Fig. 18
This may be practiced combined with the short thrust or the ordinary thrust. It may also be practiced with a run toward the target. It is a useful attack at close quarters.
(g) The butt. The rifle butt is used with great effect at close quarters, the blows being directed against an adversary's jaw or in the region of the heart.
(h) Tripping adversary. The men are taught how to trip up an enemy and how to use their knees in throwing their opponents off their balance.
(i) Withdrawing the bayonet. After driving the bayonet into an opponent, then the first consideration is to get it out of his body. This may be done by slipping the left hand up to the bayonet grip and exerting a vigorous pull, which is immediately followed by a return to the position of guard.
(j) Points in training. In the first stages of training, special attention is paid to a firm grip and proper handling of arms; then the greatest attention is given to "direction" when thrusting, lunging, and parrying.
Until these essentials have been thoroughly mastered, quickness should not be insisted upon.
Confidence comes after continued practice, and quickness and vigor will come with confidence.