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17 June 2001
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SARG - M16 RIFLE
Section I--Introduction..............................................................................................................M16-1
APPENDICES
B. Range Operations
Range Guidelines.............................................................................................................M16-B-1
Check List ......................................................................................................................M16-B-3
Risk Assessment ...........................................................................................................M16-B-11
Rifle Marksmanship
Administrative Data
2. Learning Objectives.
a. Terminal Learning Objective (TLO). Supervise rifle marksmanship training, given soldiers who
need to improve their rifle marksmanship skills in the unit/field environment, IAW FM 23-9, M16A1
and M16A2 Rifle Marksmanship.
(1) Soldier will perform individual M16 safety, load and unloading procedures.
(2) Soldier will demonstrate the four fundamentals of marksmanship through the integrated act of
firing.
(6) Soldier will demonstrate sight adjustments necessary for zeroing M16A1 or M16A2 Rifle
(7) Soldier will conduct remedial training for zeroing and record fire.
5. Academic hours:
PEACETIME MOBILIZATION
HOURS/TYPE HOURS/TYPE
Minimum 3.0/C 0/
Maximum 5.0/C 0/
TEST: / 0/
TEST: REVIEW 0/ 0/
a. Before class.
b. During class.
(3) Alternate coaches and shooters throughout the lesson allow each to evaluate the other.
(4) Make on the spot corrections during the demonstrations. Simulate conditions on a live-fire
range and enforce range safety accordingly.
c. After class.
a. Instructor material.
b. SOLDIER materials.
b. Training area.
LESSON GUIDE
SECTION I--INTRODUCTION
This preliminary marksmanship instruction (PMI) will better prepare you not only for
qualification but to survive and prevail in combat. An undisputed fact of combat is that you
must survive in order to perform any military task. Rifle marksmanship is therefore one of
the most important aspects of soldier survival that you will practice in your career. As a
reservist you will probably be responsible for the defense of your unit, using only the skills
and weapons with which you deploy.
Aimed fire is the proven, most effective way to stop the enemy. Qualification is the basic
test of your rifle marksmanship ability.
TASK: Soldiers will demonstrate the elements of PMI necessary to qualify with the M16 rifle.
STANDARDS: IAW FM 23-9, M16A1 and M16A2 Rifle Marksmanship; STP 21-1 SMCT
3. Safety requirement: Rifle handling is preceded by a safety briefing. Soldiers will handle all rifles as if
loaded.
6. Evaluation: Evaluation is through observed performance and After Action Review (AAR).
7. Instructional Lead In: The source of the material in this training is FM 23-9, M16A1 and
M16A2 Rifle Marksmanship, STP 21-1 SMCT, Soldier’s Manual of Common Tasks, Skill
Level 1, or the SARG Small Arms Training Guide. The M4/M4A1 Carbines follow the same
procedures as the M16A2 rifle unless otherwise noted. When a procedure is not common to
all rifles, a procedure will be identified specific to that rifle. The M4 carbine has an M16A2
upper receiver with a shorter barrel, adjustable buttstock, and a three round burst selector.
The M4A1 Carbine has an M16A2 style detachable carrying handle, shorter barrel,
adjustable buttstock, and is fully automatic.
SECTION II--PRESENTATION
STANDARD: Each soldier will discuss weapons safety and safe weapons handling.
BATTLE FOCUS: Individual weapons safety is a major concern of all soldiers. Violations of weapons
safety can cause injury and death. Each soldier is responsible for his own safety and those around him.
The safety information and procedures you will review or learn today will serve you during training,
qualification, and in battle.
Time: 5 minutes.
Reference: FM 23-9
Note: The instructor will designate a safe down range area for the training.
Verify all rifles are clear and bolts are locked to the rear at the beginning of training.
Have soldiers ground rifles pointed down range on entering the training area.
Note: Instructor should become familiar with and read word for word the five general safety
rules that apply to all range activities and most training and combat situations.
1. Always assume and handle weapons as if they were loaded. Clear the weapon as the first action
when you receive it and always know the condition of your weapon.
2. Do not point the weapon at anything you are not willing to destroy or fire on.
3. Keep your finger off the trigger until you are pointed in the target area and ready to fire.
5. Always wear hearing protection and appropriate safety equipment on firing ranges.
M16-3 17 June 2001
SARG - M16 RIFLE
Note: We will all observe these rules while we train with weapons. Any soldier is authorized to make
an immediate on-the-spot correction of an unsafe act.
CONDITION: Given a loaded (simulated) M16A1 or M16A2 rifle from which you must remove the
ammunition.
STANDARD: Clear the rifle, removing all ammunition and securing the rifle in the SAFE mode.
BATTLE FOCUS: Individual weapon safety is a major concern of all soldiers. Violations of weapons
safety can cause injury and death. Each soldier is responsible for his own safety and the safety of those
around him. The safety information and procedures you will review or learn today will serve you during
training, qualification, and in battle.
Time: 10 - 20 minutes
Note: The M199 dummy round may be used to perform this task
b. Press the bottom of the bolt catch, locking the bolt to the rear.
6. Press the upper portion of the bolt catch, allowing the bolt to go forward.
Note: Unit SOP or range operations may dictate other procedures. The normal range
procedure is to stop at step 5 above, with the bolt locked to the rear, the selector on safe, and
the dust cover open.
TASK: ELO 2 .0 Four Fundamentals of Marksmanship and the Integrated Act of Firing
1. Steady Position
2. Aiming
3. Breath Control
4. Trigger Squeeze
CONDITIONS: Given an M16 rifle, from the prone supported and prone unsupported position using
target box, dime –(washer) exercise or other available training devices, while wearing helmet and LCE.
BATTLE FOCUS: Marksmanship proficiency is critical and basic to soldiering and is required for any
unit deployed to a wartime theater. Any soldier unable to effectively engage the enemy with his weapon
is considered to already be a casualty.
Time: 5 - 10 minutes
Training Aids: M16 Rifle; M15A1 Aiming Card; Riddle Sighting Device; M16 Sighting Device;
Target Box and Target Paddle; Dime –(Washer); MACS Device; Weaponeer; 25 Meter Zero
Target; magazine; 5.56 mm dummy rounds; sandbag
Reference: FM 23-9
Instructional Lead-in: Each soldier will learn and apply the four fundamentals of rifle marksmanship
while dry firing from the prone unsupported and supported positions. The training will consist of an
explanation, a demonstration, and a practical application using an M16 rifle, magazine, 5 rounds of
5.56-mm dummy ammunition (if available), sandbags and fighting positions on a 25-meter range.
Each of the four fundamentals will be trained separately, integrated and evaluated using the Dime
(Washer) Exercise , Target Box Exercise, MACS Device or Weaponeer.
BATTLE FOCUS: To keep the rifle pointed at the target, the soldier must have a steady position.
Before going on the firing line, soldiers must have learned the common characteristics and principles for
obtaining a good position. This must be consistently practiced until the soldier can hold the rifle steady
with and without (sandbag) support.
Time: 20 - 30 minutes
Reference: FM 23-9
Note: Use a demonstrator to show the correct placement and use of:
Nonfiring hand: The rifle handguard rests on the heel of the hand in the V formed by the thumb and
fingers. The grip of the nonfiring hand is light, with a slight rearward pressure..
Nonfiring elbow: The nonfiring elbow is positioned firmly under the rifle to allow for a comfortable
and stable position. When the soldier engages a wide sector of fire, moving targets, and targets at
various elevations, the nonfiring elbow should remain free to pivot.
Firing hand grip: The firing hand firmly grasps the pistol grip so that it fits the V formed by the thumb
and forefinger. The forefinger is placed on the trigger so that the lay of the rifle is not disturbed when the
trigger is squeezed. A slight rearward pressure is exerted by the remaining three fingers to ensure that
the butt of the stock remains in the pocket of the shoulder, thus minimizing the effect of recoil.
Firing elbow placement: The firing elbow provides balance. The exact location depends on the firing
position used. Placement should allow shoulders to remain level.
Stock weld: Place the cheek on the stock to provide for a natural line of sight from the eye through the
center of the rear sight to the front sight post and on to the target. This has to be consistent from shot to
shot. Begin by trying to touch the nose to the charging handle when assuming a firing position.
Rifle butt position: The butt of the stock is placed in the pocket of the firing shoulder. This reduces
the effect of recoil and helps ensure a steady position.
Support: If artificial support (sandbag, log, stump) is available, it should be used to steady the position
and to support the rifle. If it is not available, then the bones, not the muscles, in the soldier's upper body
must support the rifle.
1. Supported position: Sandbags or other materials (ruck sack) should provide support for the
nonfiring arm.
Muscular Relaxation: If support is properly used, the soldier should be able to relax most of his
muscles. Using artificial support or bones in the upper body as support allows him to relax and settle
into position. Using muscles for support can cause the rifle to move.
Natural Point of Aim: When the position is stable, comfortable, and relaxed, the sights of the rifle
should be pointed at the target center. To bring the rifle sights to the center of the target adjust the body
position, not just the rifle.
Note: A toy soldier is a good analogy of Natural Point of Aim. You have to move the whole
soldier to get the rifle to point at a target.
BATTLE FOCUS: Focusing on the front sight post helps the soldier align the rifle with the target in
exactly the same way for each shot. This is a vital skill the soldier must acquire during practice.
Time: 20 - 30 Minutes
Training Aids: M16 Rifle; magazine; sandbag; M15A1 Aiming Card; Target Box and Target Paddle;
25 -Meter Target; MACS Device; Weaponeer
Reference: FM 23-9
Instructional Lead-in: In addition to a steady position, the soldier must be able to aim the rifle precisely
at the point he wants to hit on the target. The front sight post and the rear sight aperture on the M16
rifle provide an excellent sighting system .
Exercise
(2) Then, hold up the right or left thumb at arms length to act as a front sight post.
(3) With both eyes open, align the thumb with the distant object.
(4) Next, close the left eye, if the thumb stays on target, the right eye is the dominant eye.
(5) Now, close the right eye, if the thumb stays on target, the left eye is the dominant eye.
(6.) Notice with which eye open the thumb will not move off target.
b. Sight alignment: This involves placing the tip of the front sight post in the center of the rear sight
aperture.
(1) Center the tip of the front sight post vertically and horizontally in the rear sight aperture.
(2) Imagine a horizontal line drawn through the center of the rear sight aperture. The top of the front
sight post will appear to touch this line. Imagine a vertical line drawn through the center of the rear sight
aperture. The line should bisect the front sight post.
Note: This is the most natural method of sight alignment as the eye will instinctively accomplish this
task with little training. This method also causes the least amount of inconsistency from shot to shot.
c. Focus of the Eye: The eye must focus on the front sight post when the shot is fired. The human eye
can focus clearly on only one object, or at one distance at a time.
Exercise
(2) At arms length hold up the right or left thumb to act as a front sight post.
(3) Shift the focus back and forth from thumb to object.
(a) While exhaling and moving the front sight to the target, focus should be shifted repeatedly
from the front sight post to the target until correct sight picture is obtained. Once sight picture is
obtained, final focus should be the tip of the front sight post. This enables the detection of minute errors
in sight alignment.
(b) During firing, secondary vision will include the rear sight and the target. The rear sight and
target will appear blurry.
Note: An inexperienced shooter may have difficulty accepting that the final focus must be on the tip of
the front sight post with the target appearing blurry.
(c) Focusing on the front sight post for more than a few seconds can affect vision, making it
difficult to detect minute errors in sight alignment.
d. Sight Picture: Once the soldier can correctly align sights, he can obtain sight picture. A correct sight
picture has the target, tip of the front sight post, and rear sight aligned.
Note: Refer to Figure 3 for correct sight picture
(1) The tip of the front sight post is placed at center of mass on the target while maintaining sight
alignment.
(2) In combat, targets are often indistinct and oddly shaped. The center of mass hold is the most
reliable, because the point of aim is the point of impact.
(1) Stock weld is the point of firm contact between the cheek and the stock of the rifle. The head
should be as erect as possible, to enable the aiming eye to look straight through the rear sight aperture.
(a) If the position of the head causes the soldier to look across the bridge of the nose or from
under the eyebrow, muscles that control eye movement will become strained. The strain will produce
involuntary eye movements, which effect vision. This will affect shooting performance.
(b) Changing the placement of your cheek on the stock from shot to shot will affect shot impact
due to a perceptive change in the true center of the rear sight aperture.
(2) Eye relief is the distance between the rear sight aperture and the aiming eye.
(a) Normally, eye relief is two to six inches from the rear sight aperture. The distance between
the aiming eye and the rear sight aperture depends on the length of ones neck and the position of the
rifle stock in the shoulder. Eye relief should be comfortable, and provide the best optical perception.
(b) If the aiming eye is too close to the rear sight aperture, the aperture will appear very large,
making it difficult to align the front sight post in the center of the rear sight aperture. Moving away from
the rear sight aperture will make the aperture appear smaller, allowing the easy alignment of the front
sight post in the center of the rear sight aperture.
(c) If the aiming eye is too far from the rear sight aperture, it will be difficult to acquire the target
and maintain a precise aiming point.
(d) While eye relief varies from one position to another, it is important to have the same eye relief
for all shots fired from a particular position.
Note: Have soldiers use peer coach method to practice stockweld and eye relief
(3) Wearing glasses can alter the perception of sight alignment and sight picture. While wearing
glasses, it is critical to look through the optical center of the lens to eliminate possible distortion. Elastic
bands may help to hold glasses in place ensuring undistorted vision.
(a) Clean sights regularly with an all-purpose brush or wipe them with a dry, clean patch.
(b) Shiny sights can cause glare, making it difficult to focus on the front sight post. If the sights
become so shiny that sighting becomes difficult, blacken the sights or return the rifle to the armory..
(c) Blacken the front sight using a commercial spray sight black, carbide lamp, black magic
marker, or boot dye..
Follow the above instruction with the Target Box practical exercise, MACS Device or Weaponeer.
Figure 2
Figure 3
BATTLE FOCUS: Movement of the chest caused by normal breathing makes it difficult to maintain
good sight picture. It is necessary to momentarily stop breathing while squeezing the trigger.
Time: 10 - 15 minutes
Training Aids: M16 Rifle; magazine; sandbags; MACS Device; Dime –(Washer), Weaponeer
Reference: FM 23-9
There is a moment of natural respiratory pause in the breathing cycle (inhaling and exhaling) that lasts
two to three seconds. During the respiratory pause, chest muscles are relaxed and the rifle sights settle
at their natural point of aim. The shot should be fired at this time.
Note: Use Figure 4 to show the breathing cycle. This can be demonstrated by feeling the rise
and fall of the chest. The pause occurs when the chest falls.
Some soldiers can extend respiratory pause for up to ten seconds to fire a shot. The pause should last
no longer than what feels comfortable. Extending the pause, for too long, will result in a lack of oxygen,
causing vision to deteriorate, affecting the ability to focus on the sights.
To effectively engage timed or multiple targets, a soldier must learn to hold his breath at any part of the
breathing cycle. Two types of breath control techniques are practiced during target engagement.
1. Technique for breath control when zeroing, single target slow-fire. (Natural Respiratory Pause)
Figure 4 top
b. Stop breathing at the natural respiratory pause and make final adjustments to the natural point of
aim.
2. Techniques for breath control when engaging targets with short exposure times. (Forced
Respiratory Pause) Figure 4 bottom
b. When the target appears, stop breathing (hold the breath) no matter where in the respiratory
cycle.
d. Resume breathing
Note: Have soldiers assume a prone position with the M16 rifle, and practice aiming and
breath control. Point out how the sights rise and fall with the breathing cycle. This task may
be trained using the MACS Device, Dime –(Washer), or Weaponeer.
Figure 4
BATTLE FOCUS: Trigger control is the skillful manipulation of the trigger that causes the rifle to fire
while maintaining sight alignment and sight picture. Mastering trigger squeeze will increase the
probability of hitting your target on the range or in combat.
Time: 15 - 20 minutes
Training Aids: M16 rifle; magazine; Dime –(Washer); MACS Device; Weaponeer
Reference: FM 23-9
Proper trigger squeeze must be employed to shoot accurately. Missing the target is usually caused by
the aim being disturbed just before the bullet leaves the barrel.. During the natural respiratory pause, the
trigger must be squeezed without disturbing the sight picture.
a. A firm grip of the hand on the pistol grip is essential for good trigger squeeze. The grip should be
established before starting the trigger squeeze.. To establish a firm grip on your rifle:
(1) Place the "V" formed between your thumb and index finger high on the pistol grip directly
behind the trigger.
(2) Place the fingers and thumb around the pistol grip so that the trigger finger is positioned
naturally on the trigger.
(3) The grip should be firm enough to allow manipulation of the trigger without disturbing the
sights.
b. The correct placement of the trigger finger must be understood before trigger can be mastered.
(1) The trigger finger should contact the trigger naturally. Placement of the finger on the trigger
depends greatly on the size of the hand and the manner in which the pistol grip is held. Most shooters
find that placing the trigger between the first joint and the tip of the index finger is most natural.
(2) Placement is correct when it allows the trigger to be moved straight to the rear without
disturbing sight alignment.
a. Everyone has probably heard or read that trigger control is such a subconscious process that the
shooter is surprised when the shot is fired. This is a good way to develop trigger control.
b. Follow-through is the continued application of the four fundamentals until the round has left the
rifle barrel. Take care not to shift the position, move the head, or let the muzzle of the rifle drop until the
bullet has left the barrel.
Follow the above instruction with the Dime – Washer practical exercise, MACS Device or
Weaponeer, which tests Steady Position, Trigger Squeeze, Breath Control, and Follow Through.
TASK: ELO 2.5 Demonstrate correct marksmanship fundamentals during the Dime – Washer
exercise.
CONDITION: Given an M16 rifle, a Dime – Washer balanced on the barrel while in the prone-
unsupported position, and sighted on a 25-meter zero target.
Time: 20 - 30 minutes
Reference: FM 23-9
INSTRUCTIONAL LEAD-IN: The Dime – Washer exercise is used to test the soldiers ability to
apply steady position, correct trigger squeeze, breath control and follow through.
Note: When using the M16A1 use a Dime – Washer; M16A2, insert a cleaning rod handle
section into the end of the barrel or tape a pencil to the top of the barrel.
If the soldier is having difficulty achieving the standard while in the prone unsupported
position, use the supported position to analyze the problem.
Consider VAT (Value Added Training), fire in full battle dress, and load the rifle from
magazine pouches. The soldier should have both magazine pouches full (6 magazines).
Consider modifying all firing commands to allow soldiers to load from the pouch.
Have demonstrator assume an unsupported prone position, and talk him through the following
exercise.
2. The shooter assumes an unsupported firing position and is critiqued by the coach.
3. The coach assumes a position on the side of the rifle opposite the shooter so that he can watch
the shooter's eye and trigger finger.
4. The shooter cocks the rifle and aims at the zero target.
5. When the shooter is on target the coach balances the Dime – Washer on the barrel so that it does
not touch the flash suppresser.
6. After balancing the washer, the coach tells the shooter, "Ready" and closely observes the shooter
(don't watch the Dime – Washer) during the trigger pull.
7. If the washer drops from the barrel during the trigger pull, the coach informs the shooter of the
cause.
8. The rifle is cocked and the exercise is repeated until shooter dry-fires nine out of ten times without
causing the Dime – Washer to fall.
Note: Have soldiers pair up and perform the exercise. Evaluate and make on the spot
corrections as needed.
TASK: ELO 2.6 Demonstrate consistent aiming during the Target Box exercise.
CONDITIONS: Given an M16 rifle, target box, pencil and paper and target box paddle.
STANDARDS: Soldier will simulate a three-round shot-group that will fit within a 1-centimeter circle,
demonstrating the consistent placement of the aiming point within the plastic target-box paddle's
template.
Time: 20 - 30 minutes
Training Aids: M16; Target Box and Target Paddle; M16 Sighting Device (optional); Blank Paper
Reference: FM 23-9
CAUTION: This task will require a soldier to be down range. All rifles shall be cleared by
the soldiers and checked by the instructor.
Note: A locally fabricated box will be needed for this exercise. See Figure 5 for diagram and
instructions on construction. Use the photocopy of the target paddle Figure 6 to reproduce
your own target paddles. This item may be procured through TASC. ID # DVC-T-7-86
Note: Have demonstrator assume a modified supported prone position. and talk him through
the following exercise.
1. This exercise is carried out using the peer coach as a target man.
2. The shooter places the rifle "firmly" in the rifle rest (target box) and assumes a modified prone
firing position alongside of it.
Note: It is important to ensure that the target box is either 15 yards or 25 meters from the
muzzle of the rifle. The silhouettes on the target paddle depict a 250-meter E-silhouette target,
scaled for 15 yards or 25 meters.
3. While looking through the sights, the shooter motions the target man to move the target box in line
with the sights.
4. With the shooter and target box in position, the target man sits on the box and holds the target
paddle anywhere against the blank sheet of paper.
5. The shooter obtains correct sight picture. With one hand he then motions the target man to move
the target in the desired direction so that the scaled silhouette appears in proper position above the front
sight post.
6. After the shooter has aligned his sights and target, he gives the signal to mark the paper by
marking through the small hole in the paddle.
7. The paddle is removed and the target man marks the spot #1.
8. The paddle is once again placed at a different starting point against the sheet of paper and the
exercise is repeated two more times.
9. After the third shot, the three points are triangulated and labeled as shot group #1.
10. The exercise should be repeated as many times as necessary to achieve shot groups that will fit
into a 1-centimeter circle.
11. The coach may observe the shooter's center of mass aiming using the M16 sighting device to
critique the shooter's aiming point and sight picture.
Target Box: This is a locally fabricated item. A cardboard box may be used as a rifle holder, by cutting
notches on 2 opposite ends. See figure 12 for a to-scale version of the target paddle. Make sure that
you use the right size silhouette and grouping circles, for the range that you will perform this exercise.
Figure 5
Figure 6
TASK: ELO 2.7 Apply the four fundamentals of marksmanship using the Multipurpose Arcade
Combat Simulator (MACS)
CONDITIONS: While wearing helmet and LCE given a demonstration and practical application on the
MACS Device from the prone supported firing position.
STANDARDS: Demonstrate the proper application of the four fundamentals of rifle marksmanship,
and complete Level 1 on the MACS Device.
Time: Instructors should use their judgment as to how much shooting each soldier gets on the MACS
Device. The minimum number of shots for each soldier is 18, but for soldiers having problems, this
number should go higher. An average of 12 to 15 minutes time on the MACS Device for each soldier.
Note: Instructor should use the peer coach method and not allow the coach to watch the
monitor. The coach should watch the shooter to evaluate the proper and improper techniques.
Then look at the screen to evaluate what he saw.
1. Each soldier fires a 3 round shot group on the MACS device. After the soldier achieves a good or
excellent, he then moves to Level 1.
2. At level 1, soldier must hit each target 2 out of 3 times at targets from 50 to 300 meters.
TASK: ELO 2.8 Apply the four fundamentals of marksmanship using the Weaponeer
CONDITIONS: While wearing helmet and LCE, given a demonstration and practical application on
the Weaponeer from the supported firing position.
STANDARDS: Demonstrate the proper application of the four fundamentals of rifle marksmanship,
and complete 41 hits out of 64 targets on the Weaponeer.
Time: 10 to 15 min.
Reference: FM 23-9
Note: The Weaponeer can aid in the objective assessment of basic marksmanship; therefore, periodic
Weaponeer diagnosis should be conducted and recorded.
Note: Instructor should use the peer coach method and not allow the coach to watch the
monitor. The coach should watch the shooter to evaluate the proper and improper techniques.
Then look at the screen to evaluate what he saw. Assessment of Skills.
1. Each soldier fires until zeroed on the Weaponeer. Soldiers unable to zero in 9 to 15 rounds should
be withdrawn from testing and given remedial training.
a. Scenario of target presentation. The operator controls the presentation of the targets with the
target buttons.
b. Order of target presentation. The scaled 100-meter and 250-meter targets (or 75 meters, 175
meters, and 300 meters) are presented in a mixed order according to a planned schedule.
c. Ratio of target presentation. Targets are presented in a ratio of three 250-meter targets to one
100-meter target (or three 300 meters, two 175 meters to one 75 meters). A 64-target scenario
consisting of two 32-target scenarios (the first engaged from the supported position; the second from
the prone unsupported position) is conducted with a short break between.
d. Target exposure time. Exposure time is four seconds for the scaled 250-meter targets (or 175
meters) and two seconds for the scaled 100-meter target (or 75 meters).
e. Target interval. The time between target exposures should be varied from one to eight seconds.
f. Target mode. The kill mode is used so that targets fall when they are hit.
3. A score of 41 hits out of the 64 targets on Weaponeer indicates that soldiers can proceed to actual
record fire. Soldiers who score lower than 41 should receive remedial training.
CONDITION: Given an M16A1/M16A2 rifle or M4/M4A1 carbine that you must confirm is
operable.
STANDARD: Perform the function check, ensuring that the rifle operates properly with the selector
lever in each position.
BATTLE FOCUS: Performing a function check is a skill that must be mastered by the soldier to
increase his chances of survivability in combat. You need to perform a function check every time you
disassemble and assemble your rifle or suspect that there is a malfunction. Each soldier is responsible
for his own safety and those around him. The safety information and procedures you will review or
learn today will serve you during, training, qualification, and in battle.
Time: 10 - 20 minutes
CAUTION: To avoid accidental firing, be sure magazine is removed and chamber is clear
(Unload an M16A2 Rifle).
Note: Only the steps for the rifle model being used by the soldier need to be trained.
1. Pull the charging handle to rear and release. Place the selector on SAFE and pull trigger. The
hammer should not fall.
2. Place the selector on SEMI. Pull the trigger and hold to the rear. The hammer should fall. Pull the
charging handle to rear and release. Release the trigger and pull again. The hammer should fall.
3. Place the selector on BURST. Pull the charging handle to rear and release. Pull the trigger and hold
it to the rear. The hammer should fall. Pull the charging handle to rear three times and release. Release
the trigger and pull again. The hammer should fall.
4. Stop the function check any time the rifle does not function properly and turn into the unit armorer.
CAUTION: To avoid accidental firing, be sure magazine is removed and chamber is clear
(071-311-2028 Unload an M16A1 Rifle).
Note: Only the steps for the rifle model being used by the soldier need to be trained.
1. Pull the charging handle to the rear and release. Place the selector on SAFE and squeeze the
trigger. The hammer should not fall.
2. Place the selector on SEMI and squeeze the trigger. The hammer should fall. Holding the trigger to
the rear, pull the charging handle to the rear and release. Release the trigger. There should be a metallic
click.. Squeeze the trigger again; hammer should fall.
3. Place the selector on AUTO. Pull the charging handle to rear and release. Squeeze the trigger. The
hammer should fall. Hold the trigger to the rear and charge the rifle. Release the pressure on the trigger
and squeeze it to the rear again. The hammer should not fall because it should have fallen when the bolt
was allowed to move foward during the charging sequence.
4. Stop the function check any time the rifle does not function properly and turnin to the unit armorer.
STANDARD: Load an M16A1 rifle in the semiautomatic and automatic modes or load an M16A2
rifle in both the semiautomatic and burst modes. In either case, ensure that a round is chambered and
the selector is returned to the SAFE position.
BATTLE FOCUS: Loading the M16 rifle or M4 carbine is a skill that must be mastered by the soldier
to increase his chances of survivability in combat. Loading should become automatic, because you will
not always have the luxury of loading in a training environment. You will have to load in conditions of
NBC, nighttime, smoke and under stress. Each soldier is responsible for his own safety and for the
safety of those around him. The safety information and procedures you will review or learn today will
serve you during training, qualification, and in battle.
Time: 10 - 20 minutes
1. Prepare the M16A1 rifle or M4A1 carbine for semiautomatic and automatic fire.
b. Pull the charging handle, and lock the bolt to the rear.
f. Insert the magazine, pushing it upward until the magazine catch engages and holds the magazine.
Note: To guarantee a three-round burst the first time you pull the trigger, follow these steps :
WARNING
START WITH A CLEAR RIFLE
j. Push the bottom portion of the bolt catch, locking the bolt to the rear.
m. Insert a magazine, pushing upward until the magazine catch engages and holds the magazine.
b. Tap the forward assist assembly to ensure bolt is fully forward and locked.
WARNING
RIFLE IS NOW LOADED. ENSURE IT IS POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION
b. Never “ride” the charging handle forward. Let the bolt slam into battery.
c. Tap the forward assist assembly to ensure bolt is fully forward and locked.
WARNING
RIFLE IS NOW LOADED. ENSURE IT IS POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION
CONDITION: Given a loaded M16A1 or M16A2 rifle that has a malfunction and has stopped firing.
BATTLE FOCUS: Correcting a malfunction is a skill that must be mastered by the soldier to increase
chances of survivability in combat. Performing immediate action should become automatic, because you
will not always have the luxury of being in a training environment and having an instructor with you. You
will have to perform in conditions of NBC, nighttime, smoke and under stress. Each soldier is
responsible for his own safety and the safety of those around him. The safety information and
procedures you will review or learn today will serve you during training, qualification, and in battle.
Time: 10 - 20 minutes
Note: Brief general safety rules in preparation for exercise. Designate a safe down range
area when training and direct soldiers to point rifle down range when practicing.
Note: The M199 dummy round may be used to perform this task
WARNING
IF YOUR RIFLE MALFUNCTIONS WITH A LIVE ROUND IN THE CHAMBER OF A
HOT BARREL, QUICKLY REMOVE THE ROUND. IF YOU CAN NOT REMOVE THE
ROUND WITHIN TEN SECONDS, REMOVE THE MAGAZINE, PLACE SELECTOR ON
SAFE AND WAIT 15 MINUTES WITH THE RIFLE POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION.
KEEP YOUR FACE AWAY FROM THE EJECTION PORT WHILE CLEARING A HOT
CHAMBER TO AVOID POSSIBLE INJURY FROM A COOKOFF. THIS ACTION IS
PERFORMED IN TRAINING. IN A COMBAT SCENARIO, YOU GET THE RIFLE
BACK IN ACTION.
Note: If your rifle malfunctions, remember S-P-O-R-T-S. This key word will help you
remember these actions in sequence: Slap, Pull, Observe, Release, Tap, Shoot.
c. Observe the ejection of the case or cartridge. Look into the chamber and check for
obstructions.
Note: Pull and Observe should be done at the same time. You Observe the chamber when
you Pull the charging handle back.
d. Release the charging handle to feed a new round into the chamber. Do not ride the charging
handle forward.
f. Shoot. If the rifle still does not fire, repeat immediate action. If immediate action fails twice
consecutively, take remedial action
Note: Most malfunctions are a failure to feed caused by faulty, improperly maintained, or
improperly charged magazines. If a failure to feed persists, try another magazine. Once a
magazine is identified as the cause of a malfunction (failure to feed), destroy it. Magazines
are expendable, soldiers aren't.
Note: If your rifle still fails to fire, you may have mechanical failure.
Note: Sand, dirt or blown primers may fall into the trigger housing and cause a malfunction.
An indication that this has occurred is the hammer will not fall when the trigger is pulled.
The rifle:
1. Is being returned after direct support (DS) or general support (GS) maintenance.
3. Has been dropped or otherwise damaged, which may have changed the battlesight zero.
STANDARD: Battlesight zero the rifle so that five out of six rounds, in two consecutive shot groups,
strike within the 4-centimeter circle on the target. Use 18 rounds or less. Shots that touch the line of the
4-centimeter circle are acceptable.
BATTLE FOCUS: Soldiers in combat will have confidence and effectively engage the enemy when
their rifles are zeroed.
Note: Soldiers with established battlesight zeros need only to confirm their zeros. Select the
unmarked long-range aperture on the rear sight, rotate the elevation knob clockwise one click
past “8/3”, and go directly to step 3 below.
Note: Zeroing the M16 rifle consists of a grouping exercise and a zeroing exercise.
1. Select the unmarked, long-range aperture on the rear sight for zeroing. Figure 7
Note: The sights must first be set at mechanical zero or battlesight zero computation will be
wrong.
(2) Rotate the post up or down so the notched disk is flush with the top of the front sight post
well.
Note: For initial sight setting, adjust the front sight post 8 clicks in the direction of UP. This
moves the post down into the well 8 clicks. Record this adjustment on the target.
(1) Align the index mark on the 0-2 aperture with the center line of the windage scale on the
receiver.
(2) Rotate the elevation knob down until the range scale mark “8/3” is aligned with the mark on
the left side of the receiver.
(3) Rotate the elevation knob one click clockwise past the “8/3” mark.
Note: Sight picture is obtained by aligning the rear sight and front sight with the center of the
target.
a. Align the sights By centering the top of the front sight in the center of the rear sight. Figure 9
(1) Draw an imaginary horizontal and vertical line through the center of the rear aperture.
(2) Place the top of the front sight post where the imaginary lines intersect.
b. Align the aiming point by positioning the top of the front sight post at the center of mass of the
target.
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 until two consecutive shot groups fall within a 4-centimeter circle.
Note: Do not make sight adjustments until two consecutive shot groups fall within a 4-
centimeter circle regardless of group location.
Note: The target has a grid of labeled vertical and horizontal lines. It also has pictures of the
front and rear sights with a direction arrow to assist with adjusting the sights.
7. Adjust the sights to move the shot group within the zero circle if required.
Note: Do not adjust the sights if the shot group meets the task standard. Trainers should use
Figure 10 to illustrate Battlesight Zero calculation.
(1) Find the horizontal line (right to left) nearest the center of the shot group.
(2) Follow the line either left or right to the nearest edge of the target.
(3) Identify the number of clicks and the direction of adjustment shown at the edge of the target.
(5) Adjust the front sight in the indicated direction by the appropriate number of clicks.
(1) Find the vertical line (up and down) nearest the center of the shot group.
(2) Follow the line either up or down to the nearest edge of the target.
(3) Identify the number of clicks and the direction of adjustment shown at the edge of the target.
(5) Adjust the rear sight in the indicated direction by the appropriate number of clicks.
9. Repeat steps 7 and 8 until 5 out of 6 shots, in two consecutive shot groups, are within the 4-
centimeter circle on the target.
12. Rotate the elevation knob down until the range scale mark “8/3” is aligned with the mark on the left
side of the receiver. This is the setting for field fire.
Figure 7
Figure 8
Figure 9
The rifle:
1. Is being returned after direct support (DS) or general support (GS) maintenance.
3. Has been dropped or otherwise damaged, which may have changed the battlesight zero.
STANDARD: Battlesight zero the rifle so that five out of six rounds, in two consecutive shot groups,
strike within the 4-centimeter circle on the target. Use 18 rounds or less. Shots that touch the line of the
4-centimeter circle are acceptable.
BATTLE FOCUS: Soldiers in combat will have confidence and effectively engage the enemy when
their rifles are zeroed.
Note: Soldiers with established battlesight zeros need only to confirm their zeros. Select the
long-range aperture “L” on the rear sight and go directly to step 3 below.
Note: Zeroing the M16A1 rifle consists of a grouping exercise and then a zeroing exercise.
1. Select the long-range aperture "L" on the rear sight for zeroing. Figure 11
Note: The sights must first be set at mechanical zero or battlesight zero computation will be
wrong.
(2) Rotate the post up or down so the notched disk is flush with the top of the front sight post
well.
Note: The rear sight on the M16A1 consists of a rotating windage drum with a spring-loaded
detent.
Note: The sight picture is obtained by aligning the rear sight and the front sight with the
proper aiming point for the target.
a. Align the sights by centering the top of the front sight post in the center of the rear sight aperture.
Figure 12
(1) Draw an imaginary horizontal and vertical line through the center of the rear aperture.
(2) Place the top of the front sight post where the imaginary lines intersect.
b. Align the aiming point by positioning the top of the front sight post at the center of mass of the
target.
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 until two consecutive shot groups fall within a 4-centimeter circle.
Note: Do not make sight adjustments until 2 consecutive shot groups have been fired that fall
within a 4-centimeter circle. The groups do not need to be on the silhouette.
Note: The target is divided by labeled vertical and horizontal lines. It also has pictures of the
front and rear sights with a direction arrow to assist you with adjusting the sights.
7. Adjust the sights to move the shot group within the zero circle if required.
Note: Do not adjust the sights if the shot group meets the task standard. Trainers should use
Figure 10 to illustrate Battlesight Zero calculation.
(1) Find the horizontal line (right to left) nearest the center of the shot group.
(2) Follow the line either left or right to the nearest edge of the target.
(3) Identify the number of clicks and the direction of adjustment shown at the edge of the target.
(5) Adjust the front sight in the indicated direction by the appropriate number of clicks.
(1) Find the vertical line (up and down) nearest the center of the shot group.
(2) Follow the line either up or down to the nearest edge of the target.
(3) Identify the number of clicks and the direction of adjustment shown at the edge of the target.
(5) Adjust the rear sight in the indicated direction by the appropriate number of clicks.
9. Repeat steps 7 and 8 until 5 out of 6 shots, in two consecutive shot groups, are within the 4-
centimeter circle on the target.
12. Flip the rear sight back to the unmarked aperture, for field fire.
Note: Once the zeroing is complete, select the unmarked rear sight aperture. This will be the
setting for field fire. Moving the sight back to the "L" marked aperture will extend the zero
to 375 meters without additional adjustments to the front sight post.
Figure 11
Figure 12
TASK: ELO 7.1 REMEDIAL TRAINING FOR GROUPING, ZEROING AND RECORD FIRE
WITH AN M16 Rifle
CONDITION: On a 25-meter range, given an M16Rifle, a 25-meter zero target, and sandbags for
support. A soldier has been removed from the firing line under one of the following situations:
Grouping Exercise:
1. Soldier does not have an acceptable shot group (4-cm or less) after 9 rounds.
2. Soldier has not achieved the grouping standard (4-cm or less) after 12 rounds.
Zeroing Exercise:
1. Soldier does not have an acceptable shot group within the 4-cm circle after 9 rounds.
2. Soldier has not achieved the zeroing standard 5 out of 6 rounds within the 4-cm circle, after 12
rounds.
Note: If a soldier is identified as having problems during the initial grouping or zeroing
exercises, an expert shooter or remedial trainer could be used to coach the shooter on the
line. With this specialized coaching the shooter may be able to meet the standard without
being removed from the firing line and sent to the remedial training area.
STANDARD: In a designated remedial training area, the soldier will demonstrate the integrated act of
firing by applying the four fundamentals of marksmanship using one or more of the following training aids
or devices:
1. Dime (washer): Dry firing 9 out of 10 times without dropping the washer.
2. Laser Simulation Devices: Using a laser transmitter and reflective target system, require 8 of
10 hits with in a four centimeter circle of the reflective target.
BATTLE FOCUS: Marksmanship is a life-saving skill. With increasing deployments faced by today's
Army, especially the reserve components, every soldier must posses the skill and confidence to
successfully engage and neutralize the enemy. Be it a combat service support unit or an infantry squad,
a soldier could be called upon at any time to use his weapon to protect his or other soldiers lives.
Time: 20 - 45 minutes
Training Aids: M16 Rifle 25 Meter Zero Target; Laser transmitter with reflective target; Coaches
Sighting Box; Riddle Device; MACS Device; Weaponeer; M15A1 Aiming Card; Target Box and
Target Paddle; M199 Dummy Round
Reference: FM 23-9; STP 21-1-SMCT; M16 Rifle COI, ELO 2 and Appendix C;
Remedial trainers should be soldiers who are proficient in marksmanship. Rank should not be a
determining factor in the selection process. The trainer selected should be the most qualified individual
with the following characteristics:
Soldiers with prior competitive marksmanship experience or civilian coaching experience should be
given first consideration. The commander should ensure that the trainers skills are continually developed
by training courses and or certification programs. Assistant trainers should also be given the same
opportunities in the event the primary trainer is absent or leaves the unit.
Exercise
2. Then hold up the right or left thumb at arms length to act as a front sight post.
3. With both eyes open, quickly align the thumb with a distant object.
4. Next, close the left eye, if the thumb stays on target, the right eye is the dominant eye.
5. Then, close the right eye, if the thumb stays on target, the left eye is the dominant eye.
6. Notice with which eye open the thumb will not move off target.
Note: The soldier should have in his possession his 25 meter zero target to present to the
trainer.
The remedial trainer should perform an evaluation of the soldier’s target to determine the emphasis of
the remedial training to be conducted (Refer to ELO 7.2 Analyze shot groups for remedial training).
This is done on an individual basis.
The remedial trainer should try to determine the problems by discussing the soldier's performance on the
firing line. (such as difficulty seeing the front sight).
Have the soldier demonstrate prone supported and unsupported positions. Make corrections as
required to enhance the soldier's positions.
Note: The instructor should check eye relief, cheek to stock weld, comfort of the position,
and the natural point of aim.
Have the soldier explain correct sight alignment and sight picture. The soldier should draw this out on
paper or in the sand so the instructor can evaluate what the soldier is seeing.
Note: The instructor should check the proper grip, uninterrupted trigger pull and the correct
placement of the trigger finger.
Note: The instructor will ensure that the soldier is not breathing at the point of delivering a
shot.
Once the soldier properly performs the above four fundamentals separately, the remedial trainer
explains how they are all integrated into the act of firing the shot.
Once the soldier exhibits correct performance of the fundamentals, return the soldier to the
live fire range.
Note: The remedial coach/instructor should follow the remedial guidelines found in the
previous “Dry Fire Training” section.
Note: The reflective target should be shaded to allow maximum definition of the laser beam
on the target face.
1. The soldier will assume a good prone supported position with the laser transmitter and mandrel
inserted in the muzzle of the rifle.
3. As the soldier continues to aim, have the coach/instructor activate the laser transmitter in the
continuous mode. The coach/instructor should then adjust the transmitter beam to the center of the
silhouette.
Note: When the laser is properly adjusted, the top of the front sight post will appear to be
center of mass on the laser dot.
Note: The coach/instructor should watch for movement of the beam from the target as the
shooter squeezes the trigger.
4. The coach/instructor will adjust the laser transmitter to the training mode.
6. When the soldier achieves eight out of ten consecutive shots in the 4-cm circle of the reflective
target, he may return to the live fire range.
Ensuring that the four fundamentals are properly executed, have the soldier dry fire at a target down
range. This should be done for a minimum of five shots before allowing the soldier to start firing
Note: Pair up remedial soldier with an experienced soldier to help with the remedial training.
Conduct a ball and dummy exercise by inserting a dummy round into the magazine with live rounds
during the grouping or zeroing exercises and observe for any errors while the shooter is firing.
The coach/instructor may also load the soldier’s rifle for him. Have the soldier look away, close the bolt
on an empty chamber, put the magazine in and tell him it is loaded and ready to fire. Correct any
marksmanship errors.
Have the shooter start the grouping exercise again and complete to standard.
Note: FM 23-9 does not give any guidance on how many times a soldier is allowed to refire if
they do not meet the qualification standard. This will be dependent on the time and
ammunition available to refire these soldiers. A common sense approach would be “three
strikes and you’re out”. If a soldier fails to qualify and is given remedial training and the
cycle is repeated two times, the soldier will not qualify no matter how many times he tries.
After three attempts to qualify, the soldier is removed from the firing line and is done firing
for the day. Either a training program needs to be developed for these soldiers, or look for
other factors in the soldier’s inability to qualify. One big factor may be that there has been a
change in the soldier's vision, so that he cannot see the targets or focus on the front sight.
The only solution to this problem is for the soldier to get his eyes examined, get new glasses
and come back another day to qualify.
To properly conduct grouping and zeroing exercises for soldiers, you must clearly understand shot
group analysis
Shot group analysis is necessary to determine shooter errors partially concealed by the normal
dispersion of rounds fired using a service rifle and service ammunition.
1. The first step is marking the shot group by triangulating the shots and determining its approximate
center.
Note: Both FM 23-9 and STP 21-1-SMCT refer to the size of a shot group in centimeters.
The lines on the M16A1 zero target are .7-cm apart. The lines on the M16A2 zero target are
1 cm apart. The shot group analysis sheets are from M16A2 targets. The targets used in FM
23-9 are M16A1 targets.
3. For 4-cm and smaller shot groups, you cannot determine anything from the pattern or shape of the
shot group. Variations in service ammunition can produce most any shape. For 6-cm and larger shot
groups, the pattern may possibly indicate the type of error the shooter is making.
4. To provide more information for analysis, soldiers should fire at least three groups on the same
target. This permits you to see the variations in the relative position of the shot groups.
5. The relative position of the shot groups can identify shooter sight placement errors.
6. Your soldiers must develop the ability to fire tight shot groups and place these groups in the same
location on the target before they attempt to zero their rifles. Your ability to identify the mistakes your
soldiers make by analysis of shot groups and observing the soldiers while they are firing is the key to a
successful grouping exercise.
1. The size of this shot group (about 2 cm) indicates good performance.
2. There is no indication of shooter error. For a grouping exercise, the position of the shot group on the
target is immaterial. Size of the group and the ability to place two or more groups in the same location
are important.
1. The size of this shot group (about 6-cm) indicates that the shooter’s performance is unacceptable.
2. The pattern of this shot group does not provide enough information to determine the error(s) the
shooter is making. The horizontal displacement may indicate improper sight alignment, improper sight
placement , unsteady position, or failure to apply proper trigger squeeze.
3. Observe the shooter closely while he fires additional shot groups to determine the specific errors he is
making.
1. The size of this shot group (about 4-cm) indicates that the shooter’s performance is acceptable.
There is, however, room for improvement.
2. The pattern of this shot group does not provide enough information for you to determine the error(s)
the shooter is making. The vertical displacement may result from improper sight placement, unsteady
position, or failure to apply proper breath control.
3. Observe the soldier closely while he fires additional shot groups to determine the specific errors he is
making.
2. The pattern of this shot group does not provide enough information for you to determine the error(s)
the shooter is making. There is a possibility that an erratic round of ammunition, not shooter error, has
caused the excessive displacement.
3. Observe the soldier closely while he fires additional shot groups to determine the specific errors he is
making.
2. In this case, the pattern does provide some information. The large horizontal and vertical
displacement suggests that the soldier may not be properly applying any of the marksmanship
fundamentals.
3. This shooter requires remedial dry-fire training before proceeding with the grouping exercise.
1. The size of this shot group (about 7 cm) indicates that the shooter’s performance is unacceptable.
2. The pattern of this shot group does not provide enough information for you to determine the error(s)
the shooter is making. The vertical displacement of the rounds in this group may result from improper
sight placement, unsteady position, or failure to apply proper breath control.
3. Observe the soldier closely while he fires additional shot groups to determine the specific errors he is
making.
1. Although each individual shot group is good, the dispersion of the groups makes the shooter’s
performance unacceptable.
2. The individual shot groups indicate that the soldier has mastered the fundamentals. The dispersion
indicates that the shooter is changing sight placement or sight alignment between groups. He may be
trying to place a group in the center of the target
3. You should use the M16 sighting device to verify the shooters sight placement while he fires
additional shot groups.
1. The size of these shot groups (about 6-cm) indicates that the shooter’s performance is unacceptable.
The placement of the groups in the same general location is immaterial at this point.
2. The pattern of this shot group does not provide enough information to determine the error(s) the
shooter is making. The vertical displacement of the rounds in this group may result from improper sight
placement, or failure to apply proper breath control.
3. Since the second shot group is no better than the first, this shooter requires remedial training before
continuing the grouping exercise.
CONDITION: Given an M16A1 or M16A2 rifle, magazines, small arms maintenance equipment case
and lubricating instructions.
STANDARD: Clean, inspect and lubricate the rifle and magazines so that they function correctly.
BATTLE FOCUS: Correcting malfunctions is a skill that must be mastered by the soldier to increase
his chances of survivability in combat. Proper maintenance is important because your life and the lives
of others depend on your rifle functioning properly. The safety information and procedures you will
review or learn today will serve you during training, qualification and in battle.
Time: 20 - 30 minutes
Training Aids: M16 Rifle; Magazines; Equipment maintenance case w/ swabs, pipe cleaners, and CLP
Note: This task should be taught as concurrent training, not during PMI training. This will be
done whenever rifles are drawn and used.
1. INTRODUCTION:
a. Considerable confusion surrounds the proper technique for cleaning M16 rifles. Done right,
cleaning will assure long and reliable service. Done poorly, cleaning will damage a rifle and shorten its
life.
b. Some of the worst cleaning practices are found among those expected to know best how to
maintain rifles: the military. Military procedures are too often focused not on cleaning properly, but on
cleaning totally. It's hard to make a judgement call that a rifle is cleaned and preserved well enough for
dependable service. It's easier to say that there isn't a speck of dirt remaining on the rifle.
c. Over cleaning of rifles has its basis in the cleaning procedures required from the use of corrosive
ammunition fired in the M1903 and M1 rifles. Corrosive ammunition left a salt based residue which
would relatively quickly corrode the rifle barrel after firing. The complete removal of this corrosive
fouling required several cleanings over about a three day period. Many of these cleaning procedures
remain in use today despite the fact that the Army stopped purchasing corrosive ammunition (30.06 and
.45 cal ) back in the late 1950’s. Corrosive ammunition was never purchased in the calibers of today’s
military small arms (5.56mm, 7.62mm, & 9mm). Current ammunition is non-corrosive and it’s residue
will not damage the rifle barrel even if left in the barrel over an extended period of time.
d. The soldiers who are held to the spotless cleaning standards invent shortcuts than damage rifles:
cleaning rifles in the shower, using improper cleaning agents like Lime Away, using a variety of
homemade scrapers, or disassembling the rifles farther than authorized or needed. The official guidance
is that "white glove" clean isn't proper. More rifles are damaged by improper cleaning than by actual
use. It's far better to do just a minimal job of lubricating a rifle to prevent rust or other damage than to
damage it by over zealous cleaning.
2. TYPES OF CLEANING:
1) Dust and sand will get into the rifle and will cause malfunctions and excessive wear on
component working surfaces through abrasive action during the firing operations.
2) Corrosion is less likely to form on metal parts in a dry climate, therefore, lubricate internal
working surfaces only with a small amount of CLP. Do not lubricate external parts of the rifle and
internal components of the magazines.
3) Using Additional Authorization List (AAL) equipment will help keep dust and sand from
getting into the rifle. This AAL equipment includes protective cap, spare magazine protective bags and
overall rifle protective cover. As a minimum effort to keep dust and sand out of the rifle, keep the
ejection port cover closed, a cartridge magazine in the rifle, and a muzzle cap on the muzzle.
Note: Remove protective cap before firing, however, it is not dangerous to fire the rifle with the
protective cap on.
c. Extremely Cold Climates – Arctic: Use LAW for Lubricating and CLP for cleaning.
1) To operate the rifle in extremely cold climates, depress the trigger guard plunger and open
the trigger guard. This makes it easier to operate the trigger when you are wearing arctic mittens.
2) Clean and lubricate the rifle inside a warm room. Apply a light coat of LAW to all functional
parts. To prevent freezing, keep rifle covered when moving from a warm to a cold area to allow
gradual cooling.
3) Always keep the rifle dry. Hand function the rifle approximately every 30 minutes to help
prevent freezing of components. Do not lay a hot rifle in snow or ice.
4) Keep ammunition dry. Moisture will cause malfunctions. Do not lubricate the ammunition.
5) Using AAL equipment such as protective cap, bag, and cover will help protect your rifle.
Always keep snow out of the barrel bore. Clean barrel with patch and cleaning rod, if necessary,
before firing.
1) Perform maintenance more frequently. Inspect hidden surfaces of the bolt carrier assembly,
upper receiver and barrel assembly, and lower receiver and extension assembly for corrosion. If
corrosion is found, clean and lubricate.
2) To help prevent corrosion, remove handprints, dry and lubricate lightly with CLP.
3) Check ammunitions and magazines frequently for corrosion. Clean using CLP and wipe dry
with rags.
4. CLEANING PROCEDURES:
A. DISASSEMBLY
Note: Remove the handguards (steps 2 &3) only if dirt or corrosion is seen through the vent holes.
2. Hold the rifle with the buttstock braced against a flat surface and press down on the slip ring with
both hands.
Note: The new round hand guards are identical and can be interchanged (top or bottom).
4. Push the takedown pin in as far as it will go. Pivot the upper receiver from the lower receiver.
11. Put the bolt assembly in the locked position by pushing the bolt into the bolt carrier.
12. Drop the firing pin out the rear of the bolt carrier.
13. Remove the bolt cam pin. Turn the cam pin 1/4 turn and lift it out.
Note: Perform steps 15 through 18 only when the rifle is dirty or damaged.
Note: Press the rear of the extractor to check the spring’s function. If the spring is weak, see the
armorer. Do not damage the tip of the firing pin.
16. Remove the extractor and spring, taking care that the spring does not separate from the extractor.
17. Press in the buffer, depress the retainer, and release the buffer.
B. INSPECTION
1. Bolt: Inspect the bolts for cracks or fractures, especially in the cam pin hole area. Bolts that contain
pits extending into the firing pin hole should be replaced.
WARNING:
DO NOT interchange bolts between rifles.
2. Firing Pin: Ensure the firing pin is not bent or cracked and does not have a blunted or sharp end.
3. Firing Pin Retaining Pin: Ensure the firing pin retaining pin is not bent or badly worn.
4. Cam Pin: Ensure the cam pin is not cracked, chipped, or missing altogether.
5. Extractor and Extractor Spring. Inspect the extractor for chipped or broken edges in the area of the
lip that engages the cartridge rim. Ensure the rubber insert is inside the extractor spring.
C. CLEANING
Note: DO NOT use hot water or other solvents. They will wash away the Teflon lubricant
that has built up as a result of cleaning with CLP.
The two techniques for cleaning are combat cleaning and detailed cleaning. Cleaning materials are
expendable items that are available from company supply or arms room.
CAUTION: Do not interchange the parts of one rifle with those of another.
1. Combat Cleaning; If time doesn't allow a thorough cleaning, then wipe the rifle clear of obvious dirt,
sand, or other contaminants and lubricate it inside and out. Wipe the carrier with an oily cloth or patch
to get the worst of the fouling off it. Pull the bolt to its forward position in the carrier and place a drop of
CLP in each of the vent holes of the carrier (the two vertically placed holes in the dished cut). Use a
cleaning brush to sweep the fouling and traces of brass from the extractor hook and bolt face. Run an
oily patch through the bore. Wipe out the fowling in the upper receiver with the oily rag or patch.
Lubricate the carrier group normally, and reassemble the rifle. Wipe down exposed surfaces with a
slightly oily cloth or patch.
2. Detailed Cleaning: A detailed cleaning involves cleaning all parts of the rifle with CLP.
a. Point the muzzle down. Hold the upper receiver in one hand while inserting the end of the rod
with the cleaning patch into the chamber
b. Swab out the bore with a cleaning patch moistened with cleaner, lubricant, preservative (CLP).
c. Attach a cleaning rod handle and three rod sections together, but leave each one about one turn
short of being tight.
d. Attach the bore brush, leaving it one turn short of being tight.
Note: This whole process will be faster if the “buddy” system is used with the cleaning rods.
Set one rod up with a cleaning patch holder and the other with a bore brush.
e. Push the brush through the bore and out of the muzzle. (The rod joints should loosen as it is
pushed out.)
f. When the brush is clear of the muzzel, pull it back through the bore. (The rod joints should tighten
as as it is pulled.)
Note: When using a bore brush, do not reverse direction while the brush is in the bore. It will
destroy the brush and is not good for the bore.
g. Push a patch through the bore occasionally to help clean out what the brush is getting loose.
Leave the rods loose and the patch will track in the rifling as before. Always have the bore wet with
cleaner before trying to pull a brush through.
Upper receiver: Clean all areas of the upper receiver (bore and chamber, locking lugs, and gas tube)
with CLP to remove powder fouling, corrosion, dirt, and rust.
1. Start at the receiver and swab the bore with a wet patch.
2. Start at the receiver and push a brush through the bore, then pull it back through.
3. Alternate the use of patches and the brush until the bore is clean.
Bolt carrier group. Clean the outer and inner surfaces of the bolt carrier, the carrier key, the firing pin
recess and firing pin, the firing pin hole (use pipe cleaner), the locking lugs (carbon deposits and dirt),
and the areas behind the bolt ring and under the lip of the extractor.
Ejector. The design of the ejector makes its disassembly for cleaning by the operator impractical. To
ensure the rifle ejects empty cases clear of the shooter and the rifle, perform the following steps on a
monthly or as required basis (weekly if firing blanks).
1. Remove the bolt from the carrier. Hold it with the ejector down and the extractor up.
3. Take a fired or dummy case and place it under the lip of the extractor. With a rocking motion, press
the case down against the ejector. Because the ejector is spring-loaded, some resistance will be felt.
Press on the case until it stops against the bolt face. Ease off slightly and press down again. Repeat
several times, replacing the CLP frequently. Once the spring action of the ejector is smooth and strong,
dry off any excess CLP.
Using CLP. CLP does three things at once: dissolves firing residue and carbon; lays down a layer of
Teflon as it dries to provide lubrication; and prevents rust from forming. Use CLP as follows:
D. LUBRICATION
Lubrication is vital to the maintenance of the rifle. After firing, clean the rifle with CLP according to
cleaning instructions. Wipe dry and lubricate according to the following lubrication instructions.
Note: Use the lubrication guide shown in the TM to determine which type of lubrication to use based on
the temperature.
Upper Receiver. Lightly lubricate the inside of the upper receiver, the bore and chamber, the outer
surfaces of the barrel and front sight, and the surfaces under the hand guard. Depress the front sight
detent and apply two or three drops of CLP to the front sight detent. Depress the front sight several
times to work the lubrication into the spring. Be sure to lubricate the locking lugs.
1. Use only a light coat of CLP on the firing pin and the firing pin recess in the bolt.
2. After drying with a pipe cleaner, place one drop of CLP on the carrier key.
3. Generously lubricate the outside of the parts. Be sure to get the cam pin area, the bolt rings, and the
outside of the bolt body. Put a light coat of CLP on the extractor and pin.
4. Lightly lubricate the charging handle and the inner and outer surfaces of the bolt carrier. Generously
lubricate the slide and cam pin area of the bolt carrier.
Lower Receiver Group. Lightly lubricate inside the lower receiver extension. Generously lubricate
the takedown and pivot pins, de-tents, and all moving parts and their pins inside the lower receiver.
Adjustable Rear Sight. Make a note of how far the sights are moved so that they can be returned to
their original position after lubrication.
1. Use one or two drops of CLP to lubricate moving parts. Rotate these parts to ensure lubricant is
spread evenly.
• Elevation knob.
• Elevation screw shaft.
• Windage knob (maximum five clicks left or right).
• Windage screw.
• Detent holes.
c. Put two or three drops on the bottom of the elevation screw shaft and in the elevation detent
spring hole.
d. Rotate the elevation dial back and forth a few times while keeping the upper receiver upside
down.
3. After lubricating the rear sight, reset the correct zero windage and battlesight zero. Notice that the
rear sight comes down when the “3” is aligned with the mark on the left side of the receiver. A click
can be felt when the “3” first lines up with the mark. Carry the rifle with the “3” aligned with the mark.
Keep the sight on 300 meters to keep dirt and water out of the sight mechanism and to protect the sight
from damage.
4. After amphibious operations, clean the rear sight as soon as possible if it has salt water on it. Wash
the rear sight with fresh water from a canteen or other source if time restrictions do not allow cleaning
with CLP.
CAUTION: Do not bend or flex the cleaning rod. Ensure the swab goes all the way through the
compensator. Do not reverse direction while the swab is in the bore or compensator.
5. After cleaning and before reassembling, lightly lubricate the lugs in the barrel extension with CLP.
E. REASSEMBLY
After cleaning, inspecting, and lubricating the rifle, reassemble it in accordance with the following steps.
WARNING:
Do not switch bolts between rifles.
Note: The extractor assembly has a rubber insert within the spring. Ensure it is not lost. If
the spring comes loose, put the large end of the spring in the extractor and seat it.
WARNING:
Be sure the cam pin is installed in the bolt group. If it is not, the rifle can still fire and will
explode.
6. Replace the bolt cam pin. Give the cam pin a 1/4 turn after reassembling.
Note: The firing pin should not fall out when the bolt carrier group is turned upside down.
11. After ensuring the bolt is stillextended, slide in the bolt carrier group.
12. Push the charging handle and the bolt carrier group together.
CAUTION: The selector lever must be on SAFE or SEMI before closing the upper receiver.
15. Close the upper and lower receiver groups. Push in the takedown pin.
a. Place the buttstock of the rifle on a flat surface and press down on the slip ring with both hands.
b. Have a buddy install one hand guard on top and the other on the bottom.
CONDITIONS: At night, given an AN/PVS-4 sight in its carrying case and BA-1567/U
batteries.
STANDARDS: Prepare and correctly place the AN/PVS-4 sight into operation, then shut it
down and store it.
BATTLE FOCUS:
Time: 5 – 10 min
Reference: TM 11-5855-213-10
Note:
To relieve air pressure inside the carrying case, press the core
of the relief valve, located near the handle, before releasing the
latches.
Note:
A N /P V S - 4 s i g h t s a r e p r e c i s i o n e l e c t r o - o p t i c a l i n s t r u m e n t s . T h e y
must always be handled carefully. Be sure to turn the ON-
OFF/TUBE BRIGHTNESS and O N - O F F /R E T I C L E
BRIGHTNESS switches OFF before installing batteries.
Note: Most AN/PVS-4’s have a ‘AA’ (BA –3058/U) battery adapter that can be
used if the Nickle Cadmium (BA-1567/U) batteries are not available.
CAP
BATTERY
EYEPIECE
ASSEMBLY
BATTERY IMAGE
HOUSING INTENSIFIER
ASSEMBLY ASSEMBLY
(INSIDE)
ON-OFF RETICLE
BRIGHTNESS OBJECTIVE
RETICLE ELEVATION FOCUS RING
ADJUSTMENT
ACTIVATOR DIOPTER
FOCUS RING
RETICLE AZIMUTH
ADJUSTMENT
ACTIVATOR DIOPTER
INDICATOR
ON-OFF TUBE
BRIGHTNESS
Note:
Using the sight without the eye guard installed may cause
detection by the enemy and, when operated on a weapon,
can result in physical injury to the operator because of
weapon recoil.
NOTES:
1. The daylight cover must be installed during daylight and removed at night.
.
2. Batteries must be removed when the sight is not in use, to prevent accidentally
turning on the sight.
a. Press the eye against the eye guard to open the rubber leaves that prevent the emission
of stray light.
c. Adjust the ON-OFF/TUBE BRIGHTNESS control to the lowest setting that provides
good target-to-background contrast.
e. Adjust the light intensity so that the reticle is just visible against the background.
Note:
Excessive reticle brightness may damage the image-
intensifier tube.
f. Turn the diopter focus ring (Figure 2) to obtain the clearest image of the
reticle pattern.
g. Turn the objective focus ring (Figure 2) until the target in the field of view is
sharply defined.
NOTE: During surveillance or target engagement, the operator must adjust the
objective focus to ensure a sharp image at different ranges.
TASK: ELO 9.2 Inspect AN/PVS-4 for Serviceability, Mount and Remove AN/PVS-4 from an
M16 Rifle.
CONDITIONS: Given an M16 Rifle, AN/PVS-4, mounting bracket, expended 5.56 mm brass
case, in a classroom or on a range.
STANDARDS: Each soldier will Inspect for serviceability and clean, if necessary, the
AN/PVS-4. Each soldier will mount and remove an AN/PVS-4 from an M16 Rifle.
BATTLE FOCUS:
Time: 5 - 10 minutes.
1. Inspect the mounting surfaces of the scope, rifle carry handle, screw and screw
hole for serviceability, and clean if necessary.
2. Position the scope on the rifle carry handle with the large end toward the muzzle.
NOTE: At this point, the scope can still move slightly front to rear.
4. Push the scope to its most forward position and hold it there while securely
tightening the mounting screw. SARG suggests using an empty piece of 5.56 mm
brass case as a lever to help tighten the screw. When the mouth of the brass case
begins to bend, the screw is tight enough. Periodically check the position and
tightness of the screw while the scope is in use.
5. After use, dismount or remove the scope. Carefully loosen the screw and remove
the screw and AN/PVS-4 from the carry handle.
6. Inspect, and clean the scope if necessary, before storing it in its case.
STANDARDS: Soldiers will boresight an AN/PVS-4 to an M16 rifle, using field expedient
methods.
Time: 15 min.
Reference:
1. Start with the scope mounted on the rifle, the upper receiver separated from the lower
receiver and the bolt removed.
Note: The daylight lense cover must be used for this exercise. Adjust the scope for
best vision: Turn the daylight lense cover to the smallest opening depending on the
available light. Turn the reticle and tube brightness to the lowest setting that allows
good visibility of the reticle and target. Adjust the diopter to make the reticle clear,
and the focus to make the target clear.
1. Mark a 2.5 cm (1 in) zero point 7 cm below the center of mass of an M16 Rifle 25-
meter zero target. Make the zero point by drawing around a quarter or washer and
coloring it in with a black marker. Place the target at 25 meters.
Note: If a zero target is not available, use any piece of paper with contrasting target
points placed 7 cm, center to center, vertically.
2. Stabilize the upper receiver on a support (rucksack, sand bag, etc.), so that a soldier can
view the bore-sight point (lower) through the barrel and the target (upper) through the
scope.
3. While the rifle is held so that the lower point is in the center of the bore, raise the head
to observe the reticle. Make horizontal and vertical adjustments on the scope until the
reticle is center of mass on the upper target. Repeat the observations until the reticle is
centered on the upper target and the lower target is centered in the barrel. Confirm the
zero with live fire at the earliest opportunity.
TASK: ELO 9.4 Zero an AN/PVS-4 to an M16 rifle, Using the Laser BoreSighting Method.
CONDITION: Day or night, given an M16 rifle, an AN/PVS-4, an LMTS laser with a 5.56 mm
mandrel, and a boresight target.
STANDARD: The soldier will boresight zero the AN/PVS-4 to an M16 rifle at 25 meters,
using an LMTS laser.
BATTLE FOCUS : In a combat or hostile environment, Passive Vision Sights are employed
extensively for night perimeter defense. Many times soldiers assigned to night duty are issued
night vision devices such as the AN/PVS-4 but are not issued ammunition to live fire zero the
night sight to their assigned rifle. Laser boresighting, using the LMTS laser, is a non-firing
method of zeroing a night sight so that a soldier can be reasonably assured of hitting a man-size
target out to 200 meters.
Time: 15 to 20 minutes
Note: this task is best performed with a 2-soldier team. One soldier holds the reticle on
the upper target, while the other soldier adjusts the azimuth and elevation adjustment actuators
until the laser dot is on the lower bore-sight point.
BORE-SIGHT AN/PVS-4
4. Mark a 2.5 cm (1 in) zero point 7 cm below the center of mass of an M16 Rifle 25-meter
zero target. Make the zero point by drawing around a quarter or washer and coloring it in
with a black marker. Place the target at 25m.
Note: If a zero target is not available, use any piece of paper with contrasting target points
placed 7 cm, center to center, vertically.
2. Insert the LMTS laser mandrel into the M16 Rifle barrel. Be sure to lubricate the mandrel
with CLP before inserting it into the rifle barrel.
5. In an area with dim light and an exact distance of 25 meters, place a bore-sight zero target
at one end. Assume a prone supported position with sand bags or similar items for support.
Aim the reticle at center of mass of the 25 meter zero target.
6. Adjust the elevation and azimuth adjustment actuators until the laser dot is 7 cm below the
center of the zero target while the reticle is centered on the upper target. Confirm the zero
with live fire at the earliest opportunity.
TASK: ELO 9.5 Engage Targets with an M16 Rifle using a Night Vision Sight AN/PVS-4
(071-315-2308)
CONDITIONS: At night, on a field fire range. Given an M16 Rifle equipped with AN/PVS-4;
30 rounds of 5.56 mm ball ammunition (3 magazines of 10 rounds each); and E-type silhouettes
at 75, 175, and 300 meters.
BATTLE FOCUS : Soldiers may be required to determine range and engage targets at night or
in reduces light.
Time:
Reference: FM 23-9
1. Place the AN/PVS-4 in operation and adjust the focus for the mid-range target (175 M).
2. Reticle Use.
Note: For use of the range finding reticle, refer to the 11B Soldier’ manual.
3. Hold the central part of the aiming reticle on the center of mass of each target to 300
meters.
AIMING POINT
0 TO 250 METERS
Appendix A
Time Allocation Table for the Record Fire (RETS) Qualification Range
Appendix B
Range Operations
a. Safety is a critical element of all weapons training. Trainers present a safety briefing
before any weapons training. Trainers will write a range specific safety briefing by integrating
local safety requirements with the example of a safety briefing, found in each Qualification
Course of Fire Appendix.
b. The range safety officer or his representative, will read the range safety briefing to soldiers,
and question for understanding, prior to training.
c. The range safety officer or his representative, will ensure all range personnel understand
their specific safety duties.
d. After firing, safety personnel will inspect all weapons to ensure that they are unloaded and
clear of any ammunition or residue. They ensure that no brass or live ammunition is in the
possession of soldiers.
The Range Operations Checklist, is a trainers guide for most aspects of range operations.
However, trainers must be familiar with the specific procedures and rules of the installation and
ranges they intend to use.
a. Most, if not all, military ranges require the safety officer or NCO to attend a range safety briefing
before they can operate the range. Range planners and leaders learn range requirements from these
briefings and should attend them early in the year.
b. Trainers should visit the range, using the range operations check list to ensure the range
has everything needed to conduct training. If a personal visit is not practical, trainers should
contact trainers that have recently used the range and discuss all critical aspects of the range.
Note: The USAR Small Arms Readiness Group strongly discourages the practice of safety
rodding or clearing rifles by inserting a metal cleaning rod down the muzzle of a rifle. The
SARG recommends the “Shot Gun” method of rodding rifles.
If a rifle must be physically rodded, do it from the rear of the receiver through the chamber of the
barrel.
Caution: Inserting a cleaning rod down the muzzle of a rifle can wear or damage the end of the barrel or
crown which will affect the accuracy of the rifle.
Caution: Inserting a cleaning rod down the muzzle and striking the bolt carrier hard enough to release
the bolt catch may damage the bolt face. In addition it may damage the hole in the bolt face through
which the firing pin operates.
The Risk Assessment Worksheet is a trainers guide to look for any potential hazards that may endanger
life or property. This worksheet should be completed for all range operations. A laminated pocket
card is available in the system. A0715-MGM-94-1307-01
10 Meter Transition
4. Where will the training be conducted? When is the range scheduled for operations?
Section 2 - Double-Check
2. Are the range facilities adequate for the type of training to be conducted?
Are armed guards properly certified per AR 190-11 and USARC PAM 190-1
7. Check ARTEPs and SQT manuals to see if training tasks can be integrated into the range training
plan.
OIC. NCOIC
Ammunition NCO.
Assistant Instructors
Armorer Medic(s)
EQUIPMENT:
Section 6 - Foolproofing
Publish LOI:
Uniform of range and firing personnel (helmets and earplugs) .
Mode of transportation
CONDUCT OF FIRING:
Are communications to range control satisfactory?
Commands from tower clear and concise?
Range areas policed?
Ammunition accountability maintained?
Master score sheet updated?
Personnel accountability maintained?
Vehicles parked in appropriate areas?
Air guard on duty and alert?
Personnel in proper uniform?
Earplugs in use?
Troops responding properly to commands?
On-the-spot corrections being made when troops use poor techniques or fail to hit the
target?
Conservation of ammunition enforced?
Weapons cleared before they are taken from the firing line?
Personnel checked for brass or ammunition before they leave the range?
Anyone standing around not involved in training or support?
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS:
Appendix C
Safety Briefing:
1. Always assume and handle weapons as if they were loaded. Clear the weapon as the first
action when you receive it. Always know the condition of your weapon.
2. Do not point the weapon at anything you are not willing to destroy or fire on.
3. Keep your finger off the trigger until you are pointed in the target area and ready to fire.
5. Always wear hearing protection and appropriate safety equipment on firing ranges.
Immediately make an on the spot correction of an unsafe act. Call a cease fire if necessary. It is
appropriate to call a cease fire when an injury or property damage may result from the unsafe act.
If there is an unsafe condition on or behind the firing line, make an immediate on-the-spot correction and
report it to the safety officer. It is the responsibility of everyone to make such corrections.
Feed your weapon only authorized ammo! Make sure it is dry, undented.
Fire only at assigned target, not rocks, animals, or any other objects watch for aerial hazards
(Helicopters).
The left and right limits of this range are: (point them out)
Everyone must wear ear protection when near the firing line.
Note: The USAR Small Arms Readiness Group strongly discourages the practice of safety
rodding or clearing rifles by inserting a metal cleaning rod down the muzzle of a rifle. The
SARG recommends the “Shot Gun” method of rodding rifles.
If a rifle must be physically rodded, do it from the rear of the receiver through the chamber of the
barrel.
Caution: Inserting a cleaning rod down the muzzle of a rifle can wear or damage the end of the barrel or
crown which will affect the accuracy of the rifle.
Caution: : Inserting a cleaning rod down the muzzle and striking the bolt carrier hard enough to release
the bolt catch may damage the bolt face. In addition it may damage the hole in the bolt face through
which the firing pin operates.
1. DESCRIPTION: The M16 rifle zeroing live fire exercise fired from 25 meters on the 25 meter zero
target. This exercise consist of firing up to 18 rounds, fired singly in three-round shot exercises.
Targets will be triangulated between each three shot exercise. Each exercise is fired from the individual
fighting position or the prone supported position. Sight adjustments will be made only after an
adequate group is achieved. If the shooter is unable to obtain an acceptable group as defined in FM
23-9, three shots in a 4-cm circle, the soldier will not make any sight adjustments. The Range OIC or
Range NCOIC will determine if additional ammunition will be allowed for those who need additional
rounds to group or zero.
2. PREPARATION: The grouping exercise and the zero exercise both utilizes the 25 meter zero target
(NSN 6920-01-167-1392) for the M16A1 and (NSN 6920-01-253-4005) for the M16A2. The M4
carbine follows the same zeroing procedures as the M16A2 rifle but utilizes it’s own 25 meter zero
target. In addition the M4 carbine has a slightly different initial sight setting of 3/8 for the rear elevation
knob.
CONDITION: O n a 25-meter range, given M16A1/A2 rifle from the supported position, 18 rounds
of ammunition, 250-meter (M16A1) or 300-meter ( M16A2) zero target placed on the standard E-
type silhouette, sandbag for support, and while wearing helmet and LCE.
STANDARD: Battlesight zero your rifle so that five out of six rounds, in two consecutive shot groups,
strike within the 4-centimeter circle on the 25-meter zero target. Use 18 rounds or less. Bullets that
break the line of the 4-centimeter circle are acceptable.
Note: Soldiers achieving the zero standard should not fire any additional rounds. Have these soldiers
move behind the firing line or to a designated break area until completion of the zeroing exercise.
REMEDIAL TRAINING:
Remove the soldier from the firing line and send them to the remedial training station if:
1. Soldier does not have an acceptable shot group within a 4-cm circle after 9 rounds.
2. Soldier has not achieved the zeroing standard, 5 out of 6 rounds within the 4-cm circle, after 12
rounds.
3. Soldier has not achieved the zeroing standard, 5 out of 6 rounds within the 4-cm circle, after 18
rounds.
Note: A careful serviceability check of the weapon is made for all soldiers failing to zero after 12
rounds. A bent front sight post can cause large changes in windage when the post is rotated one or two
clicks between shot groups.
Note: If the soldier has not met the grouping standard after 18 rounds, the soldier is removed from the
firing line. The Range OIC or Range NCOIC should determine how many additional rounds should be
allowed for soldiers not achieving an acceptable zero after 18 rounds. Trainers should use extra
ammunition from those that achieve the standard in less than 18 rounds.
Note: If the soldier can not achieve the standard the trainer must make an evaluation of the soldiers
performance. A training plan should be developed tailored to the soldiers specific needs for
improvement to achieve the standard on another day.
COMMANDS.
THE COMMAND TO CEASE FIRE IS (Demonstrate the Command CEASE FIRE, CEASE
FIRE, CEASE FIRE..)
2. For qualification using the standard Record Course: Soldiers achieving the zero standard should not
fire any additional rounds. Have these soldiers move behind the firing line or to a designated break
area. After a large enough group has zeroed their rifles, these soldiers could move or be transported to
the Record Fire range and start the qualification course of fire. As shooters leave the firing line, coaches
become the shooters, and additional soldiers are cleared on to the range to become coaches.
Note: Soldiers achieving the zero standard should not fire any additional rounds. Have these
soldiers move behind the firing line or to a designated break area until completion of the
zeroing exercise.
Note:
1. Soldiers achieving the zero standard should not fire any additional rounds. Have these
soldiers move behind the firing line or to a designated break area until completion of the
zeroing exercise.
2. Soldiers that have not achieved an acceptable group (4-cm or less) after 9 rounds are
removed from the firing line for remedial training.
Note:
1. Soldiers achieving the zero standard should not fire any additional rounds. Have these
soldiers move behind the firing line or to a designated break area until completion of the
zeroing exercise.
2. Soldiers that have not met the zeroing standard after 12 rounds should be evaluated by the
Range Line NCOs and either allowed to fire 3 additional rounds or are removed from the
firing line for remedial training. A soldier who has fired their last three rounds in the center 4-
cm circle should be allowed to fire an additional 3 rounds
Appendix D
Record Fire
Safety Briefing:
1. Always assume and handle weapons as if they were loaded. Clear the weapon as the first
action when you receive it. Always know the condition of your weapon.
2. Do not point the weapon at anything you are not willing to destroy or fire on.
3. Keep your finger off the trigger until you are pointed in the target area and ready to fire.
5. Always wear hearing protection and appropriate safety equipment on firing ranges.
Immediately make an on the spot correction of an unsafe act. Call a cease fire if necessary. It is
appropriate to call a cease fire when an injury or property damage may result from the unsafe act.
If there is an unsafe condition on or behind the firing line, make an immediate on-the-spot correction and
report it to the safety officer. It is the responsibility of everyone to make such corrections.
Feed your weapon only authorized ammo! Make sure it is dry, undented.
Fire only at assigned target, not rocks, animals, or any other objects watch for aerial hazards
(Helicopters).
The left and right limits of this range are: (point them out)
Everyone must wear ear protection when near the firing line.
Note: The USAR Small Arms Readiness Group strongly discourages the practice of safety
rodding or clearing rifles by inserting a metal cleaning rod down the muzzle of a rifle. The
SARG recommends the “Shot Gun” method of rodding rifles.
If a rifle must be physically rodded, do it from the rear of the receiver through the chamber of the
barrel.
Caution: Inserting a cleaning rod down the muzzle of a rifle can wear or damage the end of the barrel or
crown which will affect the accuracy of the rifle.
Caution: : Inserting a cleaning rod down the muzzle and striking the bolt carrier hard enough to release
the bolt catch may damage the bolt face. In addition it may damage the hole in the bolt face through
which the firing pin operates.
1. DESCRIPTION: The M16 qualification course has two different firing tables.
TASK: Detect and engage timed targets with the M16A1/A2 rifle.
CONDITIONS: Day, given an M16A1/A2 rifle on a record fire range, 40 timed target exposures at
ranges from 50 meters to 300 meters and 40 rounds of ammunition. Engage 20 targets from the
supported position and 20 targets from the prone unsupported while wearing helmet and LCE.
STANDARD: Detect and obtain at least 23 target hits on the 40 exposed timed targets.
1. TABLE 1, supported position, two magazines of ten rounds each, twenty targets.
2. TABLE 2, prone unsupported, two magazines of ten rounds each, twenty targets.
2. PREPARATION: The tower ensures the scorers have forty rounds of ammunition. Shooters will
charge their own magazines upon command from the tower. When ammunition is issued (issue the
ammunition to the shooter on the firing line and never behind the firing line), the rounds should not be
placed directly on the ground and never thrown on the ground. Ensure sights are in the SHORT
RANGE position for A1's or the unmarked aperture is in the UP POSITION for A2's. All soldiers
must have hearing protection and have received the safety briefing. Shooters are allowed to assume the
firing positions and provided time to dry fire from the positions prior to actual firing. Each target is
exposed prior to firing allowing the shooter to identify each target and allowing the shooter to dry fire at
each target. No coaching is allowed during firing for qualification. Malfunctions should be cleared using
immediate action procedures. Alibis are granted only for malfunctions of: rifle, targets, or ammunition.
Alibis are not granted for operator error or for shooter induced malfunctions.
3. REMEDIAL TRAINING: Remedial training should be conducted for those soldiers who fail to
qualify during the practice fire qualification. Remedial training will be conducted for those soldiers who
fail to qualify during the record qualification course. If possible, after remedial training the soldier should
confirm their zero before being allowed to fire or refire the qualification course
THIS IS THE M16 PRACTICE RECORD FIRE COURSE. YOU WILL FIRE THIS
PRACTICE IN TWO SEPARATE FIRING TABLES. BOTH TABLES ARE FIRED FROM
THE PRONE POSITION.
FIRE ONE ROUND INTO EACH TARGET EXPOSED. RELOAD YOUR RIFLE
WITHOUT COMMAND AND REPEAT THE TARGET ENGAGEMENT. YOU WILL
SHOOT ONLY ON COMMAND AND CEASE FIRE IMMEDIATELY ON COMMAND.
THE COMMAND TO SHOOT IS (WATCH YOUR LANE Demonstrate the Command).
THE COMMAND TO CEASE FIRE IS (CEASE FIRE! CEASE FIRE! CEASE FIRE!
Demonstrate the Command).
Note: Coaching the shooter on the firing lane is permitted during the Practice record Fire
ONLY!.
Allowable alibis will be allotted for each target missed due to malfunction. Malfunction of rifle,
ammunition or range are allowable. Shooting to slowly is not an allowable alibi.
Allowable alibis will be allotted on target for each target missed due to malfunction. Malfunction of rifle,
ammunition or range are allowable. Shooting to slowly is not an allowable alibi.
Note: The same lane is not used for the Record Fire stage that was used for Practice Record Fire.
THIS IS THE M16 RECORD FIRE COURSE. YOU WILL FIRE THIS COURSE IN TWO
SEPARATE FIRING TABLES. BOTH TABLES ARE FIRED FROM THE PRONE
POSITION.
FIRE ONE ROUND INTO EACH TARGET EXPOSED. RELOAD YOUR RIFLE
WITHOUT COMMAND AND REPEAT THE TARGET ENGAGEMENT. YOU WILL
SHOOT ONLY ON COMMAND AND CEASE FIRE IMMEDIATELY ON COMMAND.
THE COMMAND TO CEASE FIRE IS (CEASE FIRE! CEASE FIRE! CEASE FIRE!
Demonstrate the Command).
Allowable alibis will be allotted for each target missed due to malfunction. Malfunction of rifle,
ammunition or range are allowable. Shooting to slowly is not an allowable alibi.
Allowable alibis will be allotted on target for each target missed due to malfunction. Malfunction of rifle,
ammunition or range are allowable. Shooting to slowly is not an allowable alibi.
Appendix E
Safety Briefing:
1. Always assume and handle weapons as if they were loaded. Clear the weapon as the first
action when you receive it. Always know the condition of your weapon.
2. Do not point the weapon at anything you are not willing to destroy or fire on.
3. Keep your finger off the trigger until you are pointed in the target area and ready to fire.
5. Always wear hearing protection and appropriate safety equipment on firing ranges.
Immediately make an on the spot correction of an unsafe act. Call a cease fire if necessary. It is
appropriate to call a cease fire when an injury or property damage may result from the unsafe act.
If there is an unsafe condition on or behind the firing line, make an immediate on-the-spot correction and
report it to the safety officer. It is the responsibility of everyone to make such corrections.
Feed your weapon only authorized ammo! Make sure it is dry, undented.
Fire only at assigned target, not rocks, animals, or any other objects watch for aerial hazards
(Helicopters).
The left and right limits of this range are: (point them out)
Everyone must wear ear protection when near the firing line.
Note: The USAR Small Arms Readiness Group strongly discourages the practice of safety
rodding or clearing rifles by inserting a metal cleaning rod down the muzzle of a rifle. The
SARG recommends the “Shot Gun” method of rodding rifles.
If a rifle must be physically rodded, do it from the rear of the receiver through the chamber of the
barrel.
Caution: Inserting a cleaning rod down the muzzle of a rifle can wear or damage the end of the barrel or
crown which will affect the accuracy of the rifle.
Caution: : Inserting a cleaning rod down the muzzle and striking the bolt carrier hard enough to release
the bolt catch may damage the bolt face. In addition it may damage the hole in the bolt face through
which the firing pin operates.
1. DESCRIPTION: The M16 Alternate Qualification Known Distance Course has three different
tables. The same course of fire is to be utilized for both the practice qualification and the record
qualification. six rounds will be fired in three shot groups for zero conformation.
a. TABLE 1 is 300 yards, prone supported, two magazines of ten rounds each, sixty seconds
per magazine scored after each ten rounds.
b. TABLE 2 is 200 yards, prone unsupported, one magazine of ten rounds in sixty seconds.
c. TABLE 3 is 100 yards, prone unsupported, one magazine of ten rounds in sixty seconds.
2. PREPARATION: The practice record fire and the record fire utilizes the E-type silhouette (NSN
6920-00-600-6874) and the F-type silhouette (NSN 6920-00-610-9086) targets.
3. REMEDIAL TRAINING: Remedial training should be conducted for those soldiers who fail to
qualify during the practice fire qualification. Remedial training will be conducted for those soldiers who
fail to qualify during the record qualification course. If possible, after remedial training the soldier should
confirm their zero before being allowed to fire or refire the qualification course
4. RANGE COMMANDS:
THE FIRST TABLE WILL BE FIRED FROM THE PRONE SUPPORTED POSITION AT
THE 300 YARD LINE WITH TWO MAGAZINES OF TEN ROUNDS EACH.
YOU WILL BE ALLOWED 60 SECONDS FOR EACH TEN ROUND MAGAZINE. YOU
WILL SHOOT ONLY ON COMMAND AND CEASE FIRE IMMEDIATELY ON
COMMAND.
THE COMMAND TO CEASE FIRE IS (Demonstrate the Command CEASE FIRE! CEASE
FIRE! CEASE FIRE!)
SHOOTERS TO THE 300 YARD LINE, SCORERS STAND BEHIND THE SHOOTER.
INSERT OR APPLY YOUR HEARING PROTECTION.
YOU WILL SHOOT TWO GROUPS OF THREE ROUNDS WITH EACH TARGET BEING
SPOTTED AFTER EACH THREE ROUND GROUP.
WHEN YOUR TARGET HAS BEEN SPOTTED, MAKE ANY NEEDED SIGHT
ADJUSTMENTS.
WHEN YOUR TARGET HAS BEEN SPOTTED, MAKE ANY NEEDED SITE
ADJUSTMENTS.
When all site adjustments have been made...
After being spotted, shooters will be allowed to observe their targets for shot grouping.
After being spotted, shooters will be allowed to observe their targets for shot grouping.
SHOOTERS, RISE.
Appendix F
Safety Briefing:
1. Always assume and handle weapons as if they were loaded. Clear the weapon as the first
action when you receive it. Always know the condition of your weapon.
2. Do not point the weapon at anything you are not willing to destroy or fire on.
3. Keep your finger off the trigger until you are pointed in the target area and ready to fire.
5. Always wear hearing protection and appropriate safety equipment on firing ranges.
Immediately make an on the spot correction of an unsafe act. Call a cease fire if necessary. It is
appropriate to call a cease fire when an injury or property damage may result from the unsafe act.
If there is an unsafe condition on or behind the firing line, make an immediate on-the-spot correction and
report it to the safety officer. It is the responsibility of everyone to make such corrections.
Feed your weapon only authorized ammo! Make sure it is dry, undented.
Fire only at assigned target, not rocks, animals, or any other objects watch for aerial hazards
(Helicopters).
The left and right limits of this range are: (point them out)
Everyone must wear ear protection when near the firing line.
If a rifle must be physically rodded, do it from the rear of the receiver through the chamber of the
barrel.
Caution: Inserting a cleaning rod down the muzzle of a rifle can wear or damage the end of the barrel or
crown which will affect the accuracy of the rifle.
Caution: Inserting a cleaning rod down the muzzle and striking the bolt carrier hard enough to release
the bolt catch may damage the bolt face. In addition it may damage the hole in the bolt face through
which the firing pin operates.
1. DESCRIPTION: The M16 alternate qualification course C has two different tables. The same
course of fire is to be utilized for both the practice qualification and the record qualification.
1. TABLE 1 is prone supported, two magazines of ten rounds each, 120 seconds.
2. TABLE 2 is prone unsupported, two magazines of ten rounds each, 120 seconds.
2. PREPARATION: The practice record fire and the record fire requires a 15 or 25 meter range and
scaled silhouette targets. The 15 meter alternate qualification course target is NSN 6920-01-167-
1396, and the 25 meter alternate qualification course target is NSN 6920-01-167-1398.
3. REMEDIAL TRAINING: Remedial training should be conducted for those soldiers who fail to
qualify during the practice fire qualification. Remedial training will be conducted for those soldiers who
fail to qualify during the record qualification course. If possible, after remedial training the soldier should
confirm their zero before being allowed to fire or refire the qualification course
4. RANGE COMMANDS:
THIS IS THE M16 ALTERNATE QUALIFICATION COURSE C. YOU WILL FIRE THIS
QUALIFICATION IN TWO SEPARATE FIRING TABLES. YOU WILL SCORE
BETWEEN TABLES. BOTH TABLES ARE FIRED FROM THE PRONE POSITION.
FIRE ONE ROUND INTO EACH REDUCED SILHOUETTE THEN RELOAD WITHOUT
COMMAND AND REPEAT THE TARGET ENGAGEMENT. YOU WILL SHOOT ONLY
ON COMMAND AND CEASE FIRE IMMEDIATELY ON COMMAND.
THE COMMAND TO CEASE FIRE IS (CEASE FIRE! CEASE FIRE! CEASE FIRE!
Demonstrate the Command).
Appendix G
NBC Fire
Safety Briefing:
1. Always assume and handle weapons as if they were loaded. Clear the weapon as the first
action when you receive it. Always know the condition of your weapon.
2. Do not point the weapon at anything you are not willing to destroy or fire on.
3. Keep your finger off the trigger until you are pointed in the target area and ready to fire.
5. Always wear hearing protection and appropriate safety equipment on firing ranges.
Immediately make an on the spot correction of an unsafe act. Call a cease fire if necessary. It is
appropriate to call a cease fire when an injury or property damage may result from the unsafe act.
If there is an unsafe condition on or behind the firing line, make an immediate on-the-spot correction and
report it to the safety officer. It is the responsibility of everyone to make such corrections.
Feed your weapon only authorized ammo! Make sure it is dry, undented.
Fire only at assigned target, not rocks, animals, or any other objects watch for aerial hazards
(Helicopters).
The left and right limits of this range are: (point them out)
Everyone must wear ear protection when near the firing line.
If a rifle must be physically rodded, do it from the rear of the receiver through the chamber of the
barrel.
Caution: Inserting a cleaning rod down the muzzle of a rifle can wear or damage the end of the barrel or
crown which will affect the accuracy of the rifle.
Caution: : Inserting a cleaning rod down the muzzle and striking the bolt carrier hard enough to release
the bolt catch may damage the bolt face. In addition it may damage the hole in the bolt face through
which the firing pin operates.
1. DESCRIPTION: The M16 NBC, protective mask, fire exercise is fired in two phases. 10 rounds
from the prone supported and 10 rounds from the supported position fired at a F-type silhouette at 25
meters. NBC firing can be done on the 25 meter zero range or on the record fire range. NBC firing is
done while wearing helmet, mask with hood, gloves, and LCE. This is a GO/NO-GO exercise.
2. PREPARATION: The tower ensures the coaches or shooters have 20 rounds of ammunition. On
the 25 meter range, coaches will charge magazines upon command from the tower. On the record fire
range, shooters will charge their own magazines. When ammunition is issued (issue the ammunition to
the shooter on the firing line and never behind the firing line), the rounds should not be placed directly on
the ground and never thrown on the ground.. Shooters are allowed to assume the firing positions and
provided time to dry fire from the positions prior to actual firing. Each target is exposed prior to firing
allowing the shooter to identify each target and allowing the shooter to dry fire at each target. Coaching
is allowed during practice firing. No coaching is allowed during firing for qualification. Malfunctions
should be cleared using immediate action procedures. Alibis are granted only for malfunctions of: rifle,
targets, or ammunition. Alibis are not granted for operator error or for shooter induced malfunctions.
3. REMEDIAL TRAINING: Remedial training should be conducted for those soldiers who fail to
qualify during the practice fire qualification. Remedial training will be conducted for those soldiers who
fail to qualify during the record qualification course. If possible, after remedial training the soldier should
confirm their zero before being allowed to fire or refire the qualification course
CONDITION: Given and explanation, demonstration, M16 Rifle and twenty rounds of 5.56-mm
ammunition, engage twenty, five-second exposures of F-type silhouette targets at 25 meters, firing ten
from the prone unsupported and ten from the prone or supported position, using semiautomatic fire,
while wearing helmet, mask with hood, gloves, and LCE.
STANDARD: Obtain a total of eleven hits out of the twenty target exposures. This is a GO/NO-GO
exercise.
TEN ROUNDS SHOT FROM THE PRONE SUPPORTED POSITION AND TEN SHOTS
FROM THE UNSUPPORTED POSITION.
A WHISTLE (or horn) WILL BE USED TO MARK THE BEGINNING AND END OF THE
TARGET EXPOSURE (Demonstrate whistle or horn).
THE COMMAND TO CEASE FIRE IS (Demonstrate the Command) CEASE FIRE, CEASE
FIRE, CEASE FIRE.
After all shooters have removed and secured their protective masks and gloves.
SHOOTERS AND COACHES MOVE DOWN RANGE, SCORE AND REPAIR YOUR
TARGETS. WHEN YOU ARE FINISHED RETURN TO THE LINE AND STAND
BEHIND YOUR RIFLES.
Start Range Commands from the beginning for the NBC Record Fire Course.
THIS IS THE M16 NBC RECORD FIRE QUALIFICATION. TWENTY ROUNDS FIRED
AT 20 FIVE-SECOND TARGET EXPOSURES.
TEN ROUNDS SHOT FROM THE PRONE SUPPORTED POSITION AND TEN SHOTS
FROM THE UNSUPPORTED POSITION.
A WHISTLE (or horn) WILL BE USED TO MARK THE BEGINNING AND END OF THE
TARGET EXPOSURE (Demonstrate whistle or horn).
THE COMMAND TO CEASE FIRE IS (Demonstrate the Command) CEASE FIRE, CEASE
FIRE, CEASE FIRE.
Allowable alibis will be allotted for each target missed due to malfunction. Malfunction of rifle,
ammunition or range are allowable. Shooting to slowly is not an allowable alibi.
Allowable alibis will be allotted on target for each target missed due to malfunction. Malfunction of rifle,
ammunition or range are allowable. Shooting to slowly is not an allowable alibi.
At the completion of NBC Record Fire give the shooters the ALL CLEAR so they can remove their
protective masks and clothing before leaving their firing points.
After all shooters have removed and secured their protective masks and gloves.
SHOOTERS AND COACHES MOVE DOWN RANGE, SCORE AND REPAIR YOUR
TARGETS. WHEN YOU ARE FINISHED RETURN TO THE LINE AND STAND
BEHIND YOUR RIFLES.
Appendix H
Night Fire
Safety Briefing:
1. Always assume and handle weapons as if they were loaded. Clear the weapon as the first
action when you receive it. Always know the condition of your weapon.
2. Do not point the weapon at anything you are not willing to destroy or fire on.
3. Keep your finger off the trigger until you are pointed in the target area and ready to fire.
5. Always wear hearing protection and appropriate safety equipment on firing ranges.
Immediately make an on the spot correction of an unsafe act. Call a cease fire if necessary. It is
appropriate to call a cease fire when an injury or property damage may result from the unsafe act.
If there is an unsafe condition on or behind the firing line, make an immediate on-the-spot correction and
report it to the safety officer. It is the responsibility of everyone to make such corrections.
Feed your weapon only authorized ammo! Make sure it is dry, undented.
Fire only at assigned target, not rocks, animals, or any other objects watch for aerial hazards
(Helicopters).
The left and right limits of this range are: (point them out)
Everyone must wear ear protection when near the firing line.
If a rifle must be physically rodded, do it from the rear of the receiver through the chamber of the
barrel.
Caution: Inserting a cleaning rod down the muzzle of a rifle can wear or damage the end of the barrel or
crown which will affect the accuracy of the rifle.
Caution: : Inserting a cleaning rod down the muzzle and striking the bolt carrier hard enough to release
the bolt catch may damage the bolt face. In addition it may damage the hole in the bolt face through
which the firing pin operates.
Movement on and off the range will be controlled by range guides (using Blue Chemlight).
There will be a safety NCO on each firing point (using Red and Green Chemlights).
Shooters on line waiting to shoot will ground their rifles beside the firing point and move to the rear of
the firing point at the direction of the point safely NCO.
Watch your step when walking on and off the range with little or no illumination.
TASK: Engage targets while applying night-fire techniques with the M16 Rifle.
CONDITIONS: Given an explanation, demonstration, and practical exercise with 5 rounds during the
day, and with semiautomatic fire at night (EENT), engage F-type silhouette targets at 25 meters from
the prone unsupported position and E-type silhouette targets at 50 meters from the prone supported
position; given 35 rounds of tracer and ball mix ammunition and an M16 Rifle while wearing a helmet
and LCE.
Night courses of fire require much more control and different types of visual communication than day
time firing. Safety NCOs are required for each firing point. Different types of light or illumination are
used to signal the tower of safe and unsafe conditions. This illumination can be flashlights with different
colored lenses or the preferred method is chemlight glowsticks. Special procedures and personnel are
required to conduct night courses of fire.
Chemlight Glowstick: Glowsticks are the preferred method of signaling and markings on night ranges.
Glowsticks come in a variety of colors and sizes. Sometimes glowsticks provide move light than
desired depending on the existing night illumination. To reduce this light, wrap tape around the
glowstick until the desired illumination is obtained. Colored glowsticks have a standard meaning or
usage. General usage glowsticks are approximately six inches in length.
a. RED - Unsafe condition, all point safety NCOs will have one along with other critical range
personnel such as the range OIC, safety officer or NCO, etc.
b. GREEN - Safe condition, all point safety NCOs will have one.
c. BLUE - Escorts.
d. YELLOW - General lighting for behind the firing line such as the ammo point, ammunition loading
area, scoring, briefings, and assembly or staging areas.
e. Small one inch yellow glowsticks can be used to identify range personnel when placed in the front
of the individual’s hat or helmet band. They can also be used to mark routes, staging areas, and holding
or waiting points behind the firing points.
Ammunition Loading Area: Each firing relay is issued ammunition at the ammo point then moved to a
loading area. This loading area must have enough illumination (yellow glowsticks) for the shooters to be
able to see and load their magazines but not too much light as to impair the shooter’s night vision. Each
shooter loads their own magazines with a mix of ball and tracer ammunition. The shooters then place
their loaded magazines in their ammo pouches and do not remove them until directed by the tower or
the point safety NCOs.
Staging/Clearing Area: Relays are moved from the loading area to a staging area, usually behind the
center of the firing line. The shooter’s rifles are then checked and cleared prior to being escorted to the
firing points. At the completion of firing, shooters are escorted back to the Clearing Area to be
checked and cleared off the range. Shooters are then moved to a scoring area.
Range Guides: Range guides are used to escort the firing relays from the central staging area to each
firing point. Depending on the size of the range, two guides are used, one to work the right side of the
range and one to work the left. A different colored glowstick is used (blue) for the shooters to guide on
and provide a limited amount of illumination for the guides to see the terrain along their route. At the
completion of a relay’s firing the range guides escort the shooters off the range to the Clearing/Staging
Area.
Point Safety NCO: A safety NCO is required on each firing point. Each safety NCO should have a
green and a red glowstick to signal the tower of safe and unsafe conditions respectively. These
glowsticks also provide enough illumination for the point safety NCOs to visually inspect and clear rifles
on their points. Glowsticks should be hidden when not in use, one in each pants pocket. Safety NCOs
also insure that any additional shooters escorted to their firing points, ground their rifles and move to a
designated waiting or observation area.
Standby Relay: To speed up range operations, as one relay is firing their courses of fire the next relay
is cleared and escorted to their assigned firing points. Upon arriving at their firing points, the standby
relay shooters ground their rifles on the side of the firing point. They then move to the rear of the firing
point at the direction of the point safety NCO. As one relay completes firing, the next relay or standby
relay is then moved on line and begins their courses of fire.
Scoring Area: When a relay has been cleared off the range it is then moved to a scoring area. At the
scoring area the shooter’s name is recorded on the computer print out of the scores for their assigned
firing point.
Range Boundary Markings: For night ranges, the range boundaries must be identifiable with some
type of illumination. Some ranges have red lenses lamps already in place. Other ranges must have
some colored glowsticks placed down range (before dark) usually hung from the colored pole
identifying the range boundary for day firing. The color used for this marking must be told to the
shooters during the range safety briefing.
Rodding or Clearing Rifles: Rifles are rodded or cleared on and off the range to check for barrel
obstructions. At night rifles can be visually cleared with glowsticks without sticking a rod through the
rifle barrel which over time wears on the crown or the end of the barrel reducing the rifle’s accuracy.
First the rifle rear receiver pin is removed and the upper and lower receivers are opened or shotgunned
and the bolt carrier is removed. A glowstick is held at the end of the barrel then range safety personnel
visually inspect the barrel from the rear of receiver end of the barrel.
3. REMEDIAL TRAINING: Remedial training should be conducted for those soldiers who fail to
qualify during the practice fire qualification. Remedial training will be conducted for those soldiers who
fail to qualify during the record qualification course. If possible, after remedial training the soldier should
confirm their zero before being allowed to fire or refire the qualification course
THIS IS THE M16 PRACTICE NIGHT FIRE COURSE. YOU WILL FIRE THIS
PRACTICE IN TWO SEPARATE FIRING TABLES. BOTH TABLES ARE FIRED FROM
THE PRONE POSITION.
THE COMMAND TO CEASE FIRE IS: CEASE FIRE! CEASE FIRE! CEASE FIRE!
(Demonstrate the Command).
NOTE: Coaching the shooter on the firing lane is permitted during the Practice record Fire
ONLY!.
Allowable alibis will be allotted on target for each target missed due to malfunction. Malfunction of rifle,
ammunition or range are allowable. Shooting to slowly is not an allowable alibi.
THIS IS THE M16 RECORD NIGHT FIRE COURSE. YOU WILL FIRE THIS
PRACTICE IN TWO SEPARATE FIRING TABLES. BOTH TABLES ARE FIRED FROM
THE PRONE POSITION.
THE COMMAND TO CEASE FIRE IS: CEASE FIRE! CEASE FIRE! CEASE FIRE!
(Demonstrate the Command).
Allowable alibis will be allotted for each target missed due to malfunction. Malfunction of rifle,
ammunition or range are allowable. Shooting to slowly is not an allowable alibi.
Allowable alibis will be allotted on target for each target missed due to malfunction. Malfunction of rifle,
ammunition or range are allowable. Shooting to slowly is not an allowable alibi.