one by one.

(ii) In a timed burst fire, even the release needs to be controlled. The finger should be stretched to an extent that fire stops yet the trigger does not go back the second stage to avoid having to take the first pull again which would be time consuming. It may appear to be difficult but is possible with practice.

(iii) It is seen that the second bullet of aimed burst fire normally hits above and in one O'clock line. Therefore, it is advisable to try aiming 3 - 4 " low in line of 7 - 8 'O'clock while firing with.a carbine.

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

41

The hold with the left hand should be firm and next to fore-sight protector but not as hard as that of the hold with the right hand.

(iv) After. every burst fire the weapon should be brought down.

(v) It would be worth reiterating that trigger operation is the key to burst fire but at the same time difficult toleam.

(f) Battle crouch. This position is resorted to when the enemy suddenly appears from close range and there is little time to aim. It is a position for carbine and pistol but also used to fire Rifle and LMG, mainly in assault. It is a tricky position from the accuracy point of view. However, if the following points are followed during practice good results can be achievedi-

(i) A line may be drawn for the alignment. The positioning of the feet is very important as has been explained under Chapter "Positions".

(ii) Recheck the alignment by taking the carbine/ weapon to shoulder/aim.

(iii) The centre of the target should be in line with the belt of the firer. Therefore target area should be in level with the firing point and the targets should not be higher than 41.1.2 ft.

(iv) The weapon should be firmly secured with its butt held between the right hand elbow and the waist. It should be pressed against the hip bone.

(v) The pouches become an obstruction in alignment so these should be shifted inwards next to the belt buckle.

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

42

(vi) It is a normal tendency to pull the weapon to the left with the left hand inadvertantly. To avoid this make the firer keep his palm open while firing.

(vii) Since it is not an aimed fire/proper holding and trigger operations are often ignored. No laxity should be accepted in this regard.

(viii) Correction if required after the first bullet should be made by shifting the right foot only and not by moving the weapon.

(ix) Develop the habit to assess the alignment and correction.

(x) The weapon should be kept parallel to the ground.

(xi) Four feet mirror could be useful for self correction.

(g) Moving targets

(i) The problem of shooting at a moving target is the synchronisation of speed between weapon and the target. It is natural to stop moving at the time of squeezing the trigger and that is the time the target moves away. There are two systems of shooting at the moving targets:-

(aa) The weapon is moved along with the target and fired while moving.

(ab) A lead is taken and fired.

(ii) Though speed would vary from target to target yet with practice one develops fair assessment.

(iii) Both the styles are good. It depends on the aptitude of an individual to adopt the style which suits him the most.

43

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

(iv) Do not be lax on hold and trigger operation.

(v) It would be of interest to mention here that as a Group Commander NCC, Jodhpur, I was busy training Skeet Shooting Team. The going was

. rather slow. Despite good practice Cadets were not measuring up to the standard. One day, my nephew, a high school student happened to land from Ahmedabad. He expressed a desire to learn Skeet Shooting. I gave him the opportunity. To mine as well as every one else's surprise he started dropping 5 - 6 pigeons out of seven every time just after a couple of practices. I wished he was my Cadet. His performance puzzled me but I soon found the answer in' cricket. The boy was a state level cricket player. It was there he had developed the eye to catch a flying object. The boy is a young budding officer in 64 Cavalry today.

(h) Night Practice. A weapon can't be aimed as accurately during night but there would be some illumination on account of.fire from the other weapon which permits some sort of aim. With. practice habit can be formed to fire under these circumstances. Radium/ florescent paints can also be of help if painted at the base of fore sight. If it becomes impossible to aim at all due to darkness, drop the back-sight leaf and seeing over it through the fore sight protectors align them.6" above the bottom of the target and fire. As men~IOned above, be cautious against carelessness in holding and trigger operation.

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

44

PART III

In this part we shall go through various aspects of range, coaching, and points to be taken note of while firing from the LMG & the Pistol. In conclusion the salient aspects will be reiterated for ready reference. .

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

45

LessonS

RANGE

1. There are a number of things both at the target end as well as at the firing point which influence shooting directly. The important ones are given below:

(a) Butt.

(i) Trollies should function smoothly.

(ii) Targets should be vertical and appear in line with the firer.

(iii) Direction should be such that the firer does not have to face the sun.

(b) Firing Point.

(i) The ground should be level, soft and free of pebbles so that the firer is comfortable.

(ii) The firing trench should be of correct depth to adopt a comfortable position. Forward portion should be broad enough to rest the elbow.

(iii) The rest should be comfortable.

(iv) The waiting area should not have more than a detail waiting. The rest should be relaxing in the

shade. r

(v) Undue running and punishments should be

banned. .

(vi) The distance between two firers should be such that the 'bang' of the bullet fire does not hurt or jar

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

=

46

eardrums. It often happens if two LMG firers are too close to each other.

(vii) Red paint for marking defective magazines should be kept at the ammunition point, otherwise the defective ones will continue to get mixed up.

(viii) A couple of aiming rests and boxes should be available for the practice of weak firers.

(ix) There should be an instructor at the weapon cleaning area to prevent wrong cleaning. Generally the pull through is used in a way that the weapon soon becomes cord worn.

(c) Firing Point Officer. He can mat a firer by his unthoughtful actions. Some of the points to be remembered by him are as under:-

(i) He should not create a scare among the firers.

(ii) He should not rush them to fire by commanding to commence before they are ready. Similarly he should not tire them by undue checks and prolonged cautionary lectures.

(iii) He should not make them run or otherwise punish.

,

(iv) He should be able to see at a glance that every one in a detail is ready to fire.

(v) He should encourage both the good and the poor firer.

(d) Coach. Though it is an essential quality for the coach to be a good shot himself,but more than that he should possess a canny eye to detect a fault and the ability and patience to quickly correct it. Though every coach has his own style, the following points should be checked

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

47

to assess the ability of the firer before commencing the coaching»

(i) Is his hold proper and can he adopt different firing positions properly?

(ii) Does he aim correctly?

(iii) Is he aware of bifocal grouping?

(iv) Is he aware of automatic alignment and adopts it as well?

(v) Do his right hand tendons move while operating the trigger?

(vi) Is his co-ordination among the mind, the eye and the index fingers perfect?

(vii) Does he have consistency, in aiming?

(viii) Is he aware of and well versed in the firing practices to be conducted?

(ix) Does he know the sequence of firing a shot?

(x) Is he free of fear?

(xi) Is his weapon tuned and properly zeroed?

(e) lnititation

(i) Initial fire shouldbe WIth a .12 rifle orair gun. If these.are notayailabluniboIe._Ri_fl~yl:!e used. The shooting on target should be resorted after the firer, has had initial feel of the firing.

(ii) See whether he follows the sequence of firing a shot.

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

48

(iii) Make him fire a group.

(iv) Remove his fear by using random filled magazines and by giving encouragement.

(D Sequence of firing a shot

(i) Adopt the position and check the alignment with the target.

(ii) Carry out 1imber up' by firing empty twice.

(iii) Load and be ready to fire, but relax yourself and be fresh before firing.

(iv) Make up your mind to fire.

(v) Take the weapon to shoulder. Execute proper hold, take aim and the first pull of the trigger. Close both the eyes and then open the right eye to see whether the aim is at the same place. If it is, hold the breath and squeeze. the trigger.

(vi) Bring the weapon down if time permits otherwise remain in holding position, and relax the hold and aim to rest but be ready before the target reappears.

(vii) Repeat the performance.

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

49

Lesson 9

WEAPONS

1. A soldier without weapon is not only defenseless but also ineffective. An ineffective weapon is as good as not wielding one. That is why in the olden days a weapon was not only extended all the c;are but was worshipped. The age old belief is equally applicable even today. Unless we keep our weapon in absolutely fit and perfect condition,it may let us down in the face of the enemy. During training howsoever well trained a soldier may be, he would fail to become a marksman if his weapon is not good. It would be worth mentioning that once while coaching a team of weak firers from a formation we got stuck. We were just not making any headway despite trying all the skill at our disposal. Ultimately the answer was found in the weapons. The LMGs were very poor. Some of the important points to be checked in the weapon before firing are:-

(a) It should be properly tuned. There should not be any play between the butt and the body. The forehand guard should also be tight. In the LMG, barrel develops looseness which should be removed by the use of washers.

(b) It should be clean, particularly the chamber. A dirty chamber causes malfunctioning.

(c) . The breach block and other moving parts of the weapon

should have a film of light oil.

(d) The gas regulator should be clean and properly set. (e) The weapon should be accurately zeroed.

(0 It should have been passed fit to fire by the armourer.

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

:

50

2. LMG.

(a) It is balanced on a bipod, the hands and the shoulder, therefore, remember to apply equal and in-ward pressure by both the hands without tilting to either side. Similarly neither pull nor push the bipod to secure the weapon. If the bipod is not fitting the shoulder adjust it by moving your body.

(b) The bipod legs should be kept at equal height.

(c) The bipod shoes should be rested on a firm and even ground.

(d) It should be zeroed 1 W' to the right of the point of aim. (e) Its trigger has longer play/slackness. A habit should be so formed that trigger is released to the extent that fire stops yet there is no need to repeat the process of taking slackness again for the next round.

3. Pistol.

(a) It is a weapon to be fired from one hand but both the hands can also be used. A single hand grip enables quick fire, both in aimed and random fire. It is based on the principle that eye has the ability to locate the centre of an object. If an index finger is pointed to a point it would be straight at it without adjustment. Check by dosing the other eye as we do while aiming. Based on this principle if a pistol is pointed to an object and fired it will score the hit, provided hold and the trigger operation are correct. While firing with both the hands this advantage cannot be availed.

(b) The grip should be so firm that the pistol becomes a part of the body. In the bargain even if there is a little shaking, it would not make much difference.

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

51

(c) The trigger should be squeezed by pressing the muscle joining the index finger with the thumb against the butt. By doing so the index finger will move inward and press the trigger.

(d) In battle crouch keep the elbow in front of the belt buckle.

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

52

Lesson 10

SEQUENCE OF TRAINING

1. The training may be organised in the following sequence:(a) Introduction to weapon, stripping, assembling, functioning and cleaning.

(b) Teach three basics of marksmanship ie, aiming, holding and trigger operation.

(c) Test Aiming.

(d) Practice TO and on Aiming Box.

(e) Test TO and Aiming Box Grouping.

(0 Firing positions.

(g) Natural alignment.

(h) Different types of firing practices.

(j) Sequence of firing a shot.

(k) Introduction to firing with Air gun/.22 rifle at a short range.

(1) Introduction to rifle fire, corrective coaching, grouping fire and zeroing. Extra practice for the burst control in . case of automatic weapons like LMG and Carbine.

(m) Introduction to range drill and range course.

(n) Dry rehearsal of range course. Corrective coaching to Range drill, firing position and sequence of firing a shot. The weapon should also be tested for fitness to fire.

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

53

(0) Practice fire should commence from 100 yds onwards.

The coaching should continue. Unless the firer has been at least of 1st class standard, do not make him do the next practice.

(p) Commence classification fire. It may move from the longest range downwards.

(q) Segregate those short of MM standard and give them extra coaching. Re-test them.

(r) MM be given further practice on difficult Range and practices.

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

54

Lesson 11

REITERATION

1. There is no need to lay too much emphasis on physical fitness except for the master hand grip which should be like a vice. Spring loaded dumbbell exercise and rope climbing will do a lot of good in improving the grip.

2. Press the entire grip of right/master hand, the trigger shall be pressed automatically.

3. Do not hold tight with the left / forehand except in aimed burst fire where it needs to be of medium strength.

4. Ensure that the weapon is held straight and not tilted to any side.

5. Ensure that the firer knows aiming and has consistency.

6. The technique of burst control depends on steady squeeze and quick release of trigger. It should be divided into two clear stages, the index-finger should pause after the first stage and then take the second pull. Hold very firmly with the right hand but have medium grip with the left hand. However, a firm grip with the left hand is not required in battle crouch fire.

7. Make your position comfortable and less tiring yet providing maximum support to the weapon.

8. Keep adequate distance between two firers.

9. Check the natural alignment and test the trigger operation every time you commence firing.

10. Check your steadiness by closing both the eyes for a couple of seconds when you are about to fire.

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

55

11. Do not be in a hurry. Relax after every round, may be even for a couple of seconds. Bring the weapon down, time pennitting, after every shot.

12. Do not hold breath longer than a couple of seconds.

13. It may be worth breathing by the mouth in practices involving running.

14. Have correct assessment of time while firing time bound practices.

15. Learn to make allowances for the weather.

16. Do not count your rounds unless required by the firing practice.

17. Keep your mind free of fear.

18. Concentrate on tip of the foresight.

19. Mould your style to suit the firing practice.

20. Aiming Box and TO exercises are invaluable for co-ordination and control of the mind, the eye and the index finger.

21. The weapon should be zeroed and tuned up properly and be

fit to fire in all1'espects.

22. Use an eye patch if you cannnot close the other eye.

23. Have vision tested if you suspect any defect.

24. It will be econcmlcal to practice alignment in battle crouch and burst fire control with a single shot to start with.

"ONE BULLET ONE ENEMY"

56

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