Trigger Control

K N E E L I N G P O S I T I O N . — T h e k n e e l i n g position (fig. 11-27) is a natural position that can be assumed quickly. It is suitable for use on level ground or on ground that slopes upward. S I T T I N G P O S I T I O N . — T h e r e a r e t h r e e variations of the sitting position: 1. Open leg 2. Cross leg 3. Cross ankle The position used depends entirely on the shooter. The open-leg position (fig. 11-28) is especially suited for use on ground that slopes downward. The other two alternate sitting positions are the cross-leg position (fig. 11-29) and the cross-ankle position (fig. 11-30). Trigger Control The most important single factor in marksmanship is trigger control. Everything about your position and aim may be perfect; but if you do not squeeze the trigger properly, your shot will not go where you aimed it. The key to trigger control is that the trigger must be squeezed smoothly, gradually, and evenly straight to the rear. Any sideward pressure, however slight, applied to the trigger during its rearward movement will likely result in a wide shot. Similarly, upward or downward pressure on the trigger will result in high or low shots. Trigger control can be done as shown in the chart on the following page: When you fire from the standing position, coordinating the trigger squeeze and proper aim is critical. You must start and continue the squeeze only when the front sight is momentarily at rest or is slowly moving in the smallest area of the bull’s-eye. Inexperienced shooters usually tend to snap shoot in this position; that is, they attempt to complete the trigger action instantly as the front sight moves across the aiming point. This invariably results in jerking the rifle and producing a wild shot. 11-19 Student Notes: Figure 11-28.—Open-leg position. Figure 11-29.—Cross-leg position. Figure 11-30.—Cross-ankle position.