Steady Firing Position
On the battlefield, the sniper must assume a steady firing position with
maximum use of cover and concealment. Considering the variables of terrain,
vegetation, and tactical situations, the sniper can use many variations of
the basic positions. When assuming a firing position, he must adhere to the
following basic rules:
(1) Use any support available.
(2) Avoid touching the support with the barrel of the weapon since it interferes
with barrel harmonics and reduces accuracy.
(3) Use a cushion between the weapon and the support to prevent slippage
of the weapon.
(4) Use the prone supported position whenever possible.
c. Types of Firing Positions. Due to the importance of delivering precision
fire, the sniper makes maximum use of artificial support and eliminates any
variable that may prevent adhering to the basic rules. He uses the prone
supported; prone unsupported; kneeling unsupported; kneeling, sling supported;
standing supported; and the Hawkins firing positions.
(1) Prone supported position. The prone supported position is the steadiest
position; it should be used whenever possible (Figure 3-2). To assume the
prone supported position, the sniper should--
(a) Lie down and place the weapon on a support that allows
pointing in the direction of the target. Keep the position as low as possible.
(For field-expedient weapon supports, see paragraph 3-1d.)
(b) Remove the nonfiring hand from underneath the fore-end of the weapon
by folding the arm underneath the receiver and trigger, grasping the rear
sling swivel. This removes any chance of subconsciously trying to exert control
over the weapon's natural point of aim. Keep the elbows in a comfortable
position that provides the greatest support.
(c) Keep the body in line with the weapon as much as possible-not at an
angle. This presents less of a target to the enemy and more body mass to
absorb recoil.
(d) Spread legs a comfortable distance apart with the heels on the ground
or as close as possible without causing strain.
