School of the Soldier
General Rules and division of the School of the
Soldier
as taken from Hardee's School of the Soldier
and Cooke's manual.
Edited for the specialized needs of the
Dismounted Cavalryman.
Capt.W.R.Gibson
06/2001
3rd
Edition
Thanks to Wil for allowing us to use this!!
The object of this School being the individual and progressive instruction of the recruits. The instructor will never require a movement to be executed until he has given an exact explanation of it and then executes, himself, the movement which he commands, so as to join example to precept. He accustoms the recruit to take, by himself, the position which is explained, teaches him to rectify it only when required by his want of knowledge, and sees that all the movements are performed without precipitation.
Each movement should be understood before passing to another. After they have been properly executed in the order laid down in each lesson, the instructor no longer confines himself to that order; on the contrary, he should change it that he may judge of the intelligence of the men.
The instructor allows the men to rest at the end of each part of the lessons, and oftener, if he thinks proper, especially at the commencement; for this purpose he commands REST.
At the command REST, the soldier is no longer required to preserve immobility, or to remain in his place. If the instructor wishes merely to relieve the attention of the recruit, he commands, "in place-REST"; the soldier is then not required to preserve his immobility, but he always keeps one of his feet in its place.
When the instructor wishes to commence the instruction, he commands ATTENTION; at this command the soldier takes his position, remains motionless, and fixes his attention.
The School of the Soldier will be divided into three parts. The first, comprehending what ought to be taught to recruits without arms. The second is the manual of arms, and the loadings and firings. The third, the principles of alignment, the march by the front, the different steps, the march by the flank, the principles of wheeling and those of change of direction; also, long marches in double quick time and the run.
Each part will be divided into lessons, as follows:
Lesson 1.Position of the soldier without arms - Eyes right, left and front.
Lesson 2.Counting.
Lesson 2.Facings.
Lesson 3.Principles of the direct step in common and quick time.
Lesson 4.Principles of the direct step in double quick time and the run.
Lesson 1.Principles of shouldered arms.
Lesson 2.Manual of arms.
Lesson 3.To load and fire in nine times and at will.
Lesson 4.Firings, direct, oblique, by file and by rank.
Lesson 5.To fire and load, kneeling and lying.
Lesson 6.The principles of the revolver.
Lesson 1.Union of eight or twelve men for instruction in the principles of alignment.
Lesson 2.The direct march, the oblique march, and the different steps.
Lesson 3 .The march by the flank.
Lesson 4.Principles of wheeling and change of direction.
Lesson 5.Long marches in double quick time, and the run, with arms.
This will be taught, if practicable, to four recruits at a time. The recruits will be placed in a single rank, at one pace from each other. In this part, the soldiers or new recruits will be without arms.
LESSON I. Position of the soldier.
Heels on the same line, as near each other as the conformation of the mail will permit;
The feet turned out equally, and forming with each other something less than a right angle;
The knees straight without stiffness
The body erect on the hips, inclining a little forward;
The shoulders square and falling equally;
The arms hanging naturally;
The elbows near the body;
The palm of the hand turned a little to the front, the little finger behind the seem of the, pantaloons;
The head erect and square to the front, without constraint;
The chin near the stock, without covering it;
The eyes fixed straight to the front, and striking the ground about the distance of fifteen paces.
REMARKS ON THE POSITION OF THE SOLDIER.
Heels on the same line
Because, if one were in the rear of the other, the shoulder on that side would be thrown back, or the position of the soldier would be constrained.
Heels more or less closed
Because, men who are knock-kneed, or who have legs with large calves, cannot, without constraint, make their heels touch while standing.
The feet equally turned out, and not forming too large an angle,
Because, if one foot were turned out more than the other, a shoulder would be deranged, and if both feet be too much turned out, it would not be practicable to incline the upper part of the body forward without rendering the whole position unsteady.
Knees extended without stiffness;
Because if stiffened, constraint and fatigue would be unavoidable.
The body erect on the hips;
Because it gives equilibrium to the position. The instructor will observe that many recruits have the bad habit of dropping a shoulder, of drawing in a side, or of advancing a hip, particularly the right, when under arms. These are defects he will labor to correct.
The upper part of the body inclining forward ;
Because, commonly, recruits are disposed to do the reverse, to project the belly and to throw back the shoulders, when they wish to hold themselves erect, from which result great inconveniences in marching. The habit of inclining forward the upper part of the body is so important to contract, that the instructor must enforce it at the beginning, particularly with recruits who have naturally the opposite habit.
Shoulders square;
Because if the shoulders be advanced beyond the line of the breast, and the, back arched (the defect called round -shouldered, not uncommon with recruits,) the man cannot align himself, nor use his piece with address. It is important, then, to correct this defect, and necessary to that end that the coat should set easy about the shoulders and arm pits - but in correcting this defect, the instructor should take care that the shoulders be not thrown too much to the rear, which would cause the belly to project, and the small of the back to be, curved.
The arms hanging naturally, elbows near the body, the palm of the hand a little turned to the front, the little finger behind the seam of the pantaloons ;
Because these positions are equally important to the shoulder arms, and to prevent the man from occupying more space in a rank than is necessary to it free use of the piece; they have, moreover, the advantage of keeping in. the shoulders.
The face straight to the front, and without constraint;
Because, if there be stiffness in the latter position, it would communicate Itself to the whole of the upper part of the body, embarrass its movements and give pain and fatigue.
Eyes direct to the front;
Because, this is the surest means of maintaining the shoulders in line- an essential object, to be insisted on and attained.
The instructor having given the position of the soldier without arms will now teach him the turning of the head and eyes. He will command:
1. Eyes RIGHT 2. FRONT.
1. At the word right, the recruit will turn the head gently, so as to bring the inner corner of the left eye in it line with the buttons of the coat, the eyes fixed on the line of the eyes of the men in, or supposed to be in, the same rank.
2. At the second command the head will resume the direct or habitual position.
3. The movement of Eyes LEFT will be executed by inverse means.
4. The instructor will take particular care that the movement of the head does not derange the squareness of the
shoulders, which will happen if the movement of the former be too sudden.
When the instructor shall wish the recruit to pass from the State of attention to that of ease, he will command:
REST.
TO cause a resumption of the habitual position, the instructor will command:
1. Attention. 2. SQUAD.
At the first word, the recruit will fix his attention; at the second, he will resume the prescribed position with steadiness.
LESSON II. Counting.
Each time a Squad or Company is called to form up, there will be a count. This count will give the recruit his position in rank and file, and later, on the Line. As Cavalry, the count is done in Fours. The instructor will command the Squads Attention, and further command:
1. Count by Fours. 2. COUNT.
At the first word, the Squad will perform Eyes Right, with the exception to the recruit furthest to the right, who will maintain his attention fixed to the Front.
At the second word, the recruit furthest to the right will loudly, and with a crisp voice say "One", to which the next recruit will respond "Two" as he returns and his fixes attention to the Front, the next, "Three" and the last "Four". When combined with other Squads, this process will continue down the line until all have been counted.
LESSON II.Facings.
Facings to the right or left will be executed in two times. The instructor will command:
Squad. 1. By File 2. Right (or left) FACE.
At the second command, raise the right foot slightly, turn on the left heel raising the toes a little, and then replace the right heel by the side of the left, and on the same line.
When the words "By File" are omitted (General Rule), the Squad will at the second command wheel to the right by fours, the number 1 position being the guide. Note: "By Twos" may also be used. This will be further developed in Part Third of The Lessons.
The full face to the rear (or front) will be executed in two times. The instructor will command:
Squad. 1. ABOUT -FACE.
1. (First time.) At the word about, the recruit will turn on left heel, bring the left toe to the front rear, the hollow opposite to, and full heel, the feet Square to each Other.
2. (Second time.) At the word face, the recruit will turn on both heels, raise the toes a little, extend the hams, face to-the rear, bringing, at the same time, the right heel by the side of the left.
3. The instructor will take care that these motions do not derange the position of the body.
LESSON III. Principles of the common step.
The length of the step, or pace in common time, will be twenty-eight inches, reckoning from heel to heel, and, in swiftness, at the rate of ninety in a minute.
The Instructor, seeing the recruit confirmed in his position, will explain to him the principle and mechanism of this step-placing himself six or seven paces from and facing to the recruit. He will himself execute slowly for the way of illustration, and then command:
1. Squad, forward. 2. MARCH (Common Time)
At the first command, the recruit will throw the weight of the body on the right leg, without bending the left knee.
At the second command, he will smartly, but without a jerk, carry straight forward the left foot twenty-eight inches from the right, the sole near the ground, the ham extended, the toe a little depressed, and, as also the knee slightly turned out.- He will, at the same time, throw the weight of the body forward, and plant flat the left foot, without shock, precisely at the distance where it finds itself from the right. When the weight of the body is brought forward, the whole of which will now rest on the advanced foot. The recruit will next, in like manner, advance the right foot and plant it as above; the heel twenty-eight inches from the heel of the left foot. Thus he will continue to march without crossing the legs, or striking the one against the other, without turning the shoulders and preserving always the face directly to the front.
When the instructor shall wish to arrest the march, he will command:
1. Squad. 2. HALT.
At the second command, which will be given at the instant when either foot is coming to the ground, the foot in the rear will be brought up, and planted by the side of the other, without shock.
The instructor will indicate, from time to time, to the recruit the cadence of the step, by giving the command one at the instant of raising a foot, and two at the instant it ought to be planted, observing the cadence of ninety steps in a minute. This method will contribute greatly to impress upon the mind the two, notions into which the Step is naturally divided.
Common time will be employed in the first and second parts of the School of the Soldier. As soon as the recruit has acquired steadiness, has become established in the principles, of shouldered arms and the mechanism, length and swiftness of the step in common time, will he be practiced in the quick time, double quick time, and the run.
The principles of the step in quick time are the same as for common time, but its swiftness is at the rate of one hundred and ten steps per minute.
LESSON IV. Principles of the quick step, double quick, and the run.
The length of the quick step is thirty-three inches, and its swiftness at the rate of one hundred and sixty-five steps per minute.
The instructor wishing to teach the recruits the principles and mechanism of the double quick step, will command:
1. Squad, forward at the quick step. 2. MARCH.
At the first command, the recruit will raise his hands to a level with his hips, the hands closed, the nails toward the body, the elbows to the rear.
At the second command, he will raise to the front his left leg bent, in order to give to the knee the greatest elevation. The part of the leg between the knee and the instep vertical, and the toe depressed. He will then replace his foot in its former position with the right leg he will then execute what has just been prescribed for the left, and the alternate movement of the legs will be continued until the command:
1. Squad. 2. HALT.
At the second command, the recruit will bring the foot which is raised by the side of the other, and dropping at the same time his hands by his side, will resume the position of the soldier without arms.
The instructor placing himself seven or eight paces from, and facing the recruit, will indicate the cadence by the commands, one and two. These will be given alternately at the instant each foot should be brought to the ground, which is the same as in common time, but its rapidity will be gradually augmented.
The recruit being sufficiently established in the principles of this step, the instructor will command.
1. Squad forward. 2. At the double quick. 3. MARCH.
At the first command, the recruit will throw the weight of his body on the right leg.
At the second command, he will raise his hands to a level with his hips, the hands closed, the nails toward the body, the elbows to the rear.
At the third command he will carry forward the left foot, the leg slightly bent., the knee somewhat raised -will plant his left foot, the toe first, thirty-three inches from the right, and with the right foot will then execute what has just been prescribed for the left. This alternate movement of the leg, ill take place by 1 throwing the weight of the body on the foot that is planted, and by allowing a natural, oscillatory motion to the arms.
1.The double quick step may be executed with different degrees of swiftness. Under urgent circumstances the, cadence of this step may be increased to one hundred and eighty per minute. At this rate a distance of four thousand yards would be passed over in about twenty-five minutes.
2.The recruits will be exercised also in running.
3.The principles are the same as for, the double quick step,, the only difference consisting in a greater degree of swiftness.
4.It is recommended in marching at the double quick time, or the run, that the men should breathe as much as possible through the nose, keeping the mouth closed. Experience has proved that, by conforming to this principle, a man can pass over a much longer distance and with less fatigue.
GENERAL RULES
The Instructor will not pass the men to this second part until they shall be well established in the position of the body, and in the manner of marching at the different steps
He will then unite a squad of eight, whom he will place in the same rank, elbow to elbow, and instruct them as follows
Lesson 1.Principles of shouldered arms.
Lesson 2.Manual of arms.
Lesson 3.To load and fire in nine times and at will.
Lesson 4.Firings, direct, oblique, by file and by rank.
Lesson 5.To fire and load, kneeling and lying.
LESSON I. Principles of shouldered arms.
The recruit being placed as explained in the first lesson of the first part, the Instructor will cause him to bend the right arm slightly, and place the piece in it, in the following manner:
The piece in the right hand,-the barrel nearly vertical and resting in the hollow of the shoulder-the guard to the front. The arm hanging nearly at its full length near the body - the thumb, and fore-finger embracing the guard. The remaining fingers closed together, grasping the swell of the stock just under the cock, which rests on the little finger.
Recruits are frequently seen with natural defects in the conformation of the shoulders, breast and hips. These, the instructor will labour to correct in the lessons without arms, and afterwards, by steady endeavors, so that the appearance of the places, in the same line, may be uniform, and this without constraint to the men in their positions.
The Instructor will have occasion to remark that recruits, on first bearing arms, are liable to derange their position by lowering the right shoulder and the right hand, or by sinking the hip and spreading out the elbows.
He will be careful to correct all these faults by continually rectifying the position. He will sometimes take away the piece to replace it the better; he will avoid fatiguing the recruits too much in the evening, but labor by degrees to render this position so natural and easy that they may remain in it a long time without fatigue.
Finally, the instructor will take great care that the piece, at a shoulder, be not carried too high nor too low. If too high, the right elbow would spread out, the soldier would occupy too much space in his rank, and the piece be made to waver. If too low, the files would be too much closed, the soldier would not have the necessary space to handle his piece with facility, the right arm would become too much fatigued, and would draw down the shoulder.
The Instructor, before passing to the second lesson, will cause to be repeated the movements of eyes right, left, front, and the facings.
LESSON II. Manual of arms.
The manual of arms will be taught to eight men, placed, at first, in one rank, elbow to elbow, and afterwards in two ranks of four.
Each command will be executed in one time (or pause), but this time will be divided into motions, the better to make known the mechanism.
The rate (or swiftness) of each motion, in the manual of arms, with the exceptions herein indicated, is fixed at the ninetieth part of a minute. In order not to fatigue the attention, the instructor will, at first, look more particularly to the execution of the motions, without requiring a nice observance of the cadence, to which he will bring the recruits progressively. In a short time they shall have become a little familiarized with the handling of the piece.
The Instructor will labor to cause these motions to be executed with promptness, and above all, with regularity
The last syllable of the command will decide the brisk execution of the first motion of each time (or pause).The commands two, three, and four, will decide the brisk execution of the other motions. As soon is the recruits shall well comprehend the positions of the several motions of a time, they will be taught to execute the time without resting on its different motions. The mechanism of the time will nevertheless be observed, as well to give a perfect use of the piece, as to avoid the sinking of, or slurring over either of the motions.
The manual of arms will be taught in the following progression: The, instructor will command:
Support- ARMS.
One time and three motions.
(First motion.) Bring, the piece, with the right hand, perpendicularly to the front and between the eyes the barrel to the rear; seize the piece with the left hand at the lower hand, raise this hand as high as the chin, and seize the piece at the same time with the right hand four inches below the cock.
(Second motion.) Turn the piece with the barrel to the front; carry the piece to the left shoulder, and pass the fore-arm extended on the breast between the right hand and the cock; support the cock against the left fore-arm, the left hand resting on the right breast.
(Third motion.) Drop the right hand by the side.
When the instructor may wish to give repose in this position, he will command:
REST.
At this command, the recruits will bring up smartly the right hand to the handle of the piece (small of the stock), when to preserve silence, or steadiness of they will not be required to position.
When the instructor may wish the recruits to pass from this position to that of silence and steadiness, he will command:
1. Attention. 2. SQUAD.
At the Second word., the recruits will resume the position of the third motion of support arms
Shoulder- ARMS.
One time and three motions.
(First motion.) Grasp the piece with the right hand under and against the left fore-arm; seize it with the left hand at the lower band, the thumb extended; detach the piece slightly from the shoulder, the left fore-arm along the stock.
(Second motion.) Carry the piece vertically to the right shoulder with both hands, the rammer to the front. Change the position of the right hand so as to embrace the guard with the thumb and fore-finger. Slip the left hand to the height of the shoulder, the fingers extended and joined, the right arm nearly straight.
(Third motion.) Drop the left hand quickly by the Side.
Present- ARMS
One time and two motions.
(First motion.) With the right hand bring the piece erect before the center of the body, the rammer to the front; at the same time seize the piece with the left hand half-way between the guide sight and lower band, the thumb extended along the barrel and against the stock, the, fore-arm horizontal and resting against the body, the band as high as the elbow.
(Second motion.) Grasp the small of the stock with the right hand below and against the guard.
Shoulder- ARMS.
One time and two motions.
(First motion.) Bring the piece to the right shoulder, at the same time change the position of the right band so as to embrace the guard with the thumb and fore-finger, slip up the left hand to the height of the shoulder, the fingers extended and joined, the right arm nearly Straight.
(Second motion.) Drop the left hand quickly by the Side.
Order- ARMS.
One time and two motions.
(First motion.) Seize the piece briskly with the left hand near the upper band, and detach it slightly from the shoulder with the right hand -loosen the grasp of the right hand, lower the piece with the left, re-seize the piece with the right band above the lower band, the little finger in rear of the barrel, the butt about four inches from the ground, the right hand supported against the hip, drop the left hand by the side.
(Second motion.) Let the piece slip through the right hand to the ground by opening slightly the fingers, and take the position about to be described. Position of order arms
The hand low, the barrel between the thumb and fore-finger extended along the stock; the other fingers extended and joined; the muzzle about two inches from the right shoulder; the rammer in front; the toe (or beak) of the butt, against, and in a line with, the too of the right foot, the barrel perpendicular.
Trail- ARMS
One time and two motions.
(First motion.) The same as the first motion of order arms.
(Second motion.) Incline the muzzle slightly to the front, dip the right shoulder and slide the right hand down the piece to corresponding distance, and re-square the shoulders. The butt of the piece will rise to the rear and about four inches from the ground.
When the instructor may wish to give repose, he will command:
REST.
At this command, the recruits will not be required to preserve silence or steadiness.
When the instructor may wish the recruits to pass from this position to that of silence and steadiness, he will command:
1. Attention. 2.SQUAD.
At the second word, the recruits will resume the position of order arms.
Shoulder- ARMS.
One time and two motions.
(First motion.) Raise the piece vertically with the right hand to the height of the right breast, and opposite the shoulder, the elbow close to the body; seize the piece with the left hand below the right, and drop quickly the right hand to grasp the piece at the Swell of the stock, the thumb and fore-finger embracing the guard; press the piece against the shoulder with the left hand, the right arm nearly straight.
(Second motion.) Drop the left hand quickly by the side.
Right shoulder shift- ARMS.
One time and two motions.
(First motion.) Detach the piece perpendicularly from the shoulder with the right hand, and seize it with the left between the lower band and guide-sight, raise the piece, the left hand at the height of the shoulder and four inches from it; place, at the same time, the right hand on the butt, the beak between the first two fingers, the other two fingers under the butt plate.
(Second motion.) Quit the piece with the left hand, raise and place the piece on the right shoulder with the right hand, the look plate upwards; let fall, at the same time, the left hand by the aide.
Arms- AT WILL.
One time and one motion.
At this command, carry the piece at pleasure on either shoulder, with one or both bands, the muzzle either elevated, or pointing directly down, if slung.
Ground- ARMS.
One time and two motions.
(First motion.) Turn the piece with the right hand, the barrel to the left; at the same time seize the cartridge box with the left hand, bend the body, advance the left foot, the heel opposite the lower band. Lay the piece on the ground with the right hand, the toe of the butt on a line with the right toe, the knees slightly bent, the right heel raised.
(Second motion.) Rise up, bring the left foot by the side of the right, quit the cartridge box with the left hand, and drop the hands by the side.
Recover ARMS
One time and two motions.
(First motion.) Seize the cartridge box with the left hand, bend the body, advance the left foot opposite the lower band, and seize the piece with the right hand.
(Second motion.) Raise the piece., bringing the left foot by the side of the right; turn the piece with the right hand, the rammer to the front; at the same time quit the cartridge box with the left hand, and drop this hand by the side.
Inspection-ARMS.
One time and two motions.
(First motion.) Seize the piece with the left hand below and near the upper band, carry it with both bands opposite the middle of the body, the butt between the feet, the rammer to the rear, the barrel vertical, the muzzle about three inches from the body; grasp the piece with the left hand below and near the upper band, seize the rammer with the thumb and fore-finger of the right band bent, the other fingers closed.
(Second motion.) Draw the rammer, and let it glide to the bottom of the bore, replace the piece with the left hand opposite the right shoulder, and retake the position of ordered arms.
The instructor will then inspect in succession the piece of each recruit, in passing along the front of the rank. Each, as the instructor reaches him, will raise smartly his piece with his right hand, seize it with the left between the lower band and guide sight, the lock to the front, the left hand at the height of the chin, the piece opposite to the left eye; the instructor will take it with the right hand at the handle, and, after inspecting it, will return it to the recruit, who will receive it back with the right hand, and replace it in the position of ordered arms.
When the instructor shall have passed him, each recruit will retake the position proscribed at the command inspection arms, return the rammer, and resume the position of ordered arms.
LESSON III. To load and fire in nine times and at will.
Editor's note This section deviates from Hardee's only to accommodate the Cavalryman's use of carbines, lack of use of the rammer in reenacting, and the practice of coming to Ready, when loaded.
1.LOAD
Left foot on the line and right foot behind and to the right about one foot, and turned outward, Place the butt inside the left foot. With the barrel to the front; seize it with the left hand near the muzzle, which should be about 20 degrees away from the body; carry the right hand to the cartridge box.
Whenever the loadings and firings are to be executed, the instructor will cause the cartridge box to be brought to the side, adjacent the cap pouch, so as to ride on the right hip.
2. Handle-CARTRIDGE.
One time and one motion.
Seize the cartridge with the thumb and next two fingers, and place it between the teeth.
3. Tear-CARTRIDGE.
One time and one motion.
Tear the paper to the powder, hold the cartridge upright between the thumb and first two fingers, near the top; in this position place it in front of and near the muzzle-- the back of the hand to the front.
4. Charge- CARTRIDGE.
One time and one motion.
Empty the powder into the barrel, and discard
5. RAM
Raise the piece about 6" and strike the Butt-plate against the ground
6. PRIME
One time and two motions.
(First motion.) With the left hand raise the piece till the hand is as high as the eye, grasp the small of the stock with the right hand. Slip the left hand down to the lower band, the thumb along the stock, the left elbow against the body; bring the piece to the right side, the butt below the right forearm the small of the stock against the body and two inches below the right breast, the barrel upwards, the muzzle on a level with the eye.
(Second motion.) Half cock with the thumb of the right hand the fingers supported against the guard and the small of the stock. Remove the old cap with one of the fingers of the right hand. With the thumb and fore-finger of the same hand take a cap from the pouch, place it on the nipple and press it down with the thumb; seize the small of the stock with the right hand.
7. ARMS at the READY
One time and one motion.
(First motion.) Support t the piece with the left hand, barrel at about thirty degrees and pointed straight ahead. Grasp the piece with the right hand at the wrist, thumb on the hammer. Do not insert a finger into the guard.
The Firing Commands.
8. PRESENT
One time and one motion.
Raise the piece with both hands, bringing the piece to FULL COCK. Support the butt against the right shoulder; the left elbow down, the right as high as the shoulder. Incline the head upon the butt, so that the right eye may perceive quickly the notch of the hausse, the front sight, and the object aimed at; the left eye closed, the right thumb extended along the stock, the fore-finger on the trigger.
9. FIRE
One time and one motion.
Press the fore-finger against the trigger, fire, without lowering or turning the head.
Instructors will be careful to observe when the men fire, that they aim at some distinct object, and that the barrel be so directed that the line of fire and the line of sight be in the same vertical plane. They will often cause the firing to be executed on ground of different inclinations, in order to accustom the men to fire at objects either above or below them.
To Load and Fire at will
LOAD
One time and one motion.
Bring down the piece with both hands, and immediately begin to repeat the above steps.
Commence Independent FIRE.
Fire and repeat the above steps as quickly as possible.
If, the instructor should not wish the recruits to reload, he will command.
Cease FIRING.
The recruit should discontinue firing and hold.
Recover-ARMS.
One time and one motion.
At the first part of the command, withdraw the finger from the trigger; at the command arms, retake the position of the second motion of ready.
The recruits being in the position of the second motion of ready, if the instructor should wish to bring them to it shoulder, he will command:
LESSON IV. Firings, direct, and to the oblique.
It will become necessary during battle to direct fire, direct (straight ahead), or off to one side or the other (right or left oblique). When necessary, the officer giving firing commands will order the following during step 8 of the sequence of commands.
To the Left (or Right) oblique.
PRESENT
At which time the recruit will move the barrel of the gun about 45 degrees (or to the angle of the target)
FIRE
LESSON V. To fire and load kneeling and lying.
In this exercise the squad will be supposed unloaded and drawn up in one rank. The instruction will be given to each man individually, without times or motions, and in the following manner.
The Instructor will command:
KNEEL - LOAD
At this command, the recruit will halt; then carry the right foot to the rear and to the right of the left heel, and in a position convenient for placing the right knee upon the ground in bending the left leg. Place the right knee upon the ground, lower the piece, the left fore-arm supported upon the thigh on the same side, the right hand on the small of the stock, the butt resting on the ground in front of the right knee and thus seat himself, comfortably on the right heel with the barrel pointed away from the body about 20 degrees.
Follow the load by nine sequence and when finished, place the right hand behind the trigger guard, grasping the wrist and come to the ready with the butt of the piece resting on the right thigh, the left hand supporting the piece near the lower hand.
The Instructor will command:
FIRE AND LOAD LYING.
In this exercise the squad will be in one rank and loaded: the instruction will be given individually and without times or motions.
At this command the squad will halt. Each recruit, as directed will take three paces forward, drop on both knees, and place himself on the ground flat on his belly. In this position he will support the piece nearly horizontal with the left hand, holding it near the lower band, the butt end of the piece and the left elbow resting on the ground, the barrel uppermost;
PRESENT
Cock the piece with the right hand, and carry this hand to the. small of the stock; raise the piece with both hands, press the butt against the shoulder, and resting on both elbows.
FIRE
As soon is he has fired, bring the piece down and turn upon his left side, still resting on his left elbow brim, back the piece until the cock is opposite his breast, the butt end resting on the ground
Take out a cartridge with the right hand; seize the small of the stock with this hand, holding the cartridge with the thumb and two first fingers he will then throw himself on his back still holding the piece with both hands; carry the piece to the rear, place the butt between the heels, the barrel up, the muzzle elevated.
In this position, charge the cartridge, then take the piece in both hands and raise the muzzle of the piece straight in the air and strike the butt to the ground on your right side to "ram" the load.
At this time the recruit will roll back to his left side, half cock and prime, then roll on to his belly and reassume the prone firing position.
PRESENT - FIRE
When finished the man will rise and resume his position in the ranks.
The second man will be taught what has just been prescribed for the first, and so on throughout the squad.
LESSON VI. The principles of the revolver.
In this exercise the squad will be drawn up in one rank, composed of men who have been issued, or own, revolvers.
The instructor will command:
Ground - ARMS.
The instruction will be given to each man individually, by having him take three paces forward, and in the following manner.
Prepare to withdraw REVOLVERS.
At which time the recruit will un-flap his holster with the left hand and grasp the piece, by the grip, with his right hand. The left hand will then drop to position.
Withdraw REVOLVERS.
At this command the recruit will pull the piece from it's holster, and raise it, so that his upper arm is parallel to the ground, and his forearm is perpendicular to it, with the muzzle pointed directly up.(At this time the recruit should be selecting a target)
PRESENT
At this command, the recruit will lower his forearm, while simultaneously cocking the piece with his thumb, and taking aim at his intended target.
FIRE
Once fired the recruit will raise his forearm to the perpendicular position, awaiting the next command.
Recover REVOLVERS.
Open the holster flap with the left hand and return the piece to it's place, secure the flap.
When the recruits are well established in the principles and mechanism of the step, the position of the body, and the manual of arms, the Instructor will unite eight men, at least, and twelve men, at most, in order to teach them the principles of alignment, the principles of the touch of elbows in marching to the front, the principles of the march by the flank, wheeling from a halt, wheeling in marching, and the change of direction to the side of the guide. He will place the squad in one rank elbow to elbow, and number the men from right to left.
LESSON I. The alignments.
The Instructor will at first teach the recruits to align themselves man by mail, in order the better to make them comprehend the principles of alignment; to this end, he will command the two men on the right fink to march two paces to the front, and having aligned them, he will caution the remainder of the squad to move up, as they may be successively called, each by his number, and align themselves successively on the line of the first two men.
Repeat this exercise until the men have a firm understanding of the alignment.
The instructor seeing the rank well aligned, will command:
FRONT
At this, the recruits will turn eyes to the front, and remain firm.
Alignments to the left will be executed on the same principles.
When the recruit,; shall have thus learned to align themselves man by man, correctly, and without groping or jostling, the instructor will cause the entire rank to align itself at once by the command:
Right (or left)- DRESS
At this, the rank, except the two men placed in advance as, a basis of alignment, will move up, and place themselves on the new line, according to the principles prescribed above.
The Instructor, placed five or six paces in front, and facing the rank, will carefully observe that the principles are followed, and then pass to the flank that has served as the basis, to verify the, alignment.
The Instructor seeing the greater number of the rank aligned, will command:
FRONT.
The Instructor may afterwards order this or that file forward or back, designating each by its number. The file or files designated, only, will slightly turn the head towards the basis, to judge how much they ought to move up or back, steadily place themselves on the line, and then turn eyes to the front, without a particular command to that effect.
After each alignment, the Instructor will examine the position of the men, and cause the rank to come to order arms, to prevent too much fatigue, and also the danger of negligence at shouldered arms.
LESSON II. Marching
The men having learned, in the first and second parts, to march with steadiness in common time, and to take Steps equal in length and swiftness, will be exercised in the third part only in quick time, double quick time, and the run; the instructor will cause them to execute Successively, at these different gaits, the march to the front, the facing about in marching, the march by the flank, the wheels at a halt and in marching, and the changes of direction to the side of the guides.
The Instructor will inform the recruits that at the command march, they will always move off in common time, unless this command should be preceded by that of another time.
To march to the front.
The rank being correctly aligned, when the instructor shall wish to cause it to march by the front, he will place a well instructed man on the right or the left, according to the side on which he may wish the guide to be, and command:
1. Squad, forward. 2.Guide right (or left.) 3. MARCH.
At the command march, the rank will step off smartly with the left foot; the guide will take care to march straight to the front, keeping the shoulders always in a square with that line.
The Instructor will observe, in marching to the front, that the men touch lightly the elbow towards the side of the guide; that they do not open out the left elbow, nor the right arm. That they yield to pressure coming from the side of the guide, and resist that coming from the opposite side. That they recover by in sensible degrees the slight touch of the elbow. If lost; that they maintain the head direct to the front, no matter on which side the guide may be; and if found before or behind the alignment, that the man in fault corrects himself by shortening or lengthening the step, by degrees, almost insensible.
The Instructor will labor to cause recruits to comprehend that the alignment can only be preserved, in marching, by the regularity of the step, the touch of the elbow, and the maintenance of the shoulders in a square with the line-of-direction. That if, for example, the step of some be longer than that of others, or if some march faster than others, a separation of elbows, and a loss of the alignment, would be inevitable. That if (it being required that the head should be direct to the front) they do not strictly observe the touch of elbows, it would be impossible for an individual to judge whether he marches abreast with his neighbor, or not, and whether there be not an interval between them.
The impulsion of the common step having a tendency to make men too easy and free in their movements, the instructor will be careful to regulate the cadence of this step, and to habituate them to preserve always the erectness of the body, and the due length of the pace.
The men being well established in the principles of the common time march, the instructor will exercise them in marching obliquely. The rank being in march, the instructor will command:
1. Right (or left) oblique. 2. MARCH.
At the second command, each man will make a half face to the right (or left), and will then march straight forward in the new direction. As the men no longer touch elbows, they will glance along the shoulders of the nearest files. towards the side to which they are obliquing, and will regulate their steps so that the shoulders shall always be behind that of their next neighbor on that side, and that his head shall conceal the heads of the other men in the rank. Besides this, the men should preserve the same length of pace, and the same degree of obliquity.
The Instructor, wishing to resume the primitive direction, will command:
1. Forward. 2.MARCH.
At the second command, each man will make a half face to the left (or right), and all will then march straight to the front, conforming to the principles of the direct march.
To march to the front in quick time.
When the several principles, heretofore explained, have become familiar to the recruits, and they shall be well established in the position of the body, the bearing of arms, and the mechanism, length, and swiftness of the step, the Instructor will pass them from common to quick time, and the reverse, observing not to make them march obliquely in quick time, till they are well established in the cadence of this step.
The squad being at a march in common time, the, instructor will command:
1. At the Quick step. 2.MARCH.
At the command march, which will be given when either foot is coming to the ground, the squad will step off in quick time. The men will endeavor to follow the principles laid down in the first part of this book, and to preserve the alignment.
When the instructor wishes the squad to resume the step in common time, he will command!
1. Common time. 2.MARCH.
At the command march, which will be given when either foot is coming to the ground, the squad will retake the step in common time.
The squad being in march, the instructor will halt it by the commands and means previously prescribed. The command halt, will be given an instant before the foot is ready to be placed on the ground.
The squad being in march in direct time, the instructor will occasionally cause it to mark time by the commands previously prescribed. The men will then mark quick time, without altering the cadence of the step. He will also cause them to pass from the direct to the oblique step, and reciprocally, conforming to what has been prescribed, and following.
The squad being at a halt, the instructor will cause it to march in quick time, by preceding the command march, by the quick.
The Instructor will endeavor to regulate well the cadence of this step.
To face about in marching.
If the squad be marching in direct or quick time, and the instructor should wish to march it in retreat, he will command:
1. Squad right (or left) about. 2.MARCH.
At the command march, which will be given at the instant the left foot is coming to the ground, the recruit will bring this foot to the ground, and turning on it, will face to the rear; he will then place the right foot in the new direction, and step off with the left foot.
In marching at quick, or double quick time, the men will always carry their pieces on the right shoulder or at the Ready.
This rule is general.
If the Instructor shall wish the pieces carried at the Ready, he will give the command Arms at the Ready, before the command quick, or double quick. If, on the Contrary, this command be not given, the men will shift their pieces to the right shoulder at the command quick or double quick. In either case, at the command halt, the men will bring their pieces to the position of shoulder arms.
This rule is general.
LESSON III. Turns, and the march by the flank.
The rank being at a halt, and correctly aligned, the instructor will command:
1. Squad, by the Right Flank. 2.MARCH.
At the last part of the first command, the entire squad will face to the right.
At the second command, the
squad will step off smartly with the left foot; the file keeping aligned, and
preserving their intervals.
The march by the left flank will be executed by the same commands, substituting the word left for right, and by inverse Means.
The Instructor will place a well-instructed soldier by the side of the recruit who is at the head of the rank, to regulate the step, and to conduct him; and it will be enjoined on this recruit to march always elbow to elbow with the soldier.
The Instructor will cause to be observed in the march, by the flank, the following rules:
That the step be executed according to the principles prescribed for the direct step.
Because these principles, without which men, placed elbow to elbow, in the same rank, cannot preserve unity and harmony of movement, are of a more necessary observance in marching in file.
That the head of the man who immediately precedes, covers the heads of all who are in front.
Because it is the most certain rule by which each man may maintain himself in the exact line of the file.
The instructor will place himself habitually five or six paces on the flank of the rank marching in file, to watch over the execution of the principles prescribed above. He will also place himself sometimes in its rear, halt, and suffer it to pass fifteen or twenty paces, the better to see whether the men cover each other accurately.
1. Left (or right). 2.TURN.
At the command march, the first file will change direction to the left (or right) in describing a small 90 degree wheel, and will then march straight forward; the four men of this file, in wheeling, will keep up the touch of the elbows, and the man on the side to which the wheel is made, will shorten the first three or four steps. Each file will come successively to wheel on the same spot where that which preceded it wheeled.
When he shall wish to halt the rank, marching by the flank, and to cause it to face to the front, he will command:
1.Squad. 2.HALT. 3.FRONT.
At the second command, the rank will halt, and afterwards no man will stir, although he may have lost his distance. This' prohibition is necessary, to habituate the men to a constant preservation of their distances.
At the third command, each man will front by wheeling to the left, if marching by the right flank, and by wheeling to the right, if marching by the left flank, onto line.
When the men have become accustomed to marching by the flank, the instructor will cause them to change direction by file for this purpose, he will command:
The instructor will also cause the squad to face by the right or left flank in marching, and for this purpose will command:
1. Squad by the right (or left) flank. 2.MARCH.
At the second command, which will be given a little before either foot comes to the ground, the recruits will turn the body, plant the foot that is raised in the new direction, and step off with the other foot without altering the cadence of the step.
This lesson, like the preceding one, will be practiced with pieces at a shoulder; but the instructor may, to give relief by change, occasionally order support arms, and he will require of the recruits marching in this position, as much regularity as in the former.
The march by the flank in quick time.
The principles of the march by the flank in quick time, are the same as in common time. The instructor will give the commands prescribed, taking care always to give the command quick before that of march. He will pay the greatest attention to the cadence of the step.
The instructor will cause the change of direction, and the march by the flank, to be executed in quick time, by the same commands, and according to the same principles as in direct time.
The instructor will cause the pieces to be carried either on the right shoulder or at a trail.
The instructor will sometimes march the squad by the flank.
When marching in a column, the instructor will be watchful that the men do not bend their knees unequally, which would cause them to tread on the heels of the men in front, and also to lose the cadence of the step and their distance.
The various movements in this lesson will be executed in a rank of four, two, and singly. In the changes of direction, the leading man will change direction without altering the length or the cadence of the step. The instructor will recall to the attention of the men, that in facing by the right or left flank in marching, they will normally march in a rank of fours.
LESSON IV. General principles of Wheelings.
Wheelings are of two kinds: from halts, or on fixed pivots, and in march, or on moveable pivots.
Wheeling on a fixed pivot takes place in passing a corps from the order in line to the order in column, or from the latter to the former.
Wheels in marching take place in changes of direction in column, as often as this movement is executed to the side opposite to the guide.
In wheels from a halt, the pivot-man only turns in his place, without advancing or receding.
In the wheels in marching, the
pivot takes steps of nine or eleven inches, according as the squad is marching
in quick or double quick time, so as to clear the wheeling point, which is
necessary, in order that the subdivisions of a column may change direction
without losing their distances, as will be explained in the School of the
Company.
The man on the wheeling flank will take the full step of twenty-eight inches, or
thirty-three inches, according to the gait.
Wheeling from a halt, or on a fixed pivot.
The rank being at a halt, the instructor will place a well instructed man on the wheeling flank to conduct it, and then command:
1. Right wheel. 2.MARCH.
At the second command, the rank will step off with the left foot, turning at the same time the head a little to the left, the eyes fixed on the line of the eyes of the men to their left; the pivot-man will merely mark time in gradually turning his body, in order to conform himself to the movement of the marching flank; the man who conducts this flank will take steps of twenty-eight inches, and from the first stop advance a little the left shoulder, cast his eyes from time to time along the rank and feel constantly the elbow of the next man lightly, but never push him.
The other man will feel lightly the elbow of the next man towards the pivot, resist pressure coming from the opposite side, and each will conform himself to the marching flank-shortening his step according to his approximation to the pivot.
The instructor will make the rank wheel round the circle once or twice before halting, in order to cause the principles to be the better understood, and he will be watchful that the center does not break.
He will cause the wheel to the left to be executed according to the same principles.
When the Instructor shall wish to arrest the wheel, he will command:
1. Squad. 2. HALT.
At the second command, the rank will halt, and no man stir. The instructor, going to the flank opposite the pivot, will place the two outer men of that flank in the direction he may wish to give to the rank, without however displacing the pivot; who will conform the line of his shoulders to this-direction. The instructor will take care to have between these two men, and the pivot, only the space necessary to contain the other men. He will then command:
Left (or right)- DRESS.
At this, the rank will place itself on the alignment of the two men established as the basis, in conformity with the principles prescribed.
The Instructor will next command FRONT, which will be executed as prescribed.
Remarks on the principles of the wheel from a halt.
Turn a little the head towards
the marching flank, and fix the eyes on the line of the eyes of the men who are
on that side.
Because, otherwise, it would be impossible for each man to regulate the length of his step so as to conform his own movement to that of the marching flank.
Touch lightly the elbow of the next man towards the pivot. In order that the files may not open out in the wheel.
Resist pressure that comes front the side of the marching flank.
Because, if this principle be neglected, the pivot, which ought to be a fixed point, in wheels from a halt might be pushed out of its place by pressure.
Wheeling in marching, or on a movable pivot.
When the recruits have been taught to execute well the wheel from a halt, they will be taught to wheel in marching.
To this end, the rank being in march, when the instructor shall wish to cause it to change direction to the reverse flank (to the side opposite to the guide or pivot flank,) he will command:
1.Right (or left) wheel.2.MARCH.
The first command will be given when the rank is yet four paces from the wheeling point.
At the second command, the wheel will be executed in the same manner as from a halt, except that the touch of the elbow will remain towards the marching flank (or side of the guide) instead of the side of the actual pivot; that the pivot man, instead of merely turning in his place, will conform himself to the movement of the marching flank feel lightly the elbow of the next man, take steps of full nine inches, and thus gain ground forward in describing a small curve so as to clear the point of the wheel. The middle of the rank will bend slightly to the rear. As soon as the movement shall commence, the man who conducts the marching flank will cast his eyes on the ground over which he will have to pass.
The wheel being ended, the instructor will command:
1.Forward.2.MARCH.
The first command will be pronounced when four paces are yet required to complete the change of direction.
At the command march, which will be given at the instant of completing the wheel., the man who conducts the marching flank will direct himself straight forward; the pivot-man and all the rank will retake the step of twenty-eight inches, and bring the head direct to the front.
Turning, or change of direction to the side of the guide.
The change of direction to the side of the guide, in marching, will be executed as follows: The instructor will command
1. Left (or right). 2.TURN.
The first command will be given when the rank is yet four paces from the turning point.
At the command TURN, to be pronounced at the instant the rank ought to turn, the guide will shorten his step to about 11 inches, turning to the left (or right) in marching, and move forward in the new direction without slackening or quickening the cadence. The whole rank will promptly wheel itself to the new direction; to effect which, each man will advance the shoulder opposite, to the guide, take the double or double quick step, to carry himself in the new direction, turning the head and eyes to the side of the guide, and maintain the touch of the elbow on that side
Wheeling and changing direction to the side of the guide, in quickened time.
When the recruits comprehend and execute well, in common time, the wheels, at a halt and in marching, and the change of direction to the side of the guide, -the instructor will cause the same movements to be repeated in quick time, and double quick time.
These various movements will be executed by the same commands and according to the same principles as in common time, except that the command quick, or double quick will precede that of march. In wheeling while marching, the pivot man will take steps of eleven inches, and in the changes of direction to the side of the guide, the men on the side opposite the guide must increase the gait in order to bring themselves onto line.
The Instructor, in order not to fatigue the recruits, and not to divide their attention, will cause them to execute the several movements of which this lesson is composed, first without arms, and next, after the mechanism be well comprehended, with arms.
LESSON V. Long marches in quick time and the run, with arms.
The instructor will cause to be resumed the exercises in quick time and the run, with arms and accoutrements.
He will cause long marches to be executed in quick time, both by the front and by the flank, and by constant practice will lead the men to pass over a distance of five miles in sixty minutes. The pieces will be carried on either shoulder, and sometimes at a trail.
He will also exercise them in long marches at a run, the pieces carried at will; the men will be instructed to keep as united as possible, without however exacting much regularity, which is impracticable.
The run, in actual service, will only be resorted to when it may be highly important to reach a given point with great promptitude.
Safety
By Jonah Begone
edited by WRG
This article originally appeared in the April, 1991 issue of Camp Chase Gazette (Vol. XVIII, No.5)
Heaven knows I don't have the brains to set myself up as yet another Black Powder Expert, but in the interest of a safe and happy reenactment fraternity, please read and heed.
1.Magnum rounds are uncool. No one can pick out your individual shot in company and battalion firing anyway, so why waste the powder? (And if they can, you might get the reputation for being a fool and neither you nor your unit needs that kind of attention.) 60 grains 2Fg is the standard load for National Park Service weekends. Fight the temptation to use more than a sensible and frugal 80 grains 2Fg elsewhere.
2.Clean out that barrel! Why? Because there is a direct relationship between the dirtiness of the inside of your barrel and the possibility of a "cook-off." If you don't do a thorough job of cleaning out the black powder goo that accumulated from the last event, after a shot or two sparks can reside therein and give you an unpleasant surprise when you next pour powder! By the way, remove the barrel from the stock when you clean - you'll do a better job.
3.Avoid a sloppy "right shoulder shift" you know, when you're not keeping the butt end of your rifle snug against the upper part of your chest. What happens - and you can't see it - is that your rifle barrel threatens to bop the guy behind you. This can be a real problem when you're loaded, in "company front" and running. The guy behind you is then looking right down your barrel. Not a reassuring sight.(Note: if your right shoulder shift is comfortable, you're probably not doing it correctly!)
4.Get some firing space between you and the enemy! Why make 'em mad? Give it 50 yards at the closest, and then elevate your musket.
5.The definition of a combat "safe" musket: At the half-cock, cap off nipple. Your half-cock can be tested by supporting your rifle's weight upside down by the trigger; it passes if the hammer doesn't release to strike the nipple. And never run around with the hammer down onto an unexploded cap - you could drop the rifle on its hammer and have it go off.
6.Discharge weapon before taking a hit. You can never tell where that thing will end up pointing to (could be your face), and one good kick could set it off. Then you'd really take a hit! This also goes when "charging" an enemy position. If you have a "hot" weapon when the order to "charge" is given, dump the load.
7.Never use your ramrod in a battle. The reasoning here is that you could get frenzied and careless with the realism of it all and accidentally send your ramrod flying into someone (it has happened).Even if you're the cool type, other guys can see you ram and get nervous about it, and once again, your unit probably doesn't want that kind of publicity. If you have a weapon problem, step out of line and see your nearest NCO, or even easier, dump the charge, and take a hit.
8.Never use a nipple pick when loaded. You could ignite the powder charge when your rifle is pointing somewhere you rationally wouldn't want it to. Don't believe me? - I saw it happen once! (And if when you're firing the powder charge doesn't go off, re-cap and try again. If you're still firing duds, dump powder and then pick.).
Remember these kindly little hints and watch out for one another.
Safety on the Line
By WRG
Safety in the field is paramount in reenacting, and that means primarily weapon safety. For the Cavalryman, specifically musket AND pistol safety. YOU are responsible for the integrity of your weapons. If you feel a piece is NOT in a safe working order, do not use it. Go through the Safety Tips, and the Event Safety Standards. Practice the loadings and firings. I will attempt here to put the logic behind the sequence.
Prior to each battle, at each event, you will also be subject to a weapons inspection.. With that in mind,
SQUAD, FALL IN. ATTENTION. INSPECTION ARMS. The instructors will inspect the weapons. While attending the School of the Soldier, you will go through a process of loading and firing. This process is designed to make the firing of the piece as safe as possible, and to make the piece safe, even between firings.
LONG ARMS Unloaded musket, and unfired. Firing by the Nines. The safety in procedure.
LOAD- Left foot on the line and right foot behind and to the right about one foot, and turned outward, Place the butt inside the left foot. With the barrel to the front; seize it with the left hand near the muzzle, which should be about 20 degrees away from the body; carry the right hand to the cartridge box.
Handle-CARTRIDGE
Tear-CARTRIDGE
Charge- CARTRIDGE
PRIME- Half-cock. Remove the old cap with one of the fingers of the right hand.
ARMS at the READY-
PRESENT - Raise and cock the piece. Instructors will be careful to observe that they aim at some distinct object.. e.g. the top of a tree line beyond the opposing force… the closer the "target" the higher the elevation.
FIRE-
This process is repeated for subsequent firings. When firing independently, the identical process is used, but independent of firing commands and at the individual soldier's pace. Notice that when charging the weapon, the hammer should be down, on an exploded cap. This serves the same function as covering the vent on an artillery piece. It prevents air (oxygen) from getting into the barrel, suppressing potential sparks that could ignite the next powder charge.
Become accustomed to the order of events! It's for your own safety!
REVOLVERS
Pistols are also a primary safety issue. They should be carried in a military style flap holster, or in an open holster that secures the weapon in place by a strap, which precludes the cocking of the piece.
Some style pistols have a safety notch between chambers, Colts and others do not. When a pistol is fully loaded, the hammer should ALWAYS be placed half way between two chambers. After the firing sequence, it should lie on an exploded cap. When returning your piece to it's holster, it should be secured in one of these two conditions.
NEVER put a pistol in a holster with the hammer resting on an unfired chamber!!!
Again, the firing sequence is designed for optimum safety.
1. Prepare to Withdraw REVOLVERS. At which time the recruit will un-flap his holster with the left hand and grasp the piece, by the grip, with his right hand. The left hand will then drop to position
2.