UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

WEAPONS TRAINING BATTALION

MARINE CORPS MARKSMANSHIP CENTER OF EXCELLENCE
MARINE CORPS COMBAT DEVELOPMENT COMMAND
QUANTICO, VIRGINIA 22134-5040

FAULT CHECK PROCEDURES FOR RIFLE WEAPONS HANDLING

a. TERMINAL LEARNING OBJECTIVE.

1) Given range supplies, equipment, and personnel to be

trained, without the aid of references, conduct dry fire
Preparatory Training per Marine Corps Combat Marksmanship
and Entry Level Pistol (ELP) Program lesson plans and IAW
MCRP 3-01A and MCRP 3-01B. (8530.1.1)

2) Given targets, range supplies and equipment, prepared

shooters, and a range, without the aid of references, coach
stationary target engagement with the service rifle at known
distances to ensure personnel achieve proficiency level
IAW MCO 3574.2_. (8530.1.4)b.

b. ENABLING LEARNING OBJECTIVES

1) Given personnel to be trained, without the aid of

references, conduct a user serviceability inspection of a
shooter’s weapon to isolate a mechanical failure of the
weapon vice shooter error IAW Marksmanship Coach Course
(MCC) lesson plans. (8530.1.1b)

2) Given personnel to be trained, without the aid of

references, fault check rifle weapons handling during dry
fire to ensure performance is IAW MCRP 3-01A and MCRP
3-01B. (8530.1.1d)

3) Given personnel to be trained, without the aid of

references, fault check weapons handling during live fire to
ensure performance is IAW MCRP 3-01A. (8530.1.4b)

BODY

1. FAULT CHECKING PROCEDURES

a. Definition. Fault checking is a set of procedures used

to identify and correct a weakness, and reinforce
performance of a Marine or a group of Marines. Fault

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checking is used to train a defined set of skill-based
procedures that every individual performs exactly the same,
i.e., those procedures that have no deviation in their
performance among individual shooters. Fault checking is
ideally suited to weapons handling.

b. Fault Checking Procedures. The coach fault checks

performance to identify procedures or actions being
performed incorrectly, reinforce the correct procedures for
performing a skill, and identify shooters requiring
additional instruction. To fault check a procedure, the
coach:

1) Places himself in a position that allows him to

observe all of his shooters’ actions. For example:

a) The coach stands to the left of the weapon to

observe the safety lever, sling position on the left
arm, or a left handed shooter’s stock weld, eye-
relief, etc.

b) The coach stands to the right of the shooter to

observe the chamber check, sling position on the
right arm, or a right handed shooter’s stock weld,
eye relief, etc.

2) Observes his shooters to identify a procedure or

action being performed incorrectly.

3) Recognizes a general weakness in performance or a

trend in performance across many shooters and reinforces
the correct actions for performing the skill to the
entire group before or as the procedure is being
performed again.

4) Verbally corrects all identified mistakes so his

comments are heard by all shooters. The coach verbally
states the correct way to perform the procedure. For
example, if a shooter does not seat his magazine
correctly, the coach will verbally state, “Remember to
tug downward on the magazine to ensure it is seated.”
The verbal corrections are not directed at one shooter,
but rather to all shooters.

5) If necessary, re-explains and demonstrates a

technique with shooters imitating. If a trend exists
where many shooters are performing the same technique

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 incorrectly, it will be necessary for the coach to
explain and demonstrate the technique and have shooters
practice it on his command.

6) Identifies a shooter who continually makes the same

mistake and corrects his performance individually. The
coach must ensure that the shooter understands the
coach’s comments, and complies with them.

2. APPLICATION OF FAULT CHECKING PROCEDURES FOR WEAPONS HANDLING

a. Safety Rules. The safety rules are easy to remember in a

classroom or in a non-stressful environment. In a combat
environment, a Marine is exposed to conditions that can
disorient or unnerve him and increase the potential for
inappropriate handling of the weapon. In addition, lack of
focus in non-threatening situations can cause the Marine to
become careless in handling his weapon. This puts him, and
those around him, at risk. Training in the four safety rules
must be repetitive to ensure automatic adherence when the
Marine is in possession of a weapon.

1) Rule 1: Treat Every Weapon as if it Were Loaded.

This rule is intended to prevent unintentional injury to
personnel or damage to property from an individual
handling or transferring possession of a weapon to
another. It reinforces the utilization of all other
safety rules with every weapon.

2) Rule 2: Never Point a Weapon at Anything You Do Not

Intend to Shoot. This rule reinforces the importance of
muzzle awareness.

3) Rule 3: Keep Your Finger Straight and Off the

Trigger Until You are Ready to Fire. This rule is
intended to minimize the risk of firing the weapon
negligently.

4) Rule 4: Keep Weapon on Safe Until You Intend to

Fire. This rule enforces the use of the weapon’s own
safety feature.

c. Transports. The transports, in which the rifle is slung

over the back or shoulder, are used when no immediate threat
is present and are especially useful when moving for long
periods. They are also used whenever both hands are needed

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for other work. There are three weapons transports for the
web sling, and two for the three-point sling.

1) Strong Side Sling Arms (Muzzle Up). This transport

may be used when no immediate threat is present and
enemy contact is unlikely. The weapon is slung over the
firing side shoulder with the muzzle pointed up. To
assume this transport from the Tactical Carry:

a) Release the pistol grip of the rifle.

b) Lower the buttstock of the rifle and bring the

rifle to a vertical position.

c) With the firing hand, grasp the sling above the

forearm.

d) Guide the rifle around the firing side shoulder

with the support hand and extend the firing arm
through the sling.

e) Place the sling on the firing side shoulder and

apply downward pressure on the sling with the firing
side hand to stabilize the rifle on the shoulder.

f) Release the handguard.

2) Coaching Instruction -- Strong Side Sling Arms. The

key points the coach is looking for when shooters
transport their weapons are:

a) Maintaining muzzle awareness by always pointing

the weapon in a safe direction.

b) Maintaining proper adjustment of the sling to

maintain positive control of the weapon. Sling
length controls muzzle placement to a certain extent.

c) Once assumed, the weapon should hang vertically

with the muzzle up. The sling should be of a
reasonable length to allow the shooter to present the
rifle and establish an acceptable firing position.
The sling tension should allow the shooter to hold
the rifle on his shoulder with a minimum amount of
pressure applied on the sling with the firing side
hand. To verify this, you may wish to have the
shooter present the weapon from the transport and

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 then make adjustments to the sling length as
required. If the shooter is wearing field gear
(e.g., flak jacket, H-harness), the sling may need to
be adjusted to compensate for the added bulk.

(1) If there is too much tension on the sling,

the elbow may be forced backward to allow the
shooter to grasp the sling.

(2) If there is too little tension on the sling,

the rifle muzzle will be pointed behind the
shooter and the sling can fall off the shooter’s
shoulder. The shooter has to exert additional
pressure with his firing side hand to hold the
rifle in place and keep the muzzle positioned
vertically.

3) Weak Side Sling Arms (Muzzle Down). This transport

may be used when no immediate threat is present and
contact with the enemy is unlikely. This transport is
mainly used during periods of inclement weather to keep
moisture out of the bore of the rifle. The weapon is
slung over the support side shoulder with the muzzle
pointed down. To assume this transport from the
Tactical Carry:

a) Release the pistol grip of the rifle.

b) Lower the buttstock of the rifle and bring the

rifle to a vertical position.

c) Rotate the rifle outboard until the pistol grip

is pointing toward the body.

d) Reach over the forearm and grasp the sling with

the firing side hand.

e) Rotate the muzzle down with the support hand

while sliding the firing side hand up the sling.
Place the sling on the support side shoulder.

f) Grasp the sling with the support hand and apply

downward pressure to stabilize the rifle on the
shoulder.

g) Release the handguard.

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4) Coaching Instruction -- Weak Side Sling Arms. The
weapon should be positioned vertically with the muzzle
pointing down in the Weak Side Sling Arms transport. If
there is too much tension on the sling, the rifle muzzle
will be extended in front of the shooter’s body.

5) Cross Body Sling Arms (Muzzle Up or Down). This

transport may be used when both hands are required for
work. The weapon is slung across the back with the
muzzle up or down. Normally, the weapon is slung with
the muzzle down to prevent pointing the muzzle in an
unsafe direction, unless the situation dictates
otherwise. To assume this transport:

a) From Weak Side Sling Arms (Muzzle Down):

(1) With your firing side hand, grasp the sling.

(2) With your support hand, grasp the

handguards.

(3) Pull up on the rifle with both hands.

(4) Slide the sling over your head.

(5) Position the rifle so it is comfortable

across your back.

b) From Strong Side Sling Arms (Muzzle Up):

(1) With your support hand, grasp the sling.

(2) With your firing side hand, grasp the pistol

grip.

(3) Pull up on the rifle with both hands.

(4) Slide the sling over your head.

(5) Position the rifle so it is comfortable

across your back.

6) Coaching Instruction -- Cross Body Sling Arms. When

assuming Cross Body Sling Arms, ensure shooters begin
with the weapon slung from either Weak Side Sling Arms
or Strong Side Sling Arms. This will minimize poor
muzzle awareness and provide additional control for

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assuming Cross Body Sling Arms.

7) Controlled Carry. Used with the Three-Point Sling,

commonly called “Hands Free”. In this transport the
weapon is controlled with the firing hand gripping the
buttstock in vertical alignment with the body. The
muzzle should point straight down, between the feet or
just to the outside of the feet, maintaining constant
muzzle awareness. The weapon may also be controlled by
grasping the hand-guard with the non-firing hand.

8) Coaching Instruction – Controlled Carry. Ensure the

shooter has proper tension on the sling. If the sling is
too tight, the butt-stock may contact the face or chin
during movement. Excessive sling length may allow the
muzzle to strike the deck when squatting or taking a
knee. Ensure that the shooter is controlling the weapon
with a hand on either the buttstock or hand-guards.
Ensure that the shooter keeps his hands away from the
selector lever at all times while in the Controlled
Carry.

9) Three-Point Sling Cross-Body, Muzzle Up. This carry

will be used for the same circumstances as when using a
web sling. It is easily assumed and transitioned from.
To assume the cross-body, muzzle up transport:

(a) Assume the Alert Carry and release the non-

firing hand from the hand-guards, ensuring the weapon
is on “Safe”.

(b) Rotate the non-firing hand so the palm is facing

away from the shooter with the thumb pointing toward
the firing side.

(c) Place the thumb of the non-firing hand on the

sling. Slide the thumb forward and grasp the barrel
of the weapon with the non-firing hand.

(d) Release the firing hand grip on the pistol grip

as the weapon is raised and pushed over the firing
side shoulder. Continue moving the weapon over the
shoulder until the muzzle is at head level.

(e) Grasp the sling at the shoulder with the firing

hand. Apply tension downward on the sling with the
firing hand and release the non-firing hand from the

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 barrel. Slide the hand down to the hip, removing the
slack from the sling.

(f) To bring the weapon back to a carry, simply grab

the muzzle and pull the weapon over the firing side
shoulder. Do not attempt to swing the weapon around
by grasping the buttstock and pulling it under the
non-firing arm. This is an unsafe action, and is not
acceptable in a training environment.

10) Coaching Instruction -- Three-Point Sling Cross-

Body, Muzzle Up. The greatest challenge with this
transport will be muzzle awareness. Ensure that shooters
are not pointing their muzzles at anything other than in
a safe direction while assuming this transport or
bringing their weapon to one of the carries.

3. FILLING, STOWING, AND WITHDRAWING MAGAZINES

a. Filling the Magazine with Loose Rounds. Perform the

following steps to fill the magazine:

1) Remove a magazine from the magazine pouch.

2) Place a round on top of the follower.

3) Press down until the round is held between the

follower and feed lips of the magazine.

4) Repeat until the desired number of rounds is

inserted. The recommended number of rounds per magazine
is not more than 27. Thirty rounds in the magazine may
prohibit the magazine from seating properly on a closed
bolt.

5) Tap the back of the magazine to ensure the rounds

are seated against the back of the magazine.

b. Filling the Magazine Using a 10-round Stripper Clip and

Magazine Filler. The magazine can also be filled quickly
using a 10-round stripper clip and magazine filler. Perform
the following steps to fill the magazine with the 10-round
stripper clip:

1) Remove a magazine from the magazine pouch.

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 2) Slide the magazine filler into place.

3) Place a 10-round stripper clip into the narrow

portion of the magazine filler.

4) Using thumb pressure on the rear of the top

cartridge, press down firmly until all ten rounds are
below the feed lips of the magazine.

5) Remove the empty stripper clip while holding the

magazine filler in place.

6) Repeat until the desired number of rounds is

inserted. The recommended number of rounds per magazine
is not more than 27. Thirty rounds in the magazine may
prohibit the magazine from seating properly on a closed
bolt.

7) Remove the magazine filler and retain it for future

use.

8) Tap the back of the magazine to ensure the rounds

are seated against the back of the magazine.

c. Stowing Magazines and Wear of the Gear The coach must

understand that there are two distinctly different ways to
manipulate a weapon which will effect the way that magazines
are drawn, and where the magazines are stowed.

1) Magazine Pouch. In a magazine pouch, filled

magazines are stowed with rounds down and projectiles
pointing away from the body. The magazine pouch is worn
on a cartridge belt attached to an H-Harness. The belt
should be tight around the waist. This will ensure that
the magazine pouch does not drift out of position
unexpectedly. The magazine pouches may be placed on
either the support side or the firing side of the body,
or both, depending on shooter preference and
manipulation method.

2) Load-bearing Vest. In a load-bearing vest with

angled pouches, filled magazines are stowed with rounds
down and projectiles pointing inboard. The LBV should be
tight to the body to prevent shifting.

3) MOLLE Gear. When using MOLLE gear with magazines

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 stowed on the chest, filled magazines are stowed with
rounds down and projectiles pointing toward either the
firing hand side or the non-firing hand side, depending
on shooter preference. The magazine pouches may be
mounted on either the support side or firing side,
depending on shooter preference and manipulation
requirements. The vest should be tight to the body to
prevent shifting and the magazine pouches should be
mounted where they are easily and naturally accessible.

4) Empty or Partially Filled Magazines. When empty or

partially filled magazines are stored in a magazine
pouch, they are stowed with the rounds or follower up to
allow the selection of filled magazines by touch (i.e.,
at night). The shooter can easily discern whether or not
the magazine has rounds under the feed lips by touch
alone. It is preferable to store empty and partially
filled magazines separately from filled magazines.

d. Coaching Instruction -- Magazine Filling and Stowing.

When fault checking, ensure shooters fill their magazines
with no more than 27 rounds in a tactical situation. Thirty
rounds may prohibit the magazine from seating properly on a
closed bolt (e.g., Tactical Reload).

e. Withdrawing Magazines. The method in which a shooter

withdraws a magazine from the magazine pouch depends on the
manipulation method the shooter is utilizing. All
manipulations may be done with either the firing or non-
firing hand.

1) Magazine Pouch and MOLLE Vest. With your firing

hand, withdraw magazines from the magazine pouch on the
firing side of your body. To withdraw magazines from a
magazine pouch:

a) With your thumb and index finger, pinch the

magazine pouch release to open the magazine pouch
(Magazine Pouch), or unsnap the pouch cover (MOLLE).

b) Slide your thumb over the top of the magazines,

feeling for a baseplate indicating a filled magazine.
Continue to slide your thumb until it rests on the
back of the magazine.

c) Grasp the magazine with your thumb, little

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 finger, and ring finger and lift the magazine
directly out of the pouch.

d) As the magazine clears the pouch, grip with all

fingers and rotate it up to check the rounds in the
magazine.

2) Load-bearing Vest. With your firing hand, withdraw

magazines from the support side of the vest. To withdraw
magazines from a load-bearing vest:

a) With your thumb and index finger, unfasten the

snap on the vest pouch.

b) Slide your thumb over the top of the magazine,

feeling for a base-plate indicating a filled
magazine. Rotate your hand over the magazine while
sliding your thumb to the back of the magazine.

c) Grasp the magazine with your thumb, little

finger, and ring finger.

d) As you lift the magazine directly out of the

pouch, fully grasp the magazine with all fingers and
rotate it up to observe the rounds in the magazine.

f. Coaching Instruction -- Magazine Withdraw.

a) When wearing a load-bearing vest with angled

pouches, ensure shooters withdraw magazines from the
opposite side of their body, i.e., when withdrawing
magazines with the firing hand, magazines are
withdrawn from the support side of the vest.

b) When using the MOLLE, ensure the shooter

withdraws the magazine for the same side pouch as the
hand withdrawing it.

c) If a shooter is having difficulty withdrawing a

magazine smoothly, ensure that the pouch is
positioned where the shooter can naturally reach.
Ensure that the shooter is establishing a proper grip
and that magazines are stowed in a manner that allows
a proper grip to be established.

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4. WEAPONS CONDITIONS

a. Conditions

1) Condition 1. Magazine inserted, round in chamber,

bolt forward, safety on, ejection port cover closed.

2) Condition 2. Condition 2 does not apply to the

service rifle.

3) Condition 3. Magazine inserted, chamber empty, bolt

forward, safety on, ejection port cover closed.

4) Condition 4. Magazine removed, chamber empty, bolt

forward, safety on, ejection port cover closed.

b. Determining the Condition of a Rifle. A Marine must know

the condition of his weapon at all times. Any time a Marine
takes possession of a weapon, he must determine its
condition. Situations include taking charge of your own
weapon after it has been unattended (e.g., from the armory,
out of a rifle rack, left in a vehicle), coming across an
unmanned rifle in combat, or taking charge of another
Marine’s weapon that is attended or unattended.

1) Determine if a magazine is present.

2) Ensure the weapon is on safe.

3) Conduct a Chamber Check. A chamber check may be

conducted at any time to determine if ammunition is
present:

a) Bring your support hand back against the magazine

well so the slip ring rests in the “V” of the hand.
Extend the fingers of your left hand and cover the
ejection port (right handed shooter) or extend the
thumb over the ejection port (left handed shooter).

b) Grasp the charging handle with the index and

middle fingers of your firing hand. Control the
weapon by pointing the muzzle to the deck and
applying tension against the stock with the palm of
the hand or fingers.

c) Pull the charging handle slightly to the rear and

visually and physically inspect the chamber.

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 (1) Right-handed Marines: Insert one finger of
your left hand into the ejection port and feel
whether a round is present.

(2) Left-handed Marines: Insert the thumb of the

right hand into the ejection port and feel whether
a round is present.

d) Release the charging handle and observe the bolt

going forward.

e) Tap the forward assist.

f) Close the ejection port cover (if time and the

situation permit).

4) Remove the magazine (if present) and observe if

ammunition is present. If time and situation permits,
count the rounds. Reinsert the magazine into the
magazine well if applicable.

c. Coaching Instruction -- Determining the Condition of the

Rifle/Chamber Check. Ensure shooters determine the
condition of the weapon whenever they take possession of a
rifle, including taking charge of your own weapon (e.g.,
from the armory, from stack arms, after a police call).
This must continually be fault checked. Ensure shooters
know the condition of their weapon at all times. When fault
checking performance of a chamber check, ensure the shooter:

1) Brings his support hand back against the magazine

well so the slip ring rests in the “V” of his hand.
This will provide additional control and allow him to
physically inspect the chamber area.

2) Does not pull the charging handle too far to the

rear when inspecting the chamber. This may cause a
double feed or ejection of a round.

3) Taps the forward assist to ensure the bolt is closed

if a round is in the chamber.

b. Commands. Weapons commands dictate the specific steps

to load, make ready, and unload the service rifle. Six
commands are used in weapons handling.

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 1) "Load" is the command used to take a weapon from
Condition 4 to Condition 3.

2) "Make Ready" is the command used to take a weapon

from Condition 3 to Condition 1.

3) "Fire" is the command used to specify when Marines

may engage targets. On the command "Fire," aim the
rifle, take the rifle off safe, and pull the trigger to
engage the target.

4) "Cease Fire" is the command used to stop target

engagement. On the command "Cease Fire," place your
trigger finger straight along the receiver and place the
weapon on safe.

5) "Unload" is the command used to take a weapon from

any condition to Condition 4.

6) "Unload, Show Clear" is the command used to require

a second Marine to check the weapon to verify that no
ammunition is present before the rifle is put into
Condition 4.

c. Weapons Handling Procedures. To fault check weapons

handling, the coach ensures shooters perform the procedures
correctly and in the proper sequence for loading, making
ready, unloading, unloading and showing clear, and
reloading. In addition, the coach enforces safety
precautions throughout training. In particular, the coach
should focus his attention on the key points covered here
that have been found to be trend weaknesses for many
shooters. The commands are executed as follows:

1) Load. On the command "Load," perform the following

steps to take the rifle from Condition 4 to Condition 3:

a) Ensure the rifle is on safe, index finger is

straight and off the trigger. Assume a tactical carry
or elevate the muzzle if possible.

b) Withdraw a magazine from the initial load pouch

as explained above. The initial load pouch should be
the hardest to reach magazine pouch.

c) Index the magazine by raising the grip on the

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 magazine so the index finger touches the top round.
Ensure that the top round is present and seated
properly in the magazine. Lower the grip to the
bottom of the magazine by striking the bottom of the
magazine on the gear.

d) Fully insert the magazine into the magazine well

until the magazine catch engages the magazine. The
magazine catch will “click” as it engages, which can
be felt or heard by the shooter. Tug downward on the
magazine to ensure it is seated.

e) Fasten the magazine pouch.

2) Coaching Instruction -- Load. When fault checking

loading procedures:

a) Ensure the shooter loads from the initial load

pouch. If the shooter uses the magazine that was
intended for the reload it will cause fumbling or
inability to gain access to the magazine in a timely
manner.

a) Ensure the shooter does not slap the bottom of

the magazine when inserting it. This may cause a
stoppage. Or the magazine, when fully filled, will
drop out of the magazine well if it is released due
to the weight of the rounds. This is particularly
apparent during Tables 2, 3, and 4, when magazines
are filled with a greater number of rounds. The
shooter should not relinquish control of the
magazine. The shooter should not release the
magazine when seating it and should tug on it to
ensure it is fully seated.

b) Be aware that for all manipulations the shooter

may use either the support or firing hand. The only
time that the shooter will be forced to use one type
of manipulation over another is when the loop sling
is utilized. The sling itself will prevent support
hand manipulations while the sling is being used.

c) Ensure the shooter fastens the magazine pouch

securely after loading.

3) Make Ready. There are two ways to Make Ready. On

the command "Make Ready," perform the following steps to

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take the rifle from Condition 3 to Condition 1:

a) Firing Hand Manipulation:

(1) Ensure the index finger is straight and

off the trigger. Drop the muzzle to the Alert
Carry if position allows. Pull the charging
handle fully to the rear with the index and
middle finger of the strong hand and release.

(2) To ensure ammunition has been chambered,

conduct a chamber check as explained above and
strike the forward assist.

(3) Check the sights. (This check is to

ensure proper BZO setting, correct rear sight
aperture, etc.)

b) Support Hand Manipulation:

(1) Ensure the index finger is straight and

off the trigger. Drop the muzzle to the Alert
Carry if position allows. Hook the left side
of the charging handle with the support hand,
retaining control of the weapon with the
firing hand on the pistol grip. Pull the
charging handle fully to the rear and release,
chambering a round.

(2) Ensure that a round has been chambered as

described above and strike the forward assist.

(3) Check the sights. (This check is to

ensure proper BZO setting, correct rear sight
aperture, etc.)

4) Coaching Instruction -- Make Ready. When fault

checking the Make Ready:

a) Ensure the shooter pulls the charging handle

fully to the rear and releases it. Partially pulling
the charging handle to the rear, or “short-stroking,”
will not chamber a round and will almost certainly
lead to a double feed.

b) Ensure the shooter does not ride the charging

16
 handle forward as the bolt may not lock or the round
may not chamber properly, causing a failure to feed
or fire.

c) Ensure the shooter conducts a chamber check to

ensure a round has been chambered, and strikes the
forward assist to ensure that the bolt locks.

d) Benefits of using the strong hand for

manipulation are as follows; maintains support hand
placement, maintains position, maintains loop and
hasty sling placement. Disadvantages of using the
strong hand are; fine motor skill requirement, loss
of firing grip, loss of stock placement, and slow
manipulation.

e) Benefits of using the support hand for

manipulations are as follows; maintains the firing
grip, faster manipulations, gross motor skill, and
more positive manipulation of the charging handle.
Disadvantages of using the support hand are; loss of
position and loss of hasty sling placement.

5) Unload. On the command "Unload," perform the

following steps to take the rifle from any condition to
Condition 4:

a) Assume a kneeling position if possible to aid in

manipulation, and ensure the rifle is on safe. Ensure
the index finger is straight and off the trigger. The
safety will not engage if the hammer fell on an empty
chamber and was not reset. In this case, continue to
the next step.

b) Elevate the muzzle if possible and remove the

magazine from the rifle, and retain it.

(1) The shooter may remove the magazine with

the right hand by grasping the magazine with
the right hand and depressing the magazine
release button with the right hand thumb. This
is the easiest technique for left-handed
shooters, and will maintain a right-handed
shooter’s forward hand placement and sling
position.

(2) The shooter may also remove the magazine

17
 with the left hand by grasping the magazine
with the left hand and depressing the magazine
release button with the index finger of the
right hand. This will be difficult for a left-
handed shooter.

c) Bring the support hand back against the magazine

well so the slip ring rests in the “V” of the hand.
Cup the support hand under the ejection port, and
rotate the rifle so the ejection port is facing the
deck.

d) Pull the charging handle to the rear with the

firing hand and catch the ejected round in the
support hand.

e) Hold the charging handle to the rear and press

the lower portion of the bolt catch with the support
hand and lock the bolt to the rear.

f) Put the rifle on safe if it would not go on safe

earlier.

g) Lower the muzzle to permit clear vision into the

ejection port and chamber area. Visually and
physically inspect the chamber, the bolt face, and
magazine well to ensure the weapon is empty and no
ammunition is present.

h) Depress the upper portion of the bolt catch and

observe the bolt moving forward on an empty chamber.
i) Close the ejection port cover.

j) Check the sights. (This check is to ensure

proper BZO setting, correct rear sight aperture,
tightness of thumb screws, etc.)

k) If situation permits the shooter may stand and

assume a transport.

l) Return the ejected round to the magazine.

m) Retain the magazine.

6) Coaching Instruction -- Unload. Coaches must fault

check unloading procedures to ensure the shooter
performs them correctly to ensure his weapon is in

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Condition 4.

a) When fault checking the Unload:

(1) Ensure the shooter places the selector lever

on safe and removes the source of ammunition from
the rifle before pulling the charging handle to
the rear. Pulling the charging handle before
removing the magazine may chamber a round.

(2) Ensure the shooter brings his support hand

back against the magazine well so the slip ring
rests in the “V” of his hand. Ensure the shooter
cups his hand under the ejection port while
rotating the rifle so the ejection port is facing
down. Ensure the shooter catches the round and
moves his hand around to lock the bolt to the
rear by depressing the bolt catch.

(3) Ensure the shooter visually and physically

inspects the chamber, bolt face, and magazine
well, to ensure that they are empty and no
ammunition is present.

(4) Ensure the shooter depresses the bolt catch

and observes the bolt moving forward on an empty
chamber.

b) When observing shooters on the line conducting an

Unload at the end of a stage of fire, the coach must
ensure that shooters observe the chamber while the
bolt moves forward on an empty chamber. If a shooter
leaves the line at the end of 200-yard slow fire
without the coach observing him conduct an Unload for
any reason, the coach has two options:

(1) Ask the shooter to conduct the Unload under

observation.

(2) Ask the shooter to conduct a chamber check

to ensure that the weapon is in Condition 4.

7) Unload, Show Clear. The command “Unload, Show

Clear” is used if a secondary inspection is required.
On the command “Unload, Show Clear,” perform the
following steps to take the rifle from any condition to
Condition 4:

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a) Keep the index finger straight and off the
trigger. Assume a kneeling position, and ensure the
rifle is on “Safe”. The safety will not engage if the
hammer fell on an empty chamber and was not reset. In
this case, continue to the next step.

b) Elevate the muzzle if possible, remove the

magazine and retain it.

(1) The shooter may remove the magazine with

the right hand by grasping the magazine with
the right hand and depressing the magazine
release button with the right hand thumb. This
is the easiest technique for left-handed
shooters, and will maintain a right-handed
shooter’s forward hand placement and sling
position.

(2) The shooter may also remove the magazine

with the left hand by grasping the magazine
with the left hand and depressing the magazine
release button with the index finger of the
right hand. This will be difficult for a left-
handed shooter.

c) Bring the support hand back against the magazine

well so the slip ring rests in the “V” of the hand.
Cup the support hand under the ejection port, and
rotate the rifle so the ejection port is facing the
deck.

d) Pull the charging handle to the rear with the

firing hand and catch the ejected round in the
support hand.

e) Hold the charging handle to the rear and press

the lower portion of the bolt catch with the support
hand and lock the bolt to the rear.

f) Put the rifle on safe if it would not go on safe

earlier.

g) Place the buttstock on the firing side shoulder

and lower the muzzle to permit clear vision into the
ejection port and chamber area. Visually and
physically inspect the chamber, the bolt face, and

20
 magazine well to ensure the weapon is empty and no
ammunition is present.

h) A second party inspects the rifle to ensure no

ammunition is present.

i) After the secondary party acknowledges that there

is no ammunition present in the weapon and that it is
on “Safe” by announcing, “Clear”, depress the upper
portion of the bolt catch and observe the bolt moving
forward on an empty chamber.

j) Close the ejection port cover.

k) Check the sights. (This check is to ensure

proper BZO setting, correct rear sight aperture,
etc.)

l) If situation permits the shooter may stand and

assume a transport.

m) Return the ejected round to the magazine.

n) Retain the magazine.

8) Coaching Instruction -- Unload, Show Clear. The

Unload, Show Clear should only be conducted at the
beginning and end of a day’s training. (In almost all
cases, shooters should conduct an Unload to reinforce
their individual responsibility for ensuring that they
have a Condition 4 weapon.)

a) When fault checking the secondary inspection,

ensure shooters hold their rifles to enable the
chamber to be inspected and then rotate their rifles
over so the position of the safety lever can be
inspected.

b) A key point for the coach is to observe the

shooter watch his bolt go forward on an empty
chamber. Therefore, once the coach has acknowledged
that the weapon is clear, the coach must not move to
the next shooter until observing the shooter depress
the bolt catch, watching the bolt moving forward on
an empty chamber.

7. REMEDIAL ACTIONS AND APPLICATION OF FAULT CHECKING PROCEDURES.

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a. Cycle of Operation. There are eight steps in the cycle
of operation for the M16A2 service rifle:

1) Firing. Firing begins with the manipulation of the

trigger, which releases the sear and allows the hammer
to fall on the firing pin. The firing pin strikes the
primer, which ignites of the propellant within the
cartridge case, creating the pressure that forces the
projectile out of the barrel.

2) Unlocking. Unlocking is the rotation of the bolt

until the locking lugs no longer align with the lugs on
the barrel extension.

3) Extracting. Extracting is the withdrawal of the

cartridge case from the chamber by the extractor claw
and the rearward motion of the bolt.

4) Ejecting. Ejecting is the expulsion of the

cartridge case by the ejector, which is an integral part
of the bolt, pressing outward on the cartridge case.
This outward pressure is constant, and once the
cartridge enters the ejection port, the outward pressure
will throw the round out of the ejection port.

5) Cocking. Cocking is the resetting of the hammer on

the sear as the bolt moves rearward over the hammer.

6) Feeding. Feeding is the stripping of a round from

the magazine by the bolt.

7) Chambering. Chambering is the pushing of the round

into the chamber by the bolt.

8) Locking. Locking is the alignment of the locking

lugs on the bolt with the lugs on the barrel extension.

b. Stoppage. A stoppage is an unintentional interruption

in the cycle of operation. A stoppage is normally
discovered when the rifle will not fire. Proper care,
cleaning, and lubrication of the rifle and magazines can
prevent most stoppages.

c. Malfunction. A malfunction is a failure of the rifle to

fire satisfactorily or to perform as designed. A
malfunction does not necessarily cause an interruption in

22
the cycle of operation. When a malfunction occurs, the
weapon may have to be repaired by an armorer. All stoppages
are malfunctions though not all malfunctions will be a
stoppage.

d. Remedial Action. Remedial action is the process of

investigating the cause of the stoppage, clearing the
stoppage, and returning the weapon to operation.

1) Once the rifle ceases firing, the Marine must

visually or physically observe the ejection port to
identify the problem. The Marine must also seek cover
if the tactical situation permits or requires.

2) When fault checking remedial action, the coach

enforces safety precautions throughout training. In
particular, the coach should focus his attention on the
following key points that have been found to be trend
weaknesses for many shooters. When fault checking
remedial action procedures, ensure the shooter always
investigates the cause of the stoppage based on
observation of the weapon.

3) The steps taken to clear the weapon are based on

observation of the following indicators:

a) Indicator – The Bolt is Forward or Ejection Port

Cover Closed. To return the weapon to operation:

(1) Take the index finger off the trigger.

Observe the bolt forward or ejection port cover
closed.

(2) Strike the base of the magazine with the

palm of the hand to ensure it is seated.

(b) Left handed shooter using support hand or

right-handed shooter using firing hand: Right
hand.

(2) Cant the weapon slightly to the right and

pull the charging handle fully to the rear with
the same hand that slapped the magazine, and
release it.

23
 (3) Sight in and attempt to fire.

b) Coaching Instruction -- Bolt Forward. This type

of stoppage can occur on the first round or in the
middle of a string of fire. If the bolt is forward,
it will be caused by one of four possibilities:

(1) A bad round, which is highly unlikely.

(2) The shooter not offering enough resistance

to recoil. If the shooter does not have the rifle
firmly in the shoulder, there may not be enough
resistance to recoil to allow the weapon to
complete its cycle of operation. This is also
unlikely unless the shooter is in an extremely
unstable position.

(3) Mechanical failure of the weapon, such as a

short firing pin or weak hammer spring. If the
stoppage is due to mechanical failure, remedial
action will not get the weapon back into action.

(4) This stoppage is most often caused by the

shooter not chambering a round. Ensure the
shooter performs the Load and the Make Ready
correctly. Ensure the shooter always conducts a
chamber check to ensure a round has been
chambered. This stoppage is virtually eliminated
when a shooter conducts a chamber check.

c) Indicator – The Bolt is Locked to the Rear. To

return the weapon to operation:

(1) Take the index finger off the trigger.

Observe the bolt locked to the rear.

(2) Conduct a speed reload as instructed.

(a) Press the magazine release button.

(b) Allow the empty magazine to drop free

of the weapon.

(c) Remove a filled magazine from a

magazine pouch and establish a firm, low
grip. Insert the filled magazine into the
magazine well and tug downward on the

24
 magazine to ensure it is properly seated.
Do not to slap the magazine after insertion
as this may cause a round to protrude from
the magazine, causing a stoppage.

(d) Depress the bolt catch to allow the

bolt carrier to move forward

(e) Sight in and attempt to fire.

e) Coaching Instruction -- Bolt Locked to the Rear.

This type of stoppage only occurs when the weapon
runs out of ammunition with a magazine inserted.
Ensure the shooter fills his magazines correctly and
fires a stage of fire using the correct number of
rounds. The shooter should be familiar with the
feeling of the weapon locking the bolt to the rear,
and be ready to execute a Speed Reload immediately.

f) Indicator – Brass is Obstructing the Chamber

Area. This usually indicates a failure to eject,
extract, or a double feed. It is also the procedure
for removing any foreign object that may be impeding
function of the weapon. To return the weapon to
operation:

(1) Take the index finger off the trigger.

Observe obstruction in the chamber area.

(2) Rotate the ejection port cover down and

attempt to pull the charging handle to the rear
and lock it.

(3) Remove the magazine.

(4) If the bolt locks to the rear, clear the

stuck round by inserting a finger through the
ejection port or magazine well.

(5) If there is a round visible in the chamber

and it cannot be removed by hand, depress the
bolt release, allowing the bolt to go forward.
Place the buttstock on the ground and pull the
charging handle forcefully to the rear. This
should eject the stuck cartridge.

(5) If a round is stuck in the chamber and the

25
 bolt cannot be moved to the rear, or the bolt
freezes after being sent home on the stuck round,
apply rearward pressure on the charging handle
and forcefully slam the buttstock straight into
the ground. Repeat until the bolt moves fully
rearward, ejecting the stuck case.

(6) If the above actions do not remove the

cartridge, the cartridge rim tears off, or the
weapon’s extractor is broken, lock the bolt to
the rear. Insert a cleaning rod into the muzzle
and tap the stuck case out of the chamber.

(6) Conduct a reload. Do not use the same

magazine if the problem appears to be caused by a
defect in the magazine. If the stoppage was
caused by a broken extractor, have the weapon
repaired by an armorer.

(7) Sight in and attempt to fire, if applicable.

(g) Coaching Instruction -- Brass is obstructing the

chamber area.

(1) This stoppage is not very difficult to clear

as long as the proper procedure is followed,
however it may take some time to clear a mangled
case or ruptured round.

(2) This stoppage may be caused by the shooter

not offering enough resistance to recoil. If the
shooter does not have the rifle firmly in the
shoulder, there may not be enough resistance to
recoil, impeding the weapon’s function. Most
likely it is due to a dirty bolt face and
insufficient lubrication.

(3) Mechanical causes, while extremely rare,

include a weak buffer spring, weak extractor
spring, improperly assembled extractor
spring/buffer, broken extractor, or a broken
ejector. Keep in mind that remedial action will
not get the weapon back into action if a
mechanical failure occurs, and must be fixed by
an armorer.

(g) Indicator -- Brass is Stuck Over and Behind the

26
 Bolt Face. This stoppage will prevent the bolt from
moving, and its caused by the weapon failing to feed
or extract properly. To return the weapon to
operation:

(1) Take the index finger off the trigger.

Observe and identify stoppage.

(2) Attempt to place the weapon on “Safe”

(3) Remove the magazine and place the buttstock

on the deck.

(4) Hold the bolt face to the rear with a

sturdy, slender object (e.g. stripper clip,
knife, Multi-Tool, etc.). Maintain rearward
pressure on the bolt, and simultaneously push
forward on the charging handle to remove the
obstructing round.

(5) Check the chamber area to ensure it is

clear.

(6) Perform a Speed Reload as previously

instructed.

(7) Sight in and attempt to fire, if applicable.

(h) Coaching Instruction – Brass Stuck Over and

Behind Bolt. This is a rare but catastrophic
stoppage. The steps must be followed exactly as
taught or the shooter will make the stoppage worse.

e. Audible Pop or Reduced Recoil. An audible pop occurs

when only a portion of the propellant is ignited, or only
the primer is ignited. It is normally identifiable by
reduced recoil and a lower report. This is sometimes
accompanied by excessive smoke escaping from the chamber
area.

1) Training Environment. If an audible pop or reduced

recoil is experienced during training, immediately cease
fire and perform the following steps:

a) Take the index finger off the trigger and point

the rifle down range.

27
 b) Place the rifle on safe.

c) Raise your free hand for assistance from range

personnel.

2) Combat Environment. In this instance, the tactical

situation may dictate correction of an audible pop or
reduced recoil. To clear the rifle, perform the
following steps:

a) Place the rifle in Condition 4.

b) Remove the bolt carrier group.

c) Inspect the bore for an obstruction from the

chamber end.

d) Insert a cleaning rod into the bore from the

least blocked end and clear the obstruction, pushing
the round in the direction that requires the least
amount of travel for the stuck projectile. This will
require striking the clearing rod with a hard object
to push the projectile through the barrel.

e) Reassemble the rifle.

f) Conduct a reload.

g) Sight in and attempt to fire, if applicable.

8. USER SERVICEABILITY INSPECTION

a. Function Check. A function check is performed to ensure

the rifle operates properly after the weapon has been
reassembled. To perform a function check:

1) Ensure the weapon is in Condition 4 (Magazine

removed, chamber empty, bolt forward, safety is on,
ejection port cover closed).

2) Pull the charging handle to the rear and release.

Ensure the selector lever is on SAFE and pull the
trigger. The hammer should not fall.

3) Place the selector lever on SEMI. Pull the trigger

and hold it to the rear. The hammer should fall. Pull

28
 the charging handle to the rear and release. Release
the trigger and pull again. The hammer should fall.

4) Pull the charging handle to the rear and release.

Place the selector lever on BURST. Pull the trigger and
hold it to the rear. The hammer should fall. Pull the
charging handle to the rear three times and release.
Release the trigger and pull again. The hammer should
fall.

5) Pull the charging handle to the rear and release.

Place the selector lever on SAFE.

b. User Serviceability Inspection. The coach is

responsible for supervising shooters in the conduct of a
user serviceability inspection of their rifles.

1) The coach must understand the procedures so that if

he has to check a shooter’s weapon, he can determine if
there is a mechanical problem with the weapon. This
knowledge enables the coach to isolate a problem caused
by the shooter’s operation of the weapon vice a true
mechanical problem with the rifle.

2) A properly conducted user serviceability inspection

can eliminate alibis being falsely awarded due to
shooter error rather than mechanical failure of the
weapon.

3) This inspection is performed prior to dry firing or

live firing to ensure the rifle is in an acceptable
operating condition. This inspection is done prior to
any combat operation such as a patrol, being posted,
etc.

4) This inspection does not replace a Limited Technical

Inspection (LTI) or pre-fire inspection conducted by a
qualified armorer.

5) To perform a user serviceability inspection:

a) Conduct a function check.

b) Check the rifle to ensure the following:

(1) The compensator is tight.

29
 (2) The barrel is tight.

(3) The front sight post is straight.

(4) The front sight post is adjustable.

(5) The handguards are serviceable.

(6) The rear sight elevation and windage knobs

are adjustable and have distinct clicks.

(7) The stock is tight on the lower receiver.

(8) The weapon is properly lubricated for

operational conditions.

(9) The barrel is clear of obstructions.

(10) The sling keeper can be adjusted and

secured.

c) Ensure magazines are serviceable.

(1) Load the rifle with an empty magazine. Tug

down on the magazine to ensure it remains seated.
If one or all of the magazines can be removed,
the coach should inspect the rifle and magazines
for the following:

(a) If all magazines can be removed, the

magazine catch may be unserviceable. Direct
the shooter to return the weapon to the
armorer for inspection and repair.

(b) If only one magazine can be removed,

this indicates the magazine is
unserviceable. Ensure the shooter replaces
the magazine prior to firing.

(2) Without depressing the bolt catch, pull the

charging handle to the rear. Ensure that the
bolt locks to the rear.

(3) Depress the upper portion of the bolt catch

and observe the bolt moving forward on an empty
chamber. Ensure the bolt moves completely
forward and locks in place.

30
 (4) Repeat these procedures with all magazines.

9. TRANSFERS

a. Show Clear Transfer. When time and the tactical

situation permit, the Marine should transfer the rifle using
the Show Clear Transfer. To properly pass a rifle between
Marines, perform the following procedures:

1) The Marine handing off the rifle must:

a) Ensure the rifle is on safe.

b) Remove the magazine if it is present.

c) Lock the bolt to the rear.

d) Visually inspect the chamber to ensure there is

no ammunition present.

e) Leave the bolt locked to the rear and hand the

weapon to the other Marine, stock first.

2) The Marine receiving the weapon must place the rifle

in Condition 4 by performing the following procedures:

a) Ensure the rifle is on safe.

b) Visually inspect the chamber to ensure there is

no ammunition present.

c) Release the bolt catch and observe the bolt going

forward on an empty chamber.

d) Close the ejection port cover.

b. Coaching Instruction -- Show Clear Transfer. When fault

checking the Show Clear Transfer, ensure both shooters
visually inspect the chamber to ensure there is no
ammunition present. Ensure the shooter receiving the weapon
releases the bolt catch and observes the bolt going forward
on an empty chamber.

c. Condition Unknown Transfer. There are times when the

tactical situation or time do no permit a Show Clear

31
Transfer of the rifle. The procedures for the Condition
Unknown Transfer are conducted by a Marine when he takes
charge of a rifle in any situation when the condition of the
rifle is unknown (e.g., an unattended rifle, a fallen
Marine’s rifle, a rifle stored in a rack). To properly take
charge of a rifle when its condition is unknown, the Marine
must perform the following procedures:

1) Ensure the rifle is on safe.

2) Conduct a chamber check to determine the condition

of the weapon.

3) Remove the magazine and observe if ammunition is

present in the magazine. If time permits, count the
rounds.

4) Insert the magazine into the magazine well.

32