Point-blank. The second point at which the line of sight intersects the trajectory of a projectile. See [Pointing].
Point-blank. Directed in a line toward the object aimed at; aimed directly toward the mark.
Point-blank Range. Is the distance from the muzzle of the piece to that point in a projectile’s trajectory where it cuts the prolongation of the natural line of sight, a second time, the natural line of sight being horizontal. The British define point-blank range as, “the distance from the muzzle to the first graze when the axis of the piece is parallel to the horizontal plane upon which the carriage stands.” This definition is being adopted in the U. S. service.—See [Pointing].
Point-blank Shot. The shot of a gun pointed directly toward the object to be hit.
Pointing. To point or aim a fire-arm is, to give it such direction and elevation that the projectile shall strike the object.
Definitions.—The axis of the piece is the centre line of the bore.
The line of fire is the axis of the piece prolonged.
The plane of fire is a vertical plane through the line of fire.
The line of sight is the right line from the eye to the object to be hit, passing through the front and rear sights.
The plane of sight is a vertical plane through the line of sight.