RAPID CHANGE OF BARREL IN THE FIELD.
In prolonged firing it is sometimes desirable to replace a hot barrel by a fresh one, so as to allow the former to cool.
This operation, which is performed without dismounting any part of the mechanism, requires some 10 to 15 seconds.
Proceed as follows:—
Suppose the gun in the firing position.
The firer unscrews the locking nut one-sixth of a turn with the right hand, using the dismounting wrench.
While the second operator grasps the legs of the barrel rest, quite near the barrel, No. 1 separates the barrel from the receiver by drawing the latter to the rear.
Resting the butt on the ground No. 1 now mounts the fresh barrel and pushes it home.
Meanwhile No. 2 handles the hot barrel by means of the barrel rest, which he then detaches as follows:—
(a) Fold the legs. (b) Turn the legs forward until in line with the barrel. (c) Pivot the legs half a turn around the lug of the front sight carrier, thus permitting the separation.
The fresh barrel being mounted, No. 2 attaches the barrel rest and resets it.
A hot barrel may be carried by means of dismounting wrench.