How to Prepare a Range Card for a Machine Gun
A range card is used as a rough guide for personnel in a stationary machine gun position. It is a brief and concise method of communicating large amounts of information about terrain, range, distance and approach routes of the bad guys. The preparation of these cards is an important part of any armed position. Read on to learn how to prepare a range card for a machine gun.
Instructions
-
-
1
Define the sector of fire according to the machine gun position. A sector of fire should usually be smaller than 180 degrees but greater than 30 degrees.
-
2
Draw a rough sketch of the terrain in front of the position. Estimate distances and draw a small map, to scale, of the area.
-
-
3
Determine magnetic north and mark it on your range card. If you have a GPS get an eight-digit grid and mark it down on your range card as your position. This helps the chain of command plan fire missions.
-
4
Decide on some major terrain features and write the features' azimuth and distance on the card to use as references.
-
5
Adjust the tripod and "Traverse and Elevation Mechanism" to make sure you can easily adjust to these features. Make a note of the settings on your card.
-
6
Make a copy of your range card when it is complete. Keep one copy in a safe place within your position. Turn the other copy over to your chain of command, so it can be used to plan fire missions.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
It wise to place a machine gun position over-watching possible routes of enemy approach.
Make sure your compass is free from magnetic disturbance for an accurate reading.
