(i) Range.—Dangerous space decreases as the range increases, the reduction being due to the steeper angle at which the bullet descends at longer ranges (compare Figs. 4 and 5).
(ii) Firer’s Position.—The position of the firer and the consequent height of his rifle above the ground will affect dangerous space. The nearer the rifle is to the ground when it is fired, the greater will be the extent of dangerous space.
(iii) Height of Object.—As a rule the higher the object fired at is, the greater will be the extent of dangerous space.
(iv) Trajectory.—The flatter the trajectory—the closer the bullet keeps to the ground in its flight—the greater as a rule will be the extent of dangerous space.
(v) Conformation of Ground.—The more nearly the slope of the ground conforms to the curve of the trajectory and to the fall of the bullet, the greater will be the extent of dangerous space (see [Fig. 8]).
3. Example of Conditions affecting Dangerous Space.—The following example illustrates the method by which the soldier may be made to realize the importance of this question, and the principle which underlies its influence upon the effect of fire: If he is firing in the lying position with Mark VI ammunition, and aims at the ground-line of a prone figure at 500 yards range, the dangerous space of his fire will be about 50 yards. If, however, he stands to fire at the same target, the dangerous space will be reduced to about 40 yards.
Figs. 4 and 5.—Dangerous Space.
Note.—The angles of descent are imaginary, and not accurate for any distance.
4. Ricochets.—Bullets which rebound after striking the ground or any other obstacle, and continue their flight, are said to ricochet. Ricochets may occur from any surface, and bullets may ricochet two or even three times before their flight is finally arrested. At long range, they are less likely to ricochet from soft ground than from hard, smooth surfaces.