Disassembly, Asssembly and Cleaning the M16A2
Sight adjustment for the M16
M9 Disassembly
M9 Assembly
109 WEAPONS FUNDAMENTALS
109.1 Explain when the safety is moved to the fire position.
The safety of any weapon is to remain on safe until you are actually aiming at a target and ready to fire.
Only then will the safety of any weapon be moved to the fire position.
.2 Define the four weapon conditions:
- Condition one: Magazine is inserted, a round must be in position to fire (chambered), the safety is on.
- Condition two: Magazine is inserted, a round must be in position to fire (chambered). The weapons action is closed. The hammer must be forward. This condition applies to weapons with external hammers except for the M9 Service pistol.
- Condition three: Magazine is inserted, chamber is empty, the action is closed and the safety is on.
- Condition four: All ammo is removed, the chamber is empty, the action is closed and the safety is on.
.3 Discuss the precautions required when receiving a weapon.
Ensure the weapon is safe by clearing it.
This will depend on the type of weapon.
In general, make sure the weapon is on safe
The chamber is empty and no magazine is inserted
The weapon is pointed in a safe direction
.4 Discuss the following terms, hazards, and immediate actions associated with each:
Malfunction
The failure of a weapon to function satisfactorily, usually because of excess friction caused by dirt, improper lubrication or carbon buildup.
Immediate action You must stop and clean the weapon to correct this problem.
Misfire
A complete failure to fire, NOT a delay in firing that may be caused by a faulty firing mechanism or a faulty element in the propelling charge explosive train.
Immediate action - The following steps are to be followed:
Strike the forward assist to be sure the extractor has engaged a round.
Tap upward on the magazine to ensure it is fully seated.
Pull the charging handle to the rear.
If round is ejected, released handle, strike forward assist and attempt to fire.
If round is not ejected, check for a round in the chamber, if it is clear, released handle, strike forward assist and attempt to fire.
If a round is stuck in the chamber it must be removed before attempting to reload/re-chamber.
Cook off: The functioning of any or all of the explosive components of a cartridge chambered in a hot weapon due to the heat from continual firing of that weapon.
Immediate action - When this occurs:
Attempt to remove the cartridge before ten seconds elapse.
If a cartridge is chambered in a hot weapon and can neither be fired or removed, keep
the weapon pointed in a safe direction.
Allow for a minimum of 15 minutes to elapse before taking any further action.
109 WEAPONS FUNDAMENTALS
Stoppage
Any interruption in the cycle of functioning caused by faulty action of the weapon or ammunition.
Immediate action - Without analyzing the cause the following steps are to be followed:
Strike the forward assist to be sure the extractor has engaged a round.
Tap upward on the magazine to ensure it is fully seated.
Pull the charging handle to the rear.
If round is ejected, released handle, strike forward assist and attempt to fire.
If round is not ejected, check for a round in the chamber, if it is clear, released handle, strike forward assist and attempt to fire.
If a round is stuck in the chamber it must be removed before attempting to reload/re-chamber.
.5 State the eight steps of operation in a firing cycle.
Every weapon has a cycle of operation.
This cycle is a group of actions that takes place upon the firing of one round and that must occur before firing of the next round.
There are eight steps in the cycle.
Feeding - The feeding action places a round in the receiver just to the rear of the chamber.
Chambering - Takes place as the moving bolt strips the round and forces it into the chamber.
Locking - Holds the bolt in the forward position for a short period of time to prevent the loss of gas pressure.
Firing - The firing pin actually strikes the primer of the cartridge.
Unlocking - After the round is fired, the bolt unlocks and moves rearward.
Extracting - The process of pulling the empty case back out of the chamber. As the bolt moves rearward extraction occurs
Ejecting - As the casing is extracted, ejection occurs as it is thrown out of the weapon.
Cocking - The retraction of the firing mechanism against spring pressure so that there will be sufficient energy to fire the next cartridge.
109.6 Explain the differences between semiautomatic and automatic operation.
Semiautomatic: weapon unlocks, extracts, ejects, cocks and reloads automatically.
However, the trigger must be pulled each time to fire a round.
Automatic: weapon unlocks, extracts, ejects, cocks and reloads automatically.
An automatic weapon will fire as long as the trigger is pulled and rounds are available to fire.
109 WEAPONS FUNDAMENTALS
.7 Define the following terms:
a. Trajectory The flight path the bullet takes from the weapon to the target.
b. Breech The rear end of the barrel.
c. Bore The actual hole in the barrel. It can be rifled or not.
d. Chamber The enlarged part of the bore at the breech that holds the cartridge.
e. Muzzle The front or forward end of the barrel.
f. Muzzle velocity The speed at which the bullet travels when it leaves the muzzle of the barrel.
g. Maximum range The greatest distance a round will travel.
h. Maximum effective range The greatest distance at which a weapon may be expected to fire
accurately to inflict damage or casualties.
.8 Discuss small arms ammunition by using color codes:
a. Orange or red- Tracer rounds.
b. Violet- Blank Rounds.
c. Black - Armor piercing.
d. Aluminum- Armor piercing, incendiary.
e. Green- Standard ball ammunition.
.9 State the weapons covered in the Seabee Combat Handbook.
M9 9mm service pistol
M16A2E3 5.56 service rifle
M18A1 Claymore mine
Grenades
M60E3 Machine Gun
M2HB Machine Gun
M203 Grenade Launcher
Mk19 40mm Grenade Machine Gun
M136 84mm Rocket Launcher (AT-4)
M224 60mm Mortar
M870 12 gauge Shotgun
109 WEAPONS FUNDAMENTALS
.10 State the maximum range, maximum effective range, purpose/tactical employment, types of fire and types of ammunition of the following weapons:
9mm pistol
- Semi-automatic
- Magazine fed
- Recoil Operated
- Double Action or single action firing pistol
- Current issue sidearm
- Capabilities/Characteristics
- Length -8.54 in
- Weight - 2.12 lbs
- Weight fully loaded (15 rnd mag) - 2.54 lbs
- Magazine capacity - 15 rounds
- Muzzle velocity - 1230/fps
- Max effective range - 50 m
- Ammunition - Fires 9mm Ball ammo
o. Safety Features
The M9 pistol has only ONE safety.
However, it has THREE SAFETY FEATURES.
Ambidextrous Safety - Allows for safe operation of the pistol by right and left handed users. Lowers the hammer safely without causing an accidental discharge.
Firing Pin Block - Prevents any motion of the firing pin and is only overcome by pulling the trigger.
Half Cock Notch - Prevents accidental discharge. If the cocked hammer should fall forward due to a mechanical failure, this would catch on the sear before the hammer would strike the firing pin.
M-16 rifle
Lightweight
Gas operated
Air cooled
Magazine fed
Shoulder fired
Semi-automatic or fully automatic
Semiautomatic Fire mode - When a single shot is fired. The trigger must be pulled each shot.
Automatic Fire mode - Rifle will continue to fire as long as the trigger is held back.
Selector Lever
Safe position - Rifle will not fire
Semi position - The trigger must be pulled each shot
Automatic position - Rifle will continue to fire as long as the trigger is held back.
109 WEAPONS FUNDAMENTALS
Capabilities/Characteristics
Length w/flash suppressor 39 in
Length of barrel w/flash suppressor 21 in
Weight 7.8 lbs
Weight fully loaded (30 rnd mag) 8.79 lbs
Magazine capacity 20/30 rounds
Muzzle velocity 3100/fps
Max range 3534 m
Max effective range Pt Tgt - 550 m and Area Tgt - 800m
Rates of Fire
Sustained 12 to 15 rounds per minute
Rapid 150 to 200 rounds per minute
Cyclic 700 to 800 rounds per minute
5.56mm Ball Standard round
5.56mm Tracer Used to mark targets or cause incendiary effects
5.56mm Blank Training round
5.56mm Dummy Totally inert training
M203 grenade launcher
Light weight
Single shot
Breech loaded
Pump action
Shoulder fired weapon
Attaches to the M16 rifle
Capabilities/Characteristics
Length of launcher 15 5/16 in
Total weight unloaded 3 lbs
Total weight loaded 3.5 lbs
Total weight with M16 11 lbs
Max range 400m
Max effective range (area tgt) 350m
Max effective range (pt tgt) 150m
109.11 Describe and discuss the six types of grenades:
a. Fragmentation: Grenades designed to inflict personnel casualties and damage to light equipment by projecting high velocity fragments from the detonated grenade case.
The effective casualty-producing radius is about 50 feet (15 meters).
b. Illuminating: Grenades used mainly to light up the terrain in night operations.
The Mk 1 is the only illuminating grenade currently available.
It provides about 55,000 candlepower for a period of 25 seconds.
Used to illuminate terrain in night time operations
Once pin is pulled, GRENADE MUST BE THROWN!
c. Chemical: Grenades that are chemical filled munitions designed to be thrown by the individual or projected from the service rifle using a special adapter.
ABC-M25A2, riot control hand grenade is the most commonly used
Filled with a type of tear gas chemical that causes irritation and watering eyes.
Used for incendiary, screening, signaling, training and riot control purposes
109 WEAPONS FUNDAMENTALS
d. Incendiary: AN-M14 Incendiary-Thermite is used to ignite combustible materials and to destroy all types of equipment.
This TH grenade is cylindrical in shape and weighs 32 ounces (900 grams).
Contains filler of 26.5 ounces (751 grams) of Thermite mixture.
It uses an igniting delay fuse that sets fire to the Thermite.
The Thermite burns at a temperature of about 4,300 1F.
e. Smoke: Grenades that are cylindrical in shape and weigh about 27 ounces (765 grams).
They can be thrown about 40 yards (37 meters) with an effective casualty radius of nearly 30 yards (27 meters).
f. Practice/training: Used to train personnel in the care, handling, and use of grenades prior to using actual service grenades.
These grenades are used for training personnel in the care, handling, and use of hand grenades before using service grenades.
Practice grenades simulate the functioning of service grenades to provide realism in training.
.12 Discuss hand grenade safety procedures.
Hand grenade safety precautions must be observed by everyone who handles and/or throws any and all types, and by other persons who may be within the grenade's danger area.
Anyone within the danger area of a casualty-producing grenade (about 55 yards or 50 meters) must wear a steel helmet.
When the safety pin is pulled, the safety lever or arming device should be held down
firmly until it is thrown
All personnel handling casualty producing grenades must wear proper protection
Never attempt to de-fuse hand grenades
Do not remove the safety pin until ready to throw
Do not attach grenades to clothing or equipment
.13 Discuss the placement, arming, safety requirements, coverage, and methods of firing the Claymore mine.
Placement: This mine should be positioned so as to Afford all friendly personnel, within 110 yards (100 meters) to the rear and sides of the mine, the opportunity to take adequate cover.
Arming: After the M18A1 mine is positioned and Properly aimed, it is armed by first opening the blasting cap assembly and unrolling the wire from either the firing position or the mine.
The wire is secured by wrapping a few turns of wire around a leg of the mine and burying it if possible.
Safety requirements: Before attaching the firing device directly, the circuit should be checked for continuity with the test set provided to ensure that the mine will function at the desired time.
The firing device has a safety bail with two positions.
In the upper (safe) position, it acts as a block between the firing handle and the generator.
In the lower (fire) position, it allows the generator to be activated.
The instructions provided with the M7 bandoleer should be carefully followed by anyone using these mines.
Range / Coverage: When detonated, the M18A1 mine will project steel spheres over a 601 fan-shaped pattern approximately 6 feet (1.8 meters) high and 164 feet (50 meters) wide to an optimum effective range of 55 yards (50 meters).
These steel fragments are moderately effective up to a range of approximately 110 yards (100 meters) and can travel up to 275 yards (250 meters).
109 WEAPONS FUNDAMENTALS
Methods of firing: M18A1 mine can be in either an uncontrolled or a controlled role. An uncontrolled mine is essentially a booby-trap.
This use by Seabees is not authorized.
In a controlled role, the operator detonates the mine as the enemy approaches within the killing zone.
By using either an electrical or a non-electrical firing system, the operator can control detonation.
In almost all cases, mines employed by Seabees will be fired electrically with the M57 firing device.
.14 Discuss loading/unloading procedures for the following weapons:
a. 9mm pistol
Loading:
Holding the pistol in the raised pistol position insert a loaded magazine. With your opposite hand grasp the slide and pull the slide quickly to the rear, this will chamber a round. Place the weapon on safe. The weapon is now loaded
Unloading:
Holding the weapon in the raised pistol position, depress the magazine catch and remove the magazine. Pull the slide back, this should eject the chambered round, and inspect the chamber to insure the weapon is clear. Release the slide allowing the bolt to close. Point the weapon in a safe direction and squeeze the trigger. The weapon is now unloaded.
b. M-16 Rifle
Loading:
With the hammer locked, place the selector on safe. Insert the magazine If the bolt is open depress the bolt catch to release the bolt and chamber the round. If the bolt is closed pull the charging handle fully to the rear and release. The weapon is now ready loaded.
Unloading:
Place the weapon on safe and remove the magazine by depressing the magazine catch button. Pull the charging handle to the rear ejecting the chambered round. Inspect the chamber and receiver to insure it is clear. Release the charging handle allowing the bolt to close. The weapon is now unloaded.
c. M203 grenade launcher
Loading
Press barrel latch and slide the barrel forward until the barrel stop is engaged
Insert casing into chamber
Slide barrel assembly sharp rearward until barrel locks
Move safety rearward
Unloading
Press barrel latch and move barrel forward
Expended casing is automatically extracted and ejected
104 WEAPONS FUNDAMENTALS
The following items apply to the 7.62mm M60 machine gun:
104.1 Describe the 7.62mm M60 machine gun.
Air-cooled
Belt-fed
Gas-operated
Automatic weapon
Fixed headspace
Fires from open bolt Position
Crew served
104.2 Discuss loading/unloading procedures.
LOADING:
Point weapon down range
Place safety in the “F” (fire) position
Use cocking handle to pull the bolt to the rear
When the sear holds bolt rearward, return cocking handle forward and place the safety in the “S” (safe) position
Raise the cover and ensure the feed tray, receiver and chamber are clear
Place the first round in the feed tray groove and close the cover, making sure the round stays in the groove
Move safety to “F”
The weapon is now ready to fire
UNLOADING:
Point weapon down range
Move safety to “F” (fire) position
Pull charging handle rearward to lock the bolt to the rear, then return the charging handle forward
Place the safety in the “S” (safe) position
Raise the cover and remove the belt and rounds from the tray.
Ensure that chamber and face of bolt are clear
Lower feed tray and close cover
CAUTION- DO NOT ALLOW BOLT TO SLAM FORWARD ON EMPTY CHAMBER
104.3 State the following capabilities/characteristics:
a. Length 42.4 Inches
b. Weight 18.5 lbs
c. Maximum range 3725 meters
d. Maximum effective range 1100 meters
e. Safeties
Safety lever on left side of trigger housing
–The bolt cannot be pulled rearward or
released to go forward while on safe.
104 WEAPONS FUNDAMENTALS (CONT'D)
f. Ammunition types
7.62 Ball
7.62 Armor piercing
7.62 Blank
7.62 Tracer
7.62 Dummy
g. Rates of fire
Sustained - 100 rnds/minute
Rapid - 200 rnds/minute
Cyclic - 550-600 rnds/minute
h. Types of fire
Grazing Fire - Not less than 1m above and no higher than 68 inches above the ground. Can exist for 700m over level or evenly sloping ground.
Plunging Fire that strikes the ground from above at a considerable level. Beaten zone is considered the danger space.
OverheadFire delivered over the heads of troops. Usually plunging fire.
i. Types of mounting pods
Integral Bipod
Part of the barrel group
Provides effective firing platform
M122 Tripod
Stable and durable mount
Provides for greater accuracy
Includes a traversing and elevating mechanism and the pintle and platform group
104.4 Name the three types of emplacements that might be employed in a
defensive position. [ref. c, pp. 4-14 thru 4-16]
M-60 Emplacements:
Employed as a squad (sqdldr & 2-4 person gun tms)
Support the rifleman in offense & defense
Provide heavy volumes of controlled, accurate and continuous fire
Engage predetermined targets in all visibility conditions
Provide long range, close defensive and final protective fires
Basis for FPF’s in the defensive fire plan
Cover likely avenues of approach
Provide grazing fire
Assigned to each gun
Normally does not exceed 800 mils right to left (45 degrees)
Adjacent Machine gun squad sectors should overlap.
Initial Fire Command - The units leaders means of controlling the fires of his unit. A way of telling you what weapon, where, at what, how far, when to commence firing.
104 WEAPONS FUNDAMENTALS (CONT'D)
Remembered by the acronym ADDRAC
ALERT - The first element, alerts you that a command is coming.
DIRECTION - Directs your attention in a direction or to the target. Can be skipped if the target is singular and obvious.
DESCRIPTION - A description of the target or targets in short accurate words. Can combine a reference point in this element as well.
RANGE - The estimated range of the target to be engaged.
ASSIGNMENT/METHOD - Only used if the need to assign different sectors of fire exists or to indicate a method of engagement.
CONTROL/COMMAND - Used to tell you when to start placing fire on the target.
Final Protective Fire (FPF) - Defensive fire designed to break up the enemy’s assault under any condition of visibility.
A prearranged barrier of fire laid down just in front of the defense.
Also planned to destroy or limit enemy penetrations into the defense.
Fired on verbal command or predetermined signal.
Final Protective Lines (FPL)
Predetermined line of fire to obtain the maximum grazing fire from the weapon.
Used in terrain that has short ridges, draws and irregular slopes.
Characterized by:
Flanking Fire: Provides effective frontal coverage
Interlocking: Reduces number of gaps & provides mutual
support
Grazing: Bullet does not rise above avg ht of person.
Flat or even slope 700m max.
Principle Direction of Fire (PDF)
Used when terrain does not allow for
effective FPL.
Used to cover dangerous avenues of approach.
May fall
within the sector of fire or compromise either boundary.
104.5 Name the members of a gun team and state what they are responsible for
carrying into a combat situation. [ref. a, p. 1-17]
Team Leader Usually A PO2, responsible for effective employment of the gun.
Responsible for changing the barrels during firing.
Carries spare barrel kit, M122 tripod, one bandoleer of ammo and
armed with a 9mm pistol.
Gunner - Usually a PO3. Actually fires and maintains the gun
Carries the gun, one bandoleer of ammo and armed with a 9mm pistol.
Ammo 1 - Usually a CN, acts as the supply person for the team.
Carries one box of ammo, spare barrel case with T&E.
Armed with an M16.
Ammo 2 - Usually a CA.
Carries two boxes of ammo. Armed with an M16.
104 WEAPONS FUNDAMENTALS (CONT'D)
104.6 Discuss how tracer rounds are used.
Observation of fire
Incendiary effects
Signaling
Training
104 WEAPONS FUNDAMENTALS (CONT'D)
The following items apply to the 40mm machine gun (MK 19):
104.7 Describe the 40mm machine gun.
Air-cooled
Belt-fed
Blow back operated
Automatic weapon
Fires from open bolt position
Crew served
104.8 Discuss loading/unloading procedures.
LOADING
Keep the weapon down range
Make sure the bolt is forward. If not take the weapon off safe and ease the charging handles forward.
Open the cover
Insert the first round through the feed throat
Insert the first round through the feed throat
Place the first round into the feeder. Female link first.
Push the round across the first pawl
Move the slide assembly to the left
Close the cover
Unlock and grasp the charging handles and charge weapon
UNLOADING
Place weapon on safe
Open cover
Remove remaining rounds and inspect chamber
Once clear, close cover
Place weapon on fire and use charging handles to “ride” bolt forward or press trigger sending the bolt forward.
104 WEAPONS FUNDAMENTALS (CONT'D)
104.9 State the following capabilities/characteristics:
a. Length 43.1 inches
b. Weight 75.6 lbs
c. Maximum range maximum effective 1500m
maximum 2212m
d. Arming range M383 HE Round 18 to 36 meter
M918 TP Round 18 to 30 meters
e. Muzzle velocity 790 fps
f. Rate of fire 325 to 375 rds/min
g. Safety Thumb switch with “Safe” and “Fire” positions
h. Ammunition types M383 HE - High explosive, designed to inflict personnel casualties. Arming distance of 18 to 36m. 15m casualty radius
M430 HEDP -High explosive, dual purpose
M385E4/M385A1 - Training Practice with propellant. Max range 2200m
M918 TP - Target round with a flash signature. Max range 2200m
M922 Dummy - Inert
The following items apply to the .50 caliber M2 HB machine gun:
104.10 Describe the operation of the .50 caliber M2 machine gun.
The .50-caliber machine gun is a belt-fed, crew-served, recoil-operated, air-cooled weapon.
It can be set for automatic and semiautomatic fire.
The weapon does not have any safeties.
104.11 Discuss loading/unloading procedures.
LOADING
Automatic mode
“Make sure gun is clear”
Close the bolt
Close feed cover
Lock down the bolt latch release
Insert the ammo
Cock the gun (the gun is now “half-cocked”)
Re-cock the gun (now it is “fully-cocked”)
Single shot mode
“Make sure gun is clear”
Close the bolt
Close feed cover
Rotate bolt latch release lock in the up position to the right
Insert the ammo
Cock the gun (the gun is now “half-cocked”)
Re-cock the gun (now it is “fully-cocked”)
To fire another round you must push the bolt release allowing the bolt to go home
104 WEAPONS FUNDAMENTALS (CONT'D)
UNLOADING
Place the gun in single shot mode
Pull slide handle to the rear and lock bolt rearward
Open the feed cover
Clear all remaining links or rounds
Inspect chamber insuring it is clear
Press the bolt latch release and ride the bolt forward
Close the feed cover and pull the bolt to the rear
104.12 State the following capabilities/characteristics:
a. Length 65 inches
b. Weight Total Weight 128 lbs
Barrel - 24 lbs
Receiver group - 60 lbs
M3 Tripod - 44 lbs
c. Maximum range 6800 (M2 Ball)
d. Maximum effective range 1830 meters
e. Muzzle velocity 3050 fps (2080 mph)
f. Direction of feed: Load so double end loop on ammo belt clicks into the feedway
g. Rates of fire Sustained 40 rnds or less/minute
Rapid 40 rnds or more/minute
Cyclic 450-550 rnds/minute
f. Types of fire Automatic: Short burst are recommended over sustained firings.
Semiautomatic: Single Shot Fire
104.13 Discuss setting headspace and timing on the .50 caliber machine gun.
Headspace - Distance between the bolt face and the base of a seated cartridge (rnd).
Correct when:
Recoiling groups are fully forward
No independent rearward movement between the bolt, barrel and barrel extension
Must be checked and set before gun is fired,
–When barrel is replaced and
When correct setting is in doubt
Headspace Gauge
-
Tool used to check and set headspace
Has “GO-NO GO” reading
Insert the “GO” side of the gauge between the bolt and rear of the barrel(T-slot)
The gauge should enter freely up to the center ring
Remove the gauge and place the “NO-GO” side in the T-slot
If the “NO-GO” side does not enter, the headspace is set correctly
104 WEAPONS FUNDAMENTALS (CONT'D)
Headspace Too Tight
The “GO” side of the gauge cannot enter freely
Pull back on the charging handle
While holding it back, unscrew the barrel one notch (click)
Ease the bolt forward
Recheck the headspace with the gauge
Headspace Too Tight
The “GO” side of the gauge cannot enter freely
Pull back on the charging handle
While holding it back, unscrew the barrel one notch (click)
Ease the bolt forward
Recheck the headspace with the gauge
Timing Ensures that firing takes place when the recoiling parts are
between .020 and .116 inch out of the battery (fully forward).
Correct when:
recoiling parts are locked together
Firing takes place just before the recoiling parts are in the
battery
The gun fires on the “FIRE” gauge
And WILL NOT on the “NO-FIRE” gauge
Timing Adjustment
Checked with the “FIRE” (.020 in) and “NO-FIRE” (.116 in) gauges
Must be checked and/or set each time headspace is adjusted and whenever timing is questionable
Timing Adjustment Steps
Check headspace first
Ensure gun is cocked and bolt forward
Raise the extractor
Retract the bolt far enough to insert the “FIRE” gauge
Place it between the extension and the trunnion block
Allow the barrel extension to close on the gauge
Depress the trigger, the firing pin should release
Retract the bolt far enough to remove the “FIRE” gauge, cocking the gun and allow the bolt to go forward
Retract the bolt far enough to insert the “NO-FIRE” gauge, place it in the same position
Depress the trigger, the firing pin should not release
Timing Late
The firing pin will not release when the “FIRE” gauge in in place. If this happens perform the following:
•Remove “FIRE” gauge
Remove backplate assembly
Locate and turn the trigger bar adjusting nut one notch to the
right
Reinstall the backplate assembly
•Reinsert the “FIRE” gauge and test
again
104 WEAPONS FUNDAMENTALS (CONT'D)
Timing Early
The firing pin will release when the “NO-FIRE” gauge in in place. If this happens perform the following:
Perform the same steps as if it were late except turn the trigger bar adjusting nut on notch to the left
The following items apply to the 60mm mortor (M 224):
104.14 Discuss the tactical purposes of this weapon.
Enables fires over hills, forests, walls or other defenses
Can reach far beyond flat trajectory weapons
Crew is protected from enemy fire and observation
Can be used as an offensive or defensive weapon
104.15 Describe the two methods of firing.
Conventional Mode
The M7 baseplate, the sight unit, and the bipod are used.
Handheld Mode
–Used on patrols with minimum deployment
104.16 Describe loading/unloading procedures.
LOADING
Drop-Fire Method (Conventional mode)
Drop round from top
Hand-held Mode
Drop round from top
UNLOADING
Misfires - A round that has been dropped but failed to fire. A complete failure to fire.
Immediate action - Switch to trigger mode and attempt to fire. If it fails again, switch selector to “safe” and kick the lower portion of the cannon to dislodge the round. If this fails attempt to trigger fire again.
Finally, if this fails, ensure the selector is on safe, have the gunner slowly lift the base cap end as the a-gunner places their hands around the outer edge of the muzzle.
As the round slides out the a-gunner stops it with their thumbs and removes it. It is then placed in the designated area.
104.17 State the following capabilities/characteristics:
a. Length 40 inches
b. Weight Total weight 46.5 lbs
Cannon 14.4 lbs
M7 Baseplate 14.4 lbs
M8 Baseplate 3.6 lbs
M170 Bipod 15.2 lbs
104 WEAPONS FUNDAMENTALS (CONT'D)
c. Ammunition types
High Explosive (HE) - Used to destroy or cause casualties to personnel, emplacements and vehicles. Causes damage by blast, fire and fragmentation.
Smoke, White Phosphorus (WP) - Used for screening, casualties, incendiary and signaling. Causes material damage by fire.
Illuminating (ILLUM) - A flare attached to a parachute. Used for battlefield illuminating and signaling.
Training Practice (TP) - Similar to HE without explosive filler.
Training - Completely inert.
a. Maximum effective range
High Explosive (HE) - 3490m/400-70m
Smoke, White Phosphorus (WP) - 1630m/400-70m
Illuminating (ILLUM) - 951m/NA
Training Practice (TP) - 3490/NA
Training - Completely inert NA
e. Maximum/minimum elevations
Max/Min Elevation - 700-1600 mils
f. Propellant increment charges
Propellant increment charges
Impact Fuze: causes the round to function when it comes in contact with an object.
Graduated Time Fuzes: Causes the round to function at a prescribed time after the round is fired. Also known as Time Fuzes
Variable Time Fuzes. Contain their own radio transmitter and receiver. They transmit a radio signal. This signal is reflected back to the fuze. As the round approaches an object, the strength of the reflected signal increases. The round explodes at a predetermined strength.
g. Safety
If a crew member is within one meter of the muzzle during firing, hearing protection must be used.
Never put your hands in front of the muzzle.
When cleaning the bore, be careful not to leave any waste on the firing pin.
104.18 Discuss the role and mission of the following:
a. Forward Observer (FO)
The “eyes” of the indirect fire team
Primary mission is locating suitable targets and calling for and adjusting fire on these targets.
Additional mission of collecting intelligence.
b. Fire Direction Center (FDC)
Provides the CO with a way to control and quickly mass fires
Located in the HQ’s section of the mortar platoon
Processes the calls for fire by plotting them on the firing chart
From this chart, firing data is prepared and announced to the gun crews
104 WEAPONS FUNDAMENTALS (CONT'D)
c. Fire Support Coordinator (FSC)
Approves all calls for fire that are requested.
De-conflicts different fire missions in TOAR
Ensures data for fire missions is accurate
The following items apply to the 40mm M203 grenade launcher:
104.19 Describe the 40mm M203 grenade launcher.
Light weight
Single shot
Breech loaded
Pump action
Shoulder fired weapon
Attaches to the M16 rifle
104.20 Describe how the weapon is held when fired.
Standing - Used with targets less than 100m. Face target then half right, Right hand pistol grip, left on magazine.
Kneeling - Good for level ground or ground that slopes upward towards target. Place body perpendicular to target. Same firing position as standing.
Prone - Same as with rifle. When firing long range place butt of weapon on the deck Holding the 40mm grenade launcher.
104.21 Discuss loading/unloading procedures.
Ensure the weapon is on safe
Press the barrel latch and slide barrel forward
Insert round into the chamber
Slide the barrel closed
Weapon is now loaded
•Open barrel to eject round to unload
104.22 State the following capabilities/characteristics:
a. Weight Total weight unloaded - 3 lbs
Total weight loaded - 3.5 lbs
Total weight with M16 -11lbs
b. Ammunition type
HE round - High explosive, designed to inflict personnel casualties. 5m casualty radius. Danger radius of 30m. Arms within 14m to 27m.
HE air burst - Lands on the deck and bounces up 2m to explode. 5m casualty radius. Arms within 14m to 27m.
HEDP - High explosive, can penetrate 2 inches of steel. 5m casualty radius.
TP - Training round with a flash signature. Danger radius of 20m
c. Maximum effective range (area target) [p. 13-1]
Max effective range (area tgt) - 350m
d. Maximum effective range (point target)
Max effective range (pt tgt) - 150m
e. Maximum range [p. 13-1]
Max range - 400m
104 WEAPONS FUNDAMENTALS (CONT'D)
The following items apply to the 12-gauge shotgun:
104.23 Describe the operation of the 12-gauge shotgun.
Manually operated
Single shot
Magazine feed (tubular)
Pump action
Shoulder fired weapon
104.24 Discuss loading/unloading procedures.
LOADING
Single Load
Ensure the weapon is on safe
Press the action lock lever and slide barrel (fore-end) Rearward
Magazine Load
Ensure the weapon is on safe
Slide barrel (fore-end) forward
Insert round into the magazine
Weapon is now loaded without round in chamber
Open and close barrel to chamber a round
UNLOADING
Open barrel to eject round to unload
104.25 State the following capabilities/characteristics:
a. Length 39 inches
b. Safeties Safety switch on top
c. Ammunition type 12 ga, 2 - 2 3/4 in 00 buck, military round
The following items apply to the 5.56mm M16 rifle:
104.26 Describe the 5.56mm M16 rifle.
Lightweight
Gas operated
Air cooled
Magazine fed
Shoulder fired
Semi-automatic or fully automatic
104.27 Describe how the weapon is held when fired. [
Shoulder fired
Semi-automatic or fully automatic
104 WEAPONS FUNDAMENTALS (CONT'D)
104.28 Discuss loading/unloading procedures.
LOADING
Ensure the rifle is on safe
With the bolt locked to the rear, insert a magazine.
Release the bolt catch and allow the bolt to go forward. This chambers a round from the magazine.
The rifle is now loaded and in condition one
UNLOADING
UNLOADING
Ensure the rifle is on safe
After the last shot the bolt should lock to the rear. If so, just remove the magazine and inspect the chamber.
If The bolt does not lock to the rear, pull the charging handle rearward and lock the bolt rearward using the bolt catch.
Repeat the second step to complete the unloading process.
104.29 State the following capabilities/characteristics:
a. Length 39in with flash suppressor
b. Weight 7.8 lbs
c. Maximum range 3600 meters
d. Maximum effective range Point Target 550 meters
Area Target 800 meters
e. Muzzle velocity 3100 fps
f. Safeties The rifle will not fire when placed in “safe” mode.
g. Magazine capacity 20 - 30 rounds
h. Types of ammunition
5.56mm Ball - Standard round
5.56mm Tracer - Used to mark targets or cause incendiary effects
5.56mm Blank - Training round
5.56mm Dummy - Totally inert for training
i. Rates of fire [ref. g, p. 2-3]
Semi-Automatic: 45 round per minute
Automatic: 90 rounds per minute
Sustained: 12 to 15 rounds per minute
j. Modes of fire [ref. g, p. 2-3]
Semiautomatic Fire mode - The trigger must be pulled each shot.
Automatic Fire mode - Rifle will continue to fire as long as the trigger is held back.
104 WEAPONS FUNDAMENTALS (CONT'D)
The following items apply to grenades:
104.30 Describe the six different types of grenades.
Fragmentation
Used to produce casualties by high velocity projection of fragments
Effective casualty producing radius is 15 meters
Illumination
Used to illuminate terrain in night time operations
Once pin is pulled, GRENADE MUST BE THROWN!
Chemical
Used for incendiary, screening, signaling, training and riot control purposes
Incendiary
Used to ignite combustible material and destroy all types of equipment
Smoke
Used to screen movement, mark targets and signal
Practice
Used to train personnel in the care, handling, and use of grenades prior to using actual service grenades
104.31 Discuss hand grenade safety procedures.
All personnel handling casualty producing grenades must wear proper protection
Never attempt to de-fuse hand grenades
Do not remove the safety pin until ready to throw
Do not attach grenades to clothing or equipment.
Riot control grenades should not be thrown within5 meters of personnel
Smoke grenades should not be used in closed areas
Wait 5 min before approaching a dud
Wait 30 min before approaching a chemical dud
104.32 Discuss the uses of fragmentation and chemical hand grenades.
Fragmentation Grenade
Used to produce casualties by high velocity projection of
fragments
Chemical Grenade
Used for incendiary, screening, signaling, training and riot
control purposes
104.33 State when, if ever, the safety pin of the MK 1 illuminating grenade can be
replaced.
Once pin is pulled,
GRENADE MUST BE THROWN!
NEVER REPLACE THE SAFETY PIN
104 WEAPONS FUNDAMENTALS (CONT'D)
The following items apply to the M18A1 Claymore mine:
104.34 Describe the M18A1 Claymore mine.
A directional, fixed-fragmentation mine that is designed primarily for use against massed infantry attacks.
It is equipped with a fixed plastic, slit type sight, adjustable legs and two detonator wells.
104.35 Discuss the placement, arming, and safety requirements of the Claymore
mine.
Placement
Should be sighted on a point 8 ft high at a distance of 50 meters.
Arming Pull tape tab from blasting cap.
–Lay wire between mine and firing
position, wrap wire around leg of mine and bury if possible.
Insert cap into either detonating well and lock with shipping plug-
priming adapter.
–Recheck aiming of mine
Safety
–The safety bail on the firing
device has two positions. When up it is in the “safe” position. Down is
the “fire” position.
104.36 Describe the coverage and methods of fire.
Effective coverage
Placement no closer than 5 m and no farther apart than 45 m.
A preferred lateral and rearward separation distance is approximately 25
meters.
The first 50 m at a 60 deg angle is considered the kill zone
100 m is moderately effective
250 m in dangerous
100m behind the mine is the danger area
The following items apply to the 84mm M136 (AT-4):
104.37 Describe the 84mm M136 (AT-4).
Lightweight
Self contained anti-armor weapon
Free flight fin stabilized cartridge packed in an expendable launcher
One piece
Right shoulder fired only
Man-portable
104.38 Describe how the weapon is held when fired.
Standing Used when firing on moving or stationary targets from behind a protective barrier such as a wall or barricade. Most unstable and exposed position.
Kneeling Used for firing on moving or stationary targets. Maximum use of support is essential for stability
104 WEAPONS FUNDAMENTALS (CONT'D)
Sitting Used for firing on stationary targets. More suitable than kneeling position.
Prone The least stable position. Affords the most protection.
The danger area extends for 60m with a 90 degree angle behind the weapon
The weapon must not have any obstructions closer than 5 m to the rear of the weapon.
104.39 State the following capabilities/characteristics:
a. Length 40 inches
b. Weight Fully loaded 14.8 lbs
c. Maximum range 2100 meters
d. Maximum effective range 300 meters
e. Muzzle velocity 950 fps
f. Controls
Transport Safety Pin. Blocks the movement of the firing pin and prevents it from striking the cartridge percussion cap.
Cocking Lever: When the cocking lever is in the SAGE position, there is no contact between the firing rod and the trigger.
Forward Safety. Prevents the firing rod from striking the firing pin.
g. Ammunition
Tactical cartridge, 18 inches long,
High explosive, anti-tank (HEAT)
h. Misfire procedures
Causes - A complete failure to fire caused by a faulty firing mechanism or faulty element in the propellant charge.
Action:
Shout “misfire”
Maintain sight picture
Release safety catch
–Re-cock the weapon
–Check back blast area and
attempt to fire
Repeat if necessary
If still fails, release safety catch and return cocking lever to the safe
position.
Reinsert the transport safety pin, lay weapon on ground and notify chain
of command.
i. Minimum arming range 10 meters
104 WEAPONS FUNDAMENTALS (CONT'D)
j. Safety
Take care in selecting positions for firing. Avoid areas that could cause you to fire through a screen of brush or trees.
Impact with a twig or branch may deflect the rocket or cause it to detonate.
You must try to obtain concealment, but not at the risk of safety.
To prevent the rocket from striking the foreground and causing serious injury to personnel, maintain the launcher in the firing position until the rocket has left the launcher.
Avoid the blast of flame and ejected residue to the rear of the launcher.
Remove flammable material , such as dry vegetation, from the backblast area.
Keep personnel and ammunition clear of the rear danger area unless adequate shelter protection is provided.
Sand or loose dirt in the backblast area can also reveal your position to the enemy.
Do not fire rockets at temperatures below -40 F or above 140 F.
Never fire a damaged weapon.
104.40 Describe the use and purpose of the range card as it relates to each
weapon system.
Cards are the basis for the fire plan at the company level. Each crew served weapon will have one.
–All supporting fires, security sectors and defensive coordination are planned using the machine gun’s fire as the base from which to build.
Two cards are prepared, one for the gun and the other goes to higher HQ.
Cards should be passed on to relieving units.
Patrols can use your card to locate FPL’s and identify dead space.
Cards must be neat and prepared using a universal format.
Gun Identification Block Identifies what gun the card belongs to and the date it was
drawn.
Weapon Symbol Single dot for the gun and a solid arrow extending out along the FPL
or PDF
Magnetic Orientation Line and Location Grid Coordinates A means for others to
positively locate your gun position. The line is drawn from a prominent terrain
feature that is located behind friendly lines. The grid coordinates are recorded
next to the dot in the machine gun symbol.
Sector Limits - Drawn as broken lines ending in arrow heads. If using an FPL only one
sector limit will be drawn because one will be the same as the FPL.
Grazing Fires If an FPL is used, a heavy shaded area is drawn along the inside of the
FPL. This will indicate the limits of grazing fire obtainable. Any dead space is
shown by breaks in the shading. Record the near and far limits of the dead space
in meters or record the range next to the ends of the shaded areas.
Terrain Features Draw only those terrain features that significantly add to the clarity of
the range card. If the feature is drawn, draw it to the correct perspective.
Location of Friendly Troops or Equipment Draw any friendly positions or equipment
that is either in or near the sector limits of the machine gun.
Targets - Draw targets to perspective and label them with a number.
The number one target will be either the FPL or the left sector limit.
If the FPL is on the right sector limit, number all other targets sequentially from right to left.
All other times number from left to right.
One method is to record data directly on the sketch along the leading line
to the target.
The other method is to use the data block of the card.
104.41 Discuss the effectiveness and employment of early warning devices and
pyrotechnics.
Trip Flares
Used primarily to illuminate and to give warning of attacking or infiltrating enemy troops.
Place along a likely avenue of approach and activated by the enemy.
Normally not used in any other operation other than defensive.
Booby Traps
Can be explosive or non-explosive. Used primarily to incapacitate, wound or kill and unsuspecting person when they disturb a apparently harmless object. There are improvised and manufactured
Improvised Constructed from standard firing devices, explosives, weapons,
missiles or other materials used for other purposes.
Manufactured Standard devices made at a factory. Made to look like useful
objects.(books, pipes or bottled drinks)
Explosive Devices Booby traps laid along paths and trails to delay and frustrate
patrols and foot troops.
Most are improvised with either pressure release, pull or pull release devices.
Grenade Trap Setup with wire to pull pin when tripped over.
Grenade in can Grenade in can with pin removed. Trip wire pulls grenade
from can.
Mud Ball Mine - Grenade packed in mud. Mud dries and cracks grenade
explodes.
Non-Explosive Devices
All are improvised with locally available material. Either pressure release, pull or pull release devices.
Punji Stakes Bamboo spikes placed in the ground protruding just enough to
produce injury.
Foot Traps Small pits combined with spike boards placed along paths or trails.
Deadfalls Various devices are suspended above jungle paths and trails.
Designed to fall or swing in an arc and strike victims as they pass below
104 WEAPONS FUNDAMENTALS (CONT'D)
104.42 Discuss the tactical employment and purpose of Naval Mobile Construction
Battalion (NMCB) weapons systems.
Automatic Rifleman - M16 rifle, backbone of the defense of the squad. Positioned first by the squad leader. The remainder of the fire team is positioned around the automatic rifles.
Rifleman - M16 rifle, positioned so they can cover the entire fire team sector. The position must provide support and protection for the Automatic rifleman.
Grenadier - M203 grenade launcher, positioned to cover the dead space in the defense.
M60E3 - Support the rifleman in the offense and defense. Provide heavy volumes of controlled fires. Provide FPF’s. Cover likely avenues of approach. Provide grazing fire.
M2 .50 Cal Machine Gun - Provide protection for motorized movement. Destroy lightly armored vehicles. Defend against low-flying hostile aircraft.
MK19 40mm Grenade Launcher - Used to provide direct and indirect firing. Role is similar to the M60E3 and M2.
AT-4 - Used against armored personnel carriers. Can be used to disable a battle tank (mobility kill) if struck properly
104.43 Discuss the various rates of fire:
a. Rapid 150 to 200 rounds per minute
b. Sustained 12 to 15 rounds per minute
c. Cyclic 700 to 800 rounds per minute
104.44 Explain the various class of fire:
a. Grazing
Not less than 1m above and no higher than 68 inches above the ground. Can exist for 700m over level or evenly sloping ground.
b. Plunging
Fire that strikes the ground from above at a considerable level. Beaten zone is considered the danger space.
c. Overhead
Fire delivered over the heads of troops. Usually plunging fire Overhead
d. Fixed
for targets requiring only one aiming point. Continuous as long as target remains in the zone of fire.
e. Traversing
Distributed in width by changing the horizontal direction of the gun. Firing a burst each time the gun changes direction.
f. Searching
Distributed in depth by changing the elevation of the gun. Used against deep targets, firing a burst each time elevation changes.
104 WEAPONS FUNDAMENTALS (CONT'D)
g. Combined searching and traversing
Distributed in width & depth by changing the elevation and horizontal direction of the gun.
h. Swinging traverse
Delivered against targets to wide to cover the traversing hand wheel. Also used on targets moving so rapidly across the gunner’s front they cannot maintain effective fire using the traversing hand wheel. Cannot be fired from bipod or vehicles.
i. Free
Delivered from the tripod mount against targets requiring rapid and major changes in direction and elevation. Can also be used from a vehicle mount when the target cannot be covered adequately by aiming points. Cannot be fired from bipod mount.
104.45 Discuss the use and purpose of the following Night Observation Devices (NOD):
a. AN/PVS-4 (individual)
Individual use. Portable, battery operated, electro - optical instrument used for observation and aimed fire of weapons at night.
Magnification 3.6x
Range 400-600m (man size tgt)
b. AN/TVS-5 (crew serve)
Crew served and M16 use. Portable, battery operated, electro - optical instrument used for observation and aimed fire of weapons at night.
Magnification - 5.6x
Range - 1000-1200m (vehicle size tgt)
c. AN/PVS-7C (night goggles) [ref. j]
Hand held or head mounted night vision system that enables walking, driving, weapon firing, short range surveillance, map reading and vehicle maintenance in both moonlight and starlight.
Range - min 9.8”
d. AN/PVS-11 (pocket scope)