Good marksmanship consists in learning thoroughly the details of--
| Holding the rifle in the various positions. |
| Aiming. |
| Squeezing the trigger. |
| Calling the shot. |
| Adjusting the sights. |
And, when these have been mastered in detail, then the coordination of them in the act of firing. This coordination consists in putting absolutely all of one's will power into an effort to hold the rifle steadily, especially in getting it to steady down when the aim is perfected; in getting the trigger squeezed off easily at the instant the rifle is steadiest and the aim perfected; in calling the shot at this instant; and, if the shot does not hit near the point called, then in adjusting the sights the correct amount so that the rifle will be sighted to hit where you aim.
Section 10. Advice to riflemen.
Before going to the range clean the rifle carefully, removing every trace of oil from the bore. This can best be done with a rag saturated with gasoline. Put a light coat of oil on the bolt and cams. Blacken the front and rear sights with smoke from a burning candle or camphor or with liquid sight black.
Look through the bore and see that there is no obstruction in it.
Keep the rifle off the ground; the stock may absorb dampness, the sights may be injured, or the muzzle filled with dirt.
Watch your hold carefully and be sure to know where the line of sight is at discharge. It is only in this way that the habit of calling shots, which is essential to good shooting, can be acquired.
Study the conditions, adjust the sling, and set the sight before going to the firing point.
Look at the sight adjustment before each shot and see that it has not changed.