1. Instruction in the choice and use of ground and its natural or other features as cover for concealment or protection from the enemy’s fire, and in adapting the different firing positions to various forms of cover, will be part of the field training of men at a stage which will combine training in fire discipline and manœuvre (see Chapters III. and VI. of Drill and Field Training of this series). Full directions regarding the choice and use of the ground and its existing features as cover are contained in Sec. 33[14] of Drill and Field Training of this series. Training in the construction and use of hasty fire-cover, and more elaborate forms of constructed cover, such as various field entrenchments, are dealt with in Field Entrenchments of this series, which also deals with the preparation of doors, windows, and buildings, as well as banks, ditches, etc., to serve as cover. Training in firing in the different firing positions from behind various common forms of cover will form part of the elementary instruction of recruits in firing.
2. Height of Cover for Use in Different Firing Positions.—The heights over which a man of average stature can fire on level ground in the various firing positions are as follows: Lying, 1 foot; kneeling, 3 feet; standing, 4 feet 6 inches. On level ground a man can fire over about five-sixths of his own height. Higher cover can be used when firing uphill than when firing downhill.
3. Rules for Firing from Cover.—(i) Instructors must impress on recruits that the most important requirement in firing from cover is the ability of a man to use his rifle to the best advantage, and that the eyes must be kept on the enemy between shots to avoid losing sight of targets. In using cover, the recruit must be taught to keep as near to the cover as possible, compatible with ease in firing. He must also be taught when possible to fire round the side of cover rather than over it.
Fig. 29.—Firing round Cover—Correct.
Fig. 30.—Firing round Cover—Unnecessary Exposure.
Fig. 31.—Firing from Fold of Ground—Side View.
