When the aiming point is in rear the candidate will be allowed an assistant who, from a position in front of the axle, signals to a man at the end of the trail to move it, if necessary, so as to bring the aiming point within the field of view of the sight. When the aiming point is in front, an assistant at the end of the trail is allowed.
The candidates being seated on the gunners’ seats, an officer of the battery commands, for example:
1. Aiming point, the chimney on that white house.
2. Deflection, 440.
3. On No. 2 close 10.
At the last word of command for the deflection each man sets off the deflection; applies the correction for deflection difference appropriate for his piece; causes the trail to be shifted until the sight is directed upon the aiming point; corrects for difference of level of the wheels; raises or lowers the panoramic sight until the field of view will include the aiming point; traverses the piece until the vertical hair is on the aiming point; calls “Ready” and steps clear.
The trial being completed and the men again being seated, the officer commands for example, in continuance of the assumed situation:
1. Right, 120.
2. On No. 4, close 5.
At the last word of command for the deflection, each man operates the sight and, if necessary, the trail as before; traverses the piece until the vertical hair is on the aiming point; calls “Ready” and steps clear.