fm 23-35 combat pistol training part 1

8/14/2019 FM 23-35 Combat Pistol Training Part 1

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F IE LD M A NU ALNO. 23-35

*FM 23-35H E A D Q U A R T E R S

D E P A R T M E N T O F T H E A R M Y

Washington, D C, 3 O ctober 1988

C OM BAT TRA IN IN G W ITH PISTO LS A ND REV OLV ERS

DISTRIBUTION RESTRICTION: Distribution authorized toUS Government agencies and their contractors toprotect technical or operational information fromautomatic dissemination under the InternationalExchange Program or by other means. This protectionapplies to publications required solely for officialuse and for those containing valuable technical oroperational information. Tl1is determination was madeon 15 October 1987. Other requests for this documentwill be referred to Commandant, US Army InfantrySchool, ATTN: ATSH-IN-S3, Fort Benning, GA31905-5593.

DESTRUCTION NOTICE--Destroy by any method that willprevent disclosure of contents or reconstruction ofthe docum ent.

*This publication supersedes FM 23-35, 24 Septem ber 1971.


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FM 23 35

3 OCTOBER 1988

By O rder of the Secretary of the A rm y:

C AR L E . V UO NOG e n e ra l U n ite d S t ate s A r m y

C h ie f o f S ta ffO ffi c i a l :

W IL L I Ml M E E H N IIB rig ad ie r G e n era U n ite d S ta te s A rm yT he A dju ta n t G e n era l

D I S T R I B U T I O N :

A ctiv e A rm y U S A R a nd A R N GTo be distributed in accordance w ith D A F orm 12-11A ,Requirementsfor Pis to ls and Revolvers Qty rqr block no. 200) .

*u.s.o v e r n m e n tPrintingOffice:1 9 9 4- 3 4 2 4 2 1 / 8 1 7 5 5


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P R E F A C E

This manual provides guidance on the operation andmarksmanship of the pistol, M 9, 9-mm; pistol,M 1911A1, caliber .45; and the revolver, caliber .38.It reflects current Army standards in weaponsq u alific a tions. It is a guide fo r the instructor to

develop training programs, plans, and lessons thatmeet the objectIves 01 the United States ArmyM arksmanshIp Program fo r developing combat effectivemarksmen. The soldier develops confidence, knowledge,and skills by following the guidelines in thismanual.

The proponent of this publication is HQ TRADOC.Submit changes for improving this publication on DAForm 2028 (Recommended Chan~es to publications andBlank Forms) and forward it to Commandant, US ArmyInfantry School, ATTN: ATSH-IN-S3, Fort Benning, GA31905-5593.

Unless otherwise stated, whenever the masculinegender is used, both men and women are included.

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FM 23-35

Contents

page

P r e f ac e . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . i i

Chapter 1. US Army Handguns 1-1

Chapter 2. Marksmanship Train ing 2-1

Sect ion I . Basic Marksmansh ip 2-1

Section II . Combat Marksmanship 2-l6

Sect ion III . Coaching and Training Aids 2-26

Sect ion IV. Sa f e t y . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 - 3 7

A} pendix A. Comba t p is to l Qual i f ica t ion Course . . A- l

Appendix B. Al terna te p is to l Qual i f ica t ionCo u r s e . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B

Appendix C. Revolver Qual i f i cat ion Course C- l

Appendix D. Al terna te Revolver Qual i f ica t ionj

Co U r s e. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D l

Append ix E. Training Schedules E- l

A1>pendix F. Reproducib le Forms F-l

GlossarY Glossary l

References References- l

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CHAPTER 1

U S A RM Y H AN DG UN S

1-1. P IS TO L, S EM IA UTOM ATIC , 9 -M M , M 9

The M 9 pistol is a 9-mm semiautomatic, magazine-fed, recoil-operated, double-action weapon chamberedfor th.e 9-mm cartridge. The magazine has a 15-roundcapaClty.

a. Equipment Data.

Cali be r 9- mm N A TOSystem of Operation--- u-Short recoil, semiautomaticLocking System Oscilla ting blockLength nnnnnnnnnnnnn- 217 mm (8.54 inche s)Wi d-t h u u u u u u u u u u u u u u u 38 mm (1.5 inches)H eigh tnnnnnnnnnnnnn-140 mm (5.51 inches)W eight with Empty M agazineuuuuuuuuuuuu960 gram s (2.1 pounds)W eight with 15-Round M agazinennnnnnnnnnnnnn 1,145 gr ams (2.6 pound s)Barrel Lengthuuuu uuuuuulT5 mm (4.92 inches)Ri fl in g u u u u u u u u u u -

25~'~~ [~b~~to~~einSb~ts]fM uzzle Velocityuuuuuuuu-375 meters per second

(1,230.3 feet per second)M uzzle EnergYuuuuuuuu-569.5 newton meters (430

foot pounds)M aximum Range 1,800 meters (1,962.2 yards)M aximum Effective Range 50 meters (54.7 yards)Front SightnnnnnnnnBlade, integral with slideRear Sight uuuuu- Notched bar, dovetailed to slideSighting Radiusuuuuuuuuu158 mm (6.22 inches)Safety F ea turesnnnnnnn- Decocking I safety lever

finng pin block~

Hammer (half-cocked notch) nnnnprevents accidentaldischarge.Basic Load nnnnnnnnnnn_unnnnnn_45 roundsTrigger Pull Single-Action: 5.50 pounds

Double-Action: 12.33 pounds

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NOTE: For additional information on technical aspectsof the M 9 pistol see TM 9-1005-317-310.

W A R N I N G

T H E H A LF -C O CK E D P OS IT IO N C ATC H ES T H E H A M M E R A N DPREVENTS IT FROM FIRING IF THE HAM M ER ISR EL EA SED W H ILE M A NU ALLY C OC KIN G T HE W EA PO N. ITIS NOT TO BE USED AS A SAFETY POSITION. THEPISTO L W ILL FIR E F RO M T HE H AL F-C OC KE D PO SIT IO NIF THE TRIGGER IS PULLED.

b. Operation.

The M 9 pistol has a short recoil system using afallin}i locking block. The pressure developed by theexpanoing gases of a fired round recoils the slide andbarrel assembly. After a short run, the locking blockis disengaged from the slide, the barrel stops againstthe frame, and the slide continues its rearwardmovement. The slide then extracts and ejects thefired cartridge case, cocks the hammer, and compressesthe recoil spring. The slide moves forward feedingthe cartridge from the magazine into the chamber. Theslide and barrel assembly remain open after the lastcartridge has been fired and ejectea.

1-2. PISTOL, AU TOM ATIC, .45 CA LIBER, M 1911 AN DM1911A1

The M 1911 and M 1911A1 pistols are semiautomatic,.4 5 -c a Ii be r , recoil-operated, magazine-fed, single-action pistols. The magazine has a seven-roundcapacity.

a. Equipment Data.

C a lib er uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu-O. 4 5 inche sSystem of Opera tionnnn-nnnnnnnShort recoil,

sem ia u toma ticLengthuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu-8 5/8 inchesW eight W ith Empty M agazineuuu-uuuuu2.4 poundsW eight W ith Full M agazineuuuuuuuuuu3 poundsLength of Barreluuuuuuuuuuuuu5.03 inchesRifhnguuuuuuuuuuuuuu- L. H., six gr oove

(Pitch 1 in 16 inches)M uzzle V eloci tynnnnnnnnn-830 feet per secondM uzzle Ener gy_unnnnnnnnnn17,OOO pounds per

s~[uare inchM aximum Range 1,50U metersM aximum Effective Rangeuuuuuuuuuu 50 metersFront SightnnnnnnnnBlade, integral with slide

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Rear Sight uuuuu-Notched bar, dovetailed to slideSigh t Ra diu snnnnnnnnnnnnnn- 6.4 81 inche sSafety FeaturesuuuuuuuuuM anual safety lever,

grip safety, half-cock positionBasic Loaduu nnnnnnnnnnnnnn-21 roundsTrigger Pull-uuuuuuuuuuu-5 to 6 1/2 pounds

b.

(1 )

(3 )

(5 )

Operation.

Each time a cartridge is fired, the parts insidethe weapon function in a given order. This isknown as the functioning cycle or cycle ofopera tion.

(2 ) The cycle of operation of the weapon is dividedinto eight steps: feeding, cambering, locking,firing, unlockIng, extracting, ejecting, andcocking. The steps are listed in the order inwhich functioning occurs; however, more than onestep may occur at the same time.

A magazine containing ammunition is placed in thereceiver. The slide is pulled fully to the rearand released. As the slIde moves forward, itstrips the top round from the magazine and pushesit Into the chamber. The hammer remains in thecocked position, and the weapon is ready tofire.

(4 ) The weapon fires one round each time the triggeris pullea. Each time a cartridge is fired, tneslicfe and barrel recoil or move a short distancelocked together. This permits the bullet andexpanding powder gases to escape from the muzzlebelore tne unlocking is completed.

The barrel then unlocks from the slide andcontinues to the rear, extracting the cartridgecase from the chamber and ejecting it from theweapon. During this rearward movement themagazine feeds another cartridge, the recoilspnng is compressed, and the hammer is cocked.

(6 ) At the end of the rearward movement, the recoilspring expands, forcing the slide forward,locking the barrel and slide together. Theweap l is rea~y to fire. again. The .s?-me .cycle ofoperation continues until fhe ammunItion ISexpended.

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(7 ) As the last round is fired, the magazine springexerts upward pressure on the magazine follower.The stop on tlle follower strikes the slide stop,forcing it into the recess on the bottom of theslide and locking the slide to the rear. Thisaction indicates fhat the magazine is empty andaids in faster reloading.

For additional information on the technicalaspects of the caliber .45 pistol seeT~ 9-1005-211-12.

N O T E :

1-3. R EV O LV ER , C AL IB ER .3 8

There are six basic caliber .38 service revolversin use by the Army. One is a 2-inch barreled, .38-caliber revolver made by Smith and W esson; five are 4-inch barreled, .38-caliber revolversuthree made byRuger, and two by Smith and W esson. The 2-inchbarreled revolver is used mainly by Army CID and

counterintelligence personnel. The 4-inch barreledrevolvers are used 15y aviators and military police.

a. Equipment Data.

Smith and W esson

C a Ii b er uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu-O. 3 8 inche sSystem of Operationuuuuuuuuu-Rotated ch~mberLength: 2-Inch Barrel uuuuuuuuuu7 1/4 Inches

4 - Inch Barr e 1 uuuuuuuuuu 9 1 14 inchesW eight: 2-Inch Barreluuuuuuuuuu-26.5 ounces

4-inch Barreluuuuuuuuuu-30.5 ouncesLength of Barreluuuuuuu_uu-2 inches I 4 inchesM uzzle Velocityuuuuuuuuu-950 feet per secondM uz.zle Energy uuuuuu_uu-16,OOO per square inchM axImum Range: 2-Inch Barreluuuuuuu-868 meters

4-Inch Barreluuuu-uuu992 metersM aximum Effective Range 45 m eters (2-inch barrel)

60 m eters (4-inch barrel)Front Sight uuuuuuu Fixed 1/8-inch serrated rampRe ar Sigh tuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu-Sq uare notchSafety Features uuuu_uNo m anually operated safetyB a sic Lo a duuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu18 round s

RugerC a Ii b er uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu-O. 3 8 inche sSystem of Operationuuuuuuuuu-Rotated chamberLengthuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu-9 1 14 inchesWeigh tuu _u uuu uu uu uuu uu uu u-3 3 ounc e s

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Length of Barrelnnnnnnnnnnnnnn-4 inchesM uzzle Velocityuuuuuu_uuu950 feet per secondM uzzle Energyuuuuuuuuu16,OOO per square inchM aximum Rangeuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu992 metersM aximum Effective Range-uuuuuuuuuu60 metersFront Sight n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n - Fix e d b 1ad eRear Sight n n n n n n n n n - n n n n n n Fix e d g roo v eSafety Features uuuu_uNo manually operated safetyBasic Load - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1 8 r 0 u n d s

b.

(2 )

(a )

(b )

Operation.

(1 ) W hen firing single-action, the hammer is pulledback, and the sear engaged the full-cock notch inthe ham mer.

(a ) Smith and W esson: Pulling the trigger lowers theham mer block, allowing the hammer to fall.

(b ) Ruger: Pulling the trigger raises the transferbar into the firing position between the ham merand firing pin, allowing the hammer to strike thefiring pin.

W hen firing double-action, the trigger issqueezed. ihis engages the sear, raising theham mer to nearly lun-cock position. Continuedpressure on the trigger allows the sear to escapefrom the trigger ana the hamm er to fall.

Sm ith and W esson: W hen the trigger is sgueezed,the rebound slide pivots the ham mer blocKdownward, striking the cartridge primer.

(3 )

Ruger: W hen the trigger is squeezed and held tothe rear, the transfer bar passes force from thetransfer bar to the firing pin, striking thecartridge primer. If the trigger is not held tothe rear, the hammer rests duectly on the framea1 d the transfer bar remains below the firingpIn.

The cylinder stop (Smith and W esson) or latch(Ruger) prevents the cylinder from making morethan one-sixth of a revolution each time the

weapon is cocked. The cylinder stop /latchwitfidraws from the cylinder as the trigger m oves.The trigger hand (Smith and W esson) or pawlRuger) pivots and engages the ratchet on theextractor / ejector portion of the cylinder. The

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trigger slips off of the cylinder stop / la tch asit continues rearward. The cylinder stop /latchthen engages the next notch.

NOTES: 1. In firing the Ruger, the trigger mustremain all the way Back till the nammer falls.If the trigger is released before the hammerfall s, the weapon will not fire. In firing theSmith and W esson, the weapon fires only whenthe trigger is pulled all tne way back.

2. For additional information on the technicalaspects of the caliber .38 see TM 9-1005-226-14and TM 9-1005-205-14& P-1.

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CHAPTER 2M A RK SM A NSH IP T RA IN IN G

Section 1. BASIC M ARKSM ANSHIP

2 -1. PHASES OF TRAINING

M arksmanship training is divided into two phases:preparatory marKsman~h~p tra.ining and ra~ge firi~g.Each phase may be diviaed Into separate Instructional

steps. All marksmanship training must be progressive.Combat marksmanship tecnniques should be practicedafter the basics have been mastered.

2-2. FU ND AM EN TA LS

The main use of the pistol or revolver is toengage an enemy at close range with quick, accuratefir e . Accurate shooting results from knowing andcorrectly applying the elements of marksmanship. Theelements of comBat pistol or revolver marksmanship

are:000000

Grip.Aiming.Breath control.Trigger squeeze.Target engagem ent.P osi tions.

2-3. GRIP

The weapon must become an extension of the handand arm. It should replace the finger in pointing atan object. A firm, unIform grip must be applied tothe weapon. A proper grif is one of the mostimportant fundamentals 0 quick fire.

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a. One-Hand Grip. Hold the weapon in the nonfiringhand; form a V with the thumb and forefinger ofthe strong hand (firing hand) (see Figure 2-1).Place the weapon in the V with the front and rearsights in line with the firing arm. W rap thelower three fingers around fhe pistol gnp,putting equal pressure with all three Iingers tothe rear. Allow the thumb of the firing nand torest alongside the weapon wi thou t pressure. Gripthe weapon tightly until the hand begins totremble; relax until the trembling stops. At thispoint, the necessary pressure for a proper griphas been applied. Place the trigger finger on thetrigger between the tip and second joint so thatit can be squeezed to the rear. The triggerfinger must work independently of the remainingfingers.

NOTE: If any of the three fingers on the grip isrelaxed the grip must be reapplied.

h ~~ ~ '--- -~\ ~T7n;

~/?;.3,

~- -

)/

Figure 2-1. One-hand grip.

b. Two-Hand Grip. The two-hand grip allows the firerto steady the firing hand and provIde maximum

support during firing. The nonfiring hand becomesa support mecnanism for the firing nand bywrapping the fingers of the nonfiring hand aroundthe firing hand. Two-hand grips are recommendedfor all pistol and revolver fHing.

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W A R N I N G

IF THE NON FIRING THUM B IS PLACED IN THE REARO F T HE W EA PO N TH E R EC OIL FR OM TH E W EA PO NC OU LD R ESU LT IN P ER SO NA L IN JU RY.

(1) Fist gri12..:.. Grip the weapon as described inparagraph a above. Firmly close the fingers ofthe nonfiring hand over the fingers of fhe firinghand, ensuring that the index finger from thenonfiring hand is between the miadle finger of thefiring hand and the trigger guard. Place thenonfiring thumb alongsiae the firing thumb. (SeeFigure 2-2.)

NOTE: Depending upon the individual firer, he maychoose to p1ace his index finger of thenonfiring nand on the front of the triggerguard of the M 9 pistol since this weapon has arecurved trigger guard designed for thispurpose.

~---=- -' .{.~ '

Figure 2-2. Fist grip.

(2) Palm-supported grip. This grip is commonly calledthe cup and saucer grip. Grip the firing hand asdescribed in Raragraph a above. Place fhenonfiring hana under the firing hand, wrapping the

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nonfiring fingers around the back of the firinghand. Place tne nonfiring thumb over the middlefinger of the firing hand. (See Figure 2-3.)

~

Figure 2-3. Palm-supported grip.

(3) W eaver grip. Apply this grip the same as thefist grIp. The only exception is that thenonfinng thumb is wrapped over the firing thumb.(See Figure 2-4.)

Figure 2-4. Weaver grip

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c. Isometric Tension. The firer raises his arms to afiring position and applies isometric tension.This IS commonly known as the Rush-pull method formaintaining weapon stability Isometric tensionis when tne firer applies forward pressure withthe firing hand and pulls rearward with thenonfiring hand with equal pressure. This createsan isometric force but never so much to cause thefirer to tremble. This steadies the weapon and

red uces barrel rise from recoil. The supportingarm is bent with the elbow pulled downward. Tnefiring arm is fully extended with the elbow andwrist locked. The firer must experiment to findthe right amount of isometric tension to apply.

NOTE: The firing hand should exert the same pressureas the nonfiring hand. If it does not, amissed target could result.

d. Natural Point of Aim. The firer should check hisgrip for use of his natural point of aim. Hegrips the weapon and sights properly on a distanttarget. W hile maintaining his grip and stance, hecloses his eyes for three to five seconds. Hethen opens l1is eyes and checks for proper sightpicture. If the point of aim is disturoed, thefirer adjusts his stance to compensate. If thesight alignment is disturbed, fhe firer adjustshis grip to compensate by removing the weapon fromhis nand and reapplying the grip. The firerrepeats this process until the sIght alignment andsight placement remain almost the same when heopens his eyes. This enables the firer todetermine and use his natural point of aim once hehas sufficiently practiced. This is the mostrelaxed position for holding and firing theweapon.

2-4. AIM ING

a. Aiming is sight alignment and sight placement (seeFigure 2-5). Sighf alignment is the centering ofthe front blade In the rear sight notch. The topof the front sight is level wifh the top of the

rear sight and IS in correct alignment with theeye. For correct sight alignment, the firer mustcenter the front sigl1t in the rear sight. Heraises or lowers the top of the front sight so itis level with the top of the rear sight.

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b. Sight placement is the positioning of the weapon'ssights in relation to the target as seen by tnefirer when he aims the weapon (see Figure 2-5). Acorrect sight picture consists of correct sightalignment with the front sight placed center massof the target. The eye can focus on only oneobject at a time at different distances. There-fore the last focus of the eye is always on thefront si~ht. W hen the front sight is seenclearly, {he rear sight and target will appearhazy. Correct sight alignment can only bemaintained through focusing on the front sight.The firer's bullet will hit the target even if thesight picture is partly off center but stillremains on the taq~et. Therefore, sight alignmentis more important fhan sight placement. Since itis impossible to hold the weapon completely still,the firer must apply trigger sgueeze and maintaincorrect sight alignment wfiile tne weapon is movingin and around the center of the target. Thisnatural movement of the weapon is referred to aswobble area. The firer must strive to control thelimits of the wobble area through proper breathcontrol, trigger squeeze, positioning, and grip.

Sight ali~nment is essential for accuracy becauseof the snort sight radius of the Ristols andrevolvers. For example, if a lila-inch error ismade in aligning the front sight in the rearsight, the firer's bullet will miss the point ofaim by about 15 inches at a range of 25 meters.The lila-inch error in sight alignment magnifiesas the ran~e increasesuat 25 meters it ismagnified TSO times.

c.

~=~I+i

C OR RE CT S IG HT A LIG NM EN TCO RR ECT SIG HT PLA CE ME NT

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Figure 2-5. Correct s ight alignment andsight picture.


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d. Focusing on the front sight while applying propertrigger squeeze will help the firer resist theurge to jerk the trigger and anticipate the actualmoment the w~apon yYlll fire. M a~tery of t~iggersqueeze and sIght ahgnment requlfes practice.Trainers should use concurrent training stationsor have fire ranges to enhance proficiency ofmarksmanship sKIlls.

2-5. BREATH CONTROL

The firer must learn to hold his breath properlyat any time during the breathing cycle if he wishe~ toattain accuracy that will serve fiim in combat. ThIsmust be done while aiming and squeezing the trigger.W hile the procedure is sImple, it requires explana-tion, demonstration, and supervised practice. To holdthe breath proRerly the firer takes a breath, lets itou t, then inhales normally, lets a Ii ttle. out. up tilcomfortable, holds, and then fires. It IS dIffI-cult to maintain a steady position keeping the front

sight at a precise aiming point while breathing.Tfierefore, the firer should be taught to inhale, thenexhale normally, and hold his breatfi at the moment ofthe natural respiratory pause (see Figure 2-6). Theshot must then be fired before he feels any discomfortfrom not breathing. W hen multiple targets arepresented, the firer must learn to holcf his breath at

n n nIN OUy IN 0\ ,r=:~ )N OUU/ \N AT U RA L H O L D SH O O T

R E SPIRA T O RY B RE A T H

PA U S E

Figure 2-6. Brea th control , f i r ingat a s ingle target .

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any part of the breathing cycle (see Figure 2-7).Breath control must be practiced during dry-fireexercises until it becomes a natural part of thefiring process.

TRIGGERSQUEEZE

~ ~TRIGGER \

I , { , ~QUEEZ~ Il OL ,I \ I

~ \ \IN OUT IN HOLD IN OUT INJ V TARGk SHLT TARGET \.JSHOOTFigure 2-7. Breath control, firing at timed

or multiple targets.

2-6. TRIGGER SQUEEZE

a. ImproRer trigger squeeze causes more misses thanany other step of Rreparatory marksmanship. Poorshooting is caused by the aIm being disturbedbefore the bullet leaves the barrel of the weapon.This is usually the result of the firer jerkingthe trigger or flinching. A slight off-centerpressure of the trigger finger on the trigger cancause the weapon to move and disturb the firer'ssight alignment. Flinching is an automatic humanrellex caused by anticipafing the recoil of the

weapon. Jerking is an effort to fire the weaponat fhe precise fime the sights align with thetarget.

NOTE: See problems in target engagement, paragraph2-7.

b. T~igger squeeze. is the i~dep~ndent .movement of thetngger fInger In applYIng IncreasIng pressure onthe trigger strai?;.ht to tne rear, wi thou tdisturbIng the sight alignment until the weaponfires. The trigger slack, or free play, is taken

up first, and tne squeeze is continued steadilyuntil the hammer falls. If the trigger is sgueezedproperly, the firer will not know exactly wnen thehammer will fall; thus, he does not tend to flinchor heel, resulting in a bad shot. Novice firers

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c.

must be trained to overcome the urge to anticipaterecoil. Pro_per application of the fundamentalswill lower this tenaency.

To apply correct trigger squeeze, the triggerfinger should contad the trigger between the tipof 1he finger to the second Joint (withouttouching the weapon anywhere else). W here contactis made depends on the length of the firer'strigger finger. If pressure from the triggerfinger is applied to the right side of the triggeror weapon, the strike of the bullet will be to fhe1eft. ihis is due to the normal hinge action ofthe fingers. W hen the fingers on the right handare closed, as in gripping, they hinge or pivot tothe left, thereby applying pressure to the left.(W ith left-handed firers, this action is to theright.) The firer must not apply pressure left orright but increase finger pressure straight to therea~ Only the. trigge.r .fing~r must perfo~m thisaction. Dry-fIfe TraInIng Improves a fIfer'sability. to move t~e trigg~r fInger straight to therear wIthout crampIng or IncreasIng pressure onthe hand grip.

(1) The firer who is a good shot holds the sights ofthe weapon as nearfy on the target center aspossible and continues to squeeze the trigger withIncreasing pressure until the weapon fires.

(2) The soldier who is a bad shot tries to catch histarget as his sight alignment moves past the.target and fires the weapon at that instant. ThIsis called ambushing, whIch causes trigger jerk.

d. Follow-through is the continued effort of thefirer to maintain sight alignment before, during,and after the round has fired. The firer mustcontinue the rearward movement of the finger evenafter the round has been fired. Releasing thetrigger too soon after the round has been firedresults in an uncontrolled shot, causing a missedtarget.

NOTE: The trigger squeeze of the M 9 pistol, whenfired in the single-action mode, is 5.50pounds; when fired in double-action mode, it is

12.33 pounds. The firer must be aware of themode fie is firing in. He must also practicesqueezing the trigger in each mode to developexpertise in single-action and double-actiontarget engagem ents.

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2-7. TARGET ENGAGEM ENT

To engage a single tar~et, the firer applies themethod discussed in paragraph 2-6 when mulfipletargets are engaged. The closest and most dangerousmultiple target in combat is engaged first and shouldbe fired at with two rounds. This is commonlyreferred to as a double tap. The firer then traversesand acquires the next target, aligns the sights in the

center of mass, focuses on the front sight, apRliestrigger squeeze, and fires. The firer ensures hisfiring arm elbow and wrist are locked during allengagements. If the firer has missed the first targetand has fired upon the second target, he shifts backto the first- and engages it. Some problems in targetengagement are as folfows:

a. Recoil Anticipation. W hen a soldier first learnsto shoot, he may begin to anticipate recoil. Thisreaction may cause him to tighten his musclesduring or just before the hammer falls. He mayfight 1he recoil by pushing the weapon downward inan tici p a ting or reacting to its firing. In eithercase, the rounds will not hit the pOInt of aim. Agood method to show the firer that he is antici-pating the recoil is the ball-and-dummy method(see paragraph 2-16).

Trigger Jer k . Trigger jerk occurs when thesoldier sees that he has aCCjuired a good sightpicture at center mass and snaps off a roundbefore the good sight picture is lost. This maybecome a problem, especially when the soldier islearning to use a flash sight picture (see

paragraph 2-9).

b.

c. Heeling. Heeling is caused bl a firer tighteningthe large muscle in the heel 0 the hand to keepfrom jerking the trigger. A firer who has hadproblems wIth jerking the trigger tries to correctthe fault by tightening the bottom of the hand,which results In a heeled shot. Heeling causesthe strike of the bullet to hit high on the firinghand side of the target. The firer can corrects~ooting errors by knowing and applying correcttngger squeeze.

2 - 8 . POSITIONS

The qualification course is fired from astanding kneeling, or crouch position. All of the

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firing positions described below must be practiced sothey become natural movements, during qualificationand combat firing. Though these positions seemnatural, practice sessions must be conducted to ensurethe habitual attainment of correct firing positions.Assuming correct firing positions ensures fhatsoldiers can quickly assume these positions without aconscious effort. Pistol marksmanship requires asoldier to rapidly apply all the fundamenfals at

dangerously close targets while under stress.-Assun~j~g a proper position to allow for a steady aimIS cntIcal to survIval.

a. Pistol-Ready Position. In the pistol-readyposition, hold the weapon in the one-hand grip.Hold the upper arm close to the body, and theforearm at about a 45 angle. poinf the weapontoward target center as you move forward (seeFigure 2-8).

Figure 2-8. pistol-ready position.

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c.

b. Standing Position W ithout Support. Face thetarget (see Figure 2-9). Place feet a comfortabledistance apart, about shoulder width. Extend thefiring arm and attain a two-hand grip. The wristand elbow of the firing arm are locked and pointedtoward target center. Keep the body straignt withthe shoulders slightly forward of the buttocks.

Figure 2-9. s tanding pos it ion wi thoutsuppor t .

During combat, there may: not be time for asoldier to assume a position that will allowhim to establish his natural point of aim.Firing from a covered position may require thesoldier to adapt his shooting stance toavailable cover.

Kneeling Position. In the kneeling position,ground only the firing side knee as tne mainsupport (see Figure .2-10). Vertically place thefoot, used as the maIn support, under thebuttocks. Rest the body weight on the heel andtoes. Rest the non firing arm just above the elbowon the knee not used as the main body support.

NOTE:

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Use the two-handed grip for firing. Extend thefiring arm, and lock the firing arm elbow andwrist to ensure solid arm control.

' IT7~IiL-riI~.

Figure 2-10 . Kneel ing pos i t ion .

d. Crouch Position. Use the crouch position whensurprise targets are engaged at dose range (seeFigure 2-11). Place the body in a forward crouch(boxer's stance) with the knees bent slightly and

Figure 2-11. Crouch pos i t ion .

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trunk bent forward from the hips to give fasterrecovery from recoil. Place the feet naturally ina position that allows another step toward thetarget. Extend the weapon straight toward thetarget, and lock the wrist and elbow of the firingarm. It is important to consistently train withthis position, since the body will automaticallycroucn under conditions of stress such as combat.It is also a faster position from which to changedirection of fire.

e. Prone Position. Lie flat on the ground, facingthe target (see Figure 2-12). Extend arms infront with the firing arm locked. The arms mayhave to be slightly unlocked for firing at hightargets. Rest fhe butt of the weapon on the groundfor single, well-aimed shots. W rap the nonfiringhand (fingers) around the fingers of the firinghand. Face forward. Keep the bead down betweenarms as much as possible and behind the weapon.

.--=-

- -..~_.,,~,,- ------ t... -

Figure 2-12. Prone pos i t ion .

f. Standing Position W ith Support. Use availablecover for supportu for example, a tree or wall tostand behind (see Figure 2-13). Stand behind abarricade with the firing side on line with theedge of the barricade. Place the knuckles of the

the nonfiring fist at eye level against the edgeof the barricade. Lock the elbow and wrist of thefiring arm. M ove the foot on the nonfiring sideforward until the toe of the boot touches thebottom of the barricade.

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Figure 2-13. Standing posit ion with support .

g. Kneeling Supported Posit ion . Use avai lable coverfor support--for example, use a low wal l , rocks ,or venic le (see Figure 2-14) . Place thef ir ing-side knee on the ground. Bend the other.knee and place the foot (nonfi ring side) flat on

Figure 2-14. Kneeling supported .

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the ground, pointin~ toward the target. Extendarms alongside and -brace them against availablecover. Lock the wrist and elbow of the firingarm. Place the nonfiring hand around the fist tosupport the firing arm. Rest the nonfiring armjust above the elbow on the nonfiring-side knee.

Section II. C O M B A T M A R K S M A N S H IP

After a soldier becomes proficient in the funda-mentals of marksmanship, he progresses to advancedtechniques of combat marksmanshIp. The main use ofthe pisto.1 or r~volver is to e.ngage the enemy at closerange wIth qUIck, accurate fIfe. In shootingencounters, It is not the first round fired that winsthe engagement, but the first accurately fired round.The soldier should use his sights when engaging theenemy, the only exception beIng if this would placethe weapon within arm 's reach of the enemy.

2-9. T EC H N IQ U ES O F F IR IN G

a. H and-and-Eye C oordination.

(1) Hand-and-eye coordination is not a natural,instinctive ability for all soldiers. It isusually a learned skill obtained by practicing theuse of a flash sight picture (see paragraph bbelow). The more a soldier practices raIsing theweapon to eye level and obtaIning a flash sightpicture, the more natural the relationship betweensoldier, sights, and target becomes. Eventually,

proficiency elevates to a point so that thesoldier can accurately engage targets in the dark.Each soldier must be aware of thIS trait and learnhow to best use it. Poorly coordinated soldierscan achieve proficiency by being closely sUf er-vised. Everyone has the ability to point a anobject. Since Rointing the forefinger at anobject and extenaing the weapon toward a targetare much the same, the combInation of the two arenatural. M aking the soldier aware of this abilityand teaching him how to apply it when firingresults in success when engaging enemy targets incombat.

(2) The eyes focus instinctively on the center of anyobject observed. After the object is sighted, thefirer aligns his sights on the center of mass,focuses on the front sight, and applies proper

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trigger squeeze. M ost crippling or killing hitsresult from maintaining the focus on the center ofmass. The eyes must remain fixed on some part ofthe target throughout firing.

(3) W hen a soldier points, he instinctively points atthe feature on the object on which his eyes arefocused. An impulse from the brain causes the armand hand to stop when the finger reaches theproper position. W hen the eyes are shifted to anew object or feature, the finger, hand, and armalso shift to this point. It is this inherenttrait that can be used by the soldier to rapidlyand accurately engage targets. This instinct iscalled hand-and-eye coordInation.

b. Flash Sight Picture. Usually when engaging anenemy aT pistol/revolver ranges, the lirer haslittle time to ensure a correct sight

ricutre.

The quick-kill (or natural point of aim methoddoes not always ensure a first-round it. Acompromise between a correct sight picture and thequick-kill method is known as a flash sightpicture. As the soldier raises the weapon to eyelevel, his point of focus switches from the enemyto the front sight, ensuring that the front andrear sights are in proper a1ignment left andright, out not necessarily up and down. Pressureis applied to the trigger as the front sight isbeing acquired, and tIle hammer falls as the flashsight picture is confirmed. Initially, thismethod .sl).ould l?e practiced slowly, gaining speedas profIC1ency Increases.

c. Quick- Fire Point Shooting. This is for engagingan enemy at less than 5 yards. It is also usetulfor night firing. The weapon should be held in atwo-hand grip. It is brought up close to the bodyuntil it reaches chin lever and is then thrustforward until both arms are straight. The-arms andbody form a triangle, which can be aimed as aunit. In thrusting the weapon forward, the firercan imagine that tnere is a box between him andthe enemy, and he is thrusting the weapon into thebox. The trigger is smoothly squeezed to the rearas the elbows straighten out.

d. Quick-Fire Sighting. This is used when engagingan enemy at 5 to 10 yards away:. It is used onlywhen there is no time available to get a full

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picture. The firing position is the same as forguick-fire point shooting. The sights are alignedleft and rignt to save time, but not up and down.The firer must determine in practice what thesight picture will look like and where the frontsight must be aimed to hit the enemy in thechest.

2-10. TA RG ET EN GA GEM EN TIn close combat, there is seldom time to precisely

apply all of the fundamentals of marksmanship. W hen asoldIer fires a round at the enemy, many times he willnot know if he hit his target. Therefore, two roundsshould be fired at the target. This is called adouble taE' If the enemy continues to attack, twomore sho s should be placed in the pelvic area tobreak the body's support structure, causing the enemyto fall.

2-11. TRAV ERSIN Ga. Traversing 3600. In close combat, the enemy may

be attackIng from all sides. The soldier may nothave time to constantly change his position toadapt to new situations. The purlJose of thecrouching or kneeling traverse 361)0 is to fire inany direction without moving the feet. The firerremains in the crouch position with feet almostparallel to each other. The following instruc-tions are for a right-handed firer. The two-handgrip is used at all times except for over theright shoulder. Turning will De natural on theballs of the feet.

(1) Over the left shoulder (see Fi)?;ure 2-15): Theupper body is turned to the left, the weaponpoints to the left rear with the elbows of botharms bent. The left elbow will naturally be bentmore than the right elbow.

(2) Traversing to the left (see Figure 2-16): Theupper boay turns to the righf, and the rightfinng arm straightens out. The left arm will beslightly bent.

(3) Traversing to the front (see Figure 2-17): Theupper boay turns to the front as the left armstraightens out. Both arms will be straightforward.

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(4) Traversing to the right (see Figure 2-18): Theupper bocfy will turn to the right as both elbowsbend. The right elbow will naturally bend morethan the left.

-;;:.

Figure 2-15. Trov~rsingover the leftshoulder.

Figure 2-16. Travers ingto the lef t .

Figu - e 2-17. Travers ing

to the front .Figure 2-18. Travers ing

to the r igh t .

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(5) Traversing to the right rear (see Figure 2-19):The upper body confinues to turn to the rightuntil It reaches a point that it cannot go furthercomfortably. Eventually the left hand will have torelease itself from the fist grip and the firerwill be shooting to the right rear with the righthand.

Figure 2-19. Travers ing to the r ight rear .

b. Kneeling 3600 Traverse. The followinginstructions are for right-handed firers. Thehands are in a two-hana grip at all times. Theunsupported kneeling position is used. The rearfoot must be positioned to the left of the front

foot.(1) Traversing to the left side (see Figure 2-20):

The upper body turns to a comfortable positiontoward the left. The weapon is aimed to the left.Both elbows are bent with the left elbow naturallybent more than the right elbow.

(2) Traversing to the front (see Figure 2-21): Theupper body is turned to the front, and a standardunsupported kneeling position is assumed. Theright tiring arm is straight, and the left elbowis slightly bent.

(3) Traversing to the right side (see Figure 2-22):The. upper body turns to the right as ooth arm sstraIghten out.

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(4) Traversing to the rear (see Figure 2-23): Theupper body continues to turn to the right as theleft knee IS turned to the right and praced on theground. The right knee is hfted off the groundand becomes the forward knee. The right arm isstraight, while the left arm is bent. Thedirection of the kneeling position has beenreversed.

Figure 2-20. Travers ingto the lef t ,kneel ing.

Figure 2-22. Travers ingto the r ight ,kneel ing.

Figure 2-21. Travers ingto the front ,kneel ing.

Figure 2-23. Travers ingto the rear ,kneel ing.

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(5) Traversing to the new right side (see Figure2-24): The upper body continues to the right.Both elbows are straight until it reaches a pointthat it cannot comforfably to further. Event-ually, the left hand must be released from thefist grip, and the firer will be firing to theright wIth the one-hand grip.

Figure 2-24. Traversing to the new right side,kneeling.

c. Training M ethod. This method can be taught

anywhere without a weapon by the firer sImulatinga two-hand grip. The firer should be familiarwith firing In all five directions.

2-12. COM BAT RELOADING TECHNIQUES

Reloading was an overlooked problem for many yearsuntil it was discovered that soldiers were beingkilled due to dropping of magazines, shaking hands,placing magazines In l5ackward, and placing emptymagazInes oack into the weapon. The stress stateincfuced by a life-threatening situation causessoldiers to do things they would not otherwise do.Consistent, repeated training is needed to avoid suchmistakes.

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NOTE: These procedures should only be used in combat.not on firing ranges.

a.

0 STEP 1: Develop a consistent method for carrYIngmagazines in the ammunition pouches. Allmagazines should face down with the bulletsfaClng forward and to the center of the body.

STEP 2: Know when to reload. W hen possible,count the number of rounds fired. However, it ispossible to lose count in close combat. If thishappens, there is a distinct difference in recoilof the pistol when the last round has been fired.Change magazines when two rounds may be left--onein the magazine and one in the chamber. Thisprevents being caught with an empty weapon at acrucial time. Re10ading is faster with a roundin the chamber since time is not needed torelease the slide.

0

0 STEP 3: Obtain a firm grip on the magazine.This precludes the maRazine being dropped ordifficulty- in gettinR he magazine into theweapon. Ensure the Knuckles of the hand aretoward the body while gripping as much of themagazine as possible. Place the index finger highon the front-ot the magazine when withdrawingfrom the pouch. Use the index finger to guidethe magazine into the magazine wen.

STEP 4: Know which reloading procedure to usefor the tactical situation. inere are threesystems of reloading: rapid, tactical, andone-handed. Rapid reloading is used when thesoldier's life is in immediate danger, and thereload must be accorp.plished quickfy. Tacticalreloading is used when there is more time, and itis desiral5le to keep the replaced magazinebeca use there are rounds still in it or it willbe needed again. One-handed reloading is usedwhen there IS an arm injury.

0

0

R apid R eloading.

Place your hand on the nextammu lition pouch to ensure

magazIne.W ithdraw the magazine from the pouch whilereleasing the other magazine from the weapon.Let the replaced magazIne drop to the ground.

magazine in thethere is another

0

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b.

0 Insert the replacement magazine, guiding it intothe magazine well with the index Enger.

Release the slide, if necessary.

0 Pick up the dropped magazine if time allows.Place It in your pocket, not back into theammunition pouch where it may become mixed withfull m agazines.

Tactical Reloading.

0 Place your hand on the next magazine in theammu~ition pouch to ensure there is a remainingmagazIne.

W ithdraw the magazIne from the pouch.

0 Drop the used magazine into the palm of thenonfiring hand, wfiich is the same hand holdingthe repfacement magazine.

Insert the replacement magazine, guiding it intothe magazine well with the index 1inger.

0

0 Release the slide, if necessary.

Place the used magazine into a pocket.mix it with full magazines.

Do not

c. One-Hand Reloading.

(1) W ith the right hand.

0 th e

0

Push the magazine release button withthumb.

Place the safety ON with the thumb if the slideis forward.

0 Place the weapon backwards into the holster.

NOTE: If placing the weapon in the holster backwardsis a pro5lem, place the weapon between the calfand thigh to hold the weapon.

2-24

000

Insert the replacement magazine.W ithdraw the weapon from the holster.Remove the safety with the thumb if the slide isforward, or pusn the slide release if the slideis back.


35/50

(2) W ith the left hand.

0 Push the magazine release button with the middlefinger.

Place the safety ON with the thumb if the slideis forward. W ith the .45-caliber pistol, thethumb must be switched to the left side of theweapon.

0

0 Place the weapon backwards into the holster.

NOTE: If placing the weapon in the holster backwardsis a pro5lem, place the weapon between the calfand thigh to hold the weapon.

Insert the replacement magazine.Remove the weapon from tne holster.Remove the safety with the thumb if the slide isforward, or push the slide release lever with themiddle finger if the slide is back.

0

0

0

2-13. POOR VISIBILITY FIRING

Poor visibility firing with any weapon is diffi-cult since shadows can be misleading to the soldier.This is mainly true during EENT and EM NT (a half hourbefore dark and a half flour before dawn). Even thoughthe weapon is a short-range weapon, the hours of darK-ness and poor visibility further decrease its effect.To compensate, the soldier must use the three princi-ples of night vision.

b.

a. Dark Adaptation. This process conditions the eyesto see during poor visibility conditions. Theeyes usually- need about 30 minutes to become 98-percent dark adapted in a totally darkened area.

Off-Center Vision. W hen looking at an object indayli~ht, a person looks directfy at it. However,at night he would see the object only for a fewseconds. To see an object in darkness, he mustconcen.trate on it while looking 60 to 100 awayfrom It.

c. Scanning. This is the short, abrupt, irregularmovement of the firer's eyes around an object orarea every 4 to 10 seconds. W hen artificialillumination is used, the firer uses night firetechniques to engage targets, since targets seemto shift without moving.

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NOTE: For more detailed information on the threeprinciples of night vision, see FM 21-75.

2-14. N UCLEA R, BIO LOG ICA L, CH EM ICAL FIRIN G

W hen firing under NBC conditions with a pistol orrevolver, the firer should use optical inserts, ifapplicable. Firing in M OPP1 through M OPP3 levelssFlOuld not be a problem for the firer. Unlike wearinga protective mask while firing a rifle, the firer'ssigl1t picture will be acquired fhe same as with orwithout a protective mask. M OPP4 is the only levelthat may present a problem for a firer since glovesare worn. Gloves may require the firer to adjust hisgrip to attain a proper gnp and proper triggersqueeze. Firers should 12ractice firing in M OPP4 tobecome proficient in NBC firing.

Section III. COACHING AND TRAINING AIDS

2-15. COACHING

a. Throughout preparatory marksmanship training, thecoach-and-pupil method of training should be used.The proficIency of a pupil depends on how well hiscoach performs his duties. The coach assists thefirer by correcting errors, ensuring he takesproper firing posItions, and ensunng he observesall safety precautions. The criteria for select-ing coacnes are a command responsibility; coachesmust have experience in pistol marksmanship above

tha t of the student firer.b. Duties of the coach during instruction practice

and record firing include:

(1) Checking that then

(a) W eapon is cleared.

(b) Ammunition is clean.

(c) M agazines are clean and operational.

(2) Observing the firer to see that hen

(a) Takes the correct firing position.

(b) Loads the weapon properly and only on command.

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(c) Takes up the trigger slack correctly.

(d) Squeezes the trigger correctly (see paragraph2-7).

(e) Calls the shot each time he fires (except forquick fire and rapid fire).

(f) Holds his breath correctly (see paragraph 2-5).

(g) Lowers his weapon and rests his arm when he doesnot fire a round within five to six seconds.

(3) Having the firer breathe deeply severalrelax If he is tense.

times to

2-16. BALL-A ND -D UM MY M ETH OD

In this method the coach loads the weapon for thefir e r . He may hand the firer a loaded weapon or anempty one. W hen firing the empty weapon, the firerobserves that in antiClpating recoil he is forcing theweapon downward as the hammer falls. Repetition of theball-and-dummy method helps to alleviate recoilanticipation.

2-17. CALLING THE SHOT

To call the shot is to state where the bulletshould strike the target according to the sight-Eicture at the instant the weapon firesufor example:

'hiq,h, a little low, to the left, to the right,or 'bull's-eye. If the firer does not call his shotcorrectly in range firing, he is not concentrating onsight alignment. Consequently, he does not know whathis sight picture is as he fIfes. Another method ofcalling the shot is the clock systemufor example. Athree-ring hit at 8 o'clock, a four-ring hit at 30' clock. Another method is to provide the firer witha target center (placed beside hIm on the firingline). As soon as the shot is fired, the firer mustplace a finger on the target face or center where heexpected the round to hit on the target. This methodavoids guessing and computing for the firer. The

immediate placing of the finger on the target facegives an accurate call. If the firer does not calll1is shot correctly, he is not concentrating on sightalignment and trigger squeeze. Thus, he does not Knowwhat his sight picture is as the weapon fires.

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2-18. PENCIL TRIANGULA nON EXERCISE

The pencil triangulation exercise (see Figure2-25) is conducted only with an unloaded and properlycleared M 1911A1 caliber .45 pistol. It will not workwith an M 9 Ristol; however, coaches may have studentsdry fire the M 9 while he observes the firers to see ifthe front sight dips or jumps when the hammer falls.The

fencil triangulation exercise consists of firing a

penci or pointed dowel point-blank at a miniaturetarget. n combines position, grip, sight alignmentbreathing, and trigger squeeze Into a single practicalwork exercise. At the same time, it measures thefirer's performance wi thou t the effects of recoil.This practical work is designed to teach and developcorrect shooting habits. 1t can be conducted indoorsor out, which makes an ideal exercise where rangefacilities are limited or when weather is poor.

2/3 L EN GT H O F P EN CIL , /2 INCH FRO M ERASER

fl- 0~

Q~~\

~:~ ~.~.

to

.... -

Q C. Q

Figure 2-25. Pencil tr iangulation exercise.

a. Equipment.

(1) One dowel or lead pencil for every two students.This pencil should be at least 6 inches long andwrapped with masking or cellophane tape. Thetape wrappings form two busnings that fit theinside dIameter of the weapon's barrel.

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b.

(2) One miniature bull's-eye sheet for every twostudents. The bull's-eye sheet can be copied,drawn, or stam ped by using the eraser of a penciland ink pad. The bull's-eyes should not be largerthan 1 Iff inch and at least 1 inch apart.

Conduct of the Exercise. The instructor explainsand demonstrates the details of the exercisebefore practical work by the students. The firer

should begin by using a two-hand grip, progressingto the one-hand grip as his skills increase.

(1) The firer faces the target and takes up a goodshooting position. This position is close enoughto the miniature bull's-eye so when the pencil isinserted in to the barrel, with the firer's armextended and the sights aimed at the miniaturebull's-eye, the point of the pencil is within 1inch of the target. The bull s-eye sheet shouldbe affixed to a target, or any type support, andshould be shoulder-high to the firer.

(2) The firer inserts the pencil into the muzzle ofthe barrel, eraser end first, and cocks theham~er. He grip.s the weapon properly, e.xt~nds theshooting arm, alms the weapon at the mInIaturebull' s - eye, squeezes the tngger, and the hammerfall s. The hamm er strikes the firing pin, whichin turn strikes the rubber eraser ot the pencil,driving it out of the barrel and causing It tomake a pencil dot 1 12 inch below the bull's-eye(if the firer had the correct sight alignment andtrigger squeeze).

(3) The firer continues this exercise until he hasfired a group of five pencil marks below eachtarget. The object of the exercise is to keep thefive pencil m arks in a group as sm all as the1 I S-inch bull's-eye, 1 IL inch direct y below thebull's-eye. W ith practice, m any firers can hitthe same m ark with the pencil. This indicatesthat the firer is properly performing the funda-mentals of marksmansnip each time.

2-19. S LO W-F IR E E XE RC IS E

a. This is a dry-fire exercise. The slow-fireexercise is one of the most important exercisesfor both amateur and competitive marksmen. Coachesshould ensure soldiers practice this exercise as

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b.

much as possible. To perform the slow-fire exer-cis e, the firer assumes the standing position withthe weapon pointed at the target. The firershould 5egin by using a two-hand grip, progressingto the one-hand grip as his skill increases. Hetakes in a normal breath and lets part of it out,locking the remainder in his lungs by closing histhroat. He then relaxes ( aims at the tar..?;et,takes the correct sight a ignment and sigfitpicture, takes up Hie trigger slack, and squeezesthe trigger straIght to tne rear with steady,increasIng pressure until the hammer falls,simulating firing.

If the firer does not cause the hammer to fall in5 or 6 seconds, he should come to the pistol readyposition, and rest his arm and hand. He thenstarts the procedure again. The action sequencethat makes up this process can be summed up by thekey word BRASS. It is a word the firer shouldthInk of each time he fires his weapon:

Brea then Take a normal breath, let part of itout, and lock the remainder in the lungsby closing the throat.

Relaxn Relax the body muscles.

Aim-- Take correct sight alignment and sightpicture, and focus tne eye at the top ofthe front sight.

Slackn Take up the trigger slack.

Squeeze --Squeeze the trigger straight to the rearwith steadily increasing pressure withoutdisturbing sight alignment until thehammer falls.

c. Coaches should observe the front sight for erraticmovements during the application of triggersCfueeze. Proper application of trigger squeezeallows the hammer to fall without the front sightmoving. A small bouncing movement of the fronlsight is acceptable. Firer's should call the shotby the direction of movement of the front sight(high, low, left, or right).

2-20. AIR-OPERATED PISTOL, .177 M M

The air-oRerated Ristol is used as a trainingdevice to teach the soldier the method of quick fire,

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to increase confidence in his ability, and to affordhim more practice firing. A range can be set upalmost anywhere with a minimum of effort and coordi-nation, which is ideal for USAR and NG. If conductedon a standard range, live firing of Qistols andrevolvers can be conducted along with the firing ofthe .177-mm air-operated pistol. Due to the light recoiland little noise of the pistol, the soldier canconcentrate on fundamentals. This helps buildconfidence, because the soldier can hit a targetfaster and accurately. The air-operated pistol shouldreceive the same respect as any firearm. A thoroughexplanation of the weapon and a safety briefing aregiven to each soldier.

2-21. QUICK-FIRE TARGET TRAINING DEVICE

The QTTD (see Figures 2-26 and 2-27) is used withthe .177 -mm air-operated pistol.

Figure 2-26. The quick-fire target t raining device.

PHASE I. From 10 feet, five shots at a 20-footminiature E-type silhouette. After firing eachshot, the firer and coach discuss the results and

m ake corrections.

PHASE II. From 15 feet, five shots at a 20-footminiature E-type silhouette. The same instruc-tions apply to this exercise as for PHASE I.

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21/8I

2 6 /8

14 7/8 ~

/4 4 7/1 6

~ 73/8 1/4 -

16 FE ET

1/4

~1 1/4

t20 FEET

. 216/16~ -1/21/43/4

10 FEET

Figure 2-27.PHASE III. FromJ?inia tu~e E-typeInstructions applyI and II.

Dimensions for the QTTD.20 feet, five shots at a 20-footsilhouette. The sameto this exercise as for PHASES

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PHASE IV. From 15 feet, six shots, at two20-footminiature E-type silhouettes.

(1) This exercise is conducted the same as theprevious one, except that the firer is introducedto fire distribution. The targets on the OTTD areheld in the Uf position so they cannot be Knockeddown when hi .

(2) The firer first engages the 20-foot miniatureE-type silhouette on the extreme right of theQTTD (see Figure 2-28). He then traverses betweentargets and engages the same type target on theextreme left of tne QTTD. The firer again shiftsback to reengage the first target. The Rrocedureis used to teaCh the firer to Instinctively returnto the first target if he misses it with his firstshot.

ASSEMBL V INSTRUCTIONS

~

--------------- \1. DRILL HO LE F OR STEEL ROD . EACH END OF 2X4 THAT IS86'12 LONG.

2. A 'ITACH END OF M ETAL B AR1X85'A TO EACH ROD TO ALLO WTHE BAR TO M OVE UP AND DOW N.

3. USE THE 2X4 THAT IS 24 L ONG AS LEG. A 'ITACH TO EACHEND OF 2X4 THAT IS85W' LONG.

4. DRILL 1/4 H OLE AT TOP OF 12 M ETALSTRIPS.

6. W ELD M ETAL S TRIP TO HINGES.A 4TT.6.rU U IIY ~J:'e: Tn ~YA U:U::'1/_ , AII~ ~III II~ . 1 _1_-.- -----. --_I' I ' ' '' '' '' '' 'U ' '' '' & . ... 'u u- ,~ , . IYI ~~ ~un~ VnlC .:tlue I~ ~ t:tTO M OVE UP AND DOW N.7. TARGET STOPS8. W IRE GUIDE BLOCK9. GUIDE EVE

- Figure 2-28. Minia tu re E-type si lhouet terr 'lY l1~a t.,~ 1, f \mmn-'-'--'.L. u~ yy~,-U \,L.l..lu.

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-- ..........

HORIZ

-'~,,~

~~'~

'':

\,, /, ,, ,

v;7' j

---......

--,.,IIII

1/II

NOTES:1. ROD ON EACH END TO ALLOW TO M OVE.2. STOP IS PLACED TO STOP TARGET AT 415 DEGREE ANGLE.

,,.I

-- 41-.. 4 ~

2 X 2 X 7 WO OD B LO CK15REQUIRED

-4 14 .. ......

28 ....

32314

815Yz

1 X 1 X 2 W OOD BLOCK15REQUIREDI

tT

1

14 ---

28 .-

- Figure 2-28. Miniature E-type si lhoue t tefor use with QTTD (continued).

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. 12.

I~

III I STD 2 X 2 HINGE

... 12 1/4

.

1/4

L1/8 X 1 S TE EL B AR

1/8 ~

L In ).L.

- - -J-1 ,HOLE- T

.. /8 V ~ /,.I/O A .-,/..

~:EL~. 1/01~1/4 HOLE

. ~ 32II

II

. 85W.i./

Figure 2-28. M in ia tu re E -t yp e s il ho ue tt efor use with QTTD (cont inued) .

(3) The firer Rerforms this exercise twice, firingthree shots each time. Before firing the second 1ime,the coach and firer should discuss the errors madeduring the first exercise.

PHASE V. Seven shots fired from 20, 15, and 10feet at miniature E-type silhouettes.

(1) The firer starts this exercise 30 feet from theQTTD. The command, M OVE OUT, is given, and thefirer steps out at a normal pace wHh the weaponheld in the ready position. Upon the command,FIRE (given at the 20-foot line), the firerassumes the crouch position and engages the20-foot miniature E-type silhouette on the extreme

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right of the QTTD. He then traverses betweentargets, engages the same type target on theextreme left of the QTTD, and shifts back to thefirst target. If the target is still up, heengages It. The firer then assumes the standingposition and returns the weapon to the readyposition. Upon completion of each exercise, thecoach makes corrections as the firer returns tothe standing position.

(2) On the command, M OVE OUT, the firer again stepsoff at a normal pace. Upon the command, FIRE(given at the IS-foot line), he engages theIS-foot targets on the QTTD. The same sequence offire ~istri5ution is followed as with the previousexerClse.

(3) During this exercise, the firer moves forward oncommand, until he reaches the IO-foot line. Atthe command, FIRE, the firer engages the IO-footminiature E-type silhouette in tne center of theQTTD.

2-22. RAN GE FIRIN G CO URSES

Range firing is conducted after the firers havesati.sf':lctorily- completed. preparatory marksmanshiptraInIng. The range fInng courses are:

a. Instructional firing is practice firing on arange, using the assistance of a coach.

(1) All Rersonnel authorized or required to fire the

pistol or revolver receive 12 hours of preliminaryInstruction that includes the following:

0 Disassem bly and assem bly (does not apply torevolver).

0 Loading, firing, unloading, and imm ediate action.0 Preparatory marksmanship.0 Care and cleaning.

(2) The tables fired for instructional practice areprescribed in the combat pistol qualificationcourse in Appendix A and In the revolver qualifi-cation course in Appendix C. During the instruc-tional firing, the CPQC or RQC is fired with acoach or instructor.

NOTE: The RQC is fired on the same range as the CPQC;for a picture of the CPQC see FM 25-7.

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b. The CPQC stresses the fundamentals of quick fire.It is the final test of a soldier's proficiencyand the basis for his marksmanship classification.After the soldier has completed the instructionalpractice firing he will shoot the CPQC for record.A detailed description of the CPQC tables,standards, and conduct of fire is in Appendix A.

c.

The alternate pistol qualification course

(APQC) or alternate revolver qualificationcourse (ARQC) can be used for sustainment/qualification if the CPQC is not available(see Appendix B and Appendix D).

The mqitary poli~e firearms qU':llificati~ncourse IS a practical course of Instruction forpolice firearms training (see FM 19-10).

NOTE:

Section IV. SAFETY

Safety must be observed during all marksmanship

training. Listed below are the precautions for eachphase of training. It is not intended to replace AR385-63 or local range regulations. Range safetyrequirements vary according to the requirements of thecourse of fire. It is mandatory that the latest rangesafety directives, and local range regulations beconsulted to determine current safety requirements.

2-23. REQUIREM ENTS

a. A red flag is displayed prominently on the rangeduring all firing.

W eapons must be handled carefully and are neverpointed at anyone except the enemy in actualcombat.

b.

c. A weapon is always assumed loaded until it hasbeen t~o.roughly examined and found to contain noammunItion.

d. Firing limits are indicated by red-and-white-striped poles visible to all firers.

Obstructions should never be placed in the muzzleof any weapon about to be fired.

e.

f. W eapons are kept in a prescribed area with propersafeguards.

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g. Smoking is not allowed on the range nearammunItion, explosives or flammalJles.

2-24. BEFORE FIRING

a. All prescribed roadblocks and barriers are closed,and guards are posted.

All weapons are checked to ensure they are clearof ammunition and obstructions, and slides arelocked to the rear.

b.

c. All firers are briefed on the firing limits of therange and firing lanes. They must keep theirfires within prescribed limits.

All firers are instructed on how to load andunload the weapon, and on safety features.

All personnel are briefed on all safety aspects offire and range pertaining to the conduct ot the

courses.

d.

e.

f. No one moves forward of the firing line withoutpermission of the tower operator, safety officer,or OIC.

g. W eapons are loaded and unlocked only on commandfrom the tower operator except during the conductof the courses requiring automatic magazinechanges.

W eapons are not handled except on command from thetower operator.

h.

I . Firers must keep their weapons pointed downrangewhen loading, preparing to fire, or firing.

2-25. DURING FIRING

a. A firer does not move from his position until hisweapon has been cleared by safety personnel, andit nas been placed in its proper safety position.An exception is the assault pnase.

During Table 5 of the CPQC, firers remain on linewith other firers on their right or left.

b.

c. Firers are careful to fire in their own firinglane and not to point the weapon into an adjacentlane, mainly during the assau1t phase.

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d. The air-operated pistol is treated as a loadedweapon. Firers observe the sam e safetyprecautions as with other weapons.

e. All p~rsonnel wear helmets during live-fireexerClses.

f. The weapon is held in the raised position exceptwhen preparing to fire. It is then held in theready position, pointed downrange.

2-26. AFTER FIRING

a. Safety personnel inspect all weapons to ensurethey are clear. A check is conaucted to determineif any brass or live amm unition is in possessionof soldiers.

b. Once cleared, pistols are secured with the slides

locked to the rear, and revolvers with cylindersopen.

2-27. IN STR UC TIO NA L PR AC TIC E A ND R EC OR D Q UA LIFIC ATIO NFIRING

During these phases of firing, safety personnelensure that then

a. Firer understands the conduct of the exerCIse.

b. Firer has the required am munition, and understandsthe comm ands for loading and unloading.

Firer complies with all commands from the toweropera tor.

c.

d. Proper alignm ent is m aintained with other firerswhile moving downrange.

e. W eapon is always pointed downrange.

f. Firer fires within the prescribed range limits.

g. W eapon is cleared after each phase of firing, andthe tower-operator is aware 01 the clearance.

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h.

NOTE:

M alfunction or failure to fire, due to no fault ofthe firer, is reported immediately. On command ofthe tower operafor, the weapon is cleared andaction is taKen to allow the firer to continuewith the exercise.

For training and qualification standards seeAppendixes A through E.

fm 23-35 combat pistol training part 1

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