PLATOON EXERCISE.
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PLATOON EXERCISE.
S. 26. The Platoon Exercise, and different Firings for the Long and Short Rifle.
THE recruit, having a thorough knowledge of the several motions of the firelock as detailed in the MANUAL EXERCISE, will now be taught the PLATOON EXERCISE as follows; for this purpose a squad of eight or ten men will be formed in a single rank at close files, with knapsacks on:--
1st. To load and fire standing
2nd. To load and fire as a front rank kneeling.
3rd. To load and fire as a rear rank kneeling.
Words of Command.
EXPLANATIONS.
Platoon exercise by motions, standing.
To serve as a caution.
Prepare to load.
Two.
From Shouldered Arms.
Seize the rifle with the right hand as in the first motion of order arms, at the game time make a right half-face by raising the toes and turning upon the heels, left toes to point to the front, right toes to the right, eyes to tile front.
As a front rank, carry the left foot ten inches to the left front, (vis., 6 to the front and 8 to the left,) moving the body with it; as a rear rank, carry the left foot six inches to the front, moving the body with it also, toes in both cases to point direct to the front; at the same time square the shoulders to the front from the hip, and bring the ride down perpendicularly in the right hand opposite the left breast, to the full extent of the arm, and seize it with the left hand at the nose cap, thumb and fingers round the stock and barrel, and place the butt without noise on the ground, close against the inside of the leh foot, the heel of it to be in a line with the ball of the big toe, barrel to the front and perpendicular, left arm close to the side; carrying the right hand at once to the pouch, (elbow to the rear) and take up a cartridge, holding it with the forefinger and thumb close to the top with the bullet in the palm of the hand.
From Advanced Arms, or Shouldered Arms, with Short Rifles.
Seize the rifle with the left hand, the little finger in line with the right shoulder, left arm close in to the body, at the same time make a rigid half-face by railing the toes and turning upon the heels, the left toes to point to the front, the right toes to the right, eyes to the front.
Two--as a front rank, carry the left foot ten inches to the left front, (viz., 6 to to the front and 8 to the left,) moving the body with it; as a rear rank, carry the left foot six inches to the front, moving the body with it also, at the same time square the shoulders to the front from the hip, and bring the rifle down in the left hand and place the butt without noise on the ground close against the inside of tile left foot, the heel of it to be in a line with the ball of the big toe, barrel to the front and perpendicular, and slip the left hand smartly to the nose cap, thumb and fingers round the stock and barrel, left arm close to the side; carrying the right hand at once to I he pouch, (elbow to the rear) and take up a cartridge, holding it with the forefinger and thumb close to the top with the bullet in the palm of the hand.
From Ordered Arms.
Make a right half-face by raising the toes and turning upon the heels, the left toes to point to the front, the right to the right, carrying the rifle round with the body, eyes to the front.
Two -as a front rank, carry the left foot ten inches to the left front, (viz., 6 to the front and 8 to the left,) moving the body with it; as a rear rank, carry the left foot six inches to the front, moving the body with it also, and at the same time square the shoulders to the front from the hip, and pass the rifle smartly to the left hand, which will seize it at the "nose cap," thumb and finger round the stock, and place the butt without noise on the ground, close against the inside of the left foot, the heel of it to be in a line with the ball of the big toe, barrel to the front and perpendicular, left arm close to the side, carrying the right hand at once to the pouch, (elbow to the rear) and take up a cartridge, holding it with the forefinger and thumb close to the top with the bullet in the palm of the hand.
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N.B. The feet, as above detailed, being at right angles, care must be taken that this angle is not increased by turning the right toes to the rear, as such would tend to alter the proper and essential position of the right shoulder in loading and firing.
Load.
Bring the cartridge to the forefinger and thumb of left hand, and, with the arm close in to the body, tear off the end of it with care, so as not to lose any of the powder; any motion which may be necessary to be from the wrist only.
Two.
Bring the cartridge to the muzzle of the rifle, and pour the powder into the barrel, inclining the palm of the hand to the front, and bringing the right elbow square with the wrist in doing so.
Three.
Reverse the cartridge by dropping the hand over the muzzle, bringing the fingers round the barrel, and the knuckles to the front, and put the bullet into the barrel nearly as far as the top, holding the paper above the point of the bullet between the forefinger and thumb, still keeping the right elbow square with the wrist.
Four.
By a turn of the wrist from left to right, pressing the little finger against the barrel, and dropping the right elbow into the side, tear off the paper which is held between the forefinger and thumb; --when this motion is completed, the little finger to rest against the side of the barrel, the knuckles inclined towards the ground.
Five.
Seize the head of the ramrod between the second joint of the forefinger and thumb, knuckles towards the body.
Rod.
Force the ramrod smartly out of the stock, so as to seize it exactly in the middle between the first two fingers and thumb of the right hand, the forefinger to be in a line with the muzzle of the rifle, the knuckles towards the body, the remaining fingers closed in the hand, the elbow square with the wrist; the thumb of left hand to point to the muzzle.
Two.
Draw the ramrod entirely out with a straight arm, turn it, (dropping the head to the front, the point to pass close by the side of the left ear,) and place it on the top of the bullet; the ramrod to be perpendicular and held in the middle between the first two fingers and thumb of (he right hand, the remaining fingers closed in the palm of it, the knuckles full to the front, the arm to be kept as close to the ramrod as possible without constraint, and without altering the squareness of the shoulders.
Home.
Force the bullet straight down the barrel until the second finger touches the muzzle of the rifle, bringing the elbow down close in to the body at the same time, and inclining the knuckles to the right.
Two.
Move the right hand smartly to the point of the ramrod and seize it between the first two fingers and thumb, the remaining fingers to be closed in the hand, the knuckles full to the front, the arm to be kept as close to the ramrod as possible without constraint, and without altering the squareness of the shoulders.
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Three.
Force the bullet steadily straight down to the bottom, bringing the elbow down close in to the body at the same time, and inclining the knuckles to the right.
Four.
By two steady and firm pressures (raising the ramrod about one inch on each occasion) ascertain that the bullet is resting on the powder; all strokes which may indent the point of the bullet to be avoided.
Return.
Draw the ramrod smartly out of the barrel, so as to seize it in the middle between the first two fingers and thumb of the right band, the forefinger to be in a line with the muzzle of the rifle, the knuckles towards the body, the remaining fingers closed in the hand, the elbow square with the wrist.
Two.
Draw the ramrod entirely out with a straight arm, turn it (dropping the point to the front, the head to pass close by the side of the left ear), and put it into its place at once, pressing the ramrod towards the body in doing so, to prevent the point catching the band or otherwise doing injury to the stock; move the right hand smartly at the same time, and place the second joint of the forefinger (the remaining fingers to he closed in the hand) on the head of the ramrod and force it home, then seize it between the second joint of forefinger and thumb, and drop the left hand smartly at the same instant to its full extent and seize the rifle; the arm to be close in to the body.
N.B. In performing the motions of "Rod" and "Return," care must he taken that the ramrod rubs as little as possible against the sides of the barrel or muzzle, that the shoulders are preserved square to the front, and that the body is kept perfectly steady.
Cap.
Let the shoulders resume the half-lace, and bring the rifle to a horizontal position at the right side with the left hand, which is to grasp it firmly behind the lower band, but not nearer to the nipple than the projection in front of the lock-plate against which the little finger may rest, the thumb between stock and barrel, the left arm to he close in to the body as a support, at the same time meet the " small of the butt" with the right hand, elbow to the rear, and hold it lightly with the lingers behind the trigger guard and half cock the rifle, the thumb to remain on the cock; as a front rank the "small of the butt" to be pressed against the hip, as a rear rank four inches above it.
Two.
Advance the fingers to the nipple, and with the forefinger throw off the old cap.
Three.
Carry the hand to the cap pocket, and take up a cap between the forefinger and thumb, the remaining fingers to be closed in the hand, elbow to the rear.
Four.
Put the cap straight upon the nipple, looking to the front after doing so.
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Five.
Press the cap home with the flat part of the thumb, with the fingers closed in the hand and against the lock-plate.
Six.
Bring the hand to the "small" of the butt, and hold it lightly with the fingers behind the trigger guard, thumb pointing to the muzzle.
As a Front (or Tirar) Rank at . . . . . yards.
Ready.
Carry the right hand to the sight, and with the forefinger and thumb adjust the sliding bar, placing the top even with the line, or to the place that indicates the elevation necessary for the distance named then raise the flap without a jerk from the top if required, after which bring the hand back to the small of the butt, and full cock the rifle, and hold it lightly with the fingers behind the trigger guard, thumb pointing to the muzzle, and fix the eye STEADFASTLY on some object in front.
From Shouldered Arms.
Make a right half-face by raising the toes and turning upon the heels, the left fool to point direct to the front the right foot to the right, at the same time seize the rifle with the right hand at the small of the butt, thumb pointing to the muzzle.
Two. - Bring the rifle to a horizontal position at the right side, meeting it with the left hand, which is to grasp the stock firmly behind the lower band, but not nearer to the nipple than the projection in front of the lock plate, against which the little finger may rest, the thumb between stock and barrel, the left arm to be close in to the body as a support; the small of the butt, as a front rank,, pressed against the hip, as a rear rank, four inches above it; then as a front rank carry the left foot ten inches to the left front (viz., six inches to the front and eight to the left, ) moving the body with it, as a rear rank, carry the left foot six inches to the front, moving the body with it also; toes in both cases to point direct to the front, and proceed as detailed in the left-hand column.
From Advanced Anns, or Shouldered Arms, with Short Rifles.
Make a right half-face by raising the toes and turning upon the heels, the left foot to point to the front, the right foot to the right, at the same time seize the rifle !with the left hand, the little finger in line with the right elbow.
Two. -Bring the rifle to a horizontal position at the right side, grasping it with the left hand firmly behind the lower band, but not nearer to the nipple than the projection in front of the lock plate, against which the little finger may rest, the thumb between stock and barrel, the left arm close in to the bo ty as a support; the small of the butt as a front rank pressed against the hip, as a rear rank, four inches above it, then carry the left foot as a front rank ten inches to the left front (viz., six to the front and eight to the left, ) moving the body with it, as a rear rank, carry the left foot six inches to the left front, moving the body with it also; toes in both cases to point direct to the front, and proceed as detailed in the first column.
From Ordered Arms.
Make a right half-face by raising the toes, &c., as before directed, carrying the rifle round with the body, and place the thumb of the right hand smartly behind the barrel and seize the rifle.
Two. - Bring the rifle to a horizontal position at the right side, grasping it with the left hand, as explained in the adjoining columns, &c., then proceed is detailed in the first column.
Present.
Bring the rifle to the shoulder at once, carrying it to the front so as to clear the body in doing so, but without moving the left hand from the place at which it grasps the stock at the capping position, or stooping the body, or raising the heels off the ground, (the rifle to rest solidly in the palm of the left hand) at the same time raise the right elbow nearly square with, and bring it well to the front of the right shoulder, so as to form a bed for the butt, the centre of which press firmly to the shoulder with the left hand, and bring the left elbow well under the rifle to form a support; the right hand to lightly hold the small of the butt, with the thumb pointing to the muzzle, which is to he a few inches below the object the right eye is fixed upon, the forefinger to be along the outside of the trigger guard, and the left eye closed; the arm of the front rank man is not to be raised too high, as he will thereby prevent his rear rank man taking aim.
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N.B. As the recruit will not get into the position here detailed without practice and much care, the instructor will frequently command "as you were," (when the rifle is to he brought down to the right side, but without moving his eye from the object, or any part of his body but the arms,) and point out the defects observed; by this means the recruit will soon be accustomed to get into the position readily, acquire a full command of his rifle with the left hand, and become habituated to handle it with expertness.
Two.
Place the forefinger round the trigger like a hook, that part of it between the first and second joint to rest flat on the trigger, and restrain the breathing.
Three.
Raise the muzzle steadily until the top of the fore-sight is brought in a line with the object through the bottom of the notch of the back-sight.
Four.
Press the trigger without the least jerk or motion of the hand, eye, or arm, until the cock falls upon the nipple, keeping the eye still firmly fixed upon the object.
Five.
Bring the rifle to the capping position, and shut down the flap, but without moving the sliding bar, and immediately seize the rifle with the right hand close in front of the left, fore-arm close to the barrel; and after a pause of the slow time, taking the time from the right, turn the barrel at once downwards, and bring the rifle to a perpendicular position opposite the right breast in the right hand, then seize it with the left hand at the nose cap, and come to the position of "prepare to load," 2nd motion.
NOTE. Too much pains cannot be taken to insure that the soldier takes a deliberate aim at some positive object whenever he brings the rifle to the "Present;" for this purpose, therefore, small bull's eyes are to be marked on the barrack wall for the men to aim at.
Particular attention is to be given to the following points in the "Present." The body is to be firm and upright, the butt to be pressed firmly into the hollow of the shoulder, so as to avoid the kick which will otherwise take place from the recoil on the explosion of the powder; the rifle to rest solidly in the palm of the left hand, and to be firmly grasped, but without rigidity of muscle, the sight to be upright, and in aiming, the muzzle to be steadily raised until the top of the fore-sight is aligned upon the object on which the right eye is fixed, through the bottom of the notch of the back-sight, the left eye being closed and the breathing restrained. In delivering the fire, the trigger is to be moved by pressure alone, without any motion of the hand, eye, or elbow; the right eye to continue fixed on the object after snapping, to ascertain if the aim has been deranged by the movement of trigger or body.
The position of the head with reference to the butt when taking aim depends entirely on the distances fired at, or the
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elevation used. At short distances the butt must be brought to the head by raising the shoulder, or the cheek so placed on the butt by stooping the head a little forward, not sideways, as to get the eye fixed on the object through the bottom of the back-sight; as the distances increase the head must be raised or the shoulder lowered.
Load.
As before detailed, by motions, and so continue exercising until the recruit has attained such a knowledge of the various motions as to be capable of combining them in regular order.
From the capping position.
Shoulder, Arms.
At the word "shoulder" bring the left foot back to the right, (placing the heel behind that of the right foot) and at the word "arms," face to the front by raising the toes and turning upon the heels, at the same time throw the rifle with the right hand on to the left shoulder, and grasp the butt with the left hand at the full extent of the arm, the fingers of the right hand to be under the cock and close to the lock side of stock, thumb pointing to the muzzle.
Two.
Bring the right hand smartly to the right side.
Advance, Arms, or Shoulder, Arms, with Short Rifle.
At the word "advance" or "shoulder" bring the left foot back to the right, (placing the heel behind that of the right foot) and at the word "arms" face to the front by raising the toes and turning upon the heels, at the same time bring the rifle to a perpendicular position at the right side with the left hand, and seize it with the forefinger and thumb of the right hand round the trigger-guard, the remaining fingers under the cock.
Two.
Bring the left hand smartly to the left side.
Order, Arms.
At the word "order" bring the left foot back to the right, (placing the heel behind that of the right foot) and seize the rifle with the right hand close in front of the left, fore-arm close to the barrel; at the word "arms" face to the front by raising the toes and turning upon the heels, and with the right hand place the butt quietly on the ground at the right side even with the toe of the right foot, &c., as detailed in the manual exercise.
To "Order Arms" from the position of "Prepare to Load"
Order, Arms.
At the word "order" bring the left foot back to the right and the shoulders to the half face; and at the word "arms" face to the front by turning on both heels, and pass the rifle smartly to the right side with the left hand, and drop the right arm to its proper extent, quitting the left hand immediately.
TO LOAD AND FIEE KNEELING.
Platoon Exercise by Motions, as a front (or rear rank) kneeling.
To serve as a caution.
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Prepare to load.
Two.
From Shouldered Arms.
Seize the small of the butt with the right hand, and at the same time make a right half-face by raising the toes and turning upon the heels, the left toes to point to the front, right toes to the right.
Grasp the rifle with the left hand, the little finger as high as the shoulder, the elbow close in to the lock-plate; at the same time carry the right foot twelve inches to the rear and place the toe of the boot on the ground as much to the left of the left heel as will bring the right knee of the front rank six inches to the right when on the ground, and that of the rear rank twelve inches to the right; the foot to be nearly perpendicular, the left leg straight.
From Advanced Arms, or from Shouldered Arms with Short Rifles.
Seize the rifle with the left hand, the little finger in line with the right elbow, keeping the left arm close in to the body; at the same time make a light half-face, by raising the toes anil turning upon the heels, the left toes to point to the front, the right toes to the right.
Two. - Carry the right foot twelve inches to the rear, and place the toe of the boot on the ground as much to the left of the left heel as will bring the right knee of the front rank six inches to the right when on the ground, and that of the rear rank twelve inches to the right; the foot to be nearly perpendicular, the left leg straight.
Three.
Four
Front Rank.
Sink down at once on the right knee, six inches to the right and twelve inches to the rear of the left heel, and square with the right foot, which is to be under the body, and upright, the left leg to be as perpendicular as possible; at the same time bring the rifle down in the left hand, close in to the body, and pass the butt to the left rear over the right heel to the extent of the left arm, sling upwards, meeting the barrel with the right hand, the thumb in a line with the muzzle, the right arm to be close in to the body, the hand in front of the left breast, the shoulders to be brought nearly square to the front.
Seize the rifle with the left hand at the nose cap; the elbow to be close in to the left side, hand in front of the left breast, the rifle to be close in to the hollow of the left side and as upright as possible; at the same time carry the hand to the pouch and take up a cartridge, holding it between the forefinger and thumb, close to the top, with the bullet in the palm of the hand.
Rear Rank.
Three. -Sink down at once on the right knee, twelve inches to the right, and twelve inches to the rear of the left heel, and square with the tight foot, which is to be under the body, and upright; bringing the body nearly to the right about three-quarters face in doing so; (the left leg inclining to the right) and at the same time carry the rifle in the left hand, and place the butt flat on the ground, (lock uppermost) under the shin of the right leg of the front rank man of the file on the right, meeting the barrel with the right hand, the thumb in a line with the muzzle, the right arm close in to the side, the muzzle of the rifle as high, and in a line with the right shoulder, eyes to the right rear.
Four. -Seize the rifle with the left hand at the nose cap, the elbow to be close in to the body, hand in front of the right breast; at the same time carry the right hand to the pouch and take up a cartridge, holding it between the forefinger and thumb, close to the top, with the bullet in the palm of the band.
N.B. As the length of leg, in very tall men, is greater than the breadth of body, it will be impossible, in close order, to get the knee square with the foot; in such cases, therefore, the knee is to be inclined to the front, but not beyond the inside of the right foot of right file.
Load.
In five motions, as detailed when loading standing; in seizing the head of the ramrod in the fifth motion, the front rank to incline the ramrod to the right to facilitate the drawing of it.
Rod.
In two motions, as detailed when loading standing.
Home.
In four motions, as detailed when loading standing.
Return.
Draw the ramrod smartly out of the barrel, so as to seize it in the middle, between the first two fingers and thumb of the right hand, the forefinger to be in a line with the muzzle, the knuckles towards the body, the remaining fingers closed in the hand, the elbow square with the wrist.
Two.
Draw the ramrod entirely out with a straight arm, turn it, (dropping the point towards the ground,) put it into its place at once, pressing the ramrod towards the body in doing so, to
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prevent the point catching the band or otherwise doing injury to the stock; move the right hand smartly at the same time, and place the second joint of the forefinger (the remaining fingers to be closed in the hand) on the head of the ramrod and force it home, then seize it between the second joint of the forefinger and thumb, arm to be close in to the body, and slip the left hand to the full extent, and seize the rifle immediately below the lower band.
Cap.
Front Rank.
With the left hand raise the butt over the right heel close by the body in a slanting direction until the left elbow is brought in front of the hip, at the same time quitting the right hand to the right side, then bring the rifle round in front of the left leg to a horizontal position at the right side, and the shoulders to the right half-face, placing the left fore-arm at once square on the thigh six inches behind the knee, and meeting the small of the butt with the right hand, which is to hold it lightly, with the fingers behind the trigger-guard, and half-cock the rifle, the thumb to remain on the cock; --the rifle to be grasped with the left hand as detailed when capping standing; the butt to be pressed against the side.
Rear Rank.
With the left hand bring the rifle to a horizontal position at the right side, muzzle to the front, and let the body resume the right half-face, place the left fore-arm at once square on the left knee, at the same time meet the small of the butt with the right hand, and hold it lightly with the fingers bihind the guard, and half-cock the rifle, the thumb to remain on the cock; --the rifle to be grasped with the left hand, as detailed when capping standing, the butt to be pressed against the side.
Two.
Three.
Four.
Five.
Six.
As detailed when capping standing.
From Shouldered Arms.
From Advanced Arms, or Shouldered Arms, with Short Rifles.
Two.
Three.
Four.
Five.
Six.
As a front (or rear) Rank at --- yards.
Ready
Bring the weight of the body on to the right heel, then adjust the sight as before explained; after which bring the hand back to the small of the butt and full cock the rifle, and hold it lightly, with the fingers behind the guard, thumb pointing to the muzzle, and fix the eye STEADFASTLY on an object in front.
From Shouldered Arms.
As detailed in the first motion of "ready," from the shoulder standing.
Two. -Bring the rifle to a horizontal position at the right side, as explained in the 2nd motion of "ready" from the shoulder standing, at the same time carry the right foot 12 inches to the rear, and place the toe of the boot as much to the left of the left heel as will bring the knee of the front rank six inches to the right when on the ground, and that of the rear rank 12 inches to the right; the foot to be nearly perpendicular, the left leg straight.
From Advanced Arms, or Shouldered Arms, with Short Rifles.
As detailed in the first motion of "ready," from advanced arms standing.
Two. -Drop the rifle to a horizontal position at the right side as explained in the 2nd motion of "ready" from advanced arms standing, at the same time carry the right foot 12 inches to the rear, and place the toe of the boot as much to the left of the left heel as will bring the knee of the front rank 6 inches to the right when on the ground, and that of the rear rank 12 inches to the right; the foot to be nearly perpendicular, the left leg straight.
From Ordered Arms.
As detailed in the first motion of "ready" from ordered arms standing.
Two. -Bring the rifle to a horizontal position at the right side, as explained in second motion of "ready" from ordered arms standing, at the same time carry the right foot 12 inches to the rear, &c., as explained in the adjoining column.
Three. -Sink down at once on the right knee twelve inches to the rear, as a front rank six inches to the right, as a rear rank twelve inches to the right of the left heel, and square with the right foot, and bring the weight of the body immediately on to the right heel; the left forearm to be placed on the left leg and the butt pressed against the right side as when capping; then
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proceed to adjust the sight as before explained, and full cock the rifle, and fix the eye STEADFASTLY on an object in front; the thumb of the right hand to be placed on the stock pointing to the muzzle.
N.B. When required to come to the "ready" kneeling, from the capping position standing, the left foot to be brought back to the right before sinking down on the right knee.
Present.
As detailed when coming to this position standing, without raising the body off the heel, and place the left elbow at once over the left knee to form a support. N. B. The note following the first motion of the present standing is applicable to this motion also.
Two.
Three.
Four.
As detailed when firing standing.
Five.
Front Ranh,
Bring the rifle down to the capping position, at the same time raise the body off the right heel, and place the left fore-arm square on the left thigh six inches behind the knee; then shut down the flap without a jerk, and return the hand to the small of the butt, count a pause of the slow time and come to the position of "prepare to load" by carrying the rifle in both hands round in front of the left leg, turning the barrel downwards at the same time, and with the left hand, passing the butt close by the body over the right heel to the left rear, to the extent of the left arm, meeting it at the same time with the right hand, the thumb in line with the muzzle, then seize the rifle with the left hand at the nose cap, as detailed in the fourth motion of "repare to load" as a front rank kneeling &c.
Rear Rank.
Bring the rifle down to the capping position, at the same time raise the body off the right heel, and place the left fore-arm square on the left knee: then shut down the flap without a jerk, and return the hand to the small of the butt, count a pause of the slow time and come to the position of "prepare to load" by turning the rifle over in the left hand, and placing the butt on the ground, lock uppermost under the shin of the right leg of the front rank man of the file on the right, meeting the barrel with the right hand thumb in line with the muzzle, which is to be as high and in a line with the right shoulder, then seize the rifle with the left hand at the nose cap, &c., as detailed in the fourth motion of "prepare to load" as a rear rank kneeling &c..
N.B. When required to load standing from the kneeling position:--After shutting down the flap, seize the rifle with the right hand close in front of the left, and rise to the half-face at the same instant, bringing the right heel before the left, still keeping the rifle in a horizontal position at the tight side, then after counting a pause, taking the time from the right, turn the barrel at once downwards, and bring the rifle to a perpendicular position, and proceed as detailed in the second motion of "prepare to load" standing.
Load.
As before detailed, by motions, and so continue exercising until the recruit has attained such a proficiency as to be capable of combining the several motions in regular order.
From the capping position kneeling
Shoulder, Arms.
At the word "shoulder," spring smartly to attention at the half-face, bringing the right heel in front of the left, still keeping the rifle in a horizontal position at the right side; at the word "arms" proceed as detailed, when coming to the shoulder from the capping position, standing.
Two.
Bring the right hand smartly to the right side.
Advance, Arms, or Shoulder, Arms, with Short Rifles.
At the word "advance" or "shoulder," spring smartly to attention at the half-face, bringing the right heel in front of the left, still keeping the rifle in a horizontal position at the right side. At the word "arms," face to the front, &c., as detailed, when, coming to the advance from the capping position, standing.
Two.
Bring the left hand smartly to the left side.
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Order, Arms.
At the word "order," spring smartly to attention at the half-face, bringing the right heel in front of the left, still keeping the rifle in a horizontal position at the right side, and at the same time seize the rifle with the right hand close in front of the left, fore-arm close to the barrel; at the word "arms," face to the front, &c,, as detailed, when coming to the order from the capping position, standing.
The recruits, being thoroughly grounded in the foregoing instructions, may now be practised in two ranks at close order in the different firings, as a company in line, as a wing of a battalion, firing a volley, and file firing.
For this purpose from twenty to thirty files, or a less number, are to be formed into two ranks at close order, with shouldered arms, fixed bayonets, and knapsacks on.
Troops armed with the short rifle will always fire front rank kneeling.
S. 27. Review Exercise.
Platoon Exercise in slow time.
At this caution, the rear rank will take a pace of nine inches to the front.
Prepare, to Load.
In two motions, observing a pause of the slow time between each.
Load.
In five motions do. do.
Rod.
In two motions do. do.
Home,
In four motions do. do.
Return.
In two motions do. do.
Cap.
In six motions do. do.
Fire a Volley, at ---- yards.
One motion, the sight to be adjusted with care and without hurry.
Ready.
Present.
In five motions.
There is to be no hurry in the performance of the third and fourth motions of the Present on any occasion.
In quick time, Load.
Each man will now perform the motions of loading with the greatest celerity, but with the same correctness as if exercising in the slow time; --after returning the ramrods, the whole line to remain perfectly steady; after a pause of the slow time, taking the time from the right, come to the capping position, and proceed to cap, which must always be done after loading.
Shoulder, Arms.
As before detailed, the rear rank taking a short pace of nine inches to the rear when quitting the right hand.
Company, (Right Wing, or Battalion,) "Fire a Volley."
At this caution, the rear rank will take a pace of nine inches to the front.
At-yards. Ready.
As before detailed.
Present.
As before detailed; after firing, make a pause, (taking the time from the right,) come down to the capping position, put
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down the flap, and immediately seize the rifle with the right hand close in front of the left, fore-arm close to the barrel, and after another pause, come to the position of "Prepare to load," and go on with the loading in the quick time without any command to do so.
Cease Firing.
At the close of the "general," or at the command "cease firing," the company having completed its loading and capped, will receive the command "shoulder arms." If the company is at the ready when the "cease firing" sounds, it will be commanded to "half cock arms, " to be performed as follows:--
Half-cock Arms.
Place the thumb of the right hand on the comb of the cock and the forefinger on the trigger, and draw both back until the sear is disengaged from the "full bent of tumbler," then let the cock gently down (removing the forefinger from the trigger), and when it passes the "half-bent," draw it back to half cock, after which put down the flap, and carry the right hand to the small of the butt, thumb pointing to the muzzle, fingers behind the guard.
When it is not intended to reload after firing, the command will be, "Fire a Volley and shoulder." "At --- yds Ready."
After delivering the volley, make a pause, and taking the time from the right, come down to the capping position, shut down the flap, bring back the right hand to the "small of the butt," and in doing so, close the heels, then after another pause, taking the time from the right also, come to the shoulder as before detailed.
NOTE. When a column or line is required to load, the command is to be--
With Cartridge, or, As with Cartridge.
As a caution, on which the rear rank will take a pace of nine inches to the front.
Load.
The loading to proceed in the quick time: -When in column, or when any person is immediately in front, the rifle, when brought to the capping position, is to be slanted with the muzzle inclining upwards, the flat part of the butt pressed against the thigh, in order to prevent the possibility of accident.
N. B. When giving the command " Ready, " some distance must always be named; should, however, the distance be omitted, the soldier must judge for himself the distance he is from the object he is going to aim at, and adjust his sight accordingly.
FIRINGS.
S. 28. Independent or File Firing.
File firing, from the right (or left, or from both flanks) of Companies.
At this caution the rear rank will take a pace of nine inches to the front.
Commence Firing.
The flank file will at once make ready and come to the present, the front rank man delivering his fire first, to be immediately followed by that of the rear rank man; both men
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will then return to the capping position, and from thence go on with their loading in the quick time, performing their motions together and without loss of time. When the flank file is bringing the rifle to the present, the next file is to make ready, coming to the present when the flank file is in the act of returning to the capping position; the next file to proceed likewise, and so continue by files in succession for the first round, after which, each file, as soon as loaded, will fire independently, i. e., without reference to the files either on the right or left.
Cease Firing.
Each file, as it completes its loading, will "shoulder arms." Files that may have made "ready," when this command is given will half cock their rifles and "shoulder arms."
N.B. Each man, before full cocking his rifle, is to adjust his sight for the distance he estimates the object at which he intends to fire to be from him. In file and volley firing, it is to be impressed upon the men, that the front rank must remain perfectly steady after delivering their fire, otherwise the aim of the rear rank will be deranged.
S. 2. Standing at Ease.
Stand at ease.
On the words Stand at-Ease, the left foot will be carried forward six inches, toes to the left front, feet separated, the greatest part of the weight of the body brought upon the right leg; the left knee a little bent; the hands will be brought together before the body, the palms being struck smartly together, and that of the right hand then slipped over the back of the left; but the shoulders will be kept back and square; the head to the front, and the whole attitude without constraint.
Squad-Attention.
On the word Attention, the hands will fall smartly upon the outside of the thigh; the left heel will be brought back in a line with the right, and the proper unconstrained position of a soldier immediately resumed.
If the command to Stand at-Ease is followed by the word Stand Easy, the men will be permitted to move their limbs, but without quitting their ground, so that upon the word Attention no one shall have materially lost his dressing in line.
Before calling men to attention, when they are standing easy, the caution Eyes-Front must be given, upon which every soldier will resume his position as described in the Stand at-Ease, and remain steady.
S. 6. Facings.
In going through the facings, the left heel must never quit the ground; the body must rather incline forward, the knees being kept straight.
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To the Right-face.
On the word Face, place the hollow of the right foot smartly against the left heel, keeping the shoulders square to the front.
Two.
On the word Two, raise the toes, and turn a quarter circle to the right on both heels, which must be pressed together.
To the Left-face.
On the word Face, place the right heel against the hollow of the left foot, keeping the shoulders square to the front.
Two.
On the word Two, raise the toes, and turn a quarter circle to the left on both heels, which must be pressed together.
Right about-face.
On the word Face, place the ball of the right toe against the left heel, keeping the shoulders square to the front.
Two.
On the word Two, raise the toes, and turn to the right about on both heels.
Three.
On the word Three, bring the right foot smartly back in a line with the left.
Left about-face.
On the word Face, place the right heel against the ball of the left toe, keeping the shoulders square to the front.
Two.
On the word Two, raise the toes, and turn to the left about on both heels.
Three.
On the word Three, bring up the right foot smartly in a line with the left.
Right (or Left,) Half-face.
On the word Face, draw back (or advance) the right foot one inch.
Two.
On the word Two, raise the toes and turn an eighth of a circle to the right (or left) on both heels.
Right (or Left) about, three quarters-face.
When it is necessary to perform the diagonal march to the rear, the soldier will receive the words Right (or Left) about, three quarters face, upon which he will bring the ball of the right foot (not the hall of the toe) to the left heel, or the right heed to the ball of the left foot, and will make a three-quarters face in the given direction, in the same manner as he faces about.
Squad-Front.
When it is intended to resume the original front, after any of the foregoing facings, the word of command Front may be given, on which the whole will face, as accurately as possible, to their former front.
Whether the soldier has previously faced to the right, or left about, he will always front by the right about. But if he has faced to the right about three quarters, he will front by the left about three-quarters, and vice versa,
At squad drill in open files the facings will always be done by numbers, except when the word Front is given, in which case the soldier will judge his own time, which must be a pause of slow time between each motion.
The foot in the first of the above motions is to be carried back or brought forward without a jerk; the movement being from the hip, so that the body is kept perfectly steady until faced.
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MARCHING.
S. 7. Length of Step.
In slow or quick time the length of a pace is 30 inches, except in "stepping out," when it is 33 inches, and in "stepping short" 10.
In "double time" the length of the pace is 36 inches.
The length of the side step, which is always taken in quick time, is 10 inches.
N.B. When a soldier takes a side pace to clear or cover another, as in forming four deep, which will be hereafter described, the pace will be 21 inches.
In stepping back the pace is 30 inches.
S. 14. Stepping out.
Step-out.
When marching in slow time, on the words Step-out, the soldier must be taught to lengthen his space to 33 inches by leaning forward a little, but without altering the cadence.
This step is necessary when a temporary exertion to the front is required, and is applied both to slow and quick time; at the words Slow (or Quick) the pace of 30 inches will be resumed.
S. 15. Stepping short.
Step-short.
On the words Step-short, the foot advancing will finish its pace, and afterwards each soldier will take paces of ten inches until the word Forward is given, when the usual pace of 30 inches will be resumed.
This step is useful when a slight check is at any time required.
S. 16. Marking Time in the Slow Cadence.
Mark-Time.
On the words Mark-Time, the foot then advancing will complete its pace, after which the cadence will be continued, without gaining ground, by alternately throwing out each foot and bringing it back square with the other; at the word Forward, the usual pace of 30 inches will be resumed.
If men are required to mark time in the slow cadence from the halt, the word of command will be Mark Time, --slow.
S. 21. The Side or Closing Step.
Soldiers will be taught the side step first by numbers, then judging their own time.
Caution, --Right close by Numbers.
One.
On the word One, the right foot will be carried ten inches to the right, and the eyes and head turned slightly to that flank, the shoulders kept perfectly square, and the knees straight.
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Two.
On the word Two, the left foot will be brought smartly up to the right, heels touching.
One.
The word One, being repeated, the right foot will be carried on ten inches as before described, and so on.
Squad-Halt.
When the word Halt is given, the left foot will be brought to the right as an the word Two, and the head and eyes turned to the front.
Caution, --Right close, judging your own Time.
Right Close,Quick March.
On the words Quick-March, eyes will be turned slightly to the the right, and each man will carry his right foot 10 inches directly to his right, and instantly bring up his left foot till the heel touches his right heel, and proceed to take the next step in the same manner; shoulders kept square, knees not bent, unless on rough or broken ground. The direction must be kept in a straight line to the flank, neither inclining to the front nor rear.
Squad-Halt.
At the word Halt, the men will bring their heels together, turn their eyes to the front, and remain steady.
Soldiers will be practised in closing to the left by numbers, and judging their own time in like manner.
Soldiers must also be practised in taking any given number of paces to either flank, and then halting without word of command; the command to be given thus, Three paces right close, Quick-March.
Time is of great importance in the side step, each pace should be taken and the heels brought up together again, in the same time that a pace is taken in the quick march.
S. 53. The Formation of Fours.
The squad should now be made up to eight or nine files, and numbered off from right to left; and it must be explained to the men that odd numbers are right files, and even numbers left files, except when there happens to be an odd number on the left of the company, in which case, the left file but one, although an even number, will be a right file, and the left file of the squad, though an odd number, will be a left file, so that there will be two right files together. Should there be a blank file, that is, a file without a rear-rank man, it will always be the third file from the left.
Squad-Fours.
On the word Fours, the rear rank will step back one short pace of 12 inches.
Deep.
On the word Deep, the left files will double behind the right files by taking a pace to the rear with their left feet, and a pace to the right with their right feet
Squad-Front.
On the word Front, the left files will move up in line with the right files by taking a pace to the left with their left feet, and a pace to the front with their right feet; the whole of the rear-rank men will then close up to their proper distances from the front rank by taking a short pace to the front with their left feet.
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Squad-Fours.
As already described.
About.
On the word About, the whole squad will face to the right about, and the left files will double in the proper rear of the right files, by taking a pace to the front with the right feet, and a pace to the left with their left feet.
Squad-Front.
On the word Front, the whole squad will face to the right about, and re-form two deep, as already described.
Squad-fours.
As already described.
Right.
On the word Right, the squad will face to the right, and the left files will form on the right of the right files, by taking one pace to the right with the right feet, and one pace to the front with their left feet.
Squad-Front,
On the word Front, the squad will face to the left, and re-form two deep, as already described.
Squad-Fours.
As already described.
Left.
On the word Left, the squad will face to the left, and the left files will form on the left of the right files by taking one pace to the left with their left feet, and one pace to the rear with their right feet.
Squad-Front.
On the word Front, the squad will face to the right, and re-form two deep, as already described.
The squad will be practised to form fours to the right or left on the march; on the word Fours the rear rank will mark time one pace: on the word Right or Left the squad will turn to the named flank; the right files will mark time two paces, while the left files move to their places as when halted; the whole squad will then move on in the new direction. On the word Front-Turn, the squad will turn to the front; the right files will mark time two paces for the left files to resume their places, and the rear rank to regain its distance, the whole squad will then march steadily to the front. The squad when retiring, may form fours in like manner to the right or left, in which case the proper front rank will mark time one pace on the word Fours.
A squad moving to a flank in fours may be ordered to Form Two deep, on which the left files will fall back or step up to their places in file, and the rear rank will close on the front rank; and at the word Re-form Four deep the rear rank will incline from the front rank, and the left files will resume their places in fours.,
GENERAL RULES.
The following general rules will be observed in the movements of a company, whether alone, or with the battalion; although they may not be repeated in the description of each manoeuvre.
1. At all times, when a company, sub-division, or section wheels forward, the rear rank man of the pivot file will uncover by taking a pace to his rear, and a pace of 21 inches to his side, so as to cover the rear rank man of the file next to him.
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2. When a company, sub-division, or section wheels back, whether it is faced about to wheel, or not, the rear rank man of the pivot file will remain in his place, and will not uncover.
3. The front rank man of the pivot file is usually called "the pivot man."
4. When the captain of a company changes his flank the coverer, if not required to take a point, will change with him; the lieutenant will also make a corresponding change.
5. When the leader of a company, subdivision, or section changes his flank on the march, he will give the words, By the right, or By the left, as he falls in, in his new place; if he changes during a wheel the above words will immediately follow the word, Forward.
6. Commanders of companies, previously to giving a word of command, should call out the numbers of their companies thus, No 1-Halt. When in motion, executive words must be given as the men are commencing the pace, which will bring them to the spot on which the command has to be executed. The cautionary part of the word must, therefore, be commenced accordingly.
A COMPANY IN LINE AND COLUMN.
S. 1. Formation of a Company in Line.
Caution, --AS A COMPANY IN LINE.
1. Formation in Close Order. --On the above caution, the captain will place himself on the right of the front rank, covered by his covering sergeant, who will be on the right of the rear rank; the remaining officers and sergeants will place themselves in a third supernumerary rank, three paces from the rear rank; the lieutenant in rear of the second file from the left, the ensign in rear of the centre of the company, the third supernumerary in rear of the left subdivision, the fourth in rear of the right, the fifth in rear of the left, and so on. When a company is formed singly or when it is manoeuvring, the drummers and pioneers will also be in the supernumerary rank, the former in rear of the second section, the latter in rear of the third section; the lieutenant and ensign will always retain their places; the sergeants and men composing the rest of the supernumerary rank will divide the space in rear of their respective subdivisions and sections.
Rear Rank Take Open-Order.
2. Taking Open Order. --On the word Order, the officers will recover their swords, the captain will move out and place himself one pace in front of the second file from the right; the lieutenant and ensign, passing round the left flank of the company, will place themselves one pace from the front rank, the former in front of the second file from the left, and the latter in
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front of the centre of the company. The flank men of the rear rank will step back two paces and face to their right, and the covering serjeant will take one pace of 21 inches to his left, thus occupying the space vacated by the right hand man of the rear rank.
March.
On the word MARCH, the officers will take two paces to the front, look to their right and dress, the covering serjeant will take one pace to his right with his right foot, and one pace to his front with his left foot, thus filling up the place vacated by the captain; the rear and supernumery ranks will step back two paces, the flank men of the rear rank will come to their front and raise their right arms.
Rear Rank--Dress. Eyes--Front. Supernumerary Rank--Dress.
Eyes-Front.
On the word Dress, the rear and supernumerary ranks will look to their right and dress. On the words Eyes-Front, they will turn their eyes to the front, and the flank men of the rear rank will drop their right arms.
Steady.
On the word Steady, the officers will port their swords and look to their front.
When a company is formed singly the captain will dress the officers and give the word steady; the sergeant on the right of the supernumerary rank will dress the rear and supernumerary ranks, and will give the words Eyes-Front, as the dressing of each is completed. Two or more companies should also be practised together.
Rear Rank Take Close-Order.
3. Resuming Close Order. --On the word ORDER, the officers will recover their swords and face to the right.
March.
On the word march, the rear and supernumerary ranks will take two paces to their front, the covering sergeant will take two paces to his rear and one to his left, to make room for the officers to pass; the lieutenant and ensign will move to their places in the supernumerary rank, round the left flank of the company; the captain will then resume his place on the right of the front rank, all the officers carrying their swords as they take post; lastly, the covering sergeant will move up to his place on the right of the rear rank.
When a company is formed in line, if the captain is required to change his flank he will pass by the rear, except when it is preparatory to closing to the right or left, and in a few movements, which will hereafter be explained. The covering sergeants and supernumeraries will always pass by the rear.
