Squad Designated Marksman M14 rifle training at Ft. Carson-Day 8
Day eight of training began on the range with the Civilian Marksmanship Program's volunteers showing the students how to disassemble, clean and properly reassemble the M14 gas system. Improperly inserted gas pistons was a problem that had been seen earlier in the week. Cleaning and maintenance of trigger groups, magazines and barrels was also discussed. The soldiers were then instructed to reapply lubricant to the rifles as a few malfunctions had begun to appear.
While this training was in progress, steel targets were being set up down range. This week's class was brought to the line and an observer provided distance, direction and description of the target to been gauged. The student was required to properly identify the target,adjust their scope or hold off for the range and conditions and fire a shot. The observer watched bullet trace and impact to verify a hit. This exercise was repeated for most of the day.
Later in the day students were brought to the line and given the opportunity to engage targets of their choice at varying ranges while making their own distance and condition calls. Confidence in the skills they had acquired in a short period of time was evident. Assistance was given by the instructors and volunteers when it was requested and students helped each other with observation of the targets.
At the end of the day, students were assembled in the bleachers at the range for a final question and answer session. The class was dismissed,individual expressions of gratitude made and hope that the training be put to good voiced.
By Kent Stonecipher-Oklahoma City Firearms Examiner

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