How to Dig a Foxhole

There is a reason foot soldiers have always taken the time to ‘dig in’ when ever they stopped. That simple measure could save their lives if they came under enemy fire. Today, the military uses the term ‘individual fighting position,’ but old-timers called these quickly constructed bunkers, foxholes. Here’s how to dig one.

Things You'll Need

• An Entrenching Tool or Shovel

Instructions

How to Dig a Foxhole

1. Determine an appropriate site that will give you a good line of sight to your front, and that will be in interlocking proximity to other men in your unit. Using your entrenching tool or shovel mark off a rectangular area large enough to hold you and your equipment – approximately 3’ x 6’.

2. Dig the hole deep enough that you can stand with your head and shoulders above ground level – approximately armpit deep. Keep the walls of the hole vertical.

3. Dig grenade sump trenches on the right and left sides of the bottom of your foxhole. Sump trenches should be at least 2’ deep and 5" wide. Dig the floor of your foxhole at an angle so that any grenade that might be through into your foxhole will roll naturally into one of the sump trenches.

4. Use the dirt from the foxhole to form a parapet to your front. Parapet should run the length of the foxhole and rise high enough to provide additional cover, but not so high that you cannot comfortably see over it.

5. Dig elbow rests to provide a comfortable support for your arms in the event you have to return fire.

Tips & Warnings

• Camouflage your foxhole with natural materials as time permits.