Fig. 27, par. 128.
Fig. 28, par. 128.
At the command load each trooper faces half right and carries the right foot to the right, about 1 foot, to such position as will insure the greatest firmness and steadiness of the body, raises or lowers the rifle and drops it into the left hand at the balance, left thumb extended along the stock, muzzle at the height of the breast, and turns the cut-off up. With the right hand he turns and draws the bolt back, takes a loaded clip and inserts the end in the clip slots, places the thumb on the powder space of the top cartridge, the fingers extending around the rifle and tips resting on the magazine floor plate; forces the cartridges into the magazine by pressing down with the thumb; without removing the clip thrusts the bolt home, turning down the handle; turns the safety lock to the "safe"; and carries the hand to the small of the stock.
A skirmish line may load while moving, the rifles being held as nearly as practicable in the position of load.
If kneeling or sitting, the position of the piece is similar; if kneeling, the left forearm rests on the left thigh; if sitting, the elbows are supported by the knees; if lying down, the left hand steadies and supports the piece at the balance, the toe of the butt resting on the ground, the muzzle off the ground.
For reference, these positions (standing, kneeling, and lying down) are designated as that of load. (Figs. [15], [16].)
129. For instruction in loading: 1. Simulate, 2. LOAD.