Академический Документы
Профессиональный Документы
Культура Документы
WEAPONS
VOLUME 5
WARNING
ALTHOUGH THIS PUBLICATION IS UNCLASSIFIED, PUBLIC ACCESS TO ALL OR
PART OF IT MAY BE RESTRICTED UNDER THE ACCESS TO INFORMATION ACT.
THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN MUST BE EXAMINED IN DETAIL TO
DETERMINE WHETHER ALL OR PART OF THIS PUBLICATION MAY BE DISCLOSED
TO THE PUBLIC.
WEAPONS
VOLUME 5
WARNING
ALTHOUGH THIS PUBLICATION IS UNCLASSIFIED, PUBLIC ACCESS TO ALL OR
PART OF IT MAY BE RESTRICTED UNDER THE ACCESS TO INFORMATION ACT.
THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN MUST BE EXAMINED IN DETAIL TO
DETERMINE WHETHER ALL OR PART OF THIS PUBLICATION MAY BE DISCLOSED
TO THE PUBLIC.
FOREWORD
1. B-GL-385-005/PT-002, Weapons, Volume 5, The Machine-gun .50 calibre M2, is issued
on authority of the Chief of the Land Staff.
2. This publication is effective on receipt.
3. Unless otherwise indicated, the masculine pronouns used in this publication designate
both genders.
4. Suggestions for changes to this publication shall be forwarded through normal channels
to:
Directorate of Army Training
Land Force Doctrine and Training System
CFB Kingston
PO Box 17000, Station Forces
Kingston, ON K7K 7B4
© Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of
National Defence, 2007
i
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1
LESSON 1 CHARACTERISTICS, DESCRIPTION, SAFETY PRECAUTIONS,
MOUNTING AND DISMOUNTING
THE GUN AND TRIPOD ....................................................................... 1-1
Instructor's Notes................................................................................................................ 1-1
Conduct of the Lesson........................................................................................................ 1-2
Characteristics .................................................................................................................... 1-3
Parts of the Gun.................................................................................................................. 1-4
Safety Precautions .............................................................................................................. 1-7
Dismount the Gun .............................................................................................................. 1-7
Mounting the Gun .............................................................................................................. 1-8
The Name, Parts and Description of the Traversing and Elevation
Mechanism (T&E).............................................................................................................. 1-9
Removing and Fitting the T&E Mechanism .................................................................... 1-10
The Name, Parts and Description of the M3 Tripod ........................................................ 1-11
Dismounting the Tripod ................................................................................................... 1-12
Mounting the Tripod ........................................................................................................ 1-12
Mounting the Machine-Gun in the High Position ............................................................ 1-14
Mounting the Machine-Gun on Sloping Ground ............................................................. 1-14
LESSON 2 NORMAL STRIPPING AND ASSEMBLING OF
THE GUN WITH THE QUICK CHANGE BARREL (QCB).............. 1-15
Instructor’s Notes ............................................................................................................. 1-15
Preparation for all Stripping ............................................................................................. 1-16
Stripping and Assembling the Barrel Group .................................................................... 1-17
Stripping and Assembling the Backplate Group .............................................................. 1-20
Stripping and Assembling the Driving Spring ................................................................. 1-21
Stripping and Assembling the Bolt Stud and Bolt ........................................................... 1-22
Stripping and Assembling the Buffer Group and Barrel Extension Group...................... 1-25
Function Test.................................................................................................................... 1-28
Operational Stripping ....................................................................................................... 1-29
LESSON 3 DETAILED STRIPPING AND ASSEMBLING .................................. 1-30
Instructor's Notes.............................................................................................................. 1-30
Conduct of the Lesson...................................................................................................... 1-31
iii
B-GL-385-005/PT-001
iv
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
v
B-GL-385-005/PT-001
vi
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
vii
B-GL-385-005/PT-001
viii
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
ix
B-GL-385-005/PT-001
CHAPTER 6
LESSON 1 WEAPON HANDLING TESTS.............................................................. 6-1
Instructor's Notes................................................................................................................ 6-7
Conduct .............................................................................................................................. 6-8
Dress................................................................................................................................... 6-8
Definition of Standards ...................................................................................................... 6-8
Weapon Handling Tests ..................................................................................................... 6-9
LESSON 2 PREPARATORY WORK—INSTALLING THE
AUXILARY TRIPOD MOUNT M3 PINTLE ...................................... 6-10
Instructor's Notes.............................................................................................................. 6-10
Installing the Auxiliary Tripod Mount M3 Pintle ............................................................ 6-10
Remove the Auxiliary Tripod Mount M3 Pintle.............................................................. 6-11
LESSON 3 PREPARATORY WORK—DETAILED MECHANISM AND
CAUSES OF STOPPAGES................................................................... 6-12
Instructor's Notes.............................................................................................................. 6-12
The Eight Steps of the Mechanism .................................................................................. 6-12
Causes of Stoppages......................................................................................................... 6-24
x
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
xi
B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Figure 1-46: Replacing the accelerator stop lock in the central recess...................................... 1-40
Figure 1-47: Position of the cocking lever to replace it............................................................ 1-40
Figure 1-48: Replacing the cocking lever and the cocking lever pin ....................................... 1-41
Figure 1-49: Replacing the bolt switch..................................................................................... 1-41
Figure 1-50: Replacing the extractor ........................................................................................ 1-42
Figure 1-51: Parts of the buffer body group ............................................................................. 1-42
Figure 1-52: Replacing the accelerator into the oil buffer body group..................................... 1-43
Figure 1-53: Parts of the barrel extension group ...................................................................... 1-44
Figure 1-54: Parts of the cover group ....................................................................................... 1-45
Figure 1-55: Removing the cover from the weapon ................................................................. 1-45
Figure 1-56: Aligning the belt feed lever with the slide slot .................................................... 1-46
Figure 1-57: Removing the belt feed lever ............................................................................... 1-46
Figure 1-58: Removing the belt feed lever and spring ............................................................. 1-47
Figure 1-59: Drifting out the belt feed pawl ............................................................................. 1-47
Figure 1-60: Removing the belt feed pawl and arm ................................................................. 1-48
Figure 1-61: Disengaging the belt feed pawl arm..................................................................... 1-48
Figure 1-62: Removing the cover latch spring ......................................................................... 1-49
Figure 1-63: Removing the cover extractor spring ................................................................... 1-49
Figure 1-64: Replacing the cover extractor spring ................................................................... 1-50
Figure 1-65: Replacing the cover latch spring.......................................................................... 1-51
Figure 1-66: Inserting the belt feed pawl arm........................................................................... 1-51
Figure 1-67: Position of the belt feed pawl spring.................................................................... 1-52
Figure 1-68: Inserting the belt feed pawl pin............................................................................ 1-53
Figure 1-69: Inserting the belt feed pawl in the cover slide ..................................................... 1-53
Figure 1-70: Position of the belt feed lever plunger ................................................................. 1-54
Figure 1-71: Inserting the belt feed lever.................................................................................. 1-54
Figure 1-72: Fully inserting the belt feed lever inside the cover .............................................. 1-55
Figure 1-73: Replacing the cover group ................................................................................... 1-55
Figure 1-74: Parts of the belt feed pawl.................................................................................... 1-56
Figure 1-75: Cartridge stop assembly, front cartridge stop, and belt holding pawl pin ........... 1-57
Figure 1-76: Trigger bar and hinged lock ................................................................................. 1-58
Figure 1-77: Removing the trigger bar assembly ..................................................................... 1-58
Figure 1-78: Rear location of the trigger bar ............................................................................ 1-59
Figure 1-79: Forward location of the trigger bar ...................................................................... 1-59
Figure 1-80: I llustration of ammunition for the heavy machine-gun ....................................... 1-71
Figure 1-81: Rounds correctly seated within the belt ............................................................... 1-73
Figure 1-82: Front sight, cover and blade................................................................................. 1-74
Figure 1-83: Rear leaf sight ...................................................................................................... 1-74
Figure 1-84: Clearing plug........................................................................................................ 1-91
Figure 1-85: Ruptured cartridge case extractor aligned with the T-slot of the bolt.................. 1-92
Figure 2-1: Two-man carry......................................................................................................... 2-6
Figure 3-1: Culminating point .................................................................................................... 3-2
Figure 3-2: Grazing fire .............................................................................................................. 3-3
Figure 3-3: Dimensions of the heavy machine-gun trench....................................................... 3-29
Figure 3-4: Machine-gun range card......................................................................................... 3-31
Figure 4-1: Target direction terminology illustrated .................................................................. 4-5
xii
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
xiii
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
1PREFACE
AIM
1. The aim of this publication is to provide instructors with the information and
documentation necessary to train candidates, and to provide them with a reference work to
accompany them as they learn how to handle the weapon on operations.
LAYOUT
2. The pamphlet is written in lesson plan format and divided into 6 chapters. The chapters
are progressive. The chapters are as follows:
a. Chapter 1—Basic Drills. This chapter contains the drills and information to
allow the user to operate the gun safely and effectively in the ground role. This
includes: maintenance, weapon handling, firing drills and stoppages. This chapter
should be taught before progressing to other chapters;
b. Chapter 2—Tactical Handling. This chapter contains information required to
effectively and safely act as a gun team in the ground role. This include duties
and responsibilities, firing and correction and recording of targets. Chapter 1
must be taught prior to this chapter;
c. Chapter 3—Tactical Employment. This chapter contains information such as:
Fire control, the role and deployment of the gun and tactical employment in the
ground role;
d. Chapter 4—Special to Role. This chapter contains the drills and information to
allow the user to operate the gun safely and effectively in special to role
situations. This includes: Air Defence and vehicle borne mounts. Chapter 1
should be taught prior to this chapter;
e. Chapter 5—Turret Mounted Weapons. This chapter contains the drills and
information to allow the user to operate the gun safely and effectively from a
turret. This includes: handling drills and stoppages. Chapter 1 should be taught
prior to this chapter; and
f. Chapter 6—Additional Information for Instructors. This chapter contains
additional information for the instructor such as: preparatory work, weapon
handling tests, fitting of the blank firing attachment and zeroing.
xv
B-GL-385-005/PT-001
6. This order outlines Canadian Forces (CF) Policy governing the use or misuse of weapons,
ammunition and explosives.
WEAPONS
9. Tampering with or use of service and commercial operation or explosives for other than
their designated purpose is prohibited.
10. Except as prescribed in para 11, the modification, breakdown or sectioning of live
ammunition for experimental, instructional or any other purchase, or manufacture of explosives
is forbidden. This prohibition includes:
a. unauthorized interchange of fuzes or primers or both;
b. experiments with blank ammunition to alter the powder charge or to introduce any
other substance into the cartridge case or into the weapon with the approved
cartridge;
xvi
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
xvii
B-GL-385-005/PT-001
xviii
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
1CHAPTER 1
LESSON 1
CHARACTERISTICS, DESCRIPTION, SAFETY PRECAUTIONS, MOUNTING AND
DISMOUNTING THE GUN AND TRIPOD
INSTRUCTOR'S NOTES
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-1
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
7. Miscellaneous:
a. Instructor is to carry out safety precautions and inspect the drill rounds at the start
of the lesson in front of the students.
b. Where appropriate the students should be encouraged to work as a team.
c. At this stage the students are not expected to memorize all the subject matter
taught during this lesson.
d. When teaching the T&E do not go into detail about recording readings. The
remote method of instruction is suggested for teaching the T&E.
e. Utilise the name parts and description stages and demonstrate certain weapon
functions i.e.) cocking gun, safety catch etc.
f. Mention during the lesson that the gun can be mounted and dismounted with or
without the barrel fitted. At this stage only practice mounting and dismounting
with the barrel fitted.
g. The following words of command are suggestions for use during this lesson:
(1) “FOR INSPECTION CLEAR GUNS” “GUN CLEAR” to prove the
weapons for safety precaution; and
(2) “MOUNT GUN” “DISMOUNT GUN” “MOUNT TRIPOD”
“DISMOUNT TRIPOD” to mount and dismount the gun and tripod.
1-2 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
10. Introduction. The .50 Cal Browning machine-gun was developed by the US Air Force.
It was officially adopted in 1923. After a number of changes were made to the weapon it was
renamed M2 in 1933. In order to improve its reliability and reduce the amount of maintenance
required, the mass of the barrel was increased and the oil buffer was replaced by a new type of
buffer. This new version, the M2 HB (Heavy Barrel), is still in use today, both vehicle and
ground mounted. The latest version of the Quick Change Barrel (QCB) now in use in the
Canadian Forces was adopted in the mid-90s. The .50 Cal Browning machine-gun remains one
of the most reliable and widely used machine-guns in the world.
CHARACTERISTICS. Explain.
11. The .50 Cal M2 Heavy Machine Gun (HMG) is a belt fed, air-cooled and recoil-operated
weapon:
a. It is a crew served weapon system which can be man-portable into action over a
short distance.
b. It is capable of both semi-automatic and automatic fire.
c. The gun has a sight setting range of 100 to 2600 yards (90 to 2400 metres). The
gun is effective up to 1800 metres.
d. It has a cyclic rate of fire of between 450 to 500 rounds per minute (rpm). The
normal rate of fire is 40 rpm and the rapid rate of fire is 100 rpm.
e. The gun is fitted with a QCB for effective handling drills.
f. It can be fitted with a traverse and elevations (T&E) mechanism which facilitates
amongst other things the effective engagement of pre-recorded targets.
g. The ammunition is issued in boxes containing belts of 100 rounds of
disintegrating link.
a. receiver b. barrel support c. barrel group d. tripod mount M3 e. traversing & elevating mechanism
Figure 1-1: Heavy Machine-gun .50 Cal M2
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-3
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
1-4 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
a. safety catch
Figure 1-2: Safety catch
15. Confirm by questions.
a. Sights (Raise the barrel to allow the students to see the top of the gun). The
machine-gun has a leaf-type rear sight graduated in both yards (from 100 to
2,600) and in mils (from 0 to 62 mils). (figure 1-3 and 1-4)
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-5
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
1-6 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
NOTE
To prevent damage to the bolt switch or the bolt feed lever: when the cover is
raised and the bolt is to the rear, the cover must never be closed and the bolt
released. The extractor must always be down before the cover is closed.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-7
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
a. yoke b. mounting lug c. mounting tripod pintle d. pintle lock assembly e. mount tripod head
Figure 1-6: Mounting the machine-gun and its pintle on the tripod mount
1-8 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-9
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
a. upper elevating screw b. traversing indicator c. traversing mechanism scale d. traversing handwheel e. upper elevating screw
yoke f. quick release pin assembly g. traversing screw h. lower elevating scale j. traversing bar with scale (5 mils between
small lines) k. traversing slide lock lever m. traversing mechanism sleeve n. lower elevating screw p. elevating indicator
Figure 1-8: Elevating and traversing mechanism
h. lower elevating screw;
i. elevating indicator;
j. traversing bar with scale;
k. traversing slide lock lever;
l. traversing mechanism sleeve;
m. lower elevating screw; and
n. elevating indicator.
25. Confirm by questions.
REMOVING AND FITTING THE T&E MECHANISM. Explain and demonstrate(where
necessary).
26. The T&E is correctly fitted when the locking bar is to the rear, the traversing hand wheel
is to the left and the quick release pin to the right. When the traversing slide is locked to the
traversing bar, the micrometer on the screw assembly should be set to zero and central. This will
allow the gunner greater flexibility in making deflection changes. To zero and centralize carry
out the following:
a. screw the traversing hand wheel fully to left hand side; and
b. then with it on zero rotate 2 complete turns through zero until central.
1-10 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-11
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
a. leg clamping lever b. leg clamping catch c. traverse and elevating mechanism d. traversing bar e. rear right leg and sleeve f.
tripod head g. pintle h. pintle bolt j. pintle latch k. rront leg clamp handle
Figure 1-9: Tripod mount M3
d. To extend any of the tripod legs, the leg clamping handle should be unscrewed;
the indexing lever should be pressed down and the leg extended to the desired
length. The stud on the indexing lever should be aligned with one of the holes in
the tripod leg extension. Pressure on the indexing lever should then be released,
allowing the stud to fit in the desired hole; the leg clamping handle is tightened.
31. Confirm by questions.
DISMOUNTING THE TRIPOD. Explain and demonstrate (where necessary):
32. On the command “DISMOUNT TRIPOD” the gun controller is to proceed as follows:
a. when the gun has been cleared and dismounted lower the pintle latch;
b. undo the T&E mechanism by releasing the slide locking bar;
c. release the traversing bar catch and close the rear legs;
d. release the front leg clamp handle and fold front leg; and
e. if the legs have been extended it is recommended that they are collapsed before
dismounting the tripod, although this is not essential.
MOUNTING THE TRIPOD. Explain and demonstrate (where necessary):
33. On the command “MOUNT TRIPOD” the gun crew are to proceed as follows (figures
1-10 and 1-11):
a. Move the tripod into the area it is required to be used.
1-12 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
b. Release the front leg clamp handle and adjust the front leg downwards. Lock the
front leg clamp handle.
c. The rear legs can now be positioned by forcing the rear legs apart until the right
end of the traversing bar is fully forward and locked into position by its catch.
d. The tripod should be positioned so that the front leg is pointing towards the centre
of the arc of fire (the legs may be extended to ensure the tripod head is level).
e. Raise the T & E mechanism to the vertical position. Remove the QRP and
centralize and secure the mechanism on the traversing bar.
f. Support the tripod with filled sand bags where applicable.
g. Undo the pintle latch.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-13
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
1-14 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
LESSON 2
NORMAL STRIPPING AND ASSEMBLING OF THE GUN WITH THE QUICK
CHANGE BARREL (QCB)
INSTRUCTOR’S NOTES
41. Aim. To teach students how to strip and assemble the .50 Cal machine-gun fitted with a
QCB.
42. Main teaching points:
a. normal stripping and assembling; and
b. test after assembly.
43. Time. Two x 40 minute period.
44. Method. Basic indoor or outdoor instructional period.
45. Stores:
a. .50 Cal machine-gun mounted on tripod mount M3—1 per 3 students;
b. tripod protective boots—3 per machine-gun;
c. box with accessories—1 per machine-gun;
d. rags—as required;
e. tool role and accessory box—1 per machine-gun;
f. screw driver and drift—1 per machine-gun; and
g. filled sandbags—3 per machine-gun.
46. Preparation:
a. set up teaching area; and
b. position the machine-guns and check that they are operating properly.
47. Miscellaneous:
a. Name and describe all the parts the students have not seen as you handle them.
b. Ensure that during the duration of the lesson that all students conduct normal
stripping and assembling the machine-gun fully.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-15
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
c. During stripping, ensure that the parts are placed in a clean, dry location, in
sequence from left to right.
d. Emphasize that stripping and assembling the machine-gun must be done with all
the care required using the correct tools.
e. Stripping and assembling should never be carried out against time.
f. This lesson is laid out to progress through stripping and assembling by teaching
the removal and replacement of weapon groups. Later on in the lesson these
weapon groups may be taught and practiced linked together.
g. The following words of command are suggestions for use during this lesson: for
control during the lesson “STRIP THE GUN FOR NORMAL DAILY
CLEANING” and “ASSEMBLE THE GUN”.
1-16 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
a. release stud
Figure 1-12: Location of the release stud inside the barrel mounting
53. To replace the QCB carry out the following:
a. Ensure the serial number on the barrel matches the gun.
b. Ensure that there is no obstruction in the barrel.
c. Pull the cocking handle to the rear to unlock the bolt.
d. Replace the barrel ensuring the release stud is inside the barrel mounting (figure
1-12) and the barrel guideway allows the barrel to be inserted correctly into the
barrel extension (figure 1-13). Ensure the incomplete thread at the rear of the
barrel inserts into the barrel extension (figure 1-14).
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-17
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
a. locking spring
Figure 1-14: Incomplete thread and barrel extension
1-18 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-19
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
1-20 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-21
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
CAUTION
Never attempt to cock the gun while the backplate is off and the driving spring
group is in place. If the backplate is off and the driving spring group is
compressed, the retaining pin on the driving spring rod can slip from its seat in the
sideplate and could cause serious injuries to anyone behind the machine-gun.
1-22 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-23
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
a. accelerator tips
Figure 1-23: Bolt clearing the accelerator tips
68. If they disengage, withdraw the bolt and push back on the barrel extension from inside
the receiver, which will re-engage the accelerator tips.
69. To replace the bolt stud insert the stud into hole ensuring that the shank collar is inside
the sideplate (figure 1-24).
1-24 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
Figure 1-24: Alignment of the bolt hole and the stud clearance hole
70. To complete the assembly press up on the bolt latch and push the bolt all the way forward
by pushing on the bolt stud only. At this time, the oil buffer tube should be completely inside the
buffer group. If not, the oil buffer body spring is not properly seated.
71. Confirm by practice. Leave stripped.
72. To remove the buffer group and barrel extension group carry out the following:
a. insert the drift of a combination tool, or other pointed instrument, through the hole
in the lower rear corner of the RIGHT sideplate;
b. push in on the buffer body spring lock (figure 1-25);
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-25
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
Figure 1-25: Removing the buffer group and barrel extension group
c. at the same time, place one hand in the receiver and push the barrel extension
group and oil buffer group to the rear;
d. remove the buffer group and barrel extension group from the receiver; and
e. separate the two groups by pushing forward on the tips of the accelerator (figure
1-26).
1-26 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
Figure 1-27: Separating the buffer assembly from the buffer body group
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-27
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
depressors with their guideways in the sides of the barrel extension, ensuring that
the tips of the accelerator are against the rear of the barrel extension (claws
against the shank) (figure 1-29).
c. Push the groups together. As the accelerator rotates to the rear, press down on its
tips to ensure positive locking of groups.
a. barrel extension shank b. accelerator tips c. accelerator claws d. breech lock depressor e. guideway
Figure 1-29: Joining the barrel extension group and the buffer group
76. To replace buffer group and barrel extension group carry out the following:
a. ensure the serial number stamped on the barrel extension matches the gun;
b. push the buffer group and barrel extension group into the receiver;
c. continue to push them forward until the buffer body spring lock snaps into
position; and
d. when the parts are properly locked in place, the oil buffer tube should protrude
about 2 1/2 centimetres from the rear of the buffer body group.
77. Confirm by practice. Leave assembled.
FUNCTION TEST. Explain and demonstrate.
78. The function test should be carried out after form of stripping and assembly. The
procedure is as follows:
a. Ensure that the machine-gun is correctly mounted.
b. Engage the safety catch on ‘SAFE’.
c. Lock the bolt release latch.
d. Cock the gun several times to check that the parts slide forwards and backwards
properly. The barrel should move rearwards slightly every time the guns is
cocked. (if it does not, check to ensure the barrel is fitted correctly).
1-28 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
e. With the working parts forward operate the trigger. The mechanism should not
fire (if it does, see a weapons technician).
f. Then release the safety catch ‘FIRE’ and operate the trigger.
g. Open the cover and check whether the firing pin has emerged from the bolt.
h. Unlock the bolt release latch.
i. Cock the machine-gun; the bolt should remain to the rear.
j. To control the forward movement of the bolt, grasp and pull the cocking handle to
the rear, check that the bolt latch locks the bolt to the rear, press the bolt release
latch, the bolt should return forward. (If not, see a weapons technician.)
79. Confirm by Practice.
OPERATIONAL STRIPPING. Explain.
80. During operations it may not be practical or wise to strip and assemble the gun fully or
sequentially as taught. The gun can be stripped in any order and should only be stripped to the
part required. Groups can be removed and replaced together, for example when investigating the
cause of a stoppage the bolt and driving spring could be removed and replaced together; for
speed and to avoid the accelerator tips disengaging, the barrel extension groups, buffer group and
the bolt (figure 1-30) and driving spring could be placed into the receiver together. If removing
the barrel, it must always be fully removed from the barrel support.
Figure 1-30: Replacing the barrel extension groups, buffer group and the bolt together
81. When time is critical, a broken part can be replaced by substituting a complete group
containing the part. If the receiver bolt is replaced, the group must be checked by a weapons
technician.
82. Confirm by Questions.
83. Conclusion:
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-29
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
LESSON 3
DETAILED STRIPPING AND ASSEMBLING
INSTRUCTOR'S NOTES
84. Aim. To teach students the detailed stripping and assembling of the main component
parts of the machine-gun in preparation for cleaning or maintenance.
85. Main teaching points:
a. stripping and assembling the bolt;
b. stripping and assembling of the buffer group;
c. detailed stripping and assembling of the barrel extension group;
d. detailed stripping and assembling of the cover group;
e. detailed stripping and assembling of the feedway; and
f. detailed stripping and assembling of the trigger bar assembly.
86. Time. Three x 40-minute period.
87. Method. Basic indoor or outdoor instructional period.
88. Stores:
a. .50 Cal machine-gun mounted on tripod mount M3—1 per 3 students;
b. tripod protective boots—3 per machine-gun;
c. box with accessories—1 per machine-gun;
d. rags—as required;
e. tool role and accessory box—1 per machine-gun;
f. screw driver and drift—1 per machine-gun; and
1-30 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-31
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
1-32 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
Figure 1-34: Removing the cocking lever and the cocking lever pin
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-33
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
NOTE
The rounded nose of the cocking lever is down and to the rear of the bolt.
d. to remove the sear stop and pin carry out the following:
(1) Using a screwdriver or the cocking lever, pry the accelerator stop lock into
the centre recess (figure 1-35), turn the breach crosswise, while covering
the central cavity with one hand and shaking to remove the accelerator
stop lock.
1-34 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-35
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
1-36 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
Figure 1-40: Removing the firing pin extension assembly and firing pin
95. To assemble the bolt carry out the following:
a. To replace the firing pin and extension assembly, engage the rear end of the firing
pin in its seating groove in the front end of the firing pin extension assembly.
Insert the firing pin and extension assembly in the bolt, striker first, sear notch
down as shown (figure 1-41). Push the extension assembly into the bolt, and tilt
the front end down until the striker protrudes through its aperture in the face of
the bolt.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-37
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
Figure 1-43: Replacing the sear and sear spring in the bolt
c. To replace the sear slide press down on the sear and replace the sear slide in its
guideways. The slide may be inserted from either side, unless the machine-gun is
to be fired by the sideplate trigger; in that case, the square end must be to the
LEFT (figure 1-44).
1-38 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-39
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
Figure 1-46: Replacing the accelerator stop lock in the central recess
1-40 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
Figure 1-48: Replacing the cocking lever and the cocking lever pin
g. To replace the extractor by placing the extractor arm vertical, replace the extractor
stud in the extractor pivot hole of the bolt. Rotate the extractor forward. Ensure
that the collar is engaged in its slot in the bolt (figure 1-50).
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-41
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
1-42 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
98. To assemble the principal components of the buffer body group (figure 1-51) carry out
the following:
a. to replace the accelerator pin and accelerator place the accelerator with the tips up
and the claws to the rear; and
b. replace the accelerator pin (figure 1-52).
Figure 1-52: Replacing the accelerator into the oil buffer body group
99. Confirm by Practice (leave assembled).
DETAILED STRIPPING AND ASSEMBLING OF THE BARREL EXTENSION GROUP.
Explain and demonstrate.
100. The main parts of the barrel extension group are illustrated in figure 1-53. To strip them
carry out the following:
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-43
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
a. shank b. breech lock recess c. breech lock pin d. breech lock e. barrel locking spring lug
Figure 1-53: Parts of the barrel extension group
a. To remove the breech lock pin and breech lock, drift the lock pin out and remove
the breech lock from the bottom of the barrel extension group. The top of the
breech lock has a double-bevelled edge and a slot for use with the accelerator stop
and lock.
b. The barrel locking spring should already be staked to the barrel extension; it
should not be removed. This completes detailed stripping of the barrel extension
group.
101. The main parts of the barrel extension group are illustrated in figure 1-53. To assemble
them carry out the following:
a. To replace the breech lock from the bottom of the barrel extension, the breech
lock will be correctly positioned in its slot when the bevelled edge is up and to the
front, and the hole for the breech lock pin is toward the bottom of the barrel
extension.
b. Replace the breech lock pin so that the ends of the pin are flush with the sides of
the barrel extension. This completes assembly of the barrel extension group.
c. Ensure that the number on the rear face of the breech lock is identical with the
number stamped beside the serial number on the bolt.
102. Confirm by Practice (leave assembled).
DETAILED STRIPPING AND ASSEMBLING OF THE COVER GROUP. Explain and
demonstrate.
103. The main components of the cover group are shown in figure 1-54. To strip the cover
group carry out the following:
1-44 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
a. cover latch spring b. cover latch shaft lever c. cover extractor cam d. cover lock spring stud e. belt feed lever
plug f. belt feed lever plunger & spring g. belt feed lever retaining pin h. toe j. cover extractor spring stud k. cover
pin l. cotter pin m. belt feed pawl pin n. belt feed slide p. belt feed pawl spring q. belt feed pawl r. belt feed pawl
arm s. cover extractor spring
Figure 1-54: Parts of the cover group
a. To remove the cover pin ensure the cover is closed and remove the cotter pin and
drift the cover pin out of the receiver. Unlatch the cover and rotate it up and
forward (figure 1-55). Place the cover group upside down on a clean, dry surface,
preferably flat and firm. Ensure that the cover latch shaft lever is at the top left,
as illustrated (figure 1-54).
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-45
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
1-46 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-47
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
1-48 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
a. cover extractor spring b. cover latch spring stud c. cover latch spring d. cover latch
Figure 1-62: Removing the cover latch spring
f. To remove the cover extractor spring press down on the cover extractor spring
and pry the end of the spring out of its recess in the cover extractor cam
(figure 1-63). This spring, if not handled carefully, can cause injury. Disengage
the opposite end of the spring from the cover extractor spring stud. This
completes detailed stripping of the cover group.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-49
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
NOTE
Check the cover latch lever to make sure that the spring is well seated. If the latch
is not operational, a mistake was made when inserting the spring, the cover latch
lever was not parallel to the cover as shown (figure 1-65).
b. To replace the cover latch spring, with the finger ensure that the cover latch shaft
lever is parallel with the cover. Place the cover latch spring inside the cover with
the enlarged hole meshing with the cover latch spring stud, the hooked end down
(i.e., resting on the cover extractor spring). Press down on the cover latch spring
and slide it toward the latch. Pry up on the latch end of the spring, so that it rides
up over the projection wing of the cover latch. Snap the hooked end of the spring
into its groove in the cover.
1-50 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
NOTE
There are two pins on each side of the belt feed pawl. The larger is the belt feed
pawl arm pin, the smaller is the belt feed pawl arm locating pin (figure 1-66).
c. To Whom It May Concern: replace the belt feed slide carry out the following:
(1) Replace the belt feed pawl arm on the belt feed pawl.
a. belt feed pawl arm locating pin b. belt feed pawl arm pin
Figure 1-66: Inserting the belt feed pawl arm
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-51
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
NOTE
For a LEFT-HAND feed, the belt feed pawl arm must be placed over the pins so
that it is toward the latch end of the cover, when the assembled slide is returned to
the cover. Place the small end of the belt feed pawl spring over the belt feed pawl
spring stud (inside the belt feed slide). Place the assembled pawl and arm over
the spring so that the large end of the spring is seated in the recess in the pawl,
with the projecting oval (loop) of the spring pointing away from the belt feed
pawl arm (figure 1-67).
1-52 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
Figure 1-69: Inserting the belt feed pawl in the cover slide
d. To replace the belt feed lever spring and plunger: these parts must be replaced in
their housing, located on the side of the belt feed lever. For a LEFT-HAND feed,
the spring and plunger must be inserted into the closest hole to the belt feed lever
lug (figure 1-70).
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-53
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
a. plunger
Figure 1-70: Position of the belt feed lever plunger
e. To replace the belt feed lever and retaining pin carry out the following:
(1) Place the belt feed lever over the pivot stud, lug up and to the LEFT
(figure 1-71).
1-54 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-55
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
a. left-hand belt holding pawl b. belt holding pawl sleeve c. right-hand belt holding pawl d. belt holding pawl
springs (new type)
Figure 1-74: Parts of the belt feed pawl
b. To remove the cartridge stop assembly, front cartridge stop and belt holding pawl
spring, withdraw the belt holding pawl pin from the RIGHT side of the receiver.
Remove the cartridge stop assembly (or rear cartridge stop and link stripper on
machine-guns of earlier manufacture), and front cartridge stop, from the right of
the receiver (figure 1-75); this completes detailed stripping of the feedway
mechanism.
1-56 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
a. cartridge aligning pawl b. front cartridge stop c. belt holding pawl pin
Figure 1-75: Cartridge stop assembly, front cartridge stop, and belt holding pawl pin
107. To assemble the feedway mechanism carry out the following:
a. To replace the cartridge stop assembly, front cartridge stop and belt holding pawl
pin, install the cartridge stop assembly (or rear cartridge stop and link stripper)
and front cartridge stop, on the RIGHT side of the receiver. Replace the belt
holding pawl pin
b. To replace the belt holding pawl, springs and pin: place the belt holding pawl in
position on the LEFT side of the receiver, first seating the springs. Depress the
pawl and insert the belt holding pawl pin. This completes assembly of the
feedway mechanism.
108. Confirm by Practice (leave assembled).
DETAILED STRIPPING AND ASSEMBLING OF THE TRIGGER BAR ASSEMBLY.
Explain and demonstrate.
109. To strip the trigger bar assembly carry out the following:
a. To remove the hinged lock: holding the trigger bar in the right hand, release the
hinged lock from the LEFT sideplate; turn the pin clockwise and withdraw the pin
to the left.
b. To remove the trigger bar, when the hinged lock is removed, withdraw the trigger
bar from inside the receiver (figures 1-76 and 1-77). This completes detailed
stripping of the receiver group.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-57
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
1-58 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-59
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
e. Review: It is important that the machine-gunner be able to strip and assemble the
feedway mechanism and the trigger bar assembly so as to be able to clean, repair
or replace it.
LESSON 4
CARE, CLEANING AND GENERAL MAINTENANCE
INSTRUCTOR'S NOTES
113. Aim. To teach the soldier how to correctly maintain the gun and tripod under both
normal and adverse conditions.
114. Main teaching points:
a. cleaning materials;
b. daily cleaning;
c. 7 point check;
d. care and cleaning before, during and after firing;
e. care and cleaning in cold climates;
f. care and cleaning in hot, humid climates;
g. care and cleaning in hot, dry climates; and
h. care and cleaning of mounts and accessories.
115. Time. Two x 40-minute period.
116. Method. Basic indoor or outdoor instructional period.
117. Stores:
a. .50 Cal Machine-gun complete. Mounted on
M3 tripod—1 per 3 students;
b. tripod protective boots—3 per machine-gun;
c. box with accessories—1 per machine-gun;
d. cleaning kit—1 per machine-gun;
e. tool role—1 per machine-gun;
f. rags and flannelette—as required; and
g. paper—1 per machine-gun.
118. Preparation:
a. set up the teaching area;
b. ensure the contents of the tool role are correct;
c. cut flannelette to size (150mm by 100mm and 100mm by 100mm); and
1-60 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
d. place the machine-guns and check that they are operating properly.
119. Miscellaneous:
a. When teaching cleaning in adverse conditions relate to the soldiers’ knowledge of
the rifle and whenever possible extract the details from them.
b. The focus of the lesson should be taught in the relevant climate.
c. When discussing the various parts, the instructor should name them and specify
the function of each.
d. During the review introduce mounting and dismounting with the barrel removed.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-61
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
1-62 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
a. Clean the individual components using clean cloths or rag. Use the nylon general
purpose cleaning brush in difficult to clean areas. Pay particular attention to the
‘T’ slot, the firing pin hole, the extractor claw and all guide ribs and channels.
b. When the assemblies are clean, lubricate each individual component during
assembly using the issue lubricant.
128. To clean the barrel extension and buffer assemblies carry out the following:
a. Clean the individual components using clean cloths or rag. Use the nylon general
purpose cleaning brush in difficult to clean areas. Pay particular attention to the
guide ribs and channels and to the buffer spring.
b. When the assemblies are clean, lubricate each individual component during
assembly using the issue lubricant.
129. To clean the backplate assembly carry out the following:
a. Clean the individual components using clean cloths or rag. Use the nylon general
purpose cleaning brush in difficult to clean areas. Pay particular attention to the
guide ribs and channels and to the latch/lock mechanism.
b. When the assemblies are clean, lubricate each individual component during
assembly using the issue lubricant.
130. Confirm by questions and practice.
INSPECTION FOR DAMAGE. Explain and demonstrate.
131. Once the gun has been cleaned and prior to lubricating and assembly inspect the
following parts for damage. If any abnormalities are found the gun is to be referred to a weapons
technician. To inspect the barrel assembly carry out the following:
a. Check the barrel for bulges, cracks, bends, and obstructions.
b. Check the chamber and bore for pits.
132. To inspect the receiver assembly carry out the following:
a. Check all surfaces for cracks, burrs and gouges. Check belt holding pawls for
binding and broken or missing pawls.
b. Check trigger lever and stop assembly for cracks and binding. Check cartridge
stops for cracks. Check retracting slide assembly for broken, missing, or loose
parts.
c. Check the cover assembly for missing or broken springs. Check belt feed lever
and belt feed slide group for binding, cracks, and broken parts. Check the
function of the cover latch.
133. To inspect the bolt and driving spring assemblies carry out the following:
a. check for any sharp edges on any surface of the bolt group;
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-63
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
b. check the driving spring assembly for distortion and bent or broken pin or rod
assembly; and
c. check the firing pin and firing pin extension for bends or cracks.
134. To inspect the barrel extension and buffer assemblies carry out the following:
a. check the barrel extension for gouges, burrs and binding; and
b. check the breech lock and pin for cracks or looseness.
135. To inspect the backplate assembly carry out the following:
a. check the latch and latch locking lever for function and retention of the backplate
assembly in the receiver;
b. check the trigger and bolt latch release lever for function; and
c. check for cracks and looseness in the grips.
136. Confirm by questions and practice.
CARE AND CLEANING OF MOUNTS AND ACCESSORIES. Explain.
137. To clean the M3 mount ensure that all external surfaces of the mount are be kept clean
and lightly oiled. Particular care should be taken to see that the pintle bushing is clean and
lightly oiled, and the pintle lock release cam is well lubricated and free from grit. The sleeve
lock latch indexing levers, and telescopic legs, should be cleaned and lubricated and free from
grit.
138. Confirm by questions.
SEVEN POINT CHECK. Explain and demonstrate (where necessary).
139. To minimise problems during firing, a systematic mechanical check should be carried out
by the user. For ease, this is called the 7-point check. On completion of assembly carry out the
following functional checks:
a. feed slide test;
b. feed mechanism;
c. buffer assembly;
d. buffer disk assembly;
e. oiling;
f. firing pin protrusion; and
g. serial and stamped numbers.
140. To test the feed slide carry out the following:
a. close the cover and check that the feed slide when pushed to the LEFT, is no more
than 1 cm from the inside of the RIGHT edge of the cover; and
b. if it is more than 1 cm change the feed lever.
1-64 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
141. To test the feed mechanism raise the cover and visually inspect and where necessary
manually operating the following:
a. cover latch and cover latch spring;
b. cover extractor spring;
c. belt-feed lever and retaining pin;
d. belt-feed pawl, arm and spring;
e. belt holding pawl, springs and pin;
f. cartridge stops, link stripper and pin;
g. extractor, ejector and spring;
h. extractor switch; and
i. Bolt switch—check cams and grooves for burrs.
142. If any component fails to operate correctly or any damage is found the weapon is to be
sent to the weapons technician for repair.
143. To test the buffer assembly carry out the following:
a. remove the backplate, driving spring and rod;
b. replace the backplate and open the cover;
c. pull the bolt slightly to the rear and insert a thin piece of paper between the barrel
extension and trunion blocks;
d. push the bolt forward so that the paper will be gripped;
e. elevate the weapon, without supporting the barrel, 1600 mils (90 degrees) or, if
mounted, elevate as high as possible;
f. the paper should remain gripped between the barrel extension and trunion block;
and
g. if it is correct, replace the driving springs and rod but leave the backplate off.
144. The erratic performance of a number of machine-guns .50 cal M2 has been found to be
due to the short overall length of the buffer assembly. A short buffer may cause the weapon,
when elevated, to fire spasmodically or prevent it from firing at all. If the paper is not gripped,
the buffer is too short and should be reported to a weapons technician.
145. To test the buffer disk assembly: the purpose of the buffer is to absorb shock and not to
act purely as a rebound unit. If a buffer is solid, it will cause undue vibration. To test:
a. Tighten the adjusting screw fully and note whether part of the last thread on the
adjusting screw is still visible. If it is not, fibre disks must be added by a weapons
technician.
b. If the buffer is not in the lock position, turn back until the plunger engages in the
nearest locked position.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-65
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
146. Oiling. Ensure that the following areas are oiled in accordance to climate conditions and
normal daily cleaning:
a. guides in barrel extension and breech lock;
b. bolt, guides in barrel extension and breech lock recess;
c. feed mechanism; and
d. cocking handle and the part of the cocking handle between the handle and the
receiver.
147. To test the firing pin protrusion carry out the following:
a. cock the weapon and ease the bolt forward;
b. raise the extractor and look down the face of the bolt;
c. press the trigger and note if the firing pin protrudes; and
d. if it does not, exchange the defective pin or parts in the bolt.
148. Serial and stamped numbers. The technical aspect of head spacing will be checked and
set by a weapons technician. The user is to ensure the stamped number on the breech lock
matches the number on the bolt. To ensure the gun operates effectively and to prevent a
dangerous occurrence all serial and stamped numbers must match. Check the following:
a. barrel matches the gun;
b. barrel extension matches the gun;
c. bolt matches the gun; and
d. the numbers stamped on the breech lock and bolt match.
149. Confirm by questions and practice.
CARE AND CLEANING BEFORE, DURING AND AFTER FIRING. Explain and
demonstrate.
150. Cleaning before firing. The following steps should be taken to ensure the efficient
functioning of the machine-gun:
a. strip the weapon into its main groups;
b. clean the bore and chamber but do not oil them; and
c. clean all metal parts thoroughly and apply a coat of oil to all metal parts which do
not come in contact with the ammunition.
151. Cleaning and Lubrication during Firing. During firing the weapon should be lubricated
as frequently as the tactical situation permits. The minimum is to open the top cover and squirt a
lubricant onto the bolt.
152. Cleaning and Lubrication after Firing. The barrel bore is easier to clean immediately
after firing while it is still warm. If this is not possible thoroughly lubricate the bore with oil to
assist later cleaning. To clean the gun carry out the following:
1-66 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
a. clean the barrel assembly as taught, using the brushes as necessary to remove any
fouling;
b. clean and lubricate, as taught, the interior of the receiver and feed mechanism;
and
c. clean and lubricate, as taught, the bolt and driving spring assemblies;
d. clean and lubricate, as taught, the barrel extension and buffer assemblies; and
e. clean and lubricate, as taught, the backplate assembly.
153. Confirm by questions.
SPECIAL CLEANING AFTER FIRING. Explain.
154. To ensure complete removal of powder residue and primer fouling from the bore of the
machine-gun barrel, the bore should be cleaned once a day, for at least three consecutive days
after firing. The bore “sweats out” this fouling or residue, and cleaning must be repeated until
there is no further evidence of sweating. Saturate a clean flannelette cloth (patch) with rifle bore
cleaner and swab the bore. Repeat this process two or three times, using a clean, saturated patch
each time, by running it forward and back through the bore. Wipe the bore dry and lightly oil
after each cleaning.
CARE AND CLEANING IN COLD CLIMATES. Explain.
155. In cold climates consider the following:
a. It is necessary that the moving parts of the weapon be kept absolutely free from
moisture. Excess oil in the working parts will solidify and could cause sluggish
operation or complete failure. Before firing in temperatures below -18°C (0 °F),
all parts of the weapon should be stripped and cleaned and oiled lightly by
rubbing with a cloth dipped in special preservative lubricating oil.
b. In sub-zero temperatures, when the weapon is to be exposed for a long period,
powdered graphite applied to dry surfaces will ensure operation. The working
parts must be inspected frequently during pauses in firing to ensure the graphite
penetrates to all bearing surfaces.
c. After the weapon is brought indoors, it should be allowed to warm to room
temperature before it is stripped and wiped dry of moisture which may have
condensed on the cold metal surfaces. It is then cleaned and lightly oiled with
special preservative lubricating oil.
d. If the weapon has been fired, the bore should be immediately swabbed out with an
oily patch and, when the weapon has warmed to room temperature, thoroughly
cleaned and oiled with a special lubricant.
156. Confirm by questions.
CARE AND CLEANING IN HOT, HUMID CLIMATES. Explain.
157. In hot, humid climates consider the following:
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-67
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
a. In tropical climates, where temperature and humidity are high, the weapon should
be thoroughly inspected daily by basic stripping and, if necessary, by stripping the
groups to permit drying and oiling of the parts.
b. Care should be exercised to see that all unexposed parts, as well as all surfaces,
are kept clean and oiled with special or medium preservative lubricating oil.
158. Confirm by questions.
CARE AND CLEANING IN HOT, DRY CLIMATES. Explain.
159. In hot, dry climates consider the following:
a. In hot, dry climates or where sand and dust are apt to get into the mechanism and
bore, the weapon should be wiped clean at least once daily. Groups can be
stripped to facilitate thorough cleaning and lubricants should be wiped from
exposed and non-critical operating surfaces. This will prevent wind-blown sand
from sticking to the lubricant and forming an abrasive that can damage the
mechanism.
b. Immediately after leaving these conditions, the weapon should be cleaned and
lubricated with special preservative lubricating oil.
c. After handling, the weapon should be wiped with a dry cloth to remove
perspiration and to avoid rust.
d. During sand or dust storms, the weapon should be kept covered if possible and
should be cleaned immediately after the storm.
160. Confirm by questions.
161. Conclusion:
a. Question period.
b. Confirm by questions and practice.
c. Carry out safety precautions.
d. Pack the stores.
e. Review:
(1) it is important that the machine-gunner be able to correctly carry out the
seven-point check to ensure that the weapon is operational; and
(2) the machine-gun requires careful, attentive maintenance so that it will
work properly when required.
1-68 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
LESSON 5
LOADING, UNLOADING, SIGHT SETTING AND MAKE SAFE
INSTRUCTOR'S NOTES
162. Aim. To teach students how to recognise and conduct handling drills on the .50 Cal
Heavy Machine Gun.
163. Main teaching points:
a. description of ammunition;
b. care and maintenance of ammunition;
c. sight setting;
d. load and unload; and
e. ready and make safe.
164. Time. Two x 40 minute periods.
165. Method. Basic indoor or outdoor instructional period.
166. Stores:
a. .50 Cal Machine-gun complete. Mounted on
M3 tripod—1 per 3 students;
b. tripod protective boots—3 per machine-gun;
c. tool role and box with accessories—1 per machine-gun;
d. drill ammunition—5 per student;
e. ammunition diagram—1 per class; and
f. sandbags—3 per machine-gun.
167. Preparation:
a. set up teaching area;
b. check that the machine-guns are operating properly;
c. check drill rounds and link for damage; and
d. lay out loose drill round and link under students chairs.
168. Miscellaneous:
a. Do not teach students how to de-link ammunition from belt. Ammunition will
naturally be de-linked from the belt as the students carry out handling drills. As
confirmation, linking practice should be conducted continuously throughout this
and subsequent lessons as required.
b. At this stage it is only important that the student recognises current in-service
Canadian Forces ammunition.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-69
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
c. During the review practice mounting and dismounting with or without the barrel
fitted.
d. The following words of command are suggestions for use during this lesson:
(1) “LOAD” , “READY”, “UNLOAD” and “MAKE SAFE” for handling
drills; and
(2) “UNLOAD CLEAR GUN” for safe handling drills.
1-70 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
f. Drill. This has a ridged silver cartridge case with red markings along the ridges.
It has an inert bullet with a no primer cap in the base.
173. Confirm by questions.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-71
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
176. Always look after ammunition, keep it clean, dry and free from oil. In addition:
a. Never let it lie in direct rays of the sun as this can cause inaccuracies.
b. Avoid using the rounds as a tool; however, if it is unavoidable do not attempt to
fire any round used in this way.
c. Tampering with ammunition is dangerous and is forbidden.
d. Ammunition should be checked regularly. Dented rounds, rounds from which the
ball has become loose or other clearly defective rounds MUST NOT be used for
firing. They will be set aside and returned to the ammunition section for
destruction.
e. Do not discard ammunition.
BELT CONFIGURATION Explain.
177. The belts are manufactured and configured as follows:
a. all ball;
b. 4 ball rounds and one tracer round (4B1T) or
c. 4 Armoured Piecing rounds and one tracer round (4AP1T).
178. Belts should not be broken down for the purpose of reconfiguration unless authorized by
the ammunition section.
179. Confirm by questions.
LINKING LOOSE AMMUNITION. Explain and demonstrate.
180. Ammunition may only be linked when using dummy/drill or inspected rounds. When
linking ammunitions the following rules apply:
a. Inspect all rounds prior to linking and only link serviceable ammunition.
b. Do not link ammunition that has been either damaged in any way, removed from
the ‘T’ slot, used as an emergency tool or involved in a stoppage.
c. Link the belt as closely as practical to the original configuration.
d. Inspect ammunition belt once linked.
e. When linking care must be taken not to strike the primer caps of the rounds.
HAND LINKING. Explain and demonstrate.
181. To link ammunition carry out the following:
a. Take two links, both the same type and way up and place them together so that
the projection of the first fits into the gap of the other.
b. Then interlock them by inserting the nose of the round through both links.
c. Press the round forward until the round is located in the shoulder of the smaller
loop and the base of the round is flush with other rounds.
1-72 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
d. Once linking is complete ensure that all rounds in the belt are correctly seated
(figure 1-81).
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-73
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
SIGHT SETTING
1-74 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
a. Raise the leaf and turn the knurled knob until the range required is exactly in line
with the range marking on the side of the sight. One click is equal to two mils
adjustment for elevation.
b. The adjustment for deflection is made by turning the deflection knob
anticlockwise to move the impact to the right, and clockwise to move the impact
to the left.
c. The rear sight should be lowered when no longer in use but remain set at 100
yards.
187. Some guns may have an emergency battle sight (EBS) attached to the base of the leaf.
The EBS is set at 300 metres.
188. Confirm by practice.
NORMAL LOAD. Explain and demonstrate.
189. The gunner is to adopt a position to the rear of the gun, with both hands on the hand
grips. The No. 2 should position himself on the left of the gunner where he can best perform his
duties. On the command “LOAD” the following actions are to be carried out:
a. The gunner is to set the safety catch to ‘S’, then locks the bolt latch release. The
No.2 is to grasp the belt of ammunition and open the top cover.
b. The gunner then pulls the bolt back one half centimetre and announces to the No.
2 “LOAD”.
c. The No.2 repeats “LOAD” lifts the extractor and places the belt correctly onto the
feedway, ensuring that the first round is up against the bullet and cartridge stops.
He holds the position and informs the gunner to release the bolt;
d. Once correctly seated the gunner allows the bolt to go forward against the first
round.
e. The No.2 lowers the extractor so that its claw engages the groove or the first
round and then closes the top cover.
COMMAND READY. Explain and demonstrate.
190. On the command “READY”, or on a range being ordered, the sequence of action shown
below will be followed:
a. the gunner is to ensure the safety catch is on ‘safe’, set the sights as taught, cock
the machine-gun; and
b. await further orders.
UNLOAD Explain and demonstrate.
191. On the command “UNLOAD” the following actions are to be carried out:
a. The gunner is to apply the safety catch to ‘S’, then unlock the bolt latch release.
b. The No. 2 is to open the top cover, lift the extractor and remove the belt from the
gun. The No.2 will then clear the feedway and lower the extractor.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-75
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
c. The gunner is then to cock the gun and inspect the chamber, body and ‘T’ slot on
the bolt to ensure that they are clear.
d. Release the working parts ensuring they go forward under control, close the top
cover and lower the sights, set the safety catch to ‘F’ and operate the trigger, set
the safety catch to ‘S’.
192. All ammunition ejected from the gun is to be identified and inspected by the No.2. It is
to be placed to one side for either loading, linking or returning to the ammunition section.
193. Confirm by Practice (leave guns loaded).
ROUND IN THE T SLOT Explain and demonstrate (where necessary).
194. During the unload drill, if on inspecting the chamber, body and ‘T’ slot there is a round
present in the ‘T’ slot the gunner is to:
a. Release the working parts ensuring they go forward under control and
immediately re-cock the gun. If the round is ejected continue the unload as
taught.
b. If the round is still present using a screwdriver or similar implement apply
downward pressure to area of the groove of the round until it drops.
c. Check the ‘T’ slot for any fouling.
d. To prevent injury do not attempt to place hands directly into the T-slot or the
body of the weapon.
195. Except in an emergency any round removed from the ‘T’ slot using the screwdriver
should not be linked or fired. It should be handed in for disposal.
196. Confirm by practice (leave gun loaded).
UNLOAD WITH THE BOLT TO THE REAR. Explain.
197. The gunner should be aware of the state of the gun at all times. There may be a number
of other occasions when the working parts may be naturally to the rear and a round present in the
upper part of the ‘T’ slot such as when firing single shot or after receiving the word of command
“STOP”. If when carrying out the unload and removing the ammunition the working parts are to
the rear and a round present in the T slot, the gunner is to:
a. release the working parts ensuring they go forward under control; and
b. then carry out the unload drill as previously taught.
198. Confirm by practice (leave gun unloaded).
SINGLE SHOT LOADING. Explain.
199. The gun can be loaded with a single round. Load the round in the same way as with a
belt. To prevent injury or damage to the gun do not attempt to load the round directly into the
T-slot or chamber.
200. MAKE SAFE. Explain.
1-76 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
201. It is often necessary to return a gun, which has been loaded and cocked, to a state in
which it is loaded, but safe. On the command “MAKE SAFE” the gunners is to:
a. unload as taught;
b. reload (with a new belt, if necessary); and
c. zero the T&E.
202. Confirm by practice. (Leave guns made safe).
UNLOAD—CLEAR GUN Explain.
203. On the command “UNLOAD—CLEAR GUN”:
a. unload as taught; and
b. after operating the trigger the No. 1 opens the cover and reports “No…GUN
CLEAR”.
204. Confirm by practice.
205. Conclusion:
a. Questions from the students on the entire period.
b. Confirm by questions and practice.
c. Carry out safety precautions.
d. Pack the stores.
e. Review:
(1) It is important that the gunner always knows the state of the weapon
system.
(2) Ammunition is a vital part of the weapons system. To prevent dangerous
occurrences and inaccuracies, and to promote effective firing drills it is
important that the gun team can correctly identify different natures and
know how to care and maintain ammunition in all environments.
LESSON 6
FIRING DRILLS
INSTRUCTOR'S NOTES
206. Aim. To teach students the basic handling drills with the .50 Cal Heavy Machine-gun.
207. Main teaching points:
a. types of target;
b. rates of fire;
c. traversing and elevation mechanism;
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-77
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
1-78 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
c. Ensure that the squad is positioned to enable them to see the T&E mechanism
during this lesson.
d. Where possible try to relate aiming to students’ knowledge of the rifle (iron
sight).
e. Continuously stress the importance of adhering to rates of fire.
f. Ammunition will naturally be de-linked from the belt as the students carry out
drills. As continuous confirmation, linking practice should be conducted
throughout this and subsequent lessons as required.
g. The following words of command are suggestions for use during this lesson:
(1) “LAY”, “ON”, “UNLOCK” and “LOCK “ for laying the gun;
(2) “SINGLE SHOT - FIRE”, “BURST - FIRE”, “BURST RAPID -
FIRE”, “STOP” and “GO ON” for the firing drills; and
(3) “EXPENDED BELT” and “BARREL” for handling drills.
213. Preliminaries:
a. Check all students’ equipment.
b. Number off students into teams and allocate guns.
c. Carry out safety precautions and inspect drill rounds and students pouches.
d. Give the arcs of fire on the panoramic target.
e. Explain the control system that will be used during the lesson. Action on Word of
Command “No 1…CHANGE”, “CHECK SIGHTS”, “CHECK LAY.
f. Explain and demonstrate (where necessary) any instructional formations.
214. Review. Review from the following list:
a. linking ammunition;
b. load, ready and unload;
c. sequence of a fire control order and target indications; and
d. make safe (leave made safe).
215. Introduction. The machine-gunner must execute handling exercises so that the machine-
gun is always ready for action in the shortest possible time. To successfully engage targets at
longer ranges, gun teams must have a thorough knowledge of the firing drills and how to make
corrections.
TYPES OF TARGETS. Explain.
216. There are four types of targets which are engaged when using the gun in the ground role:
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-79
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
a. Point Targets. Targets that appear at longer ranges to have no appreciable width
or depth such as an enemy gun emplacement, bunkers, or static soft skin vehicles
and AFVs.
b. Traversing Targets. Targets that have a width but no appreciable depth such as
a wood or hedgerow or a series of defensive positions. Such a target may appear
as a straight or irregular line across the front or angled away from the gun
position.
c. Depth Targets. Targets that have depth but no appreciable width such as a road.
d. Moving Targets. Targets that appear to have appreciable movement in any
direction.
217. Confirm by questions.
TYPES OF FIRE. Explain.
218. There are 2 types of fire used with the .50 Cal Heavy Machine Gun:
a. Single Shot. This is achieved by unlocking the bolt latch release prior to firing.
Single shots can be used for ranging fire and point targets.
b. Burst Automatic. This is achieved by locking the bolt latch release prior to
firing.
RATES OF FIRE. Explain.
219. There are 2 rates of fire used with the .50 Cal Heavy Machine Gun:
a. Rapid Rate. This is 100 rpm fired; and
b. Normal Rate. This is 40 rpm fired.
LENGTH OF BURST
220. There are 3 main lengths of bursts employed with the machine-gun in this role, and they
are:
a. Length of burst for rapid fire is 4-6 rounds. This should only be used for short
periods as it causes overheating. Prolonged rapid fire can cause dangerous
stoppages.
b. Length of burst for normal fire is 2-3 rounds. This length of burst can also be
used to observe strike and correct errors in range and wind allowance.
c. An effective length of burst for engaging moving targets is 8-10 rounds.
221. The type and rates of fire and length of burst employed will depend on:
a. the type of target and its range;
b. the stability of the mount;
c. the supply of ammunition available; and
d. The skill of the firer.
1-80 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
222. The rules governing rates of fire and length of bursts must be adhered to. This should
prevent damage to the weapon system and dangerous occurrences such as ‘cook off.’ It will also
assist with marksmanship and conservation of ammunition.
223. Confirm by questions.
T&E MECHANISM. Explain.
224. Traversing mechanism. The traversing mechanism consists of: a traversing bar, slide,
and screw assembly. The traversing bar, graduated in mils, fits between the trail legs of the
tripod. The traversing slide and screw assembly is clamped in place on the traversing bar by the
traversing slide lock lever. This permits traverse of 400 mils right or left of the zero index in the
centre of the traversing bar. Mil readings on the traversing bar are taken from the left side of the
traversing slide. The traversing handwheel of the screw assembly is turned for changes of 50
mils or less in deflection. This allows a traverse of 25 mils left or right of centre. A click device
in the traversing handwheel signifies one mil change in deflection.
225. Traversing. Explain and demonstrate (where necessary):
a. Coarse Adjustment. The traversing bar is graduated in mils. Each small
graduation represents 5 mils with a larger graduation every 25 mils. The bar
allows for a traverse of 400 mils right or left of the zero setting. Readings are
taken from the left edge of the traversing slide. The gun is moved by loosening
the lock bar, moving the gun until aligned with the target and tightening the lock
bar.
b. Fine Adjustment. A traversing handwheel is fitted to a traversing screw which
allows for changes of 25 mils right or left of the zero point on the hand-wheel
micrometer scale. One click is equal to a change of one mil. The wheel is turned
clockwise to move the barrel to the left and anti-clockwise to move it to the right.
c. The micrometer scale should be set to zero when no longer in use and when
mounting and dismounting the gun and tripod.
226. Elevation. Explain and demonstrate (where necessary):
a. The elevation scale is graduated in mils and allows for approximately 150 mils in
elevation and 250 mils in depression from the horizontal setting.
b. The elevation handwheel is graduated in 50 divisions each of one mil. One
complete turn of the handwheel will adjust the elevation of depression of the gun
by 50 mils. Each click equals one mil change.
c. The wheel is turned clockwise to depress the barrel and anti-clockwise to elevate
it.
227. Confirm by questions and practice.
HOLDING. Explain and demonstrate (where necessary).
228. The gunner must always have firm control of the machine-gun. The marksmanship
principles should be applied at all times. There are 2 methods the gunner can adopt when
holding the gun. The method used will depend on: the firer’s position; the firer’s ability and the
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-81
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
serviceability of the equipment used; the mount employed and the type of ground mounted on.
The 2 methods are as follows:
a. The first method. This should be the preferred method of holding the gun.
Carry out the following:
(1) take a firm grip with both hands on the spade grip lightly with the thumb
in position to press on the trigger;
(2) when holding the gun do not influence by applying force either side; and
(3) ff the direction of the barrel is off the axis of the front leg, then move body
accordingly to maintain application of the marksmanship principles.
b. The second method. Hold the gun as follows:
(1) place the right hand onto the right spade grip with the right thumb lightly
position to press on the trigger;
(2) with the left hand grasps the traversing bar against the traversing slide
with the thumb pressing down on the slide lock lever to prevent it from
unlocking; and
(3) because of the play in the traversing and elevating mechanism, pressure
must be exerted on the spade grip, forcing it to the left.
229. Confirm by practice.
AIMING. Explain and demonstrate (where necessary).
230. The rules for aiming the machine-gun 0.50 Cal M2 are the same as for the rifle. The
point of aim to be used when engaging a target is the centre of the visible mass. This point of
aim will be the one most likely to cause first-round hits when firing in the free traverse role.
This point of aim when using burst fire will ensure that the top half of the beaten zone will pass
through the target while the bottom half will cause ricochet hits.
231. Confirm by practice.
INDICATION OF THE TARGET. Explain.
232. A normal fire control order (FCO) will be given to indicate the target.
LAYING. Explain and demonstrate (where necessary).
233. If the gun controller is in a position to do so it may be easier for him to lay the gun:
a. On a range being ordered act as previously taught.
b. After the target indication, the order “LAY” will be given. The gunner is to
shout, “UNLOCK”. The gun team (No.2) will then unlock the traversing slide
locking bar.
c. The gunner is then to look through the sight and roughly align the gun for
direction onto the target then shout “LOCK”. The traversing slide locking bar is
then to be locked firmly into position by the No. 2.
1-82 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
d. The gunner is then to make fine adjustments onto the target using the elevation
and traversing handwheels. This adjustment should not exceed five mils, if it
does unlock and re-align the gun. When the gun is correctly laid onto the target
the gunner is to report “ON”.
e. The team (No. 2) then indicates that the machine-gun is ready to fire by raising a
hand.
234. Confirm by practice (leave made safe).
FIRING THE MACHINE-GUN SINGLE SHOTS. Explain and demonstrate (where
necessary).
235. On the command “SINGLE SHOTS—FIRE” the gunner is to carry out the following:
a. ensure that the bolt latch release is unlocked and set the safety catch to ‘F’;
b. look through the sight, check the lay and ensuring a firm hold on the handgrips
and operate the trigger whilst observing the target area;
c. after the round has been fired, operate the bolt latch release to feed the next round;
d. the team (No.2) are to check that the T&E is still locked; and
e. repeat the above drill as often as required.
236. On the command “STOP” the gunner is to:
a. set the safety catch to ‘S’;
b. ensure that the bolt latch release is unlocked;
c. cock the weapon and check the lay is correct and report “ON”; and
d. the No.2 is to identify and inspect the ejected round and place to one side.
237. On the command “GO ON” operate the bolt latch release, check the lay, set the safety
catch to ‘F’ and continue firing as taught.
238. Confirm by practice (leave made safe).
FIRING THE MACHINE-GUN NORMAL FIRE. Explain and demonstrate (where
necessary).
239. On the command “BURST—FIRE” the gunner is to carry out the following:
a. Ensure the bolt latch release is locked and set the safety catch to ‘F’.
b. Look through the sight, check the lay and ensuring a firm hold on the handgrips.
Whilst observing the target area operate the trigger long enough to fire a burst of
2–3 rounds at a rate of 40 rpm.
c. Once the burst has been fired check the lay and T&E as previously taught.
d. Repeat the above drill as often as required.
240. On the command “STOP” the gunner is to stop firing:
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-83
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
1-84 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
d. Once the No.2 has ensured the handle of the barrel is locked into its groove on the
barrel and checked that the barrel is firmly locked into the barrel support the
gunner will then reload, cock the gun and carry on firing as necessary.
248. When changing the barrel at speed, care must be taken not to trip the barrel handle catch.
The two barrels issued to each gun are to be used in rotation. In training, to avoid overheating
and consequent dangerous stoppages, once any barrel has been used it is not to be replaced on
the gun until it is cool.
249. Confirm by practice (leave unloaded).
OVERHEATING. Explain.
250. Normal rates of fire should not overheat the barrel, but rapid rates and long bursts for any
length of time will. The firer must use his common sense and regulate the rate of fire and length
of bursts to the tactical situation, remembering that overheating quickly causes barrel wear and
reduces accuracy.
251. If the rules governing barrel changing, rates of fire and lengths of bursts are not adhered
to then a ‘cook off’ can occur within seconds of a stoppage happening. This may cause
extensive damage to the weapon and possible injury to the gun team.
252. Rounds should not be left in a hot chamber for long periods. If practical during a lull in
firing the following action should be carried out so that the gun may cool down:
a. unload the gun;
b. unlock bolt latch release and cock gun; and
c. leave top cover raised.
253. Confirm by questions and practice.
AIMING OFF FOR WIND. Explain and demonstrate (where necessary).
254. Providing that the fall of shot can be seen, the following procedure can be used when
aiming off for wind:
a. re-lay on the target;
b. move the rear sight laterally, using the windage gauge, until the line of sight is on
the fall of shot;
c. re-lay on the original point of aim; and
d. the machine-gun is now laid with the correct wind allowance.
255. Table 1-1 indicates, in mils, the windage changes for key ranges necessary to compensate
for a wind of 15 kph (10 mph) coming from three o'clock or nine o'clock. For winds of greater
or less velocity, the correction should be multiplied by the ratio number.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-85
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
15 kph wind
500 L1 R1
1000 L2 R2
1500 L3 R3
2000 L4 R4
LESSON 7
STOPPAGES AND IMMEDIATE ACTIONS
INSTRUCTOR'S NOTES
258. Aim. To teach students how to identify and remedy a stoppage in the cycle of operation
of the machine-gun.
259. Main teaching points:
a. immediate actions; and
1-86 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-87
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
265. Preliminaries:
a. check all students equipment;
b. number off students into teams and allocate guns;
c. carry out safety precautions and check drill rounds and students pouches;
d. issue and confirm the arcs of fire and reference points and stress that, after each
stoppage, the machine-gun must be pointed in the direction of the target before
pressing the trigger;
e. explain the control system that will be used during the lesson:
(1) Action on Word of Command “No,1 OUT…CHANGE”, “CHECK
SIGHTS” and “CHECK LAY”; and
f. explain and demonstrate (where necessary) any instructional formations.
266. Review. Review from the following list:
a. firing drills and barrel change (leave gun unloaded);
b. show parts related to mechanism; and
c. show ruptured case.
1-88 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
267. Introduction. If the gun is correctly cleaned and prepared for firing, stoppages will
seldom occur. If they do occur it is critical for the operational safety of the gun team and other
friendly troops that the gun team can identify the stoppage and correctly and safely get the gun
back into action as soon as practicable. A sound knowledge of how the gun works will assist in
quick and effectively handling drills.
BASIC MECHANISM Explain and demonstrate (with top cover raised):
268. Single Shot.
a. The gun is loaded by hand. On cocking the gun the extractor draws the first
round from the belt and feeds it into the ‘T' slot.
b. As the bolt latch release is unlocked the working parts will be retained to the rear.
The bolt latch release must be operated to allow the working parts to go forward
and feed a round. As the bolt moves forward the round is chambered and the
extractor cams up to grasp the next round.
c. On operating the trigger the firing pin will be released and strike the percussion
primer at the base of the round.
d. When the round is fired the recoil causes the barrel, barrel extension and bolt
assembly to move to the rear together. Once the bolt assembly comes into contact
with the accelerator claws and continues rearwards the barrel returns forward to
its original position. The accelerator claws drive the bolt assembly further to the
rear which in turn withdraws the empty case from the chamber by means of the
‘T' slot. The extractor draws the next live round to the rear and on the forward
motion feeds it into the ‘T' slot thus displacing the empty case through the ejector.
e. This action will continue as long as the trigger is sequentially operated and there
are rounds on the belt.
269. Automatic:
a. The gun is loaded by hand. On cocking the gun the extractor draws the first
round from the belt and feeds it into the ‘T' slot. As the bolt latch release is
locked the bolt assembly will automatically go forward under pressure from the
driving spring as per single shot.
b. On operating the trigger the process is the same as with single shot with the
exception that the working parts will not be retained to the rear, but will go
forward automatically.
c. This action will continue as long as the trigger is pressed and there are rounds on
the belt.
270. Confirm by questions.
IMMEDIATE ACTION. Explain and demonstrate (where necessary):
271. The purpose of the Immediate Action (IA) is to get the gun into action as soon as
possible. The IA will remedy most stoppages. If the gun stops or fails to fire the following
actions are to be carry out:
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-89
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
a. The gunner is to check that the bolt latch release lock is in the correct position for
the task. At the same time the No. 2 will ensure that the top cover is closed and
the belt is correctly fitted and in line with the feed way.
b. The gunner will then cock the gun, operate the bolt latch release if necessary.
c. The No. 2 is to observe and identify then inspect the ejected round as taught.
d. If feed takes place, re-lay and continue firing as taught.
272. Confirm by practice (leave gun made safe).
FURTHER ACTION Explain and demonstrate (where necessary).
273. If after applying the immediate action the “ROUNDS DID NOT FEED” or “GUN
WILL NOT FIRE”:
a. unload as taught, do not lower the sights;
b. unlock the bolt latch release, raise the top cover, cock the gun and inspect the
interior of the gun; and
c. subsequent action will depend on what is seen in the body.
OBSTRUCTION VISIBLE Explain and demonstrate (where necessary).
274. When inspecting the body, if an obstruction is visible:
a. remove obstruction with a suitable tool;
b. when the obstruction is clear inspect the chamber, if the chamber is clear, do not
close the top cover, allow the bolt to go forward under control; and
c. reload as taught, cock the gun. Re-lay and continue firing as taught.
275. Remember that to prevent injury do not attempt to place hands directly into the body of
the weapon.
276. Confirm by practice.
OBSTRUCTION NOT VISIBLE Explain and demonstrate (where necessary).
277. If when inspecting the body, no obstruction is visible carry out the following actions:
a. allow the bolt to go forward under control; and
b. check the ammunition.
278. If the No. 2 informs that after the IA the round was either not ejected or the “CAP
STRUCK” the ammunition or feed was the cause:
a. reload and cock the gun; and
b. re-lay and continue firing as taught.
279. If the No. 2 informs that after the IA the round was “CAP NOT STRUCK” remove the
bolt and examine the following:
1-90 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
a. firing pin;
b. driving rod and spring;
c. feed mechanism;
d. trigger and sear release lever; and
e. inspect the barrel through the body of the weapon for separated cases or
obstruction.
280. If a broken part is found replace it and assemble the gun then ensuring the bolt latch is
locked:
a. reload and cock the gun; and
b. re-lay and continue firing as taught.
281. If the barrel extension or the bolt lock is broken, the weapon must be checked by a
weapons technician.
282. Confirm by practice.
OBSTRUCTION IN BARREL OR SEPARATED CASE Explain and demonstrate (where
necessary).
283. If on looking through the barrel of the gun an obstruction or a separated case is present, te
following action should be taken.
284. Obstruction. The barrel is not to be used until the obstruction is removed. Obtain the
assistance of an armourer if necessary.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-91
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
a. tip of extractor b. ruptured cartridge case extractor c. end of ruptured cartridge case extractor (seated in T-slot
of bolt) d. barrel extension e. chamber
Figure 1-85: Ruptured cartridge case extractor aligned with the T-slot of the bolt
285. Separated Case. Assemble the gun and:
a. Place the ruptured cartridge extractor (clearing plug) (figure 1-84) onto the (1-85)
feed way in the same manner as loading a single round. Ensure it is held in
position by the extractor.
b. Cock the gun and allow the bolt to travel forward under its own momentum.
c. Cock the gun to extract the separated case. The No. 2 then checks that the
separated case has been extracted.
d. Allow the bolt to go forward, reload, cock the gun, re-lay back on to target then
continue firing as taught.
286. The separated case should be removed from the clearing plug and the clearing plug
returned to the gun hold all when time permits.
287. Confirm by practice.
THE GUN CANNOT BE COCKED. Explain and demonstrate (where necessary).
288. If on attempting to carry out the IA the gun cannot be cocked the team are to:
a. ensure the top cover is closed and unlock the bolt latch release;
b. dress back 10 metres and wait 5 minutes in case of ‘cook off’;
c. once 5 minutes has lapsed or the gun fires carry out the further action drill; and
d. inspect feed arm before loading.
289. During operations it may be considered an acceptable risk to forego the 5 minute waiting
period.
290. Confirm by practice.
1-92 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Characteristics, Description, Safety Precautions, Mounting And Dismounting The Gun And Tripod
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 1-93
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
2CHAPTER 2
LESSON 1
DUTIES OF MEMBERS OF A MACHINE-GUN TEAM
INSTRUCTOR’S NOTES
1. Aim. To teach the responsibilities of the individual members of the gun team and
handling in the field.
2. Main teaching points:
a. organization and responsibilities of the gun team;
b. hand signals; and
c. carriage of the gun.
3. Time. Two x 40 minute periods.
4. Method. Basic indoor or outdoor instructional period.
5. Stores:
a. .50 Cal Machine-gun complete. Mounted on
M3 tripod—1 per 3 students;
b. tripod protective boots—3 per machine-gun;
c. tool role box with accessories—1 per machine-gun;
d. drill ammunition—5 per machine-gun;
e. filled sandbags—3 per machine-gun;
f. ammunition container—1 per machine-gun; and
g. rifle—1 per student.
6. Preparation:
a. set up teaching area;
b. for this and every lesson in this chapter, when setting up the teaching area ensure
the cocking handles of the guns are facing the students; and
c. for this and every lesson in this chapter ensure the guns are assembled for left
hand feed.
7. Miscellaneous:
a. Where appropriate the students should be encouraged to work as a team.
b. The term “gun controller” will be used to describe the person that controls an
individual gun.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 2-1
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
c. All procedures in this lesson are taught as a guide. Procedures should be adapted
to fit the tactical situation. All members of the gun team must be well versed in
all procedures.
2-2 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Duties Of Members Of A Machine-Gun Team
permutations. Whichever configuration is used the term gun controller will be defined as the
person who controls the gun.
13. Confirm by questions.
DUTIES OF THE MEMBERS OF THE DETACHMENT OR SECTION. Explain.
14. What follows lists the duties of the various members of the machine-gun team,
detachment and section.
15. Duties of the detachment or section commander. The team, detachment or section
commanders are normally appointed by the company commander and will be responsible to him
for the execution of the following duties:
a. Deployment. The move to and occupation of a new position, and sighting of the
machine-guns to execute the unit fire plan.
b. Camouflage and protection. The digging in and concealment of the weapon
emplacement.
c. Fire control. The issuance of concise and accurate fire orders to the weapon
crews for the engagement of authorized tasks.
d. Observation. Ensuring that the arc of responsibility for each weapon is kept
under constant observation.
e. Range card. The preparation of range cards on occupation of a fire position in
the defence.
f. Relief. Ensuring that a relief schedule is established which permits men of the
section to receive adequate rest.
g. Ammunition. Keeping a check on ammunition expenditure and ordering
replenishment when required.
h. Inspections. Ensuring that equipment is complete and in good working order
before and after deployments.
i. Maintenance. Ensuring that the equipment on charge to the detachment,
including that allotted for the purposes of fire control, ie, compass, binoculars,
map and map board, is properly maintained.
16. Duties of No. 1. The No. 1 is responsible for the following:
a. laying and firing the machine-gun;
b. clearing stoppages;
c. reporting “ON” to No. 2 when laid on a target;
d. ensuring that the machine-gun is properly mounted;
e. carrying out other duties as detailed by the gun controller;
f. carrying out the duties of the gun controller in his absence;
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 2-3
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
g. ensuring that, in addition to his normal equipment, he has a flashlight and range
card;
h. applying corrections; and
i. applying correct rates of fire.
17. Duties of the No 2. The No. 2 is responsible for the following:
a. ensuring that the barrel is properly locked before firing begins;
b. repeating all fire orders to No. 1;
c. ensuring that the ammunition is correctly position at the feedway;
d. observing and reporting strike;
e. assisting in mounting and dismounting the machine-gun;
f. maintaining a continuous supply of ammunition at the machine-gun;
g. reporting “ON” to the gun controller;
h. inspecting all ejected rounds;
i. ensuring T&E mechanism is locked when required; and
j. carrying out other duties as detailed by the gun controller.
18. Duties of the No. 3. The No. 3 is responsible for the following:
a. maintaining a continuous supply of ammunition to the No. 2;
b. properly positioning and camouflaging the vehicle when the machine-gun is in
action;
c. supervising the maintenance of the vehicle in accordance with the maintenance
schedule; and
d. using his personal weapon to provide limited local protection of the secondary
arcs when the detachment is in action.
HAND SIGNALS Explain and demonstrate.
19. In a tactical situation it may not always be practical to communicate in the normal
manner. The following hand signals can be given by the gun controller:
a. “MOUNT GUN.” Both arms bent in front of the body with palms up; forearms
are raised and lowered rapidly two or three times.
b. “DISMOUNT GUN.” Both arms are bent in front of the body with palms down;
forearms are lowered and raised two or three times.
c. “DIRECTION.” Right arm is extended horizontally with the hand closed and the
forefinger pointing in the direction of the target.
d. “FIRE.” The right arm, which is raised fully above the head, is cut quickly to the
side.
2-4 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Duties Of Members Of A Machine-Gun Team
e. “STOP.” Either arm is waved horizontally in front of the body with the palm flat
to the ground.
f. “AMUNITION.” The right is extended horizontally from the shoulder with the
fist clenched.
20. Confirm by practice.
HAND-CARRYING THE MACHINE-GUN AND ITS EQUIPMENT. Explain and
demonstrate (where necessary).
21. On the command “DISMOUNT GUN AND TRIPOD” the following actions are taken:
a. the Detachment Commander carries the ammunition box and range card;
b. No. 1 carries the gun;
c. No. 2 carries the tripod; and
d. No. 3 carries the spare barrels, the tool bag and ammunition.
22. The above is a guideline and can be adapted to suit the unit formation.
23. Confirm by questions.
MOVING THE MACHINE-GUN WHEN MOUNTED ON THE TRIPOD Explain and
demonstrate (where necessary). Ensure unloaded.
24. When the machine-gun is mounted on the tripod, it can be moved for short distances by
dragging or using a two or three-man carry. For ease in the carry, men should move in step.
Where the tactical situation allows the gun should be unloaded. The following are suggested
methods of moving when mounted on the tripod:
a. Dragging. Nos. 1 and 2 drag the mounted gun to the desired position.
b. Two-man Carry. No. 1 takes a position on the RIGHT and No. 2 on the LEFT
of the machine-gun. Each grasps the front leg with his forward hand the trail leg
with the rear hand, just above the traversing bar (figure 2-1-1).
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 2-5
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
2-6 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Duties Of Members Of A Machine-Gun Team
LESSON 2
FIRING DRILLS AND APPLICATION OF FIRE ORDERS
INSTRUCTOR'S NOTES
28. Aim. To teach students the guidelines for engaging a variety of targets.
29. Main teaching points:
a. methods of engaging targets; and
b. reporting strike and corrections.
30. Time. Two x 40-minute periods.
31. Method. Basic indoor or outdoor instructional period
32. Stores:
a. .50 cal machine-gun mounted on tripod mount M3—1 per 3 students;
b. tripod protective boots—3 per machine-gun;
c. linked belt of 20 practice rounds—1 per machine-gun;
d. panoramic target—1 per machine-gun;
e. tool bag and accessory box—1 per machine-gun; and
f. filled sandbags—3 per machine-gun.
33. Preparation:
a. The guns on tripod should be mounted on a non-slip surface prior to the lesson
commencing.
b. Prepare the board and diagrams (where necessary).
c. Place the machine-guns and check that they are operating properly.
d. Check drill rounds and links for damage. Place enough loose drill rounds and link
under gun to make a 10 round belt.
e. Use the 3 piece panoramic target or suitable natural landscape where practical.
Lay out guns facing the landscape or targets. The teaching area may dictate the
use of 3 identical panoramic targets (1 per gun).
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 2-7
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
f. Identify a number of reference points and prepare fire control orders. Ensure that
the targets can be engaged from each gun position.
g. Check the T&Es to ensure they are all serviceable and scale is clearly visible.
34. Miscellaneous:
a. use the students to assist with fault checking;
b. students are encouraged to works as teams where applicable;
c. ensure that the squad is positioned to enable them to see the T&E mechanism
during this lesson;
d. where possible try to relate aiming to students knowledge of the rifle (iron sight );
and
e. the following words of command are suggestions for use during this lesson:
(1) “TRAVERSE LEFT/RIGHT, FIRE’, “RIGHT/LEFT LIMIT ON”,
“STOP - NEW TARGET” for application of fire;
(2) “STRIKE ON TARGET”, “NO STRIKE”, “STRIKE 100 SHORT (or
OVER)”, “STRIKE TEN MILS RIGHT (or LEFT)” for reporting
strike; and
(3) “ADD (or DROP) FOUR MILS”, “NO…(Gun)ON”, “GO RIGHT (or
LEFT) TWENTY MILS (GO ON)”, “TRAVERSE LEFT (or
RIGHT) - GO ON”, “NOTE POINT OF AIM”, “SAME POINT OF
AIM, GO ON” “RE-LAY NOTED POINT OF AIM”, “STOP, GO
RIGHT TWENTY MILS, ADD FOUR MILS, GO ON” for corrections.
35. Preliminaries:
a. Check all students’ equipment.
b. Number off students into teams and allocate guns.
c. Carry out safety precautions and check drill rounds and students’ pouches.
d. Give the arcs of fire on the panoramic target and stress that, after each stoppage,
the machine-gun must be pointed in the direction of the target before pressing the
trigger.
e. Explain the control system that will be used during the lesson. Action on word of
command “CHANGE” “CHECK SIGHTS” “CHECK LAY”.
f. Explain and demonstrate (where necessary) any instructional formations.
36. Review. Review from the following list:
a. fire control orders;
b. firing drills (leave gun unloaded); and
2-8 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Duties Of Members Of A Machine-Gun Team
c. methods of carriage.
37. Introduction. Those elements of fire control that are drills carried out by the machine-
gunners are explained in this chapter. Wherever possible, the gun controller will lay the
machine-gun on the target himself, and give a brief description of it and the point of aim to the
machine-gun crew. In certain circumstances, the gun controller may be at a separate location
from the machine-gun and on those occasions it will be necessary for him to transmit fire control
orders to the detachment.
MOVING TARGETS ‘LEAD’ FACTOR. Explain and demonstrate (where necessary).
38. When a shot is fired at a moving target, the target continues to move during the time of
flight of the bullet. To allow for this movement it is necessary to aim in front of the target
otherwise the shots will fall behind it. This aiming in front, to anticipate the movement of the
target, is known as ‘lead’:
a. The amount of lead necessary will depend on the speed, range and direction of
movement. A fast moving target requires more lead than a slow mover. A target
moving obliquely across the front will require less lead than a direct crossing
target. The further the target is away the greater the lead required.
b. It will be more difficult to gauge speed, range and direction of travel at longer
ranges.
39. Not all movement will be appreciable; gunners must acquire the feel for the correct lead
to be effective at ranging moving targets under various conditions. Only with frequent practice
can this be achieved.
40. Confirm by questions.
METHODS OF FIRING AT DIRECT MOVING AND OBLIQUE CROSSING
TARGETS. Explain and demonstrate (where necessary).
41. There are two methods of firing the gun at moving targets:
a. The Ambush Method:
(1) the gunner estimates the range, sets the sights, cocks the gun;
(2) elevate or depress the gun onto the target line selecting a point well ahead
of the vehicle, lay the gun onto that point;
(3) the gunner fires at the selected point of aim with bursts of 8–10 rounds
when the target reaches two targets’ width from that point of aim;
(4) the gun team are to observe for tracer and strike;
(5) the gunner adjusts his fire until the fire is effective; and
(6) continue as required.
b. The Tracking Method:
(1) the gunner estimates the range, sets the sights, cocks the gun;
(2) elevate or depress the gun onto the target line;
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 2-9
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
(3) select a point of aim at least two targets’ width ahead of the target and fire
in burst of 8–10 rounds;
(4) the gun team are to observe for tracer and strike; and
(5) the gunner should continue to track the target while firing, adjusting until
the fire is effective.
42. The method used will depend on the situation such as engagement time, direction and
speed of target etc.
43. Confirm by practice.
FIRING DRILS AT POINT TARGETS Explain and demonstrate(where necessary).
44. When the order “FIRE” is given, the gunner will hold and fire the weapon as taught.
The firing procedure is as follows:
a. Check the aim through the sight.
b. Fire a length of burst or single shot as required.
c. The gunner, No. 2 and gun controller should all observe for strike and the gunner
will make corrections when ordered by the gun controller.
d. Repeat this procedure until ordered to “STOP”.
e. On the command “STOP” act as taught. Note the point of aim, make corrections
as necessary and report “ON”.
f. On the command “GO ON” continue the engagement as taught.
45. Confirm by practice.
FIRING DRILS AT TRAVERSING TARGETS. Explain and demonstrate(where necessary).
46. The gun controller will order the machine-gun to be aimed on a specific point on the
target and give a direction of traverse. An amount of traverse may also be given in mils or by
indicating a limit on the ground.
47. When a traversing target is indicated, e.g., a hedgerow, the right and left limits are
defined. The gunner will be ordered to lay the gun on either of these, e.g., “GUNNER, 800,
HOUSE RIGHT EDGE OF HOUSE RIGHT LIMIT, LEFT 50 MILS END OF
HEDGEROW LEFT LIMIT, RIGHT LIMIT LAY”. He acts as previously taught.
48. Explain and demonstrate (where necessary): On the order “TRAVERSING
RIGHT/LEFT, FIRE”:
a. Check the aim through the sights.
b. Fire the length of burst required.
c. Traverse two clicks in the direction ordered.
d. Repeat the procedure, checking the aim for elevation and correcting as necessary
before firing the next burst.
2-10 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Duties Of Members Of A Machine-Gun Team
e. Continue the drill until the second limit is reached. Report “NO. . . . (GUN),
RIGHT/LEFT LIMIT, ON”. The gunner is then to go on firing, traversing back
across the target until the order “STOP” is given or original limit is reached.
f. On the command “STOP” or “GO ON” act as previously taught.
49. Confirm by practice.
50. If it is apparent to the No. 1 that the target is wider than the amount of traverse available
on the traversing bar, he will:
a. engage the target normally until the limit of traverse is reached;
b. zero the scale then unlock the slide lock lever and lay the machine-gun by rough
alignment onto the point of aim for the last burst fired; and
c. make fine adjustment to aim, traverse two mils and continue to fire as normal.
51. Confirm by practice.
FIRING DRILLS AT DEPTH TARGETS. Explain and demonstrate(where necessary).
52. When a depth target is indicated the near and far limits are defined. Fire is moved by
altering the sight setting in the direction required and using the elevation hand wheel to relay the
gun back onto its original point of aim.
53. Confirm by practice.
FIRING DRILLS ATOBLIQUE TARGETS. Explain and demonstrate (where necessary).
54. An oblique target is one whose longitudinal axis lies at an angle (other than a right angle)
to the line of fire. Oblique targets are engaged with the same drill as traversing targets. The No.
1 must ensure that the correct elevation is maintained over the width of the target if corrections
for elevation are not being given.
55. Confirm by practice.
SUBSEQUENT TARGETS
56. There may be a requirement to engage subsequent targets. The gun controller will give
the command “STOP NEW TARGET”. The gunner is to carry out the “STOP” drill as
taught. Once the new target has been identified the gunner is to carry out the following:
a. set sights for new target;
b. zero the T&E traversing scale on the hand wheel;
c. lay the gun onto the new target as taught;
d. operate the bolt release latch; and
e. carry on firing as previously taught.
57. If the command “STOP” has not been given, the gunner must carry out the “STOP” drill
before unlocking the gun.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 2-11
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
2-12 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Duties Of Members Of A Machine-Gun Team
No. 2 is also essential to enable the detachment to change its aim correctly if
required.
LESSON 3
RECORDING OF TARGETS AND OBSCURATION DRILL
INSTRUCTOR'S NOTES
64. Aim. To teach students how to record a target for elevation and direction, apply readings
and how to engage targets effectively when visibility is reduced.
65. Main teaching points:
a. recording targets for elevation and direction;
b. laying the machine-gun on a recorded target;
c. obscuration drill—point targets; and
d. obscuration drill—traversing and oblique targets.
66. Time. Two x 40 minute periods.
67. Method. Basic indoor or outdoor instructional period.
68. Stores:
a. .50 cal machine-gun mounted on tripod mount M3—1 per 3 students;
b. tripod protective boots—3 per machine-gun;
c. linked belt of 20 practice rounds—1 per machine-gun;
d. panoramic target (three set)—1 per machine-gun;
e. tool bag and accessory box—1 per machine-gun; and
f. filled sandbags—3 per machine-gun.
69. Preparation:
a. The guns on tripod should be mounted on a non-slip surface prior to the lesson
commencing.
b. Prepare the board and diagrams (where necessary).
c. Place the machine-guns and check that they are operating properly.
d. Check drill rounds and links for damage. Place enough loose drill rounds and link
under gun to make a 10 round belt.
e. Use the 3 piece panoramic target or suitable natural landscape where practical.
Lay out guns facing the landscape or targets. The teaching area may dictate the
use of 3 identical panoramic targets (1 per gun).
f. Identify a number of reference points and prepare fire control orders. Ensure that
the targets can be engaged from each gun position.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 2-13
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
g. Check the T&Es to ensure they are all serviceable and scale is clearly visible.
70. Miscellaneous:
a. use the students to assist with fault checking;
b. students are encouraged to work as teams where applicable;
c. ensure that the squad is positioned to enable them to see the T&E mechanism
during this lesson;
d. where possible try to relate aiming to students’ knowledge of the rifle (iron sight);
e. the following words of command are suggestions for use during this lesson:
f. “STOP, MARK AND RECORD TARGET”, for recording; and
g. “LEFT AND RIGHT FOUR MILS, GO ON”, “STOP, RE-LAY” for
obscuration drill.
71. Preliminaries:
a. Check all students’ equipment.
b. Number off students into teams and allocate guns.
c. Carry out safety precautions and check drill rounds and students pouches.
d. Give the arcs of fire on the panoramic target and stress that, after each stoppage,
the machine-gun must be pointed in the direction of the target before pressing the
trigger.
e. Explain the control system that will be used during the lesson. Action on Word of
Command “CHANGE” “CHECK SIGHTS” “CHECK LAY”.
f. Explain and demonstrate (where necessary) any instructional formations.
72. Review. Review from the following list:
a. firing drills;
b. methods of engaging targets; and
c. reporting and correction.
73. Introduction. All fire tasks should be adjusted and recorded in order that targets can be
engaged during periods of poor visibility. This is accomplished by recording the setting on the
traversing and elevating mechanism after adjustment of fire is complete. The machine-gunner
must have the capability to engage targets that have been obscured by smoke, mist or heavy rain.
This can only be done when the weapon is ground mounted, and when it is possible to record the
direction and elevation to a target using the traversing and elevation scales. If more than one
machine-gun is laid on the target, the obscuration drill will be carried out in such a way that
while one weapon is preparing, another can provide fire. If it is obvious that obscuration will be
of short duration, fire will be continued at the target through the obscuration without disturbing
the lay of the weapon.
2-14 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Duties Of Members Of A Machine-Gun Team
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 2-15
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
76. To record elevation, it is necessary to observe the engraved elevation scale just above the
hand wheel. Read the first line and whether it is a plus, minus or zero reading is noted. This
figure is recorded followed by an oblique stroke.
a. Without moving the hand wheel, note the figure at which the indicator points.
Record this figure after the oblique stroke.
b. An example of a complete elevation reading is: “+50/15”.
77. Confirm by practice.
78. Using the above examples, the direction recorded would be entered on the target report
card as “R330/L4”.
79. The following key points must be considered:
a. the readings to a target only apply to one specific weapon, its tripod and T&E
mechanism;
b. the reading on the engraved scale must not be related to the reading on the
elevating hand wheel;
c. in order to engage a target effectively at night, it may be necessary to elevate or
traverse, therefore No. 1 must remember how many clicks have been used from
the original lay;
d. silent registration (i.e., registration which is not confirmed by actual fire),
although not accurate, may have to be carried out in circumstances where
surprise, security or time are primary considerations; and
e. the readings are not bearings.
80. Confirm by practice.
LAYING THE MACHINE-GUN ON A RECORDED TARGET. Explain and demonstrate
(where necessary).
81. The following steps will be carried out when laying on a recorded target:
a. centralize and zero the traversing mechanism;
b. position and lock the traversing slide on the recorded reading on the traversing
bar;
c. ensure the barrel is pointing in the direction recorded relative to the tripod centre;
d. apply the number of clicks recorded to the traversing hand wheel (check the
micrometer scale is necessary);
e. apply the recorded elevation reading to the elevating screw and hand wheel; and
f. hold the machine-gun as taught.
82. Confirm by practice.
OBSCURATION DRILL—POINT TARGETS. Explain and demonstrate (where necessary).
2-16 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Duties Of Members Of A Machine-Gun Team
83. When it is likely that the target will become obscured, the fire controller will give the
orders necessary to ensure that the machine-guns are providing effective fire on the target and
then order “STOP- MARK AND RECORD”:
a. The No. 1 will check his point of aim, record the direction and elevation and
report “ON”.
b. The fire controller will then order “LEFT AND RIGHT FOUR MILS, GO
ON”, to ensure effective engagement of the target.
c. The No. 1 will engage the target as he would a traversing target. Should the order
“STOP, RE-LAY” be given, he will stop firing and lay on the recorded direction
and elevation.
d. If, in the opinion of the detachment commander, the target can be effectively
engaged without traversing, only the order “FIRE” need be given. In that case,
the No. 1 will fire on the recorded direction and elevation.
84. Confirm by practice.
OBSCURATION DRILL—TRAVERSING AND OBLIQUE TARGETS. Explain and
demonstrate (where necessary).
85. When it is likely that the target will become obscured, the detachment commander will
issue the orders to ensure that the machine-guns are laid effectively on a specific point of the
target, e.g., the centre, left or right limit, or any point between the limits. The number of mils
LEFT and RIGHT will always be given as an even number:
a. When he is satisfied with the fire effect, the detachment commander will order
“STOP—MARK AND RECORD”. On receipt of this order, the No. 1 will
carry out the drills laid down for the point target obscuration drill.
b. After the No. 1 has reported “ON”, the detachment commander will give the
applicable order to ensure an effective engagement of the target:
(1) He may issue the same order as for an obscured point target engagement.
In this case, the No. 1 carries out the firing drill as taught, ie, he adjusts
left and right four mils.
(2) He may order “LEFT AND RIGHT ... MILS - GO ON”. In this case,
the No. 1 will traverse left at two mils, firing bursts at two-mil intervals
until he reaches the limit ordered by the detachment commander. He will
then re-lay the machine-gun on the recorded direction and repeat the
sweep to the right. After the right limit has been reached, he will relay on
the recorded position and report “ON”.
c. The section commander may, if one machine-gun is laid on the LEFT limit and
another laid on the RIGHT limit, or both are laid on the target centre, order
“NUMBER 1 GUN TRAVERSING RIGHT ... MILS; NUMBER 2 GUN
TRAVERSING LEFT ... MILS—GO ON”.
d. Where two or more weapons are being used and are being laid on different points
on the target, the section commander may simply order “FIRE”. On this order,
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 2-17
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
the No. 1 will fire on the recorded direction and elevation at the normal rate until
the order “STOP.
e. The section commander may wish to increase or decrease the range of the beaten
zone in relation to the first burst to ensure an oblique target is effectively covered
with fire. Before obscuration occurs, he must decide the corrections required and
include the corrections in the order to the machine-gunners, e.g., “NUMBER 1
GUN—TRAVERSING RIGHT ... MILS, DROP ... MILS—NUMBER 2
GUN—TRAVERSING LEFT ... MILS, ADD ... MILS - FIRE”. The No. 1
will fire the first burst as normal, then traverse in the direction indicated, apply the
correction for elevation and fire the next burst. Subsequent drills for traversing
and re-lay are as already taught. Should the fire controller wish to give
corrections in elevation during an engagement, he must order, “STOP—ADD (or
DROP) ... MILS—GO ON”. If necessary, he will give the machine-gun number
in this order. The range of the beaten zone can be increased or decreased by 50
metre increments as shown in Table 2-1.
Range Mils
Table 2-1: Adjusting the range to the beaten zone by increments of 50 metres
86. Confirm by questions.
87. Conclusion:
a. question period.
b. confirm by questions and practice;
c. carry out safety precautions;
d. pack the stores; and
e. review:
(1) The machine-gunner must be able to engage targets effectively even when
obscured by smoke, fog or heavy rain. The fire controller must direct the
fire of the weapons so that the targets are effectively engaged.
(2) The machine-gunner must know how to take the reading on the traversing
bar and the traversing slide and to use the readings correctly at night or in
smoke or fog.
2-18 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
3CHAPTER 3
LESSON 1
FIRE CONTROL
INSTRUCTOR’S NOTES
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 3-1
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
3-2 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Fire Control
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 3-3
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
LESSON 2
ROLE AND DEPLOYMENT OF THE HEAVY MACHINE-GUN
INSTRUCTOR’S NOTES
18. Aim. To teach students where to position machine-guns and the factors that influence the
choice of a site.
19. Main teaching points:
a. role of the heavy machine-gun;
b. principles of tactical deployment; and
c. factors affecting the sitting of the heavy machine-gun and the decision to
dismount the heavy machine-gun.
20. Time. One x 40-minute period.
21. Method. One period of basic instruction.
22. Stores:
a. multimedia projector; and
b. diagrams.
23. Preparation:
a. set up the classroom;
b. prepare the board; and
3-4 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Fire Control
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 3-5
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
3-6 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Fire Control
e. machine-guns will be sited according to the principles of the gun's fire; and
f. the commander will check the sitting and adjust it, if necessary.
34. Confirm by questions.
FACTORS AFFECTING THE SITING OF THE HEAVY MACHINE-GUN AND THE
DECISION TO DISMOUNT THE HEAVY MACHINE-GUN. Explain.
35. Choice of sitting. Within a company area, the commander will task and deploy the
heavy machine-guns in a manner consistent with the battalion armour defence plan. The
following factors will affect the choice of site for the weapons:
a. the overall armour defence plan;
b. probable enemy approaches;
c. type of target to be engaged (e.g.: effective range is 800 m against APCs and
1,200 m (tracer “burn-out”) against personnel;
d. availability of concealment from ground and air observation, and cover from
direct fire weapons;
e. ability of the detachment or section commander to observe the primary arc of fire
and to control by means of verbal orders;
f. the ability to apply the characteristics of the weapon to the ground with maximum
effect (paragraph 13 refers) when engaging area targets;
g. the requirement of alternate sites and their locations;
h. the ability to observe the movement of own troops;
i. the availability of covered access routes into, and out of, the position;
j. adequate space to accommodate the fire unit, whether a detachment or a section;
k. the necessity of local infantry protection; and
l. a requirement to dismount.
36. Factors affecting the decision to dismount the heavy machine-gun. The decision to
dismount the heavy machine-gun will most often be taken in protracted defensive operations. In
operations of a more fluid nature, whether defensive or offensive, the heavy machine-gun is
more likely to be kept mounted on its vehicle. Commanders will always have to balance the
advantage of dismounting against the disadvantages. The principle factors influencing the
decision to dismount the weapon are:
a. the weight of the weapon, its tripod and ammunition;
b. the relatively greater accuracy and lower silhouette of the weapon when mounted
on the M3 tripod;
c. availability of manpower to crew the weapon, and to deploy and maintain it in
action;
d. the requirement to move the weapon into position without being detected;
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 3-7
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
LESSON 3
TACTICAL EMPLOYMENT OF THE MACHINE-GUN
INSTRUCTOR’S NOTES
39. Aim. To teach students the main teaching points and confirm by questions and practice
that they have mastered the content of this lesson.
40. Main teaching points:
a. tasks of the heavy machine-gun;
b. general employment guidelines;
c. the defence;
d. offensive operations;
e. the withdrawal;
f. command and control; and
g. preparation of machine-gun positions—vehicle-mounted weapons.
41. Time. Three x 40-minute periods.
42. Method. Three periods instruction.
43. Stores:
a. multimedia projector; and
b. diagrams.
3-8 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Fire Control
44. Preparation:
a. set up the classroom;
b. prepare the board; and
c. check the diagrams and the projector.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 3-9
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
a. Because of their range and high volume of fire, both machine-guns (HMG and
GPMG) are well suited for this task. They may be tasked to provide defensive
fire in any of the phases of war. The fire of machine-guns must be coordinated
with that of other weapons.
b. When providing defensive fire, each machine-gun is assigned a primary and
possibly a secondary arc of fire. The machine-gun is assigned specific target
areas to cover within its arc of fire. The machine-gunner must be aware of other
machine-guns tasked to cover the same arc(s) of fire or target area(s). All target
areas should be registered as soon as possible to allow the machine-gunner to
cover his task despite obscuration.
c. A machine-gun position should not be sited to defend its immediate front but
should fire in defence of another position. Conversely, the machine-gun position
should be defended by fire from another weapon. This will normally produce
optimum effect from the gun's fire and minimize the possibility of neutralization
and force an assaulting enemy to neutralize both his objective and the positions
mutually supporting it.
d. A defensive fire task may include the provision of indirect fire in support of a
flanking position or an outpost or to cover an obstacle. Machine-guns employed
in this task can provide anti-personnel area neutralization. They should not be
used in isolation but to supplement the fire of other weapons. Indirect machine-
gun fire must be closely coordinated with the supported sub-unit and registered
under observation. The GPMG will usually be preferred for this task; however,
because of range limitations, there are occasions when the HMG will be used.
e. A machine-gun providing defensive fire should be dismounted in a prepared and
well-protected position. It may, however, be left mounted on the APC:
(1) when there is little time available to prepare the position;
(2) to provide a vantage point to cover dead ground or fire over friendly
troops immediately to its front; or
(3) when it is anticipated that the machine-gun will have to move quickly.
f. When tasked to provide defensive fire, the HMG will normally be deployed to
cover likely APC approaches and be an integral part of the battalion's anti-armour
fire. The GPMG will be primarily employed to provide anti-personnel fire. The
HMG may also be used to engage soft targets when GPMG coverage is
insufficient or when the target area is beyond their effective range.
50. Confirm by questions.
51. To neutralize an enemy position:
a. The aim of this task is not necessarily to destroy the enemy occupying the
position but to prevent him from operating effectively (preventing him from
returning effective fire or from moving). In any of the phases of war, machine-
guns may be assigned a neutralization task such as to neutralize:
(1) an objective during an assault;
3-10 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Fire Control
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 3-11
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
3-12 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Fire Control
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 3-13
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
a. range;
b. visibility;
c. size of beaten zone;
d. whether troops are mounted or dismounted; and
e. tactical requirements.
73. Confirm by questions.
THE DEFENCE. Explain.
74. Introduction. The anti-armour plan is of central importance in defensive operations
against a mechanized or armoured threat. Range, accuracy, penetration power and availability in
large numbers make the HMG an important anti-APC weapon in the anti-armour plan. Its high
volume of fire makes the GPMG the primary direct area neutralizing weapon available to the
infantry.
75. The defensive battle. The defence may be divided into three stages:
a. the protection and delay stage;
b. the containment stage; and
c. the counter-attack stage.
76. The protection and delay stage.
77. General. Machine-guns deployed with the covering force may be employed in the
following tasks:
a. supporting a delaying position;
b. sniping;
c. forming part of a flank protection force; or
d. providing local protection.
78. Supporting a delaying position. Machine-guns supporting a delaying position are
employed in the same manner as when supporting a defensive position during the blocking
phase. The following additional considerations apply:
a. The delaying position will often be more isolated than a defensive position on the
FEBA. When deploying machine-guns, the commander will therefore be required
to placed more emphasis on:
(1) flank protection;
(2) cutting by-pass routes;
(3) all-around defence; and
(4) mutual support within his position.
3-14 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Fire Control
79. Sniping. The purpose of sniping is not to hold ground but to reduce the enemy's forces,
to impose caution upon him, break up his formation and force a reaction from him. This will
often result in delaying the enemy's advance and his action may provide us with useful
information:
a. on a sniping task, machine-guns may be employed alone or with other weapons;
and
b. machine-gunners must engage the enemy at long ranges, avoiding a decisive
engagement that would hinder their making a clean break.
80. Flank protection. In this task, machine-guns are employed in the same manner as when
fighting a mobile delaying battle, with the exception that the timing of the withdrawal must
conform to the requirement of the main body. The covering force flank-protection element may
be a large organization and occupy delaying positions of its own. Machine-guns would then be
employed in the same manner as when supporting a delaying position:
a. the HMG will usually be deployed to provide anti-APC and anti-aircraft
coverage; and
b. the use of the GPMG will usually be limited. It may, however, be used to cover
areas where the enemy may dismount.
81. Local protection. Because of the fluidity of the battle and the low density of friendly
troops in the covering force sector, machine-guns will play an important role in providing local
protection to different elements of the covering force. When deploying small groups of support
weapons, a commander may find it useful to attach some machine-guns for local protection,
specifically:
a. movement;
b. defence of a position; and
c. air defence.
82. The containment stage. For simplicity, the containment stage has been divided into
three phases:
a. the screen phase;
b. the blocking phase; and
c. the counter-penetration phase.
83. The screen phase. Machine-guns deployed with a screen may be given the same tasks as
in the covering force stage. Most guns will be employed for local and flank protection. All other
tasks will be secondary.
84. The blocking phase. This is the phase of the defence where machine-guns play their
most important role. The HMG may be given any of the following tasks during the blocking
phase:
a. to cover approaches;
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 3-15
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
b. to cover obstacles;
c. to provide mutual support inside a sub-unit position and, using direct or indirect
fire, support other positions;
d. to cover gaps between blocking positions;
e. to assist in providing all-around defence;
f. to cover likely landing and drop zones;
g. to protect the preparation of the position;
h. to provide anti-aircraft fire;
i. to provide the commander with an immediate reserve of fire;
j. to support a local counter-attack;
k. to cover movements towards battle positions; and/or
l. to engage targets of opportunity.
85. Confirm by questions.
86. The counter-penetration phase. Machine-guns may be either part of a counter-
penetration force or may support its deployment. They may be employed:
a. in the same manner as during the blocking phase, once they occupy a counter-
penetration position;
b. to cover the movement of the counter-penetration force;
c. to interdict with fire enemy withdrawal and by-pass routes; and/or
d. to interdict reinforcements.
87. The counter-attack stage. Machine-guns with the counter-attack force, or supporting
the counter-attack, are employed in the same manner as in the assault. The following particular
points apply:
a. the operation is usually pre-planned and conducted rapidly; the commander may
be required to adjust his plan to the situation; and
b. usually more emphasis is placed on preventing the enemy from withdrawing than
is done during the assault.
88. Confirm by questions.
OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS Explain.
89. General. During any phase of the offence, a commander has a continuing requirement to
cover the movement of his troops.
a. He must be ready to:
(1) neutralize enemy positions he intends to by-pass or assault;
(2) resist enemy counter-penetration or counter-attacks; and
3-16 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Fire Control
(3) use any opportunity offered to exploit his gains or pursue the enemy.
b. The offence can be divided into four types of operation:
(1) the advance to contact;
(2) the attack;
(3) the exploitation; and
(4) the pursuit.
90. Advance to contact. During the advance to contact, machine-guns may be employed to:
a. cover movement;
b. provide flank protection;
c. picket by-passed positions; and/or
d. provide self-defence against aircraft.
91. Covering movement. The techniques of covering movement using machine-guns have
been discussed. Considerations of particular importance to the advance are:
a. The disposition of the enemy is generally not known. Machine-gunners with the
covering and the moving element must continuously observe their arc of fire and
be ready to engage any enemy position.
b. As the move progresses, gunners must adjust the arcs of fire of machine-guns to
suit the terrain and threat.
c. During the advance, speculative fire may be used more frequently than in other
types of operations.
92. Providing flank protection. Machine-guns providing flank protection during the
advance are employed in the same manner as during the covering force battle in the defence.
93. Picketing by-passed positions. When picketing a position, machine-guns must maintain
contact with the enemy position and prevent it from interfering with the advance. They should
be deployed to:
a. prevent the enemy from engaging troops by-passing his position;
b. cut off withdrawal routes; and
c. support an eventual attack on the position.
94. The attack: During the attack, machine-guns may be employed to:
a. assist in securing the start line;
b. assist in covering movement to intermediate objectives; and/or
c. assist in covering the assault element during the assault, the capture of the
objective and the move to the reorganization position, to include:
(1) neutralization of the objective;
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 3-17
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
3-18 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Fire Control
(4) After troops are dismounted, the machine-guns with the assaulting element
are employed as discussed in paragraph 27-b.
99. Supporting the reorganization:
a. Machine-guns must be moved forward quickly under the control of the fire base
commander. The order of priority of guns to be moved forward will be dictated
by the situation. Normally, the guns that can support the reorganization position
from their present location will be moved last. The move forward will be affected
by the following factors:
(1) enemy situation;
(2) vulnerability of the reorganization position;
(3) location of the firebase;
(4) ammunition levels;
(5) continuity of coverage; and
(6) vulnerability of machine-guns moving forward;
b. Machine-guns being moved forward will re-join their sub-unit and be sited in pre-
designated positions to be adjusted later.
c. It may, however, be necessary to establish a rendezvous to guide the machine-
guns to the position.
d. Initially, the element establishing a quick defence (reorganization) may be solely
responsible for:
(1) its own flank protection;
(2) their own mutual support; and/or
(3) linking their position with that of other friendly troops.
e. Once it reaches the reorganization phase, the assaulting element may be low in
ammunition. The original attack plan must include provision for rapid
replenishment during reorganization.
100. The exploitation. The employment of machine-guns during the exploitation is similar to
the advance to contact or the attack, depending on the situation.
101. The pursuit. As pursuit operations are characterized by their fluidity, the employment of
machine-guns must be flexible. Machine-guns will be used primarily to:
a. cut withdrawal routes;
b. isolate positions;
c. support assaults;
d. cover air defence; and
e. provide air defence.
102. Confirm by questions.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 3-19
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
3-20 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Fire Control
d. Machine-guns require alternate positions not only to avoid neutralization but also
to attempt to continue covering their target area should the enemy use smoke.
e. Machine-guns may be deployed to provide air defence of the demolition. They
are also a useful weapon to engage helicopters landing troops on the near side of
the demolition.
108. Part of a rear-guard. While operating as part of a rear-guard, machine-guns will be
employed as a covering force:
a. HMGs may be positioned to cover APC approaches and routes the enemy may
use in an attempt to out-flank or by-pass the rear-guard;
b. during rear-guard operations, machine-guns are particularly useful to provide
local protection, including air defence, to other elements of the rear-guard; and
c. provision must be made for the replenishment of ammunition during the rear-
guard.
109. Flank protection. When part of a flank protection element in the withdrawal, machine-
guns will be employed in the same manner as when providing flank protection to a covering
force.
110. Confirm by questions.
COMMAND AND CONTROL. Explain.
111. General. Machine-guns represent a substantial amount of the firepower at the disposal
of an infantry commander. He must therefore be intimately involved in their employment.
Within a rifle company, the company commander will assist, deploy and verify the siting of his
machine-guns. In this task, he is assisted by his platoon commanders.
112. Armour defence plan:
a. At battalion level, machine-guns firing outside a company area or in mutual
support of another company are coordinated by the armour defence command
post.
b. The battalion commander may often task a company's machine-guns to be
prepared to fire in support of another position. In his orders, he will specify the
number of guns and the target area that must be covered. These guns will be
placed in support of the other position. Targets in support of another position are
numbered and registered. The target number is recorded at the armour defence
command post. Requests for engaging the target will be passed directly between
sub-units. The armour defence command post will exercise negative control in
the same manner as the Fire Support Coordination Centre (FSCC) does for
artillery fire missions.
113. Anti-aircraft plan. Machine-guns providing anti-aircraft fire remain under command
and control of the sub-unit to which they belong. Control of their fire, however, must be within
the parameters set by the air defence cell of the FSCC and the commander's open fire policy.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 3-21
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
114. SOPs. Machine-guns are provided as an integral infantry section weapon, yet their use
must nonetheless be coordinated. Each unit and sub-unit should develop standard operating
procedures (SOPs) for the grouping, coordination and control of machine-guns. They may
include the following:
a. The semi-permanent forming of machine-gun sections within a platoon. One
section can include two HMGs while the other has two HMGs and one GPMG.
Machine-guns remain with their infantry section but normally work together. The
following personnel may be tasked to control one section:
(1) an infantry section second-in-command;
(2) the weapons master corporal; or
(3) one of the machine-gunners;
b. The procedures for the coordination of the machine-guns within a platoon must
also be established in SOPs. The responsibility rests with the platoon commander
but the task of technical coordination may be given to:
(1) the platoon second-in-command; or
(2) the weapons master corporal;
c. When machine-guns are detached from a platoon to occupy a different position
such as a fire base, the command of the machine-guns may be given to:
(1) the company transport sergeant;
(2) one of the platoon's seconds-in-command; or
(3) one of the platoon weapons master corporals;
d. Responsibility for the coordination of machine-gun fire within the company rests
with the company commander. He may, however, appoint the company sergeant
major to do the detailed coordination; and
e. Standard operating procedures should also specify who in a section will normally
man the gun when:
(1) the section and gun are mounted on the APC;
(2) the section dismounts but the gun remains on the APC; and/or
(3) both the section and the gun are dismounted.
115. Confirm by questions.
PREPARATION OF MACHINE-GUN POSITIONS—VEHICLE-MOUNTED
WEAPONS. Explain.
116. The selection and preparation of sites for vehicle-mounted weapons will present special
problems, although the desirable characteristics of concealment, cover from fire, ease of control,
etc, remain the same. The likelihood of finding suitable hull-down positions will be rare.
117. In selection or preparing of positions, the aim, in addition to meeting the criteria outlined
in lesson 2, paragraph 19 of this chapter, will be to ensure that the machine-gun and the machine-
3-22 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Fire Control
gunner, who is highly exposed (except on the GRIZZLY APC) are able to maintain as low a
profile as possible consistent with being able to fulfil the allotted tasks.
118. Mechanical resources. The use of a bulldozer or backhoe to prepare the position, as
opposed to the use of manpower, will have to be determined in light of such factors as: the
extent of the work involved, time available, available manpower resources, nature of the soil and
the possibility of revealing the position's location to the enemy as a result of undue noise and
activity. When time and the tactical situation permit, the position can be surveyed during the day
and preparation of the position conducted under cover of limited visibility.
119. If it is not possible to manually dig-in the vehicle and a bulldozer is not available and the
tactical situation does not permit the normal alternative of ground-mounting, it may be possible
to leave the weapon mounted and move it forward from cover to execute its fire missions. This
will be particularly applicable to the engagement of armoured targets.
120. Alternate positions. If alternate positions are necessary to cover the arc of fire allotted
to the detachment or section, they should be as thoroughly prepared as the main position. This is
equally applicable whether the machine-gun is vehicle-mounted or dismounted.
121. Confirm by questions.
122. Conclusion:
a. Answer students' questions regarding the entire lesson
b. Confirm by Questions.
c. Review: The essential training for members of a machine-gun section is based on
the knowledge they acquire of its employment in all phases of war. The content
of this lesson will give a trained machine-gunner the knowledge to be pro-active
in selecting the options for the employment of the machine-gun. It is essential for
the machine-gunner to master knowledge of the employment of the machine-gun
in the various operations.
LESSON 4
HEAVY MACHINE-GUN FIRE TRENCH
INSTRUCTOR'S NOTES
123. Aim. To teach students the stages of construction and how to construct a heavy machine-
gun fire trench.
124. Main teaching points:
a. occupation of a machine-gun emplacement;
b. stages of construction;
c. dimensions; and
d. range card.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 3-23
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
3-24 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Fire Control
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 3-25
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
a. specify the position of the tripod and then give the command “MOUNT
WEAPON AND TRIPOD”;
b. brief the detachment on the arcs of fire, targets and special commands; and
c. complete a range card and record the targets.
141. Confirm by questions.
STAGES OF CONSTRUCTION. Explain.
142. Construction. The ends of battle trenches are rounded to make them as resistant as
possible to the effects of backblast. Leaves on the curved shelter roof share this characteristic
and should accordingly be used as a revetment if possible. The trench will be constructed in the
following stages:
a. Stage 1—Scrape. A scrape measures 2 metres long and 0.75 metres wide. It is
deep enough so that an occupant lying on his stomach is protected and is facing
the enemy. A scrape is dug when in contact with the enemy or when it is not
expected that the position will be improved (for example, an improvised defence).
If the scrape is intended to be improved, the scrape should be dug facing the
centre of the arcs of fire.
b. Stage 2—Fire trench. A fire trench is a hole 1.6 metres long, 0.75 metres wide
and 1.4 metres deep, or at least to armpit height.
c. Stage 3—Fire trench revetment. The fire trench revetment will be installed
together with an elbow rest 0.25 metres wide. This allows the occupants to be
lower to the ground when firing.
d. Stage 4—Reinforced shelter cover. The shelter is constructed on the basis of
the scrape by enlarging one end of the fire trench by 2.4 metres in length and 1.2
metres in depth. The shelter revetment is added and covered with 0.5 metres of
packed earth.
e. Stage 5—Cover. Cover is then added to the fire trench.
f. Stage 6—Improvements. As required, ammunition holes, grenade sumps and
communications trenches are added. Hoses, communications trenches and section
shelters are described in detail in B-GL-320-007/PT-001.
143. When mechanical aids or explosives are used for excavation, stages 1 to 4 are normally
carried out at the same time.
a. Parapets. Parapets are constructed to conceal crew-served weapon positions,
reduce silhouette by creating a background where there was not one before or to
create ramparts in places where digging is either impossible or extremely difficult.
In order to reduce the need for parapets as far as possible, the emplacement of
positions must be selected with care and maximum use of ground. Works above
ground level are highly exposed to backblast and draw enemy fire.
b. Cover. Cover consists of materials that are light and easy to remove and must not
be confused with reinforced cover, which will be dealt with in the next paragraph.
As a general rule, it is used to protect shelters until reinforced cover becomes
3-26 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Fire Control
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 3-27
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
145. The heavy machine-gun fire trench is an adaptation of the two-man battle trench. The
differences are as follows:
a. the shelter is increased to 2.8 metres long, with five curved shelter sections
instead of four, as there is more ammunition;
b. the fire trench is placed on the right of the shelter (ammunition is fed from the
left;
c. a section is added one metre by 0.60 metres for access to the supply level;
d. the parapet is transformed into a machine-gun position capable of housing the
tripod; and
e. the length of the fire trench is increased to 2.5 metres.
3-28 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Fire Control
a. ground sheet or individual shelter construction equipment b. rubble c. g. k. turnstile trench 3.4 metres x 0.3 m
deep d. turnstile trench 2.4 metres x 0.3 metres deep e. direction of enemy threat h. shelter and ammunition j. fire
trench m. turnstile trench
Figure 3-3: Dimensions of the heavy machine-gun trench
146. Confirm by questions.
RANGE CARD. Explain.
147. To enhance the effectiveness of the defence, a range card will be prepared for every
machine-gun trench to record the reference points in the arc of fire, the ranges and potential
future targets. Range cards will be prepared using a full 6400 mil circle or a 3200 mil half-circle,
depending on the nature of the defensive position and the depth of the defence. When preparing
a range card, include only reference points that are clearly apparent and easy to identify. This
will avoid information overload, thus eliminating confusion in the heat of action as well as
orientation problems for replacements. The following information will be included on a range
card:
a. The primary and secondary arcs of fire, as assigned by the section commander, in
the form of dotted lines.
b. Clearly apparent reference points, i.e., a brief description and the range of each.
c. The location of neighbouring trenches, to prevent positions from firing on each
other accidentally and to ensure that the arcs overlap.
d. An indication of the probable location of targets within the designated arcs; this is
indicated as follows:
(1) evaluate the range to each object;
(2) draw a small, numbered circle, together with the target, at the appropriate
location on the range card; and
(3) draw a straight line from the numbered circle to the position.
e. The location from which the sketch was drawn: e.g., central front trench,
Section 3, 2 Platoon.
f. The method used to evaluate distance; map, halving, framing, laser telemetry.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 3-29
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
3-30 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Fire Control
NORTH:
AZ L _______ AZ R ________
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 3-31
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
3-32 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
4CHAPTER 4
LESSON 1
AIR DEFENCE
INSTRUCTOR’S NOTES
1. Aim. To teach students about air defence and the guidelines governing anti-aircraft
gunnery.
2. Main teaching points:
a. elements of knowledge required for air defence;
b. air defence weapon control states;
c. rules of engagement;
d. target direction lines;
e. rules for aim-off;
f. methods of engagement and target range estimation;
g. firing technique during engagement; and
h. anti-aircraft training.
3. Time. Four x 40-minute periods.
4. Method. Four periods of basic instruction.
5. Stores:
a. multimedia projector (as required);
b. diagrams(as required); and
c. flip chart board(as required).
6. Preparation:
a. set up the teaching area;
b. prepare the board if required; and
c. check the diagrams and the projector if required.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 4-1
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
4-2 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Air Defence
with which a high performance jet aircraft attacks leaves very little time for locating, identifying
and engaging an enemy aircraft. Whenever possible, it is important to determine whether an
aircraft is friendly or hostile while weapons are aimed at it, so that it can be engaged without
delay if declared to be hostile. If this is not done, it is likely that an opportunity to engage the
target effectively will be lost. Enemy aircraft must not, however, be engaged if the rules of
engagement set out at paragraph 22 of this lesson have not been complied with.
13. Target range estimation. The machine-gunner must be able to estimate range
accurately when engaging an aircraft. This is an essential attribute. Range tells him when to
open fire. It is essential to the equation used to calculate lead. The relative dimensions of the
aircraft and the details that the gunner can see are, however, the only base data he can use to
estimate the range to the aircraft when using a 0.50 calibre or 7.62 mm machine-gun. The drill
consists of observing a variety of aircraft types flying at known ranges until the gunner can
instinctively estimate the range to the aircraft on the basis of their relative size. The range of
1,000 metres is stressed, since this is the opening range of the 0.50 calibre machine-gun. Table
4-1 provides a useful guide. Memorizing this table is the first stage in the process of learning
designed to teach the machine-gunner to correctly estimate the range to aerial targets.
500 Small projections from the fuselage, such as guns and aerials.
Above 1000 The general shape gradually disappears and becomes only an elongated
form in the sky.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 4-3
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
practice. The machine-gunner must track moving aerial targets frequently with the machine-gun
mounted on the mount he normally uses.
16. Tracer observation. Instruction on tracer observation is designed to teach the machine-
gunner the fundamentals and to develop the ability to properly interpret the relationship of target
and tracer, under varying conditions of line and lead. Graphic illustrations similar to those in
figures 4-13 to 4-15 of this lesson are effective aids. Instruction in tracer observation is
conducted concurrently with all phases of anti-aircraft training.
17. Demonstration firing. A demonstration firing is necessary to familiarize the machine-
gunner with the appearance of the tracer path with its apparent curve, and demonstrates the
methods of adjusting the tracer path onto the target. The demonstration consists of the
following:
a. A free machine-gun is traversed while being fired, but without reference to a
target. Attention must be called to the need for keeping the head high above the
weapon so that the tracer path can be observed through the smoke.
b. Aerial targets that are flying incoming and crossing courses are engaged. The
application of lead is demonstrated with a moving reference point in the sky, the
target, introducing the apparent curvature in the tracer path. The student must be
conveniently located behind the machine-gun in order to correctly observe the
effect of tracer.
c. The instructor will stress the principles of tracer observation.
d. The student's ability to observe tracers correctly is tested by the instructor.
18. Tracking exercises. Tracking exercises teach control of the free weapon and test the
machine-gunner's ability to estimate and apply initial leads. Machine-gunners should track and
simulate continuous fire on aerial targets flying various types of courses.
19. Rates of fire. The main rate of fire used in anti-aircraft engagements is the continuous
rate of fire. This rate of fire consists of firing a complete ammunition belt without stopping. The
barrel must be changed as soon as possible after using continuous fire.
20. Confirm by questions.
AIR DEFENCE WEAPON CONTROL STATES Explain.
21. Air defence weapons normally operate in one of the following states:
a. “WEAPONS TIGHT”. Fire is directed only at aircraft that have been positively
identified as hostile or which are acting in a hostile manner as defined in the
Rules of Engagement (paragraph 22). This will be the normal air defence state
that will apply to 0.50 cal and 7.62 mm machine-guns in the battle group.
b. “WEAPONS FREE”. Fire may be directed at any aircraft not identified as
friendly nor designated as such by an air situation report. “WEAPONS FREE”
will not apply normally to 0.50 cal or 7.62 mm machine-gun fire.
4-4 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Air Defence
a. and c. receding leg b. mid-point d. course line e. angle of approach 1600 m f. approaching leg
Figure 4-1: Target direction terminology illustrated
a. Direction line. The line along which the aircraft is flying.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 4-5
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
b. Mid-point. The point along the direction line at which an aerial target is nearest
the machine-gun position.
c. Approaching leg. The part of the DIRECTION LINE along which the aircraft is
flying towards mid-point.
d. Receding leg. The part of the direction line along which the aircraft is flying
AWAY FROM the mid-point.
e. Angle of approach. The angle formed by a line joining the machine-gun and the
position of the target and a line joining the machine to the mid-point. The angle
of approach at mid-point is always 1,600 mils.
26. Types of direction lines. Aircraft may fly along any of the following types of direction
lines, see figure 4-2:
a. Level. Target flying at a constant altitude.
b. Diving. Target flying along a descending flight path.
c. Climbing. Target flying along an ascending flight path.
d. Incoming. Target flying towards and over the machine-gun position.
e. Outgoing. Target flying away from the machine-gun.
f. Crossing. Target flying any course other than incoming or outgoing.
g. Directly at the machine-gun. Target flying toward the muzzle of the machine-
gun.
h. Mixed flights. Combinations of the above types of lines can be used to describe
the target line, e.g., “incoming diving,” “crossing level,” “diving directly at the
machine-gun.”
4-6 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Air Defence
a. incoming level course b. crossing level course c. crossing diving course d. directly at the gun course
Figure 4-2: Target direction lines
27. Confirm by questions.
RULES FOR AIM-OFF Explain.
28. Estimation of aim-off. The amount of aim-off applied will depend on aircraft speed and
heading, as well as the range of the aircraft and speed of the bullet. Without special sights to
compensate for the above factors, a quick and simple of method of estimating aim-off or lead is
required. It is also important that volume fire be employed, to compensate for those weapons for
which too much or too little aim-off is applied (figure 4-3):
a. The following paragraphs provide rules of thumb which, when applied with the
technique of volume fire, will bring effective small arms fire to bear on attacking
aircraft. The amount of aim-off applied depends on whether the attacking aircraft
is:
(1) diving directly at the firer;
(2) approaching at an oblique angle to the firer; or
(3) hovering.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 4-7
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
Figure 4-4: Point of aim for targets diving directly at weapon position
c. Rule two. Oblique targets. When the target aircraft is approaching at an oblique
angle to the firer, the amount of aim-off to be applied is more difficult to judge.
As the amount of lead is fixed according to the speed of the aircraft, it must be
4-8 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Air Defence
easily recalled to mind and visualized by the soldier. For this purpose, a football
field (100 metres) is used as the fixed amount and is applied as follows:
(1) High-speed aircraft. The point of aim is four football fields (400 metres)
ahead of the aircraft along its apparent line of flight (figure 4-5.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 4-9
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
an enemy helicopter is seen to execute a shallow diving attack at speed, then rules
one and three apply.
4-10 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Air Defence
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 4-11
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
4-12 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Air Defence
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 4-13
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
4-14 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Air Defence
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 4-15
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
(3) is correct when the tracer path terminates in the target (figure 4-15).
LESSON 2
MOUNTING AND DISMOUNTING THE HEAVY MACHINE-GUN ON THE ANTI-
AIRCRAFT MOUNT M63
INSTRUCTOR'S NOTES
41. Aim. To teach students how to mount and machine-gun on the anti-aircraft mount
preparatory to firing.
42. Main teaching points:
a. M63 anti-aircraft mount technical information;
4-16 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Air Defence
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 4-17
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
50. Introduction. The M63 Anti-aircraft mount is a rigid, low-silhouetted portable mount
with four detachable legs and is used for anti-aircraft fire. It consists of four assemblies: the leg
assembly, the base assembly, the elevator assembly and the cradle and yoke assembly. The
cradle and yoke assembly includes the trigger frame assembly. The mount requires only slight
adjustment to the trigger control mechanism and linkage in order to provide proper contact with
the sideplate trigger, which is mounted on the machine-gun. The sideplate trigger must be
removed from the machine-gun before it is mounted.
M63 MOUNT TECHNICAL INFORMATION Explain.
51. Weight of assemblies:
a. trigger frame assembly—7.7 kg;
b. cradle and yoke assembly—12.7 kg;
c. elevator assembly—5.9 kg;
d. base assembly—24.9 kg;
e. leg assembly—13.6 kg;
f. M2 ammunition box adaptor—4.5 kg; and
g. total weight of mount—71.3 kg.
4-18 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Air Defence
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 4-19
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
4-20 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Air Defence
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 4-21
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
4-22 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Air Defence
d. carry out the operating test with the upper and lower firing grips.
NOTE
If the round does not fire, check the sideplate trigger assembly and the trigger
control mechanism. If the problem cannot be corrected, see a weapons
technician.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 4-23
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
LESSON 3
MOUNTING AND DISMOUNTING, LOADING THE MACHINE-GUN M2 ON THE
M109
INSTRUCTOR'S NOTES
65. Aim. To teach students how to operate the machine-gun mounted on a vehicle.
66. Main teaching points:
a. mounting the machine-gun on the M109;
b. loading;
c. method of firing; and
d. dismounting.
67. Time. One x 40 minute period.
68. Method. One period of basic instruction.
69. Stores:
a. complete machine-gun—1 per machine-gun;
b. machine-gun cradle—1 per machine-gun;
c. ammunition box—1 per machine-gun; and
d. drill rounds—10 per machine-gun.
70. Preparation:
a. position the vehicles without mounting the machine-guns; and
b. divide up the students depending on the number of vehicles available.
4-24 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Air Defence
NOTE
Due to the enormous vibrations generated by tracked vehicles, the hinge pins
must be inspected regularly during movements, depending on the wear, as they
have a tendency to come loose from their housing.
(2) the guide may swing forward and block the links.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 4-25
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
a. ammunition tray b. tray lock c. cradle d. rear pin e. elevation transport pin f. mount
Figure 4-21: Machine-gun mount, cradle and ammunition tray
75. Confirm by questions.
LOADING. Explain and demonstrate.
76. Loading is carried out as follows:
a. Raise the ammunition holding shoe attached to the ammunition tray and place the
ammunition box in the tray, with the points of the rounds facing forward.
b. The belt must protrude from the box sufficiently to facilitate loading. Then lower
the ammunition holding shoe.
77. When the machine-gun is mounted on the vehicle, the gun is loaded and unloaded by one
gunner, using the method explained in Chapter 1.
78. To facilitate loading, remove the transport pin. This allows the rear of the machine-gun
to rest on the mount crossbar; it also allows the gunner to position himself above, rather than
4-26 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Air Defence
behind, the weapon during loading and unloading. It is easier to cock the weapon in this
position, as the sliding handle can be pulled back directly with no danger of trapping it.
79. Confirm by questions.
METHOD OF FIRING. Explain and Demonstrate.
80. The machine-gunner will execute the following manoeuvres in preparation for firing:
a. remove the elevation transport pin, which allows the machine-gun to be raised
and lowered;
b. clear the traversing transport bolt from its housing to allow the machine-gun to
rotate on the pintle; and
c. grasp the rear plate handles and move as far back as possible, pulling the
machine-gun with him.
81. The machine-gunner can raise or lower the weapon with a simple up or down movement.
82. To fire, the machine-gunner must lean his head forward when using the elevation. He
will aim at the target, fire and correct his fire by observing the tracer rounds.
83. Confirm by questions.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 4-27
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
4-28 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
5CHAPTER 5
LESSON 1
ADDITIONAL COMPONENTS OF THE .50 CAL HMG IN THE ONE METER
TURRET
INSTRUCTOR’S NOTES
1. Aim. Introduce the students to the .50 Cal Heavy Machine-Gun mounted with in the one
metre turret. Training and qualification for this configuration is obtained from the One Meter
Turret Operators Course. Additional procedures affecting the Machine Gun, Heavy, Flexible,
.50 calibre, M2HB, QCB not mentioned in this section may be found in C-71-325-000/MB-001
One Meter Turret Operations Manual.
2. Main teaching points:
a. basic description of the one meter turret;
b. additional gun components unique to the one-meter turret; and
c. description of the additional components.
3. Time. One x 40 minute periods.
4. Method. Basic classroom and crew bays instructional period.
5. Stores:
a. .50 Cal Machine-gun complete, mounted in one turret;
b. interactive classroom;
c. drill ammunition; and
d. trouble light or flash light.
6. Preparation:
a. Set up teaching area.
b. The guns should be mounted in turret with solenoid, feed shoots, and bags in
place.
c. Ensure that the gun is mounted correctly.
d. For this lesson the gun and dummy ammo must be checked and cleared by the
instructor. This is the first lesson for the 50 Cal MG mounted in the one meter
turret. Safety precautions for the turret will be taught in a later lesson.
e. The instructor must understand that most of the drills introduced in this and up
coming lessons are very closely related to the dismounted operation of the HMG
but because of confined space and that all drills will be done by just one operator
(No. 2) there will be some differences.
f. Check that the machine-guns are operating properly.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 5-1
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
g. For this lesson ensure the guns are assembled for right hand feed.
h. Student to instructor ratio is 3 to 1.
7. Miscellaneous:
a. Instructor is to carry out safety precautions and inspect the drill rounds at the start
of the lesson in front of the students.
b. Where appropriate the students should be encouraged to work as a team.
c. At this stage the students are not expected to memorize all the subject matter
taught during this lesson.
d. Utilise the name parts and description stages and demonstrate certain weapon
functions i.e., right hand feed, cocking handle, solenoid, safety catch etc.
e. Mention during the lesson that the gun with be setup to a right hand feed, and that
all safety precautions have been completed by the instructor.
5-2 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Additional Components of the .50 Cal HMG in the One Meter Turret
11. The one metre turret is an updated version of the mid 1990’s depot level inspection and
repair (DLIR) Grizzly turret, which incorporates a protection enhancement system as well as an
updated multi-barrel grenade discharger (MBGD) system and an updated fire control system.
The one metre turret is mounted with both a 7.62mm co-ax machine gun in the left side and a .50
calibre heavy machine gun in the right side of the turret. It is designed for a single operator and is
mounted as a gunnery station on the following track light armoured vehicle (TLAV) variants:
a. M113A3 CDN with turret, ECC 114330 (fig 5-1-1);
b. Mobile Tactical Vehicle Engineer (MTVE), ECC 114350(fig 5-1-2); and
c. Mobile Tactical Vehicle Light (MTVL), ECC 114375(fig 5-1-3).
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 5-3
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
15. The Machine Gun, Heavy, Flexible, .50 calibre, M2HB, QCB when mounted in the
Cadillac Gage One Meter Turret must be configured for right hand feed, and requires the
installation of the following additional components:
a. Solenoid and bracket assembly. The solenoid and bracket assembly is added to
allow remote firing of the weapon. When used in this configuration, it is mounted
on the left side of the weapon. (Fig 5-4).
5-4 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Additional Components of the .50 Cal HMG in the One Meter Turret
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 5-5
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
NOTE
When mounted in the one meter turret, the Machine Gun, Heavy, Flexible, .50
calibre, M2HB, QCB handling and immediate action (IA) and stoppage drills
differ from the dismounted role due to confined space and the addition of a fire
control system and gun laying instruments within the turret.
5-6 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Additional Components of the .50 Cal HMG in the One Meter Turret
NOTE:
Due to space limitations within the turret mantlet, the blank firing attachment
CANNOT be fitted.
LESSON 2
.50 CAL HMG PREPARATION FOR TURRET OPERATION
(CONVERSION TO RIGHT HAND FEED)
INSTRUCTOR’S NOTES
18. Aim. Introduce the students to the .50 Cal Heavy Machine-Gun mounted with in the One
Metre Turret. Training and qualification for this configuration is obtained from the One Meter
Turret Operators Course. Additional procedures affecting the Machine Gun, Heavy, Flexible,
.50 calibre, M2HB, QCB not mentioned in this section may be found in C-71-325-000/MB-001
One Meter Turret Operations Manual.
19. Main teaching points:
a. Converting the Receiver Group and Bolt to right hand feed.
b. Converting Cover Group to right hand feed.
c. Installing the Block Link, Bell Mouth Feed Clute, and Solenoid.
20. Time. Two x 40 minute periods.
21. Method. Basic classroom instructional period.
22. Stores:
a. .50 Cal Machine-gun complete with tools box and spare parts.
b. Inter active classroom.
c. Six foot table (tripod with T & E are not apart of weapon EIS for mounted HMGs
but maybe used for this lesson if available).
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 5-7
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
23. Preparation:
a. Set up teaching area.
b. The guns should be dismounted on a table for stripping.
c. Ensure that the guns are assembled correctly with bolt in receiver and operating
properly.
d. For this lesson the gun must be checked and cleared by the instructor.
e. The instructor must understand that most of the drills introduced in this lesson are
very closely related to the dismounted operation of the HMG but because of
confined space and that all drills will be carried out by just one operated (no #2)
there will be some differences.
f. For this lesson ensure the guns are assembled for left hand feed.
g. Student to instructor ratio is 3 to 1.
24. Miscellaneous:
a. Instructor is to carry out safety precautions and inspect the drill rounds at the start
of the lesson in front of the students.
b. Where appropriate the students should be encouraged to work as a team.
c. At this stage the students are not expected to memorize all the subject matter
taught during this lesson.
d. Utilise the parts names and demonstrate certain parts functions within the gun
system.
e. Mention during the lesson that the gun must be setup for right hand feed, and to
work properly in the One Meter Turret.
5-8 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Additional Components of the .50 Cal HMG in the One Meter Turret
INTRODUCTION
28. General. Before preparing the machine-gun for turret operation by converting to a right
hand feed and the adding of the Bell Mouth Feed Chute and Solenoid the gunner must know how
to detail strip the machine-gun. (Detailed stripping of the machine-gun is taught in earlier
chapters). Remember that detailed stripping of the machine-gun will require the handling of
small part. In garrison the gunner must work on a table or other flat surface. During field
operations the gunner must prepare machine-gun on a ground sheet or other such surface. This
will help eliminate the chance of losing parts.
29. To position the belt feed components from left and right hand feed proceed as follows:
a. .50 Cal, HMG, Belt Holding Pawl Assembly conversion (Figure 5-8). To
remove the belt holding pawl assembly from the left hand belt holding pawl
bracket and install it on the right bracket, proceed as follows:
(1) Remove the rear right hand cartridge stop assembly and front cartridge
stop from the right side of the receiver.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 5-9
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
(2) Remove the belt holding pawls assembly from the left side taking care to
apply pressure to the belt holding pawls as they are spring loaded.
(3) Position the belt holding pawl springs in their holes on the right side of the
feed tray.
(4) Position the belt holding pawl assembly (1) on the springs; apply pressure
to the pawls, maintaining alignment of the axis pin holes.
(5) Install the belt holding pawl pin (2) from the rear.
Figure 5-8: .50 Cal, HMG, Belt Holding Pawl Assembly Removal
b. .50 Cal, HMG, Link Stripper and Cartridge Stops Conversion (Figure 5-9).
To convert the cartridge stop assembly and link stripper to right hand feed,
proceed as follows:
(1) After removing the right hand cartridge stop assembly from the right side,
you must replace the right hand cartridge stop assembly with the link
stripper (1) and rear cartridge stop (2) that are found with your spare parts.
NOTE
The right hand cartridge stop assembly is not to be used when converting to right
hand feed.
(2) Move the front cartridge stop (3) and reposition it in the left belt holding
pawl bracket.
(3) Reposition the link stripper and the rear cartridge stop in the left belt
holding pawl bracket with the link stripper forward of the rear cartridge
stop.
5-10 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Additional Components of the .50 Cal HMG in the One Meter Turret
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 5-11
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
NOTE
The cover group does not need to be removed from the machine-gun to change
the direction of feed.
31. When converting the cover group to right hand feed the cover latch shaft assembly is
converted for the left side to the right side. To prepare the HMG for One meter Turret
configuration, the moving of the cover latch shaft assembly to the right side is not required and
not recommend because of the position of the HMG mounting brackets in the turret. The cover
group does not need to be removed from the HMG to convert feed direction. To position the
cover group to right hand feed proceed as follows:
a. Remove the belt feed slide lever as taught in detailed stripping.
b. Remove the belt feed slide assembly.
c. Disassemble the belt feed slide assembly as taught in detailed stripping.
d. Reassemble the belt feed slide assembly (figure 5-11). Ensure the open coil of the
spring (1) is seated in the seat provided in the pawl assembly (2) and the belt feed
pawl arm (3) is assembled on the left side of the pawl assembly.
Figure 5-11: Belt Feed Slide Assembly for right Hand Feed
e. Once the belt feed slide is reassembled install the belt feed slide assembly back in
the receiver group with the belt feed pawl arm up, see Figure 5-12.
5-12 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Additional Components of the .50 Cal HMG in the One Meter Turret
Figure 5-13: Repositioning the Belt Feed Lever Return Spring and Plunger
h. To reinstall the belt feed lever on to the receiver group, position the belt feed lever
on the pivot and align the forward end of the lever with the slot in the belt feed
slide guide of the cover.
i. Using the blade of a screwdriver to compress the belt feed lever plunger return
spring (figure 5-14), push the belt feed lever down onto the pivot, ensuring the
forward end of the lever is properly engaged in the slide.
j. Secure the lever with the spring clip or a new cotter pin.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 5-13
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
5-14 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Additional Components of the .50 Cal HMG in the One Meter Turret
32. Confirm by having students convert HMG cover group to right hand feed and name parts.
INSTALLING THE BELL MOUTH FEED CLUTE, BLOCK LINK, AND SOLENOID.
33. In preparation for operation inside the One Meter Turret the HMG will require the adding
on of EIS that is unique to that gun system. The installation of these components is done after
the HMG has been converted to right hand feed. To install these components follow these steps:
a. Bell Mouth Feed Chute Installation. (figure 5-16)
(1) Remove the pin (2) on the right side of the HMG making sure to hold
down on the belt holding pawl assembly (spring loaded).
(2) While holding the belt holding pawl assembly in place insert the bell
mouth feed chute (1) on the right of the weapon.
(3) Secure it with the pin (2).
b. Block link installation. (figure 5-16)
(1) Remove the pin (2) on the left side weapon.
(2) Insert the block link (3) on the left side of the weapon.
(3) Secure it with the pin (2).
Figure 5-16: Bell Mouth Feed Chute and Block Link installation
c. Side Mounted Solenoid installation (figure 5-17):
(1) Install the solenoid (2) and Adaptor (3) on the left of the weapon.
(2) Secure with T bolt (1).
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 5-15
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
5-16 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Additional Components of the .50 Cal HMG in the One Meter Turret
Figure 5-18: Belt Feed Assembly for Left Hand and Right Hand Feed
36. Conclusion:
a. Question from the students on the entire period.
b. Confirm by Questions and identifying the additional components.
c. Carry out safety precautions.
d. Pack the stores.
e. Review the important right-hand feed in preparing the HMG for One Meter Turret
operations.
LESSON 3
MOUNT, DISMOUNT AND MOUNTED SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
INSTRUCTOR’S NOTES
37. Aim. Teach the students to mount, dismount, install the gas bag and perform mounted
safety precautions on the .50 Cal heavy machine-gun in the one meter turret. Training and
qualification for this configuration is obtained from the One Meter Turret Operators Course.
Additional procedures affecting the Machine Gun, Heavy, Flexible, .50 Calibre, M2HB, QCB
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 5-17
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
not mentioned in this section may be found in C-71-325-000/MB-001 One Meter Turret
Operations Manual.
38. Main teaching points:
a. prepare the HMG for mounting;
b. mount the HMG in the one meter turret;
c. mounted safety precautions; and
d. dismount the HMG from the one meter turret.
39. Time. Three x 40 minute periods.
40. Method. Basic indoor or outdoor instructional period.
41. Stores:
a. .50 Cal Machine with EIS—1 per 3 student crew;
b. one meter turret—1 per crew; and
c. trouble light or flash Light—1 per crew.
42. Preparation:
a. set up teaching area;
b. ensure all guns are converted to right hand feed;
c. ensure all gun cradles have the necessary retaining pins; and
d. student to instructor ratio is 3 to 1.
43. Miscellaneous: instructor is to carry out safety precautions and inspect the drill rounds at
the start of the lesson in front of the students.
44. Preliminaries. The suggested preliminaries are as follows:
a. check all students’ equipment required for this lesson;
b. number off students 1 through 3;
c. carry out safety precautions and inspect drill rounds;
d. explain and demonstrate (where necessary) any instructional formations; and
e. explain and practice (where necessary) the control system that will be used during
the lesson:
(1) briefly describe turret safety; and
(2) action on word of command “STILL”.
45. Review. Pre-fire check and conversion to right hand feed.
5-18 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Additional Components of the .50 Cal HMG in the One Meter Turret
46. Introduction. You as the operator must be able to mount the HMG in the one meter
turret, in order to fire your HMG. This knowledge and skill will be applied whenever you are to
fire the HMG from the 1m turret.
47. The following preparation is required to ready the .50 Cal QCB Heavy Machine Gun
(HMG) for mounting in the one meter turret:
a. ensure the weapon has been pre-fire checked by a weapons technician to ensure
headspace and timing adjustments are within tolerance;
b. ensure the gun is converted to right hand feed as taught;
c. ensure that the user pre-fire check has been completed as taught; and
d. ensure that the following components are attached to the gun or available for
installation after the gun is mounted:
(1) solenoid and bracket assembly (attached);
(2) block Link (installed);
(3) retracting slide assembly with shortened handle (installed);
(4) bell mouth chute (available); and
(5) gas bag (available).
WARNING
Ensure all personnel are clear of the area before operating the 1m turret. Failure
to do so could cause injury or death to personnel by moving the turret.
48. Mount THE HMG. Mounting the HMG requires the assistance of another person:
a. Prove weapon.
b. Remove the barrel.
c. Traverse the turret so that the mantlet is over the vehicle top deck and positioned
so that the gun cradle is in line with the cage door. This will allow the machine
gun to be installed from inside the turret by allowing the rear of the HMG to
extend into the crew compartment prior to positioning the HMG in the cradle.
d. Ensure the power traverse switch is in the “OFF” position.
e. Ensure that the weapon selector switch is in the “OFF” position.
f. Ensure all cradle retaining pins are removed, and there are no obstructions in the
gun cradle or in the mantlet aperture.
g. With the elevation hand wheel, elevate the cradle to 530 mils.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 5-19
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
h. Position the prepared .50 Cal machine gun into the cradle (a second person to help
is preferred but can be done individually).
i. With the elevation hand wheel depress the cradle to the 0 mils position
(horizontal).
j. Install the rear mounting retaining pin through the HMG and rear of the cradle
mount.
k. Install the front mounting retaining pin.
l. Position the cradle charger arm such that it can be connected to the HMG cocking
handle. Press the clip into place over the cocking handle.
m. Install the barrel. NOTE: the barrel retracting carrying handle cannot be utilized
as the mantlet depth prevents its use. The operator retracts the bolt approximately
½ inch, reports “Bolt Retracted” and the assistant inserts and locks the barrel, then
reports “release bolt”, the operator allows the action to go forward, then the
assistant checks that the barrel is locked by attempting to rotate it counter
clockwise to ensure the barrel is locked.
n. Connect the solenoid wire connection to the firing switch electrical source wire
connector.
49. Confirm by questions, there will not be enough time for all students to practice at this
time, ensure all students get an opportunity to practice mounting and dismounting throughout the
course.
.50 CAL FIRING SOLENOID ADJUSTMENT.
WARNING
Adjusting the .50 Cal firing solenoid has the same effect as adjusting the timing of
the machine-gun. Ensure the .50 Cal HMG firing solenoid is adjusted correctly.
A firing solenoid that is too far out of adjustment can be the cause of a runaway
machine gun. Whenever the solenoid adjustment is in doubt, the procedure to
carry out solenoid adjustment must be completed prior to operation.
50. To adjust the .50 Cal, M2HB firing solenoid, see Figure 5-19 and proceed as follows:
WARNING
The solenoid adjustment must be made with no ammunition in the weapon.
Injury or death to personnel could result if adjustment is made with live
ammunition in the weapon.
5-20 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Additional Components of the .50 Cal HMG in the One Meter Turret
d. Charge the weapon by pushing the cocking handle (3) completely down, ensuring
the action is allowed to go forward.
e. Move the arming switch on the weapon control assembly to the .50 Armed
position, then while depressing the electrical firing switch (5), rotate the solenoid
adjustment knob counterclockwise until the weapon fires.
f. Turn the solenoid adjustment knob an additional one-quarter turn
counterclockwise and tighten the screw.
g. Recharge the weapon and using the electrical firing switch, ensure the weapon
will fire.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 5-21
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
WARNING
Exhaust blower switch must be in the ON position for proper fume extraction.
52. The gas bag is an integral component of the fume extraction system within the one meter
turret. Fumes from the weapons within an enclosed area can be harmful or fatal if the gas bag is
not properly installed and utilized. The procedure to install the gas bag is as follows, some users
WARNING
Proper sealing of the gas bag is crucial to safe and effective exhaust blower
operation.
may use differing methods to install due to individual physical size and dexterity.
a. Install the HMG in its cradle.
b. Remove the belt holding pawl pin, belt holding pawl, belt holding pawl springs
and the bell mouth chute (3) from the HMG.
c. Place the feed-way opening of the gas bag (C) [Not exactly as illustrated] around
the rear of the bell mouth chute (3).
d. Install the belt holding pawl springs, belt holding pawl , belt holding pawl pin and
the bell mouth chute, to the HMG.
e. Completely open all hook and loop (Velcro) pile fastened flaps. Also open the
zipper such that the gas bag will lay open. Be sure that the gas bag interior is
facing up and that the window (H) is at the left rear of the weapon.
f. Remove the .50 calibre spent cartridge ejection chute hose (1) at the ejection
chute (2).
g. Align and place the cocking handle hole (B) over the cocking handle (4).
h. Place the elastic opening (A) over the spent cartridge ejection chute (2).
i. Replace and secure the ejection chute hose (1) to the ejection chute.
j. Secure snap fastener (D) on the front of the gas bag to the top front of the .50
calibre mount.
k. Secure the hook and loop pile fastener material around the front of the .50 calibre
mount in a counter clockwise direction pulling it tightly around the cradle.
l. Attach and secure the gas bag snorkel (E) over the exhaust tube (5).
5-22 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Additional Components of the .50 Cal HMG in the One Meter Turret
m. Engage the zipper halves and completely zip the gas bag closed by moving the
zipper toward the rear of the weapon. Cover the zipper by securing flap (F).
Close the rear flap (G).
n. As a final check, ensure all hook and loop pile fasteners are sealed at the flap
locations and around the gun cradle.
o. Ensure exhaust blower is switched to the “ON” position prior to firing the
weapon.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 5-23
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
54. The one meter turret consists of three weapon systems, C-6 MG, .50 HMG and the
MBGDs. It is the operator’s responsibility to know the state of your weapons system at all times
and if not sure carry out the following safety precautions as required:
a. Ensure that traverse power is off and the .50 cal electrical firing circuit is powered
down.
b. Ensure the bolt latch is unlocked.
c. Engage the manual safety.
d. Ensure that the turret is pointed in a safe direction and elevate the gun to
approximately 500mils.
e. Rotate the cover latch forward and raise the cover.
f. Grasp the charging handle and bring the action fully to the rear.
g. Examine the chamber and the face of the bolt to ensure that they are free of
rounds (checked by the instructor and gunner).
h. Once it is determined the weapon is clear, Report “HMG Clear” and allow the
action to go forward under control by, pushing down on the bolt latch release and
easing the bolt forward with the cocking handle.
i. Ensure extractor is down, close the cover and depress the gun to level.
j. Disengage the manual safety.
k. Manually fire the action.
l. Check the extra quick change barrel to ensure there are no obstructions.
m. During training check all drill rounds to ensure that no live rounds are present. If
present, they will be immediately removed and handed over to the officer or NCO
in charge of the training period for return to the issuing authority.
55. Confirm by practice.
56. To dismount the HMG from the one meter turret an assistant should be utilized. To
dismount use the following procedure:
a. ensure the gun is safe or the turret is made safe;
b. ensure turret is facing in a safe direction;
c. turn the traverse power and weapon selector switch off;
d. open the gas bag, the bag only needs to be opened not totally removed;
e. carry out safety precautions;
f. unlock the bolt latch release;
5-24 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Additional Components of the .50 Cal HMG in the One Meter Turret
LESSON 4
HANDLING DRILLS
INSTRUCTOR'S NOTES
59. Aim. To teach students how to recognise and conduct handling drills on the .50 Cal
heavy machine gun mounted in the one meter turret. Training and qualification for this
configuration is obtained from the One Meter Turret Operators Course. Additional procedures
affecting the Machine Gun, Heavy, Flexible, .50 Calibre, M2HB, QCB not mentioned in this
section may be found in C-71-325-000/MB-001 One Meter Turret Operations Manual.
60. Main teaching points:
a. ammunition preparation;
b. load;
c. ready;
d. fire;
e. make safe/ready from make safe;
f. unload/hot barrel unload;
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 5-25
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
5-26 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Additional Components of the .50 Cal HMG in the One Meter Turret
68. Introduction. It is of utmost importance that the one meter turret operator be able to
properly and quickly perform handling drills for the HMG mounted in the one meter turret.
AMMUNITION FEED SYSTEM. Explain and demonstrate.
69. Due to the .50 HMG being right hand feed and the confined space within the turret the
following procedures have been adopted to prepare ammunition for the one meter turret
ammunition feed system. To prepare the ammunition, see Figure 5-4-1, and proceed as follows:
NOTE
Due to the fact the .50 cal HMG has been converted to right hand feed, the
ammunition belt will have to be fed into the machine-gun with the single loop of
the links leading. Increased stoppages will occur if the ammunition belt is fed into
the machine-gun with the double loop of the links leading.
a. Traverse the turret until the .50 Cal, M2HB (9) is over the vehicle top deck.
b. Ensure the TURRET POWER switch (21) is in the OFF position.
c. Open a .50 Cal, ammunition box (18) and remove the top cover. Remove the
ammunition belt from the box and grasp the end of the belt that has the single
loop leading. Allow the rest of the belt to hang down. Turn the belt around so
that the rounds will go back in the box with the projectiles pointing inward to the
turret. Drape the last few rounds of the belt over the rear of the ammunition box
and then place the rest of the belt back in the box in overlapping rows. When the
belt is correctly installed in the ammunition box, the first round will be positioned
at the top forward corner with the single loop in the links leading and the
projectiles pointing inward. The last rounds will be hanging over the rear of the
ammunition box.
d. Lower the ammunition tray lever (15) and place an ammunition box into the rear
compartment of the ammunition tray (13) with projectiles facing inward toward
the operator.
e. Prepare a second box of ammunition like the first one.
f. Place the second ammunition box in the front ammunition tray compartment with
the projectiles facing inward toward the operator. Position the last rounds at the
rear of the forward box over the roller guide between the boxes.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 5-27
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
WARNING
Use only hand pressure to install a live round of ammunition into the ammunition
belt. Using a tool or instrument to install a round could cause the round to fire.
Failure to follow this warning could cause injury or death to personnel.
g. Secure both ammunition boxes by lifting the two locking levers on the
ammunition trays.
h. Remove the last round (12) of ammunition from the forward ammunition box;
i. Install the round through the double looped end link (11) from the forward box
and through the single looped end link (10) from the rear box. Ensure the round
is installed at the same depth into the ammunition belt as are the other rounds.
j. Pull the linked ammunition from the forward box over the front roller guide and
around the front ammunition bracket roller (8) to the feed-way of the .50 Cal,
M2HB, QCB.
5-28 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Additional Components of the .50 Cal HMG in the One Meter Turret
Figure 5-21: (Diagram 1 of 2) Ammunition Feed System, Machine-gun, Heavy, Flexible, .50 Calibre, M2HB,
QCB
1. Cover Latch (not as illustrated, the cover latch will not 10. Front Ammunition Bracket roller
be changed to the right side) 11. Double Looped End Link
2. Cover 12. Single Looped End Link
3. Feed-way 13. Round
4. Belt Holding Pawl 14. Ammunition Tray (2)
5. Bell Mouth Chute 15. Ammunition Tray Lever (2)
6. Bolt 16. .50 Calibre, Ammunition Box
7. Extractor 17. Front Roller Guide
8. Cartridge Stops 18. .50 Calibre, Ammunition Box
9. Machine Gun Heavy Flexible, .50 Calibre, M2HB, 19. Cocking Handle
QCB 20. Elevation Quadrant
10. Front Ammunition Bracket roller 21. Turret Power Switch
Figure 5-22: (Diagram 2 of 2) Ammunition Feed System, Machine-gun, Heavy, Flexible, .50 Calibre, M2HB,
QCB
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 5-29
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
70. Confirm by questions. There will not be enough time for all students to practice at this
time, ensure all students get an opportunity to practice ammunition preparation throughout the
course.
71. On the command “LOAD” or when the operator decides to load the HMG the following
drill is used:
a. Engage the manual safety, lock the bolt latch release down, open the cover and
with the cocking handle, retract the bolt back 1/2 centimetre (1/4 inch).
b. Lift the extractor and place the belt on the feed-way, ensuring that the first round
is up against the bullet and cartridge stops and holds the belt in position. Then
allow the bolt to go fully forward under control against the first round.
c. Ensure that the extractor is fully down and grasps the rim of the first round and
close the cover.
72. Confirm by questions. There will not be enough time for all students to practice at this
time, ensure all students get an opportunity to practice mounting and dismounting throughout the
course.
WARNING
If the Firing Relay ON indicator lamp on the weapon control panel illuminates
when the turret power switch is moved to the ON position, A SAFETY HAZARD
EXISTS.
In this case either machine gun will fire if they have been made ready.
If this condition exists, immediately move the turret power switch to the off
position and notify maintenance personnel. Failure to follow this warning could
result in injury or death.
73. On the command “READY”, a range being ordered, or the operator decides the HMG is
to be made ready the following drill is used:
a. Confirm weapon selector switch is in the “OFF” position and that the manual
safety is on. Cock the machine-gun.
b. Observe the target area through the sights.
c. Await further orders if under a crew commander, or if operating independent (no
crew commander) the decision to fire.
74. Confirm by questions. There will not be enough time for all students to practice at this
time, ensure all students get an opportunity to practice mounting and dismounting throughout the
course.
5-30 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Additional Components of the .50 Cal HMG in the One Meter Turret
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 5-31
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
78. Confirm by questions, there will not be enough time for all students to practice at this
time, ensure all students get an opportunity to practice mounting and dismounting throughout
the course.
MAKE SAFE. Explain and demonstrate.
79. The one meter turret has the ability to fire both electrically and manually, to “MAKE
SAFE” the following drill is used:
a. On the command “MAKE SAFE” or on the decision to “MAKE SAFE” the
operator will ensure the manual safety is “ON” and the weapon selector switch is
in the “OFF” position.
b. Then verbally report “HMG SAFE” this will allow the crew commander and or
crew know the weapon is safe.
c. To go back to “READY” from the “MAKE SAFE” simply move the weapon
selector switch to “.50 Cal” if firing electrically, or move the manual safety to the
“OFF” position if firing manually.
80. Confirm by questions. There will not be enough time for all students to practice at this
time, ensure all students get an opportunity to practice mounting and dismounting throughout the
course.
UNLOAD. Explain and demonstrate.
81. The one meter turret is primarily used as a defensive weapons platform, and due to
confined space within the turret there are two methods to unload the HMG: unload and hot
barrel unload. The difference between the two methods depends on if the barrel is hot; a hot gun
is defined as “A gun that has had more than 150 rounds fired in a two-minute period”. We will
first learn the normal unload for a cold gun, upon hearing the command “UNLOAD” or when
the operator decides to unload the HMG the following drill is used;
a. If firing electrically move the weapon selector switch to the “OFF” position, if
firing manually, move the manual safety to the “Safe” position.
b. Open the gas bag and ensure the manual safety is ON.
c. Unlatch the bolt catch release, and open the body cover.
d. Lift the extractor and remove the belt from the feed-way. Ensure that the extractor
is fully down and close the cover (these actions are carried out as quickly as
possible).
e. Cock the machine-gun, the bolt will stay to the rear.
f. Examine the receiver and chamber to ensure it is clear of rounds, if there is a
round clear it from the face of the bolt or chamber as required.
g. Press the bolt latch release and allow the bolt to go forward under control.
h. Ensure that the extractor is down and close the cover.
i. Disengage the manual safety.
5-32 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Additional Components of the .50 Cal HMG in the One Meter Turret
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 5-33
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
NOTE
Use the driver or other personnel to assist.
5-34 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Additional Components of the .50 Cal HMG in the One Meter Turret
88. Confirm by questions. There will not be enough time for all students to practice at this
time, ensure all students get an opportunity to practice handling drills throughout the course.
89. Conclusion:
a. Questions from the students on the entire period.
b. Confirm by questions and practice.
c. Pack the stores.
d. Review:
(1) It is important that the gunner always knows the state of the weapon
system.
(2) It is equally important that the operator be able to quickly and efficiently
conduct handling drills the HMG in the one meter turret in order to
maintain a high standard of readiness.
LESSON 5
IMMEDIATE ACTIONS AND STOPPAGE DRILLS FOR THE .50 CAL HMG
IN THE ONE METER TURRET
INSTRUCTOR'S NOTES
90. Aim. To teach students how to recognise and conduct immediate actions (IAs) and
stoppage drills on the .50 Cal heavy machine-Gun mounted in the one meter turret. Training and
qualification for this configuration is obtained from the One Meter Turret Operators Course.
Additional procedures affecting the Machine Gun, Heavy, Flexible, .50 Calibre, M2HB, QCB
not mentioned in this section may be found in C-71-325-000/MB-001 One Meter Turret
Operations Manual.
91. Main teaching points:
a. causes of stoppages;
b. immediate action drill on initial burst;
c. immediate action on subsequent bursts; and
d. secondary actions.
92. Time. Three x 40 minute periods.
93. Method. Basic indoor or outdoor instructional period.
94. Stores:
a. .50 Cal Machine-gun complete with EIS;
b. mounted in the one meter turret—1 per 3 students;
c. drill ammunition—100 rds per crew;
d. .50 Cal ammo cans—2 per crew; and
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 5-35
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
5-36 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Additional Components of the .50 Cal HMG in the One Meter Turret
WARNING
Failure to follow procedures may result in damage to the weapon or injury or
death to personnel.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 5-37
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
103. The table below lists the causes of stoppages. (Table 5-1)
5-38 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Additional Components of the .50 Cal HMG in the One Meter Turret
WARNING
If the firing relay ON indicator lamp on the weapon control panel illuminates
when the turret power switch is moved to the ON position, A SAFETY HAZARD
EXISTS.
In this case either machine gun will fire if they have been made ready.
If this condition exists, immediately move the turret power switch to the off
position and notify maintenance personnel. Failure to follow this warning could
result in injury or death.
105. When a stoppage occurs, the primary aim is to get the weapon firing again as soon as
possible. The immediate action (IA) are broken into two categories:
a. initial burst, are the actions taken to get the weapon into action when the gun does
not fire on the first attempt; and
b. subsequent burst are the IAs carried out when the weapon has been firing and
stops.
106. The following are definitions of ammunition related incidents which may occur with
machine gun ammunition, which are of particular importance due to the size of the .50 Cal
cartridge:
a. Cook-off—the deflagration or detonation of ammunition caused by the absorption
of heat from its environment.
b. Hang-fire—ammunition malfunction in which cartridge ignition takes place
between a fraction of a second and several seconds after the primer has been
struck.
WARNING
A hang-fire or cook-off can cause injury to personnel or damage to the weapon, to
avoid this the operator must take the following precautions.
107. Because of the previously mentioned incidents which may occur, the following basic
rules must be considered when conducting the appropriate IA:
a. Always keep the round locked in the chamber the first 5 seconds after a stoppage
occurs. This prevents an explosion outside of the gun in the event of a hang-fire.
b. If the barrel is hot, the round must be extracted within the next 5 seconds to
prevent a cook-off. When more than 150 rounds have been fired in a two-minute
period the barrel is hot enough to produce a cook-off.
c. If the barrel is hot and the round cannot be extracted within the 10 seconds, it
must remain locked in the chamber for 5 minutes to guard against cook-off.
d. Keep the body cover closed during the waiting periods.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 5-39
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
1. If the .50 Cal should fail to fire on the initial a. if .50 Cal is not selected, move the selector switch
burst the operator shall; to “.50 Cal “ check that indicator light is
Count five seconds aloud and simultaneously, illuminated, relay and attempt to fire;
a. ensure weapon selector switch is in b. if the red indicator light is not illuminated, report
the “.50 Cal position”, and the red “Firing Circuit” relay and attempt to fire
indicator lamp is illuminated and; manually;and
b. check to insure you are not in an c. if in an inhibit zone either traverse out of the
inhibit zone. zone, or if in battle engage the battle over-ride,
relay and attempt to fire.
NOTE
* These checks should take approximately 5
seconds, this time will permit a hang-fire to
expend.
2. Cock the machine gun. a. while cocking, observe for feeding of the belt;
b. if the belt feeds at this time relay and attempt to
fire; and
c. if the gun still fails to fire, go to Para 3 of this
table.
NOTE
If in battle switch to the secondary armament at
this time and continue the engagement.
3. If the gun again fails to fire, Report a. make the turret safe;
“Prolonged Stoppage”, and conduct the turret b. open the gas bag;
make safe drill and continue with the c. unload the .50 Cal;
secondary actions.
d. inspect the belt for miss-aligned rounds or
NOTE obstructions, remove, inspect and discard the first
At any time a fault is found and repaired, round from the belt;
reload and attempt to fire. e. inspect the components of the body cover for
obstructions or faulty components replace/repair
components as necessary;
f. inspect the gun body for obstructions or faulty
components replace/repair components as
necessary;
g. check for separated casing;
h. check link and cartridge chutes for blockages;
i. check if spent casing/link bin is full if so empty
j. re-oil;
k. go back to “Action” or “Start Mode”;
l. re-lay and attempt to fire; and
m. if weapon still fails to fire report to a technician.
5-40 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Additional Components of the .50 Cal HMG in the One Meter Turret
110. Confirm by questions. There will not be enough time for all students to practice at this
time, ensure all students get an opportunity to practice IAs and Stoppages throughout the course.
111. We are now going to address the procedure for a immediate action on subsequent burst.
If the following procedures are followed, most stoppages can be corrected with a minimum loss
of time:
1. If the .50 Cal should fail to fire on subsequent bursts or a. if in an inhibit zone either traverse out
during an engagement the operator shall; of the zone or engage the battle over-
Count five seconds aloud and simultaneously, ride, relay and attempt to fire; and
a. Check to insure you are not in an inhibit zone; b. if the red indicator light is not
and illuminated, report “Firing Circuit”
b. ensure the .50 Cal indicator lamp is illuminated. relay and attempt to fire manually.
NOTE
* These checks should take approximately 5 seconds, this
time will permit a hang-fire to expend.
2. Count to five seconds aloud. During the second period of a. if the belt feeds at this time, relay and
five seconds while simultaneously cocking the machine attempt to fire; and
gun observe for feeding of the belt b. if the belt does not feed, go to Para 3 of
NOTE this table.
If, during the second period of five seconds, the gunner NOTE
is unable to cock the weapon within the 5 seconds, and If in battle switch to the secondary armament at
the barrel is HOT , report “Prolonged Stoppage”, Make this time and continue the engagement
the turret safe and unlock the bolt latch release , then the
crew will withdraw at least 10 metres to the rear and wait
for FIVE MINUTES
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 5-41
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
3. If the gun again fails feed, report “Prolonged Stoppage”, a. make the turret safe;
and conduct the turret make safe drill and continue with b. open the gas bag;
the secondary actions. c. unload the .50 Cal;
d. inspect the belt for miss-aligned rounds
NOTE or obstructions, remove, inspect and
At any time a fault is found and repaired, reload and discard the first round from the belt;
attempt to fire. e. inspect the components of the body
cover for obstructions or faulty
components replace/repair components
as necessary;
f. inspect the gun body for obstructions
or faulty components replace/repair
components as necessary;
g. check for separated casing;
h. check link and cartridge chutes for
blockages;
i. check if spent casing/link bin is full if
so empty;
j. re-oil;
k. go back to “Action” or “Start Mode”;
l. re-lay and attempt to fire; and
m. if weapon still fails to fire report to a
technician.
5-42 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
6CHAPTER 6
LESSON 1— BLANK FIRING ATTACHMENT (BFA)
INSTRUCTOR’S NOTES
1. Aim. To teach students how to install the Blank Firing Attachment (BFA).
2. Main teaching points:
a. General description.
b. Installation and removal of the attachment.
c. Installation and removal of the attachment on the machine-gun.
d. Testing and adjustment.
3. Time. One x 40-minute period.
4. Method. Explanation, demonstration, imitation.
5. Stores:
a. .50 cal machine-gun mounted on tripod mount M3: 1 per 3 students.
b. blank firing attachment: 1 per machine-gun.
c. tripod protective boots: 3 per machine-gun.
d. ammunition box: 1 per machine-gun.
e. diagrams: as required.
6. Preparation:
a. Set up the teaching area.
b. Prepare all training aids.
c. Check the diagrams as required.
d. Position the machine-guns and check that they are operating properly.
e. Check the blank firing attachments.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 6-1
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
e. When the blank firing attachment is used, live ammunition must never be taken
into the exercise area.
f. Explain and practice (where necessary) the control system that will be used during
the lesson. Action on Word of Command “No 1s OUT…CHANGE”.
8. Review. N/A
9. Introduction. The machine-gun is equipped with a blank firing attachment which can be
installed on all the mountings currently in service without modifying its basic configuration.
6-2 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Weapon Handling Tests
12. Installation:
a. Insert the three hooks into the bracket with the hooked part toward the bolt.
Install a flat disk and nut on each hook.
b. Screw the muzzle piece fully in with a screw wrench, and then back it off as far as
the closest blocking groove.
c. Place the lock assembly at the upper front end of the attachment and fix it with
two internal wrenching bolts.
d. Place the stop and fix it with two internal wrenching bolts.
13. Removal. The parts can be removed in any sequence, except for the muzzle piece, which
must be removed as follows:
a. Insert a screwdriver or other similar tool between the lock and the attachment to
disengage the lock from the muzzle piece.
b. Using an appropriate wrench, unscrew the muzzle piece and remove it from the
attachment.
14. Confirm by Practice.
15. Installation:
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 6-3
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
a. The discriminator. Open the feedway cover, slide the belt holding pawl pins
rearward until the pins clear the area forward of the belt holding pawl. Then place
the beating blocks and rod assemblies in the holding pawl bracket (figure 6-3)
with the rounded shoulders on the top portion of the discriminator facing the rear
of the machine-gun. Fix the discriminator by pushing the two ends of the pawl all
the way forward and close the feedway cover.
NOTE
It is possible that the two rivet heads on the pawl grooves interfere with the
installation of the discriminator. If so, the heads can be filed to accommodate the
discriminator.
6-4 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Weapon Handling Tests
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 6-5
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
premature wear of the muzzle piece and the barrel. Such wear reduces the possibility of
adjusting the rate of fire, as well as the lifespan of the muzzle piece and the barrel. Excessive
rates of fire also cause the rivets to loosen prematurely.
20. Adjustments—introduction. When the blank firing assembly is installed for the first
time on the machine-gun or the turret of the Grizzly APC, or when the muzzle piece is removed
and replaced, the theoretical rate of fire must be re-established using the barrel positioning
gauge. This gauge shows the initial adjustment of the muzzle piece in relation to the barrel,
which provides the desired theoretical rate of fire, at an ambient temperature of 20 degrees C.
WARNING
When firing commences, the temperature of the muzzle of the blank firing
assembly increases quickly. To avoid danger, personnel will use a flat head –
screwdriver or other similar tool to release the muzzle piece lock, use a screw
wrench to turn the muzzle piece and wear gloves or mittens when handling the
blank firing attachment.
21. Initial or primary adjustment. The initial adjustment of the muzzle piece is established
as follows:
a. Ensure that the parts are all the way forward.
b. Insert the narrow end of the positioning gauge on the barrel, in one of the two
vents in the muzzle piece.
c. With the end of the gauge supporting the muzzle of the barrel, the front surface of
the muzzle piece must be between the two shoulders in the centre of the gauge.
Free the muzzle piece lock and, using a screw wrench, tighten or loosen the
muzzle piece until the desired position is obtained.
d. Release the lock and turn the muzzle piece to the right until the lock engages in
the closest groove on the muzzle piece.
22. Adjustment for ambient temperature. It may be necessary to readjust the muzzle piece
for the ambient temperature and/or the degree of wear present between the inside of the front
surface of the muzzle piece and the exterior diameter of the muzzle.
a. Firing the machine-gun when the blank firing attachment is at the preliminary
setting according to the gauge indicates the direction of the adjustment required in
order to balance the gas pressure and obtain the desired theoretical rate of fire.
b. If the machine-gun does not fire in bursts and the ejected casings are crushed, the
gas is insufficient. The space between the muzzle of the barrel and the inside of
the front surface of the muzzle piece must be reduced until the gun fires correctly.
Screw the muzzle piece tighter, clockwise, one half-turn at a time, until bursts are
obtained.
c. If the rate of fire is too high, the gas pressure is too strong. Increase the space
between the muzzle and the muzzle piece, by unscrewing it one half-turn at a
time, until the rate of fire is normal.
6-6 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Weapon Handling Tests
WARNING
Prolonged fire at too high a rate produces unnecessary pressure on the hooks
attached to the barrel support, which may damage the support and injure the
machine-gunners. A visual inspection for wear is essential before, during and
after using the blank firing attachment.
23. Adjustment for cold-weather firing. Low temperatures reduce the energy of the gasses
produced by firing blank ammunition. The space between the muzzle of the barrel and the front
of the muzzle piece must be reduced accordingly. Screw the muzzle piece one turn for every 10
degrees C of ambient temperatures below 20 degrees C.
24. Repairs. Repairs to the blank firing attachment are limited to replacing defective parts.
25. Confirm by Questions.
26. Conclusion:
a. Question period.
b. Confirm by Questions and Practice.
c. Carry out safety precautions.
d. Pack the stores.
e. Review: Live ammunition must never be taken into an area where the blank
firing attachment is to be used. Machine-gunners must be thoroughly familiar
with the operation and adjustment of the blank firing attachment, both for their
own safety and in order to minimize damage and wear to the equipment.
LESSON 2
WEAPON HANDLING TESTS
INSTRUCTOR'S NOTES
27. General. The purpose of weapon handling tests (WHTs) is to provide a measure of
personal weapon handling skill throughout the forces in line with operational safety and handling
requirements. Mandatory testing ensures that handling skills of all personnel using a specific
infantry weapon system are monitored accurately and rectified if necessary. It is an indication of
a unit’s operational readiness.
28. Time. One x 40 minute period.
29. Stores. The following stores will be required:
a. 0.50 cal machine-gun and tripod M3—3 per section;
b. spare parts box—1 per machine-gun; and
c. drill ammunition—10 per gun.
30. Preparation. Carry out the following:
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 6-7
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
CONDUCT
DRESS
DEFINITION OF STANDARDS
6-8 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Weapon Handling Tests
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 6-9
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
LESSON 2
PREPARATORY WORK—INSTALLING THE AUXILARY
TRIPOD MOUNT M3 PINTLE
INSTRUCTOR'S NOTES
38. Aim. To inform the instructor how to install and remove the auxiliary tripod mount M3
pintle.
39. Main teaching points:
a. installing the auxiliary tripod mount M3 pintle; and
b. removing the auxiliary tripod mount M3 pintle.
40. Stores:
a. auxiliary tripod mount M3 pintle (complete)—1 per machine-gun; and
b. adjustable wrench—1 per machine-gun.
41. To install the auxiliary tripod mount M3 pintle to the gun carry out the following:
a. align the holes on the pintle arms with the holes on the front pintle mount on the
gun and place the bolt through (Figure 6-5 step 1);
b. attach the slotted hexagon nut to the bolt and tighten until hand tight
(Figure 6-5 step 2); and
c. insert the cotter pin into the slot of hexagon nut, ensuring it is placed in from the
top (Figure 6-5 step 3).
6-10 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Weapon Handling Tests
42. To remove the Auxiliary Tripod mount M3 pintle carry out the following:
a. remove the cotter pin from the slot in the hexagon nut;
b. unscrew the slotted hexagon nut from the bolt; and
c. remove the bolt from the pintle arms and front pintle mount on the gun.
43. Once the auxiliary tripod mount M3 pintle has been removed from the gun, replace the
bolt through the holes on the pintle and attach the nut for transit.
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 6-11
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
LESSON 3
PREPARATORY WORK—DETAILED MECHANISM AND CAUSES OF STOPPAGES
INSTRUCTOR'S NOTES
44. Aim. To give the instructor a sound understanding of the mechanism of the HMG and
causes of stoppages.
45. Main teaching points:
a. the eight steps of the mechanism; and
b. causes of stoppages.
46. Introduction: This lesson is not designed to be taught to students but as preparatory
work by instructors for Chapter 1 Lesson 7. Every instructor should have a practical working
knowledge of the mechanism of the machine-gun; this will enable the instructor to identify and
remedy most of the stoppages which may be encountered.
THE EIGHT STEPS OF THE MECHANISM. Explain.
47. The machine-gun will function automatically, as long as ammunition is fed into the
feeding group and the bolt latch release and trigger are depressed. Every time a round is fired,
the parts of the machine-gun work in a pre-determined sequence. The movements of these parts
are controlled by various springs, cams and levers. The cycle of operation is broken down into
eight basic steps. However, more than one step may occur at the same time. The eight steps are
explained, listed below in sequence; they are:
a. Step one—Feeding. Feeding is the act of placing a cartridge in the receiver
approximately in rear of the barrel, ready for loading.
b. Step two—Loading. A new round is placed in the chamber.
c. Step three—Locking. The bolt is locked to the barrel and barrel extension.
d. Step four—Firing. The firing pin is released, striking the primer and causing the
round to fire.
e. Step five—Unlocking. The bolt unlocks from the barrel extension.
f. Step six—Extraction. The empty cartridge case is withdrawn from the chamber.
g. Step seven—Ejection. The empty cartridge case is thrown out of the bottom of
the receiver.
h. Step eight—Cocking. The firing pin is returned to the cocked position.
48. Step one—Feeding:
a. The recoiling groups of the 0.50 calibre machine-gun must be manually operated
to place the first round in the chamber. The cycle of operation begins with the
first round positioned over the belt-holding pawl and the recoiling groups in the
forward position.
6-12 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Weapon Handling Tests
b. Feeding is described in two phases. The first phase describes the feeding of the
first round of a new belt of ammunition into the machine-gun, while the second
phase describes the feeding of subsequent rounds. The phases in detail are as
follows:
(1) First phase. The first phase consists of the following:
(a) When the bolt is fully forward, the belt feed slide is in the cover.
The ammunition belt is held in the feedway by the belt-holding
pawl (figure 6-6).
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 6-13
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
(c) The belt is held stationary by the bolt holding pawl, while the belt
feed pawl pivots, compressing its spring, and rides up over the link
holding the first round (figure 6-8).
a. belt feed pawl arm b. belt feed slide c. belt holding pawl
Figure 6-9: Feeding—the belt feed pawl behind the first round
(e) As the bolt moves forward, the belt feed lever moves the slide back
into the receiver. The belt is pushed in by the belt feed pawl. The
next round rides over the belt holding pawl, compressing its spring
and forcing the pawl down until the round has passed (figure 6-10).
6-14 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Weapon Handling Tests
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 6-15
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
(b) As the bolt continues its movement to the rear, the cover extractor
cam forces the extractor down, causing the cartridge to enter the T-
slot in the bolt (figure 6-12).
6-16 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Weapon Handling Tests
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 6-17
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
stud. The sear is forced down until the hooked notch of the firing pin extension is
disengaged from the sear notch. The firing pin and firing pin extension are driven
forward by the firing pin spring; the striker of the firing pin hits the primer of the
cartridge, firing the round (figures 6-14 and 6-15).
a. trigger b. trigger bar pin c. trigger bar d. firing pin extension e. sear f. firing pin spring g. firing pin
h. cartridge
Figure 6-14: Firing—ready to fire
a. trigger b. trigger bar pin c. trigger bar d. firing pin extension e. sear f. firing pin spring g. firing pin
Figure 6-15: Firing—round fired
b. For automatic firing, the trigger is kept depressed. The bolt latch release must be
locked or held depressed to ensure that the bolt latch will not engage in the
notches in the top of the bolt and hold it to the rear. Each time the bolt travels
forward in counter-recoil, the trigger bar automatically depresses the sear, releases
the firing pin extension and the firing pin, and fires the next round. The machine-
gun should fire about 1.5 mm before the recoiling groups are fully forward. At
the instant of firing, the parts are locked in the proper position.
6-18 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Weapon Handling Tests
c. When the sideplate trigger is used, as with the M63 mount, the action is the same,
except that the sideplate trigger cam presses against the sear slide when the
recoiling groups are locked in the forward position.
52. Step five—Locking.
a. At the instant of firing the bolt is locked by the breech lock to the barrel extension
and against the rear end of the barrel in the breech lock recess in the bottom of the
bolt.
b. When the cartridge is fired, the bullet travels out of the barrel and the recoil drives
the recoiling group rearward. During the first two centimetres, the recoiling
groups are locked together. As this movement takes place, the breech lock is
moved off the breech lock cam step, allowing the breech lock depressors, acting
on the breech lock control pin, to force the breech lock down, out of its recess in
the bottom of the bolt (figure 6-16).
a. accelerator b. bolt c. breech lock d. breech lock pin e. breech lock cam f. breech lock depressor
Figure 6-16: Unlocking—breech lock being forced out of its recess in the bolt
c. Thus, at the end of the first two centimetres of recoil, the bolt is unlocked and free
to move to the rear, independent of the barrel and barrel extension (figure 6-17).
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 6-19
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
a. driving spring group b. bolt c. accelerator d. barrel extension shank e. cross groove piston rod head
Figure 6-18: Unlocking—accelerator tips accelerating the movement of bolt to the rear
e. The barrel and barrel extension continue to travel to the rear an additional one
centimetre, or an approximate total distance of three centimetres, until they are
stopped by the oil buffer group (figure 6-19).
6-20 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Weapon Handling Tests
a. buffer assembly b. buffer spring c. barrel extension shank d. accelerator e. accelerator claw
Figure 6-20: Unlocking—oil buffer spring compressed and locked
g. The bolt travels an additional 16.2 cm to the rear after it is unlocked from the
barrel and barrel extension. During this movement, the driving springs are
compressed. The rearward movement of the bolt is stopped as the bolt strikes the
buffer plate. Part of the recoil energy of the bolt is stored by the driving spring
group and part is absorbed by the buffer disks in the backplate.
53. Step six—Extraction.
a. The empty case, held by the T-slot, has been expanded by the force of the
explosion, and fits snugly in the chamber. If the case is withdrawn from the
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 6-21
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
chamber too rapidly, it could split. To prevent this, and to ensure slow initial
extraction of the case, the top forward edge of the breech lock and the forward
edge of the breech lock recess in the bolt are bevelled. Therefore, as the breech
lock is unlocked, the initial movement of the bolt away from the barrel and the
barrel extension is gradual.
b. The slope of the locking faces facilitates locking and unlocking and prevents
sticking. The leverage of the accelerator tips on the bolt speeds extraction, after it
has started, by kicking the bolt to the rear (figure 6-21).
54. Step seven—Ejection.
a. As the bolt starts its forward movement, the extractor lug rides below the
extractor switch, forcing the extractor assembly farther down until the new round
is positioned in the T-slot.
b. The new round, gripped by the extractor, pushes the empty case from the T-slot.
The last empty casing of an ammunition bolt is pushed out by the ejector.
55. Step eight—Cocking.
a. When the recoiling groups are fully forward, the top of the cocking lever rests on
the rear half of the V-slot in the top plate bracket (figure). As the bolt moves to
the rear, the top of the cocking lever is forced forward; the lower end pivots to the
rear on the cocking lever pin. The rounded nose of the cocking lever, which fits
through the slot of the firing pin extension, forces the extension to the rear,
compressing the firing pin spring against the sear stop pin, or, in some models, the
accelerator stop.
b. As the firing pin extension is pressed to the rear, the hooked notch of the
extension rides over the sear notch, forcing the sear down. The sear spring forces
the sear back up after the hooked notch of the firing pin extension has entered the
sear notch. The pressure of the sear and firing pin springs holds the two notches
locked together. There is a slight over-travel of the firing pin extension in its
movement to the rear to ensure proper engagement with the sear (figure 6-21).
6-22 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Weapon Handling Tests
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 6-23
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
6-24 B-GL-385-005/PT-001
Weapon Handling Tests
a. Failure to feed. A stoppage that prevents the new round from being positioned
approximately in the rear of the barrel.
b. Failure to load. A stoppage that prevents the new round from entering the
chamber.
c. Failure to lock. A stoppage that prevents the breech lock from correctly entering
its recess in the bolt.
d. Failure to fire. A stoppage that prevents the primer of the cartridge being struck.
e. Failure to unlock. A stoppage that prevents the breech lock moving out of its
recess in the bolt.
f. Failure to extract. A stoppage that prevents the extraction of the empty case
from the chamber.
g. Failure to eject. A stoppage that prevents the ejection of the case from the
receiver.
h. Failure to cock. A stoppage that prevents the firing pin extension from being
engaged with the sear.
57. Common stoppages. The most common stoppages with the machine-gun .50 cal M2
are:
a. failure to feed;
b. failure to load; and
c. failure to fire.
58. Causes of stoppages. The table below lists the causes of stoppages:
NATURE OF
COMMON CAUSES OTHER CAUSES
STOPPAGE
Failure to feed Defective ammunition belt Improperly loaded belt
Defective feed mechanism Short round
Defective extractor
Failure to load Broken part, obstruction in Thick rim or thin rim,
T-slot or chamber. bulged round
Separated (ruptured) case
Failure to lock Incorrect headspace Broken parts
adjustment Damaged breech lock
Rough breech lock cam
Faulty breech lock cam
adjustment (loose)
Failure to fire Defective part in firing Faulty ammunition batch
mechanism
Defective ammunition
Incorrect timing
B-GL-385-005/PT-001 6-25
The Machine-Gun .50 Cal M2
NATURE OF
COMMON CAUSES OTHER CAUSES
STOPPAGE
Failure to unlock Broken part in receiver Worn breech lock cam
Faulty breech lock cam
adjustment (loose)
Failure to extract Dirty or oily chamber Defective cartridge case
Defective extractor
Failure to eject Defective ejector Burred or fouled T-slot
Failure to cock Broken sear Broken cocking lever
Worn sear notch
Weak sear spring
Worn hooked notch on
firing pin extension
Table 6-1: Causes of stoppages.
59. Confirm by questions or practice.
60. Conclusion:
a. Question period.
b. Confirm by questions and practice.
c. Carry out safety precautions.
d. Pack stores.
e. Review: if the machine-gun stops firing in battle, it is essential that the machine-
gunner know how to identify and remedy the problem as quickly and as safely as
possible.
6-26 B-GL-385-005/PT-001