INTRODUCTORY NOTES
Aim
1. To teach the soldier his duties in handling the weapon as a member of a gun team.
Instructors notes
2. During gun drill, the gun will be mounted in the sitting position, but the instructor must emphasize that on active service and during the later stages of training, the tripod will always be adjusted to suit the ground and cover available.
3. All orders are shown the thick type throughout this part of the pamphlet.
4. When the instructor wishes to explain, demonstrate or criticize, he will first order “Rest” to allow the gun number to relax. On this order, the No. 1 will knock down the tangent sight. Before the drill is resumed he will esnure that the gun numbers adopt the correct position and are alert and ready for any order. This will be done by ordering “Position” when, if the sight had previously been knocked down, the No. 1 will raise them.
5. The instructor must insist on a high standard of drill throughout and see that the gun numbers remain still and in their correct position on the completion of any movement.
6. Although all lessons of gun drill are written for coming into action from the carrier, if carriers are not available it will be possible to bring the guns into action from the ground. The stores should be laid out on the ground as follows:
The tripod on the left, with the legs to the rear, and the dial sight close to it.
The gun, with the muzzle forward, condenser tube attached and spare parts case placed two paces to the right of the tripod.
Two liners, the condenser can and the aiming post two paces to the right of the gun, with the condenser can on the right.
The position of the gun numbers and the words of command will be given as for the carrier.
On the command “Mount” the gun numbers will kneel by their respective stores. Nos. 1 and 2 will put on the dial sight and spare parts case, with the strap over the right shoulder and the case hanging on the left side.
7. Whenever possible in gun drill as many guns as are available should be used to give maximum squad practice.
Safety precautions
8. On all occasions when the gun and drill cartridges are used for instructional purposes, the instructor will carry out the following safety precautions.
(a) Inspect all locks to ensure that the striker does not protrude through the firing pin hole.
(b) Inspect all ammunition to ensure that all cartridges are drill.
9. When service stores are used, (a) above does not apply.
LESSON 48 – LAYOUT AND INSPECTION OF CARRIER STORES
A INSTRUCTOR’S NOTES
Aim
1. To familiarize the soldier with the layout of a MG carrier and with the fittings peculier to MGs.
2. To teach the responsibility for the checking and inspection of the main items of equipment in the MG carrier.
Class and instructors
3. Squads under squad instructors around the left side of the carrier.
Periods
4. One 45-minute period.
Stores
5. One gun carrier complete with gun drill stores, ie, gun, tripod, condenser can and tube, dial sight, aiming post spare parts case, three liners, belt and drill cartridges.
Preparation
6. The gun should be mounted on the carrier and the stores in the correct position – one liner being in the gun rack and two in th right side racks.
B CONDUCT OF LESSON
Approach
7. Give the aim of the lesson (see paras 1 and 2). Point out the layout of the gun stores in the carrierand the positions of the gun numbers. The driver and No. 1 sit in the front compartment, the No. 2 in the left side and the No. 3 in the right side rear compartments.
The Carrier mounting fitting
8. Show that the carrier mounting fitting consists of a socket fitted to the engine cowling into which can be fitted the emergency mounting or the crosshead of the tripod.
The emergency mounting
9. State that the emergency mounting is provided for the engagement of opportunity targets up to 600 yards.
10. Point out the following features of the mounting:-
(a) The all round traverse.
(b) The pins to secure the gun to the mounting.
(c) The travelling stay.
(d) The shoulder piece with which elevation and direction of the gun carrier.
(e) The depression stop, to prevent bullets striking the inside of the carrier.
(f) The rack for the liner on the gun mounting.
(g) The condenser tube fitted to the mounting through which the steam escapes into an auxiliary condenser can in the carrier fitted under the no. 2 seat.
(h) The traversing clamp. This will never be ignored when the gun is on the emergency mounting.
(j) The ease with which the gun can be removed from the mounting and the mounting removed from the socket.
The Crosshead mounting
11. Remove the emergency mounting and place the tripod crosshead and gun on the fitting.
12. Tell the squad that the crosshead mounting is used when engaging a target from the carrier in a hull down position. It may be used for engaging targets at all machine gun ranges. Show the following features:-
(a) The socket on the carrier is designed to fit the pivot of the crosshead.
(b) By tightening the traversing clamp a fixed and steady mounting is obtained.
(c) The condenser tube is inserted in the ground condenser can.
Maintenance of the emergency mounting and fitting
13. State that the pivot and socket will be cleaned and oiled daily to prevent rust forming from the steam. The hinge, nuts and bolts of the mounting will be kept oiled and free from grit. The following points should be examined periodically:-
(a) Condenser tube.
(b) Feathers on joint pin.
(c) Chains.
(d) Travelling stay.
(e) Traversing clamp.
14. Question the squad.
15. Tell the squads that the serviceability of stores and equipment is the responsibility of the senior member in each carrier. Frequent inspection will be made to ensure that all stores are complete and in good order; an inspections will variably be made as soon as is practicable after coming out of action.
16. Explain the responsibility of each member of the gun team:-
(a) The No. 1 will inspect:-
(i) The tripod – to see that the elevating and crosshead joint pins are properly in position and turned down, both elevating pins are properly in position and turned down, both elevating screws equally exposed, traversing clamp adjusted to suit No. 1, crosshead over the rear leg, direction dial secure, and all three legs together and clamped securely.
(ii) Dial sight – to ensure that all dials and drums are at zero and that it is not damaged.
(iii) The ground mounting condenser tube – for serviceability.
(b) The No. 2 will inspect:-
(i) The gun – to see that the muzzle attachment and blast deflector are correctly fitted, the front cover locked, the sliding shutter open, the lock in the gun and the T fixing pin screwed home and vertical.
(ii) The spare parts case.
(iii) The carrier condenser can – to ensure that it is secure and filled.
He will report “Gun correct” or otherwise to the No. 1.
(c) The No. 3 will inspect:-
(i) The carrier mounting – to ensure that the traversing clamp is loosened, the condenser tube properly attached, the crosshead and elevating joint pins properly in position and turned down, that there is a liner in the rack of the gun mounting, that the travelling stay can be easily released, and that the emergency mounting works freely.
(ii) The ground condenser can – to ensure that the can is filled, the cap screwed into position and the filler secure.
He will report “Mounting correct” or otherwise to the No. 1.
17. Question the squad.
Conclusion
18. Questions to and from the squad.
19. Sum up main points.
LESSON 49 – PRELIMINARIES TO GUN DRILL
A INSTRUCTOR’S NOTES
Aim
1. To teach the soldier preliminaries to gun drills and the technique of mounting and dismounting the tripod.
Class and instructors
2. Squads under squad instructors, in single rank on a flank of the carrier.
Periods
3. One 45-minute period.
Stores
4. One gun carrier complete with drill stores. Gun, tripod, condenser tube and can, dial sight in case, spare parts case, aiming post, three liners complete with belts and drill cartridges.
B CONDUCT OF LESSON
Preliminaries
5. Safety precautions.
Approach
6. Give the aim as laid down in para 1.
“Fall in”
7. Detail a No. 1, 2, 3 and Dvr and state that on the command “Fall In” the gun numbers will double to their respective positions facing to the front, as shown in the Fig 6 below. On arrival at these positions they will stand at attention and, taking their time from the No.1, will number, and then stand at ease.
8. Practice the squad in “Fall In”.
“Change Round”
9. Explain that is at any time the instructor wishes to change the Nos. he will order “Change round.” On that command the detachment will move clockwise around the carrier; the No. 1 becomes the driver, the driver becomes No. 3, the No. 3 becomes No.2 and the No. 2 becomes the No. 1. On completion of the movement the detachment will re-number again taking the time from No. 1.
10. Practice the squad in “Fall In” and “Change Round.”
11. Detail a detachment, order “Fall In,” and state that on the order “Mount” the No. 1 will repeat the order, and all Nos. will get into the carrier in their respective positions and remain still; No. 1 for the purpose of control will remain standing.
12. Order “Mount.”
13. Tell the squad that on the order “Dismount” the No. 1 will repeat the order, all numbers will dismount and stand at ease in their respective positions by the carrier.
14. Order “Dismount.”
15. Practice the squad in “Mount” and “Dismount.”
16. Questions from the squad.
Preparation
17. The instructor will remove the tripod from the carrier and place it on the ground in front of the carrier and move the squad in a semi-circle around the tripod.
Approach
18. Tell the squad that you are now going to teach them the technique of mounting and dismounting the tripod.
Mounting the tripod
19. Demonstrate slowly and explain that the No. 1 stands astride the tripod, loosens the jamming handles simultaneously and grasps the crosshead as far forward as possible with both hands, the thumbs being down the front of the crosshead. He will then swing the tripod upwards and forward to open the two front legs, and with the three legs resting on the ground, he will raise the socket until it is upright. To assist this, and to ensure the mounting is upright, the No. 1 should assume a half sitting position with the elbows supported on the inside of the thighs, and keeping the socket steady with his left hand, he will tighten both jamming handles with his right hand. A final pressure will now be exerted on the jamming handles, and the No. 1 will sit down behind the tripod and remove the crosshead and elevating joint pins with the left and right hands respectively, and hold them.
Dismounting the tripod
20. Demonstrate slowly and explain that the No. 1 will replace the two pins and turn the handles down to prevent them falling out, jump to his feet and stand astride the tripod. He will loosen both jamming handles simultaneously, allowing the tripod to collapse on the ground.
Standing on the left of the tripod he will grasp the crosshead with both hands, and with a sharp forward and upward movement allow the two front legs to fold under, at the same time taking a pace forward and placing the tripod on the ground. He will then sink down on to his right knee and tighten both jamming handles.
Practice
21. Practise the squad in mounting and dismounting the tripod slowly.
Conclusion
22. Questions from the squad.
23. Further practice, quickening up all movements.
24. Sum up progress made.
LESSON 50 – ACTION AND CEASE FIRING FROM THE CARRIER
A INSTRUCTOR’S NOTES
Aim
1. To teach the duties of the various members of the gun team in coming into action from the carrier, and to cease firing.
Class and instructors
2. Squads under squad instructors assembled in single rank on one flank of the carrier.
Periods
3. One 45-minute period.
Stores
4. One gun carrier complete with drill stores.
Preparation
5. All stores loaded on the carrier, and if the ground is wet, groundsheets should be placed on the gun position. Lesson 35 must have been taught before this lesson.
B CONDUCT OF LESSON
Preliminaries
6. Safety precautions.
Approach
7. Give the aim of the lesson (see para 1 above).
“Action”
8. Detail a gun team, order “Fall In” and “Mount.” Indicate with a gun flag a gun position a few yards in front of the carrier and the direction in which the gun is to be mounted.
9. Order the Nos. 2, and 3 to reast and look on. Tell the No. 1 that he is to carry out the following actions as they are detailed. On the command “Dismounted Action,” the No. 1 will repeat the order, dismount from the carrier and sling the dial sight case over his right shoulder, remove the tripod, double forward to the position indicated and mount the tripod as already taught.
10. Order “Dismounted Action.”
11. Order Nos. 1 and 3 to rest and look on. Explain, with the No. 2 practising, the duties of the No. 2 on the command “Dismounted Action.” He will disconnect the carrier condenser tube and attach the ground mounting condenser tube. He will remove the crosshead and elevating joint pins and take the gun off the emergency mounting, placing it muzzle to the rear diagonally across the rear corner of the armour. He will then sling the spare parts case over his right shoulder and dismount from the carrier. Demonstrate the method by which No. 2 will carry the gun forward to the tripod. He will grasp the gun with his left hand on the right traversing handle and his arm over the barrel casing controlling the condenser tube and pick up the gun. Tell the No. 2 to pick up the gun as shown and double forward to the right side of the tripod with the traversing handles to the front, arriving at about the time that the No. 1 is removing the pins. Explain with the No. 2 practising that on arrival he will swing to his left so that the traversing handles are at the rear, sink down on to his left knee, place the gun on the tripod supporting the barrel casing on his right thigh, and with his right hand will insert the crosshead joint pin, which he will take from the No. 1, finally turning the handle down. He will retain his hold with his left hand on the right traversing handle until the pin is home. No. 1 will assist by gripping the left traversing handle with his left hand, and when No. 2 has inserted the crosshead joint pin, he will insert the elevating joint pin. No. 2 will then lie down on the right of the gun facing towards it, keeping as close as possible to the No. 1, his head in line with, but below the level of the feedblock.
12. Detail the additional duties of the No. 1. He will then level the gun by means of the elevating wheel, tap the gun to see that the traversing clamp is reasonably tight, and take up the correct sitting position looking straight to his front.
13. Order the Nos. 1 and 2 to rest and look on. Explain with the No. 3 practising that the No. 3 will carry out the following duties on receipt of the command “Dismounted Action.” He will dismount from the carrier, remove the condenser can, aiming post and two liners from the right side rack. He will double forward to a point in rear of the gun position and will rip open and press down the lids of the liners, and will unscrew, bu not completely so, the cap of the condenser can. He will double forward to the right side of the gun, with the liners in his left hand and the condenser can in his right, arriving just as the No. 2 lies down. He will place the condenser can near the tripod, and the ammunition liners within easy read of the No. 2. He will remove the cap of the condenser can, double back to a suitable position in rear and lie down, keeping the aiming post with him.
14. Detail the additional duties of the No. 1 and 2. Explain that the No. 2 will place the liners in line with the feedblock, No. 1 and 2 will load the gun, and no. 2 will insert the condenser tube in the can making sure that the end of the tube is below the level of the water.
“Cease Firing”
15. Tell the squad that on the order “Cease Firing” Nos. 1 and 2 will unload the gun, and No. 2 will push the liners to the right. The No. 3 will double forward to the gun, and remove the condenser tube from the condenser can, seuize the liners in his left hand and the condenser can in his right. He will then double back a few paces to the rear, place the stores on the ground, screw up the cap on the condenser can, replace them on the carrier, mount and take up his original position, reconditioning the stores if necessary.
The No. 2 will jump to his feet and after No. 1 has removed the pins, lift the gun off the tripod and grasp the free end of the condenser tube to prevent it trailling on the ground. He will then double to the carrier, place the gun diagonally on the rear corner, mount and replace the stores in their original positions, reconditioning them if necessary.
No. 1 will act as already taught, and replace his stores on the carrier, mount and recondition them if necessary.
16. Order “Cease firing.”
Team practice
17. Exercise the squad in the duties of Nos. 1, 2 and 3 in “Action” and “Cease Firing” as a team. When the gun is in action the instructor should discuss:-
(a) The actions of the No. 1, 2 and 3 and their final positions.
(b) Whether the tripod is mounted with reference to the direction indicated.
(c) Whether the gun is level and the crosshead is over the rear leg.
(d) Whether the socket is upright and over the spot indicated.
(e) Whether the traversing clamp is too loose.
(f) Whether the elevating and crosshead joint pins are home and locked.
(g) Whether the jamming handles are really tight.
(h) Whether the ammunition liners are in position, the tube inserted and the gun correctly loaded.
Mount and dismount gun
18. State that if at any tme the gun is not to be load, the order given will be “Mount Gun,” and the actions of the gun team will be the same with the exception that the gun will not be loaded.
Correcting a leaning mounting
19. Detail a gun team and order “Dismounted Action.” When the gun is in action adjust the mounting so that it is leaning.
20. Explain with Nos. 1 and 2 practising, that to correct a leaning mounting, the No. 1 will order the No. 2 to push or pull the gun according to which way the gun is leaning. The No. 2 will grasp the feedblock and act as ordered, while the No. 1 will adjust the appropriate tripod leg. State that a leaning mounting must be corrected automatically directly it is noticed.
21. Practice will be obtained in correcting leaning mountings during the normal practice of “Action” and “Cease Firing.”
Conclusion
22. Questions from the squad.
23. Further practice quickening up all movements.
24. Sum up main points.
LESSON 51 – CLEAR GUN AND STAND CLEAR
A INSTRUCTOR’S NOTES
Aim
1. To teach certain drills required in connection with safety precautions and range work.
Class and instructors
2. Squads under squad instructors, assembled in single rank on one flank of the stores.
Periods
3. One 45-minute period.
Stores
4. One gun carrier complete with drill stores.
Preparation
5. Stores loaded on the carrier, and if wet, ground sheets should be placed on the gun position.
B CONDUCT OF LESSON
Preliminaries
6. Safety precautions.
Approach
7. Detail a gun team and order “Fall In,” “Mount” and “Mount Gun.” State the aim of the lesson. (see para 1).
“Clear Gun”
8. Order the No. 1 to fall out, the instructor taking his place and demonstrate that on the order, “Clear Gun,” the No. 1 will pull the crank handle onto the roller, raise the rear cover, remove the lock from the lock guides and ease the crank handle forward on to the check lever, allowing the lock to rest on the hinge of the rear cover. He will then report “No. … Gun Clear.”
9. Demonstrate that on the order “Lock In Cover Down” the No. 1 will hold the lock in his left hand, pull back the crank handle onto the roller with his right hand and, easing the crank handle slightly forward, smother the lock into the lock guides with his left hand. He will then close the rear cover, release the crank handle and press the thumbpiece.
10. Tell the squad that if the order “Load” is given when the gun is “clear” the No. 1 will place the lock back in the gun, close the rear cover and load.
11. Practice the squad in “Clear Gun,” “Lock in Cover Down,” and “Load.” Note: If the gun is loaded, “Clear Gun” will be preceded by “Unload”.
“Stand Clear”
12. Explain that if the order “Stand Clear” is given, the gun team will jump to its feet and stand at ease behind the gun – the No. 3 in the rear. The dial sight box and spare parts case will be left on the gun position.
13. Tell the squad that if the order “Take Post” is given when the gun is mounted, the gun team will adopt their original positions at the gun. The No. 1 and 2 will sling the dial sight box and spare parts case over their shoulders and the No. 1 will retest the clamp.
14. Practise the squad in “Take Post” and “Stand Clear.”
Conclusion
15. Questions from the squad.
16. Further practice in any drill which requires it.
A INSTRUCTOR’S NOTES
Aim
1. To teach the soldier how to lay and fire the gun.
2. To teach the solider how to apply controlled corrections in direct fire.
Class and instructors
3. Squads under squad instructors. Squad standing in a semi-circle in rear of gun.
Periods
4. One 45-minute period. Instruction in aiming must have been given before this lesson.
Stores
5. Gun carrier complete wih drill stores and in addition landscape or natural targets.
Preparation
6. Stores should be loaded on the carrier and if a landscape target is used, it should be erected in a suitable position just in front of the gun position. If wet, groundsheets should be placed on the gun positions.
7. the targets selected by the instructor must be simple, as the aim is to teach accurate handling and not recognition of targets.
B CONDUCT OF LESSON
Preliminaries
8. Safety precautions.
Approach
9. Detail a gun team and order “Fall In,” “Mount” and “Dismounted Action.” When the gun is in action order the gun team to fall out.
10. Give the aim of the lesson (see para 1).
11. Point out a few simple targets to be used during the lessons.
12. State that when the section commander order the range to the guns, he will use the following terminology:-
700 – Seven hundred.
1,000 – One thousand.
1,050 – One owe fifty.
1,400 – One four hundred.
1,550 – One five fifty.
2,000 – Two thousand.
2,300 – Two three hundred.
2,350 – Two three fifty.
Adjusting the sights and laying the gun
13. The instructor will take post as No. 1, one of the squad acting as No. 2, and will demonstrate that on the range being ordered the no. 1 will raise the tangent sight with the left hand and set the slide. When the indication followed by the command “Lay” is given, he will tap the gun until the correct direction is obtained and elevate or depress it until the aim is correct. Confirm that when tapping the gun or turning the handwheel, the No. 1 will maintain control of the gun by keeping the disengaged hand on the traversing handle.
14. Tell the squad that when No. 1 has a correct aim he will shout “On” and raise the safety catch. The No. 2 will then raise his left hand in line with the No. 1’s shoulder as a signal to the fire controller.
15. State that if the No. 1 fails at any time to understand or hear an order, he will call “Again.”
16. Practice the squad.
Use of the clamp
17. The instructor should take post as No. 1 with one of the squad acting as the No. 2. Explain to the No. 2 that on the order “Clamp Two,” he will loosen the clamp and on the order “Tighten” he will tighten it. Demonstrate that is a large change of direction is necessary, the No. 1 will order “Clamp Two” and when the clamp is loose swing the gun round to the general direction of the target. He will then order “Tighten” and when the clamp is right test it and lay on the target.
18. Practise the squad in large changes of direction.
“Fire” and “Go on”
19. Tell the squad that on the order “Fire” or “Go on” the No. 2 will lower his left hand and repeat the order. The No. 1 will press the thumbpiece home, keeping his eyes on the target to observe the fire effect. The No. 1 will press and release the thumbpiece as taught in Lesson 2 checking his aim from time to time.
“Stop”
20. State that on the order “Stop” the No. 2 will repeat it to the No. 1, who will release pressure on the thumbpiece and safety catch. The No. 1 will then check his aim and relay the gun if necessary.
21. Practise the squad in “Fire,” “Stop” and “Go On.” The instructor should ocassionally knock the gun or turn the wheel while No. 1 is firing to practice the No. 1 in relaying when “Stop” is ordered.
22. State that during firing on the order “Stop, Up (or Down) – Hundred (or fifty) “Go On,” the No. 1 will adjust his sights accordingly, relay and continue firing.
If the correction is not followed by the order “Go On” the No. 1 will report “On” and await the order to fire.
23. Practice the squad in controlled corrections.
Conclusion
24. Questions from the squad.
25. Further practice in the whole process of coming into action and engaging a target.
26. Sum up main points.
LESSON 53 – CONSISTENCY OF TAP
A INSTRUCTOR’S NOTES
Aim
1. To teach the soldier to develop a consistent tap so that the line of sight is displaced 15 minutes each time the gun is tapped.
Class and Instructors
2. Squads under squad instructors, assembled in single rank on one flank of the stores.
Periods
3. One 45-minute period.
Stores
4. Gun carrier complete with drill stores and MG target. (Small Arms Training, Vol V, 1945, Fig 38).
Preparation
5. Stores loaded on the carrier, and if wet, groundsheets should be placed on the gun positions.
B CONDUCT OF LESSON
Preliminaries
6. Safety precautions.
Approach
7. Detail a gun team, order “Fall In,” “Mount” and “Dismounted Action.” When the gun is in action order the team to fall out.
8. Give the aim of the lesson (see para 1), and state that the methods of engaging all types of machine gun targets depend on the fact that the No. 1 can bring bursts of fire down 15 minutes of angle apart. It is therefore essential that every man can tap his gun consistently through 15 minutes.
Consistency of tap
9. Tell the squad that the first stage is to develop a consistent tap with both hands. Place the dial sight on the gun and then demonstrate a consistent tap with both hands.
10. Practice the squad until all of them can tap consistently. The instructor must not move onto the next stag until he is satisfied that they can do so.
11. The instructor should bring out the following points:-
(a) When tapping with either hand the gun must be held correctly with the other hand and the safety catch kept raised.
(b) The eyes must be directed to the front to observe fire.
Adjusting the clamp
12. Place out the MG target 25 yards from the gun. State that the next stage is to adjust the clamp so that the tap consistently displaces the line of sight 15 minutes. Point out that the distance between the bulls on the target is equivalent to 15 minutes.
13. Demonstrate that the clamp is tightened as much as possible by the No. 1 behind the gun. By trial and error, he adjusts his tap until he discovers the stength of tap required to displace the line of sight from one bull to the next. The strength of tap should be ascertained for each hand.
14. Practise the squad. When each man has found the strength of tap required, the sintructor should impress on him that he must get the feel of that tap and remember it.
15. Tell the squad that the No. 1 can test his clamp in the field by measuring off with hand angles two points which are one degree apart. By laying on one point and tapping four taps towards the other, he should reach the second point if the clamp is correctly adjusted.
16. Practise the squad.
Tapping test
17. A method of testing the squad for correct tapping is given below:-
(a) The instructor will give the No. 1:-
(i) A suitable range.
(ii) An indication to a bull in the horizontal row.
(iii) The direction in which he is to tap.
(iv) The order to “Lay”
(b) The instructor will explain to the No. 1 that, on the order “Fire” he will fire a burst, release the thumbpiece, tap the gun and fire again. He will continue this procedure until “Stop” is ordered. The No. 1 will be told that, for this lesson only, he will not check his aim on the order “Stop” nor relay between bursts.
(c) The instructor will order “Fire” and, after a suitable number of taps, “Stop.” He will then check the aim and discuss the No. 1’s tapping.
Conclusion
18. Questions from the squad.
19. Further practice for backward men.
20. Sum up main points.
LESSON 54 – TRAVERSING AND SWINGING TRAVERSE
A INSTRUCTOR’S NOTES
Aim
1. To teach the soldier to combine consistent tapping with corrections for elevation.
2. To teach the soldier how to fire a swinging traverse.
Class and instructors
3. Squads under squad instructors, assembled in single rank on one flank of the stores.
Periods
4. One 45-minute period.
Stores
5. Gun carrier, complete with drill stores and MG target. (Small Arms Training, Vol V, 1945, Fig 38).
Preparation
6. Stores loaded on the carrier. If wet, groundsheets should be placed on the gun positions.
B CONDUCT OF LESSON
Preliminaries
7. Safety precautions.
Revision
8. Detail a gun team, order “Fall In,” “Mount,” and “Dismounted Action.” Practise the squad in Lesson 53.
Approach
9. Give the aims of the lesson (see paras 1 and 2 above).
Traversing
10. State that the No. 1 will on occasion have to engage a target that is oblique as opposed to horizontal.
11. Detail a No. 1 and get him to lay on the centre bull of the oblique row of bulls. Warn him that on the order “Fire,” he will carry on exactly as taught in the last lesson , but that this time he will re-lay the gun on to the bull immediately above or below the point to which the tap has carried it, after each tap.
12. Practice the squad in tapping and re-laying for elevation. Get the squad to criticize the consistency of tap of each No. 1.
Swinging traverse
13. Explain that this method of traversing is only employed against targets at close ranges when the normal method of traversing is likely to be too slow.
14. Demonstrate that the clamp is loosened slightly. The gun is laid on one end of the target and, when the thumbpiece is pressed, it is swung slowly to the right or left. To do this with control, the upper part of the body is left rigid and the gun swung by the weigh of the body rather than by moving the forearms.
15. The technique of firing a swinging traverse cannot be well attained without using live ammunition as the recoil helps in moving the gun. The squad should therefore be practised in firing a swinging traverse on the range when the opportunity arises.
Conclusion
16. Questions from the squad.
17. Sum up main points.
LESSON 55 – APPLICATION OF DIRECT FIRE ORDERS
A INSTRUCTOR’S NOTES
Aim
1. To teach the soldier how to act on the various parts of a direct fire order.
Class and instructors
2. Squads under squad instructors. The squad should be in single rank behind and between the two guns.
Periods
3. Two 45-minute periods. Lesson 68 must have been taught before this lesson.
Stores
4. Two gun carriers complete with drill stores, portable blackboard, chalk and landscape or natural targets.
Preparations
5. The instructor should select targets of various types and decide on ranges before the lesson begins. The guns should be mounted 6 – 8 yards apart facing the arc. If wet, groundsheets should be placed on the gun positions.
B CONDUCT OF LESSON
Preliminaries
6. Safety precautions.
7. Detail two gun teams, order “Fall In,” “Mount,” and “Dismounted Action.” Organize the arc of fire and order the gun teams to fall out.
8. Give the aim of the lesson (see para 1).
Approach
9. Using the blackboard, show the sequences of a direct fire order:-
(a) Designation.
(b) Range (including wind allowance if necessary).
(c) Indication of the target.
(d) Method of fire.
(e) Lay.
(f) Side wind allowance.
(g) Rate of fire.
(h) Order to fire.
Types of targets
10. With the blackboard, explain the various types of static MG targets:-
(a) Point target. A target that appears to the naked eye to have no appreciable width.
(b) Traversing target. A target that appears to the naked eye to have width. The difference in range to each end must not exceed 50 yards.
(c) Depth target. A target with a difference in range to each end of more than 50 yards. It may or may not have width.
11. Indicate one or two targets and question the squad as to what type they are.
Point targets
12. Detail a No. 1 and 2 for each gun and order “Fall In” and “Take Post.” Divide the rest of the squad into two groups, one behind each gun.
13. State that a Point target is always engaged with right and left two taps to make sure that the target is hit. Explain how the No. 1 applies “Right and left two taps.” (see Lesson 96).
14. Explain that the side wind allowance is ordered in taps up to one degree. If the allowance is of one degree or more, it is given in degrees.
15. Give a fire order onto a Point target, explaining the duties of No. 1 at each stage of the order:-
| Order. | Action of No. 1 |
| (a) Designation. | Becomes fully alert to receive the fire order. |
| (b) Range. | Raises the tangent sight and sets the slide. |
| (c) Indication. | Follows the indication and locates the target. |
| (d) Right and left two taps, Lay. | This order indicates to the No. 1 that he must engage the target with right and left two taps. The No. 1 grasps the traversing handles correctly, raises the safety catch and reports “On”. |
| (e) Wind right (or left) … … … … … taps. | Taps the number of taps ordered and looking through the sights, picks up the new point of aim. Reports “On.” |
| orWind right (or left) … … … … … degrees. | With the aid of handangles picks up the new point of aim, relays and reports “On.” |
| (f) Rate of fire. | (i) If “Rapid” is ordered, he then prepares to fire rapid.
(ii) If none is mentioned, he then knows that normal fire is required. |
| (g) “Fire.” | Presses the thumbpiece. Taps right and left two taps, checking his aim whenever he has tapped onto the point of aim. |
16. State that the No. 2 must at all times be prepared to take over as No. 1. He must therefore know the range on the gun, the target and wind allowance.
17. Practise the squad in engaging Point targets. After each target is engaged, get the rest of the squad to criticize the action of No. 1 and No. 2.
Traversing targets
18. Explain the method of engaging a traversing target. (see Lesson 99).
19. State that on the order “Traversing Lay,” the No. 1 will lay on the centre of the taregt, raise the safety catch and report “On.” Emphasize that when firing, the line of sight is re-aligned after each tap.
20. Practise the squad in engaging traversing targets.
Depth targets
21. Explain the method of engaging a depth target. (see Lesson 100).
22. Tell the squad that the method of fire will be either “Halfway up, right and left two taps, Lay,” or “Traversing Lay,” depending on whether the target has width or not. On either order, the No. 1 will lay half way up the target, raise the safety catch and report “On.” When firing, if “Halfway up, right and left two taps Lay,” has been ordered, the No. 1 will maintain his point of aim halfway up throughout. It “Traversing Lay,” is ordered, the No. 1 will realign his point of aim onto the target after each tap.
23. Practise the squad in engaging depth targets of both types.
Conclusion
24. Questions to and from the squad.
25. Ample practice will be required to ensure that the squad can respond accurately and repaidly to fire orders.
LESSON 56 – CONTROLLED CORRECTIONS, INDIRECT (ELEVATION)
A INSTRUCTOR’S NOTES
Aim
1. To teach the soldier to apply corrections for elevation to the dial sight.
Class and instructors
2. Squads under squad instructors assembled in single rank on the left of the gun.
Periods
3. One 45-minute period. Lessons 36, 38, 40 and 41 should have been taught before this lesson.
Stores
4. Gun carrier complete with drill stores.
Preparation
5. Detail a gun team and get the gun into action; when the gun is in action, fall out the gun team, attach the dial sight, and plant the aiming post correctly. Set a suitable range on the range drum, level the bubble and adjut the lensatic sight onto the aiming post.
B CONDUCT OF LESSONApproach
6. Give the aim of the lesson (see para 1 above).
7. The instructor should take post as No. 1 and explain that the gun is already laid to engage a target. He should then order “Fire.”
Controlled corrections (Elevation)
8. Demonstrate that on the order “Stop, Up (or Down) … … … … … Hundred (or Fifty),” the No. 1 will adjust the range drum as ordered. He will then elevate or depress the gun by turning the handwheel until the bubble is central and adjut the lensatic sight onto the aiming post. he will then report “On.”
9. Practise the squad in controlled corrections, using two guns if available.
Conclusion
10. Questions from the squad.
11. Further practice for backward men.
12. Sum up main points.
LESSON 57 – CONTROLLED CORRECTIONS, INDIRECT (DIRECTION)
A INSTRUCTOR’S NOTES
Aim
1. To teach the soldier to apply corrections for direction to the dialsight.
Class and instructors
2. Squads under squad instructors assembled in single rank on the left of the gun.
Periods
3. One 45-minute period.
Stores
4. Gun carrier complete with drill stores.
Preparation
5. Detail a gun team, and get the gun into action. When the gun is in action, fall out the gun team, attach the dial sight and plant the aiming post correctly. Set a suitable range on the range drum and a switch on the deflection drums of the dial sight. Level the bubble sight and adjust the lensatic sight on to the aiming post.
B CONDUCT OF LESSON
Approach
6. Give the aim of the lesson (see para 1).
7. The instructor should take post as No. 1 and explain that the gun is already laid to engage a target.
Controlled corrections (direction)
8. State that normally a correction for direction is given as a new direction right or left of zero. When correcting on the observed strike of the bullets, however, the group commander may give the corrections as a cumulative order.
9. Order “Fire” and demonstrate that on the order “Stop … … … … … degrees … … … … … minutes, Right (or left) of zero,” the No. 1 will set the new switch the dial and deflection drums without reference to the reading already on the sight. He will then tap the gun until the lensatic sight is laid on the aiming post, re-level the bubble and report “On”
10. Practise the squad.
11. Demonstrate that if the order was “Stop, Right (or left) … … … … … degrees … … … … … minutes,” the No. 1 would add the amount to the reading on the appropriate deflection drum and carry on as already taught.
12. Practise the squad.
Corrections for direction and elevation
13. State that occasionally a correction may be necessary for both direction and elevation.
14. Demonstrate that on the order “Stop Right (or left) … … … … … degrees … … … … … minutes, Up (or down) … … … … … hundred,” the No. 1 will set his dial sight accordingly and tap the gun until the lensatic sight is on the aiming post. He will then re-level the bubble check again for direction and report “On”
15. Practise the squad in corrections for direction and elevation.
Conclusion
16. Questions from the squad.
17. Further practice for backward men.
18. Sum up main points.
Note
19. The instructor must ensure that the squad reach a high standard of handling the dial sight before teaching Indirect Fire Drill.
A INSTRUCTOR’S NOTES
Aim
1. To teach the gun team how to engage opportunity targets when on the carrier.
2. To teach the signals used for the control of carriers.
Class and instructors
3. Squads under squad instructors. Is possible all squads should work in the same area controlled by a supervising officer. Carrier drivers are required for this lesson.
Periods
4. One 45-minute period.
Stores
5. Gun carrier complete with drill stores.
Preparation
6. Four or five men will be required to represent targets. They should be concealed around the training area and instructed to stand up when signalled to do so by the supervising officer. The supervising officer should arrange a system of signals.
B CONDUCT OF LESSON
Approach
7. Give the aim of the lesson (see para 1 above).
Emergency action
8. Detail a gun team, order “Fall In” and “Mount” and explain that whenever the carrier is on the move, each gun number is responsible for watching a certain arc. No. 1 will watch the front and Nos. 2 and 3 their own flanks and the rear. If any member of the gun team sees a target within his arc, he will report “Target front” “Target left,” “Target right,” or “Target rear,” the direction being in relation to the carrier itself.
9. State that when a target is reported, the No. 1 will order “Stop”
10. Tell the gun team to carry out the following actions as they are detailed:-
The No. 2 will release the emergency mounting, lower the travelling stay and pass the gun to the number who is best placed to engage the target. The firer will then take the gun, load and fire. When the target has been engaged, he will unload and order “Drive on” The No. 2 will then connect the gun to the travelling stay.
11. Emphasize the following points:-
(a) The gun will not be loaded while travelling. If the belt has been partly used, it will be passed through the feedblock to assist in quick loading.
(b) The gun number who sees the target must be prepared to indicate it to the firer.
(c) Personnel not firing will keep below the armour, but will be prepared to help in maintaining the gun in action.
(d) When the gun is on the emergency mounting, the traversing clamp must always be loose.
12. Practise the squad in engaging targets, first with the carrier moving slowly and then with the carrier at speed.
Carrier signals
13. State that these signals are used to control carriers on the move. The following signals are the minimum required to ensure control. Additional ones can be added if required for particular circumstances. Demonstrate these signals:-
“Deploy”Green flag waved from side to side.
| “Close on me” | Yellow flag flown. |
| “Follow me” | Yellow and green flags flown. |
| “Stop” | Red flag flown. |
| All signals will be acknowledged by each carrier. | |
14. Practise the squad in identifying signals.
Conclusion
15. Questions to and from the squad.
16. Sum up main points of emergency action.
LESSON 59 – PREPARE FOR CARRIER ACTION
A INSTRUCTOR’S NOTES
Aim
1. To teach the gun team to prepare the carrier for carrier action.
Class and instructors
2. Squads under squad instructors, assembled in single rank on one flank of the carrier. Carrier drivers will be required.
Periods
3. One 45-minute period.
Stores
4. One gun carrier complete with drill stores.
Preparation
5. All stores correctly placed in the carrier.
B CONDUCT OF LESSON
Preliminaries
6. Safety precautions.
Approach
7. Give the aim of the lesson (see para 1 above). State that the drill to be taught is used when it is necessary to change from the emergency mounting to the crosshead mounting before coming into action in a hull down position.
“Prepare for carrier action”
8. Detail a gun team and order “Fall in” and “Mount”
9. The instructor should now detail the drill and order the gun numbers to carry it out stage by stage. Tell the squad that when the No. 1 is informed that carrier action is to be employed he will order “Carrier Action”
The No. 1 will then:-
(a) Disconnect the carrier condenser tube from the gun.
(b) Remove the crosshead from the tripod and place it in the carrier socket with the elevating gear to the rear.
(c) When the gun has been mounted, attach the ground mounting condenser tube.
The No. 2 will:-
(a) Remove the crosshead and elevating joint pins.
(b) Dismount the gun, place it, muzzle forward, on the left side of the engine cowling.
(c) Mount the gun on the crosshead and insert the pins.
(d) Swing the gun round until it points over the right rear corner of the carrier.
The No. 3 will:-
(a) Remove the liner from the emergency mounting.
(b) Lower the travelling stay and remove the emergency mounting, placing it across the rear of the engine cowling.
(c) Tighten the traversing clamp, when the gun has been swung around.
(d) Prepare a belt of ammunition.
(e) Unscrew the cap of the condenser can and insert the ground mounting condenser tube.
10. Tell the squad that the gun team will automatically change back to the emergency mounting after “Cease firing” is ordered. The actions of preparing for carrier action are simply reversed.
11. Practise the squad in preparing for carrier action with the carrier stationary.
12. Practise the squad with the carrier on the move first slowly and then at speed.
Conclusion
13. Questions from the squad.
14. Sum up main points.
LESSON 60 – TESTS OF ELEMENTARY TRAINING
A INSTRUCTOR’S NOTES
Aim
1. The follwoing tests have been devised to assist officers in testing the efficiency of their men in elementary training. It is important that these tests should not be considered solely as competitions against time, for although speed if necessary, accuracy is the first essential. No man should therefore be passed as efficient unless all the points are correctly carried out, even though he may complete them in the standard time. Men who, whilst passing the tests for accuracy slightly eceed the standard time, should be tested again before being put back for further instruction.
Notes for testing officers
2. The tests will be carried out in strict accordance with the detailed instructions given under the appropriate lessons, for unless the smallest details are insisted upon, the time limit will not be applicable. In carrying out tests time can be saved if the first detachment complete Tests 1 to 4 consecutively; the remainder can be carried out as convenient.
3. It should be noted in Tests 1, 2, 3 and 4 that numbers are being tested in their particular duties as No. 1 or No. 2, and the tests should not be regarded as a test of the No. 1 only. Therefore, a man is not considered to have passed these tests until he has passed in the duties of both numbers.
4. It is essential for each man to have passed all tests before proceeding with the machine gun course.
5. The conditions of the test will be carefully explained before the test begins, including the time allowed, and when the time allowance begins and finishes. A timekeeper will be appointed. A stop watch should be used in availble.
Stores required:-
As laid down in the appropriate lessons. DP guns must be used for Tests 9, 10 and 11. In no circumstances will service guns be used.
| Name of test 1 |
Conditions before test 2 |
Number of tests 3 |
Time allowed 4 |
To pass 5 |
Remarks 6 |
| No. 1 Mount gun. (From carrier). | Nos. 1, 2 and 3. “Fall in” – “Mount.” The Carrier to be not more than 8 yards from the place where the gun is to be mounted |
One | 50 seconds from command “Gun” until all Nos. are still | All points of gun drill correct | All numbers to be correctly seated in carrier. Carrier condenser tube to be attached to gun. No. 3 to return to a position immediately in front of carrier |
| No. 1A Mount gun. (From the ground). | Nos. 1, 2 and 3 beside their stores. Stores laid out not more than 5 yards from the position where the gun is to be mounted. | One | 25 seconds from command “Gun” until all Nos. are still | All points of gun drill correct | |
| No. 2 Load | Gun mounted. Belt packed in the liner. Nos. 1 and 2 take post. | One | 5 seconds from the command “Load” until No. 1 has got correct holding | Gun correctly loaded | |
| No. 3 Unload | Gun mounted and loaded Nos. 1 and 2, take post | One | 5 seconds from the command “Unload” until belt is correctly packed in liner | Gun correctly unloaded | |
| No. 4 Dismount gun. (On to carrier). | Gun mounted. Nos. 1, 2 and 3, take post. | One | 40 seconds from the command “Gun” until all Nos. are still | All points of gun drill correct | |
| No. 4A Dismount gun. | Gun mounted. Nos. 1, 2 and 3, take post.</TD. | One | 20 seconds from the command “Gun” until all Nos. are still</TD. | All points of gun drill correct | |
| No. 5 To adjust the sights and lay the gun | The gun will be loaded. Three targets will be pointed out. Tangent sight lowered and set at any range. Nos. 1 and 2 take post. | Three | 12 seconds from the range being ordered until No. 2 holds up his hand | Sight set correctly and the aim accurate | No. 1 will not be informed of the order in which the targets will be given out. Different ranges will be ordered for each target |
| No. 6 Traversing | Gun mounted 25 yds from the MG target and loaded. No. 1 will be given an opportunity to test his clamp, but the MG target will not used for this purpose. Nos. 1 and 2, take post. | Two | No time limit imposed | When checked at any time to the within 15′ for direction. Elevation to be correct | The test consists of traversing from right to left and from left to right. A complete row of oblique bulls will be traversed in each case. The order “STOP” will be given once, but not before the centre of the traverse has been reached. The aim will be checked after the order “STOP” and again when the end of the traverse is reached. Tapping back to correct errors is not allowed. |
| No. 7 Controlled corrections:- (a) Direct fire |
Gun mounted, loaded, and laid on a target. Nos. 1 and 2, take post. | Three | 8 seconds from the command “Hundred” until No. 1 presses the thumbpiece | Sight correctly adjusted and correctly laid | Corrections up or down will not exceed 300 yards |
| (b)Indirect fire (Elevation) | Gun mounted and loaded, dial sight attached, aiming post put out. Range drum set at any range. Angle of sight drum at sero. The bubble will be central and a correct aim laid on the aiming post. Nos. 1 and 2, take post. | Three | 12 seconds from the command “Hundred” until No. 1 has pressed the thumbpiece | Correct setting of the range drum and the bubble level to within 2 minutes | Corrections up or down will not eceed 300 yards. The error in levelling the bubble will be ascertained by using the angle of sight drum |
| (c)Indirect fire (Deflection) | As in (b). Deflection drums and dial to be at zero at the beginning of each of the three tests | Three | 15 seconds from the command “Minutes” or “Zero” until No. 1 has retained his holding | Correct setting on deflection drums. Bubble central to within 2 minutes. Aim correctly relaid on aiming post | Corrections right or left will eceed 4 degrees, and will alwats include tens of minutes. Bubble checked by angle of sight drum. Two switches will be from zero and one cumulative |
| No. 8. Laying the gun for elevation, indirect | Gun mounted, dial sight attached. All drums and deflection dial set at zero. Gun approximately level | Three | 15 seconds rom the command “Hundred” until No. 1 has retained his holding | Correct setting on the range and angle of sight drums. Bubble level to within 2 minutes | Ranges ordered will be between 1,200 and 2,000 yds. Angle of sight of not more than 1 degree plus or minus will be ordered, and will include 5 minutes. In order that the time taken to give out the order will not interefere with the time allowed for the test, the angle of sight will be given immediately after the range. |
| No. 9 Immediate action | 4 guns will be mounted about 3 yds apart. Stoppages set up , crank handles covered and the guns laid off the mark. The NCO at each gun will have a spare lock and clearing plug. One stoppage in each position will be set up. Special stoppages not to be included. Note. – The testing NCO to act as No. 2 | One. (Carry out immediate action on 4 guns) | No time limit imposed. Average time used in assessing points (see remarks) | Not less than 60 points | The test consists of rectifying the stoppage of all 4 guns in turn. The No. 1 being tested will be warned that when he has carried out the immediate action on a gun, he will immediately double to the next gun, until the last gun is reached. Time taken will be from the command “Go” until the testing NCO calls “Up,” when the immediate action is complete on the last gun. The time taken by each individual is recorded and the average time is worked out and points awarded as follows:- For every 5 seconds of part of 5 seconds below the average time add 1 point to points gained in immediate action. For 5 seconds or part of 5 seconds above the average time deduct 1 point. Total points awarded for correct immediate action carried out on each gun – 20. Deductions:- Totally incorrect: 20 points Partially incorrect: 5 points Guns not relaid: 5 points Incorrect aim: 2 points Minor errors: 2 points Not changing lock when required: 10 points |
| No. 10 Stripping and assembling the gun | Gun mounted with tools ready. No. 1 seated behind the gun | One | 2 minutes 10 sec’ds from command “Go” until No. 1 presses the thumbpiece | Stripped and assembled in the correct sequence and the correct manner | The gun will be stripped down until the barrel has been removed and then assembled. The lock, feed-block and component parts will not be stripped |
| No. 11 Stripping and assembling the lock | Lock out of the gun with punch and T fixing pin at hand | One | 1 minutes 40 sec’ds from command “Go” until the lock is cocked | Stripped and assembled in the correct sequence | The lock will be stripped down until the sear is removed and then reassembled. The gib will not be stripped. |
| <– Chapter 9 | Manual Index | Chapter 11 –> |
