(j) As little challenging as possible will be done by sentries, and then only in a low tone of voice.
3. RIFLES, EQUIPMENT, AND AMMUNITION.—(a) Carrying and wearing of.—Equipment will always be worn by men in front trenches.
(b) Ration and carrying parties, orderlies, etc., will wear bandoliers and carry rifles.
(c) Parties at work between the front-line and reserve trenches may be permitted to "pile" or "ground" arms. Wiring and digging parties out in front of the fire trench will sling the rifle.
(d) Loading of rifles.—Except when it is necessary to shoot, a round will never be kept in the chamber. Cut-offs will always be "in" and the safety catch "back."
(e) The magazine will be kept charged with five rounds.
(f) Bayonets will always be fixed in front-line trenches.
(g) Care of rifles.—Rifles and ammunition will be inspected at morning and evening "stand to," and rapid loading will also be practiced.
(h) Covered rifle racks will be constructed in each bay where rifles will be kept. Breech covers will be kept on the rifles.
(i) In very cold weather sentries will occasionally work the bolt of the rifle to prevent the striker becoming frozen. For the same reason, in cold weather men will sleep with their rifles close to the body.