Colt AR-15 Semi-Automatic Rifle PDF

LESSON PROCEDURE CONTENT INSTRUCTOR NOTES Introduce yourself Ground Rules Grabber Administer the Pre-Test INTRODUCTION: The Colt AR-15 semi-automatic rifle remains the most reliable rifle for department use. During today's class, you will receive instruction on nomenclature, wall tower storage, and...

LESSON PROCEDURE CONTENT INSTRUCTOR NOTES Introduce yourself Ground Rules Grabber Administer the Pre-Test INTRODUCTION: The Colt AR-15 semi-automatic rifle remains the most reliable rifle for department use. During today's class, you will receive instruction on nomenclature, wall tower storage, and the fundamentals of rifle shooting. VALUE: The knowledge acquired during this instruction is essential for you to be able to properly handle and qualify with this weapon. OBJECTIVES: At the end of this class, each student will be able to do the following as discussed in class: 1. List the make, model, and caliber for the DOCCS authorized rifle. 2. In proper sequence, list the four (4) steps for wall tower storage of the DOCCS authorized rifle. 3. List the five (5) fundamentals of rifle shooting. Page 2 of 45 TELL CLASS STATE TO CLASS LESSON PROCEDURE CONTENT SECTION I, RIFLE NOMENCLATURE BEGINS: OBJECTIVE 1: List the make, model, and caliber for the DOCCS authorized rifle. INSTRUCTOR NOTES TELL CLASS STATE TO CLASS A. Colt AR-15.223 Rifle Nomenclature 1. Rifle Characteristics Make: Colt Model: AR-15 Series #: SP-1, A-2, A-2 Sporter 2, and Match Target Caliber:.223 or 5.56mm Caliber: Generally, the diameter of a rifled bore before the rifling grooves are cut; for the purpose of measurement of rifled bore, caliber is the distance measured from land to land in decimal parts of an inch or millimeters across the diameter of the bore. Action Type: Gas Operated-Semi Automatic Weight: Approximately 7 pounds Overall Length: 39 inches Sight Radius: 19 ¾ inches Barrel Length: 20 inches Action: The breech mechanism of a firearm which locks the cartridge in the chamber. Page 3 of 45 Weapon has a definitive top, bottom, left side, and right side. Write characteristics on the chalkboard LESSON PROCEDURE OBJECTIVE 1 CONT.: CONTENT 2. Rifle Components Magazine: A cartridge container, in whatever form, where the follower under spring pressure, forces the cartridges into position to be fed into the chamber of a firearm. The magazine is made up of four parts: 1) Magazine Body: main portion of the magazine 2) Floor Plate: located at the bottom of the magazine 3) Follower: spring loaded plate that positions cartridges to be fed into the chamber 4) Magazine Spring: provides tension for the follower INSTRUCTOR NOTES TELL CLASS Box type magazine with a maximum capacity of 5 rounds Identify and explain the “rib” or “weld” of the magazine Nomenclature of the rifle will be covered in three groups. They are: 1) The Barrel Group 2) The Receiver Group 3) The Stock Group Barrel Group Barrel: The metal tube of a firearm through which the projectile or shot passes. Bore: The hole through the center of the barrel of a firearm. Rifling: A series of spiral lands and grooves in the bore of a firearm, which imparts spin or rotation on the projectile giving the projectiles stability and accuracy in flight. The lands are the uncut portions, and the grooves are the cut portions. Grooves: The spiral cuts in the bore of a firearm that gives the projectile spin as it moves down the bore. Land: In a rifled bore, one of the uncut portions of the surfaces left after the grooves have been cut. Page 4 of 45 The bore is chrome lined. Rate of twist = 1 complete turn in 12 inches of barrel The rifle has 6 lands and 6 grooves: varies between models, which will be discussed shortly. LESSON PROCEDURE OBJECTIVE 1 CONT.: CONTENT Muzzle: The most forward end of the barrel. INSTRUCTOR NOTES TELL CLASS Breech: The most rearward portion of the barrel. Chamber: The enlarged portion of the bore at the breech which receives the cartridge for firing. Flash Suppressor: A device attached to the muzzle-end of a firearm that serves to disrupt or reduce the amount of flame produced upon firing. Sight Adjustment: The manual adjustment of sights to change the point of impact of the projectile. Front Sight Assembly: Front Sight: Post type (adjustable for elevation – each click of adjustment will change the point of impact up or down 1 inch at 100 yards). Front Sight Protectors: Metal wings or ears that protect the front sight from being bent or broken off. Bayonet Stud: Attaching point for a bayonet Front Sling Swivel: Forward attaching point for a sling. Explain: students never attempt to adjust sights. Handguards: Made of Cycolac®: a durable synthetic material of high impact strength. Handguards are aluminum lined and are vented to permit air to circulate around the barrel. They also protect your hands from the heat, and protect the gas tube. Triangular handguards have a definitive right side and left side. Not to be used in proper sight alignment. Bayonet not used by DOCCS. Not all facilities use the Elevation: The vertical adjustment, of any firearm sight, that sling. alters the point of impact of the projectile on the target. Page 5 of 45 LESSON PROCEDURE OBJECTIVE 1 CONT.: CONTENT Gas Operated: A system of firearm operation in which a portion of the propellant gases produced upon firing, follow the projectile down the bore, and are vented from the bore through a small port. The venting of these gases provides the power to complete the functioning cycle. INSTRUCTOR NOTES TELL CLASS Gas Tube: Redirects vented propellant gases rearward to initiate the functioning cycle. Slip Ring: Holds the hand guards in place. Receiver Group Carrying Handle: We do not use the carrying handle to carry the weapon. We do use it for mounting optically assisted sights, or to attach a brass deflector. Rear Sight: Peep type (adjustable for windage) there are two rear sight apertures. One is for short range (0-300 yards), and the second is for long range (300-500 yards). You will find an “L” stamped underneath the long-range aperture. STRESS: STUDENTS NEVER ATTEMPT TO ADJUST SIGHTS. Windage: The lateral adjustment of the rear sight of a firearm. Due to the maximum effective range of the rifle, DOCCS utilizes the shortrange aperture. Windage Drum: Used to adjust the rear sight. Each click of adjustment will change the point of impact left or right 1 inch at 100 yards. Trajectory: The curved path of a projectile in flight from the time it leaves the muzzle until the point of impact. Zero: The sight setting of a rifle or handgun that will place the projectile into the center of a target. Page 6 of 45 LESSON PROCEDURE OBJECTIVE 1 CONT.: CONTENT Sight Radius: The distance between the front sight and the rear sight. INSTRUCTOR NOTES TELL CLASS Charging Handle: Allows the shooter to charge the chamber or open the action. Charging Handle Lock: Locks the charging handle forward. Ejection Port: The hole in the right side of the receiver through which spent casings or live cartridges are ejected. Dust Cover: Located on the right side of the receiver. Keeps dirt and dust out of the action. Also used in lefthanded unloading techniques. Bold Carrier Assembly: 1. Bolt: Rotating type: rotates counter-clock-wise and locks the cartridge into the chamber. 2. Extractor: A device that withdraws the cartridge or case from the chamber. 3. Ejector: The mechanism that throws the cartridge free of the weapon. 4. Free-Floating Firing Pin: The part of the breech mechanism, which strikes the primer of the cartridge. Magazine Release Button: Used to release the magazine from the magazine loading port. Located at the right side of the receiver. Magazine Loading Port: Hole in the bottom of the receiver, which receives the box type magazine. Trigger: The mechanical device that activates a firearm when moved (trigger pressure is 5-8 lbs.) Page 7 of 45 Dust cover is never to be in the closed position LESSON PROCEDURE OBJECTIVE 1 CONT.: CONTENT Trigger Guard: Protects the trigger from damage and accidental discharge INSTRUCTOR NOTES TELL CLASS APPLICATION QUESTION: What is the caliber of the DOCCS approved rifle? ASK SPECIFIC STUDENT ANSWER:.223 or 5.56mm REPEAT ANSWER Pistol Grip: Used by the controlling hand to maintain control of the weapon. Bolt Catch: (Has two functions) Top of the bolt catch releases the bolt. Bottom of the bolt catch locks the bolt to the rear. Located on the left side of the receiver. DEMONSTRATE Safety Selector Lever: Two positions: safe is parallel with the barrel or pointing toward the word (safe), and fire is perpendicular with the barrel pointing toward the word (fire). Note: Rotary type safety Stock Group Comb of the Stock: The uppermost portion of the stock. That part of the stock where the shooter places his/her cheek for firing. Butt: The rearmost end of a rifle stock. Butt Plate: A plate attached to the rearmost portion of any rifle. Toe: The lowermost rear portion of the butt of the stock. Heel: The uppermost rear portion of the butt of the stock. Page 8 of 45 EXPLAIN: storage compartment LESSON PROCEDURE CONTENT OBJECTIVE 1 CONT.: INSTRUCTOR NOTES Buffer Spring: A large coil spring, which provides the return TELL CLASS energy to complete the functioning cycle. Buffer: A metal or nylon part, which separates the buffer spring and the bolt carrier assembly. The buffer is weighted to ensure the action is locked during firing. Rear Sling Swivel: Rearward attaching point for a sling. 3. Rifle Functioning There are eight basic steps, or actions, which take place in the functioning of a semi-automatic rifle. Semi-Automatic: The method of operation of a repeating firearm in which the loaded and cocked firearm fires the cartridge, unlocks the action, extracts the spent cartridge, ejects the empty case, re-cocks the hammer, feeds a live cartridge into position, chambers the cartridge, and locks the action; all in one pull of the trigger. To fire another round, the trigger must be released and then pulled again. 1. 2. 3. 4. Firing Unlocking Extracting Ejecting 5. 6. 7. 8. Cocking Feeding Chambering Locking When the trigger is pulled on the AR-15 the internal hammer is released. It travels forward striking the free-floating firing pin indenting the primer causing a spark, which ignites the powder. When the powder burns, it creates expanding gasses that cannot be contained in the volume of the case. The projectile is pushed forward towards the point of least resistance. A portion of the burning gases follow the projectile and are vented up through a small port in the bore located under the front sight assembly. Page 9 of 45 EXPLAIN THE EIGHT (8) STEPS LESSON PROCEDURE OBJECTIVE 1 CONT.: CONTENT INSTRUCTOR NOTES The gases also travel rearward through the gas tube unlocking TELL CLASS the bolt forcing the bolt carrier assembly rearward. During this rearward movement, the extractor withdraws the empty casing from the chamber. The ejector throws the spent casing out of the ejection port. As the bolt carrier assembly continues to travel rearward, the internal hammer is cocked. The bolt carrier assembly is pushed into the buffer, which compresses the buffer spring. Once the propellant gases have been exhausted the buffer spring expands pushing the buffer into the bolt carrier assembly forcing the bolt carrier assembly forward, which feeds a live round from the magazine into the chamber. The bolt then rotates and locks. The trigger must be released and pulled again to fire another round. AR-15 Variations: The AR-15 is the only DOCCS approved rifle for use in facility operations. As Colt continues to improve their AR-15, they have offered newer models. These rifles have been slightly modified or changed. The AR-15 models used by DOCCS are: 1. 2. 3. 4. AR-15 (SP-1), Most common rifle in service AR-15 (A-2) AR-15 (A-2 Sporter 2) AR-15 (Match Target) Most current version in our arsenals AR-15 A-2 Variations: rate of twist is one (1) turn in seven (7) inches of barrel, muzzle compensator, squared off front sight, heavy barrel, cylindrical hand guards, forward assist, bullet drop compensator, built in brass deflector, molded pistol grip, stock is 1 inch longer. long distance aperture is used on the rear sight, windage knob, a-2 slip-ring (triangular). Crown: A feature found at the muzzle end of a rifled barrel which serves to protect the rifling (note: Match Target only). Page 10 of 45 EXPLAIN VARIATIONS EXPLAIN: the smaller aperture allows for more precise shooting. For this reason, DOCCS uses the smaller of the two apertures when shooting. LESSON PROCEDURE OBJECTIVE 1 CONT.: CONTENT INSTRUCTOR NOTES Muzzle Compensator: A device fitted to the muzzle end of any firearm whose function is to reduce the upward movement of the muzzle brought about by recoil (note: A2 series only). TELL CLASS AR-15 A-2 Sporter 2 Variations: same as the AR-15 A-2 except no bullet drop compensator. The overall length of the weapon will vary depending on the model variation. AR-15 Match Target Variations: same as the AR-15 A-2 except no flash suppressor/muzzle compensator, or bayonet stud. 4. Rifle Safeties Rotary Type Safety: a device that blocks the firing mechanism of a weapon so that it cannot be fired accidentally. Safety Selector Lever: two positions: safe is parallel with the barrel or pointing toward the word (safe). Fire is perpendicular to the barrel or pointing toward the word (fire). Page 11 of 45 The Safety Selector Lever is not the safety. It is used to put the safety on and to take it off. LESSON PROCEDURE CONTENT OBJECTIVE 1 CONT.: INSTRUCTOR NOTES TELL CLASS B. Ammunition 1. Four Components of a Rifle Cartridge Centerfire Cartridge: A cartridge whose primer is located in the center of the base of the case. Cartridge: The complete assembly consisting of projectile, case, primer, and powder charge. Projectile: Any object propelled through a firearm’s bore by a power source. Primer: A small metal cup held friction tight in the primer pocket of a centerfire cartridge case or shot shell hull, which contains the priming compound. Page 12 of 45 DRAW ON CHALKBOARD/ NEWSPRINT LESSON PROCEDURE CONTENT OBJECTIVE 1 CONT.: TELL CLASS 2. Rifle Ammunition Characteristics Caliber:.223 (Remington) or 5.56mm (NATO) Projectile Weight: 55 Grain Projectile Type: Full Metal Jacket Grain: A unit of weight equal to 1/7000 of a pound. Maximum Range: Approximately 2 miles The approximate distance that a projectile will travel when fired from a weapon at a 45-degree angle unchecked. Maximum Effective Range: 200 yards The distance at which the average trained shooter should be able to shoot and disable his/her opponent, each and every time. Muzzle Velocity: Approximately 3300 ft. per second Muzzle Velocity: The speed of the projectile in flight at the muzzle. 3. Functioning of the Cartridge The primer is struck creating a spark, which ignites the powder charge. The burning powder creates expanding gases, which propel the projectile from the case and down the bore. MINI-SUMMARY: INSTRUCTOR NOTES The make, model, and caliber of the DOCCS authorized rifle is the Colt AR-15.223 or 5.56mm caliber rifle. SECTION I, RIFLE NOMENCLATURE ENDS: Page 13 of 45 WRITE ON CHALKBOARD/ NEWSPRINT LESSON PROCEDURE SECTION II, RIFLE PROCEDURES BEGINS: OBJECTIVE 2: CONTENT INSTRUCTOR NOTES In proper sequence, list the four (4) steps for wall tower storage of the DOCCS authorized rifle. STATE TO CLASS Procedures TELL CLASS Benched Condition: Whenever the rifle is in the benched or grounded condition, it will be in the following condition: 1. Safety on 2. Action open 3. Unloaded/Magazine removed 4. Ejection port facing up 5. Charging handle locked forward 6. Muzzle pointed down range or in a safe direction Benched Visual Inspection: Without touching the weapon, look through the ejection port into the chamber checking for any rounds or obstructions. Look into the magazine loading port again looking for rounds or obstructions. EXPLAIN AND DEMONSTRATE STEPS IN DETAIL Strong Hand Carry: Whenever this weapon is transported, it will be carried in the strong hand carry. 1. Strong hand on the pistol grip, trigger finger along the receiver 2. Muzzle vertical 3. Charging handle resting on the strong shoulder 4. Weak hand at your side DEMONSTRATE STEPS IN DETAIL Bladed Position: All loading, unloading, and checking of the rifle will be done in the bladed position. The bladed position is as follows: 1. Muzzle pointed down range or in a safe direction 2. Strong hand on the pistol grip, index finger along the receiver, weak hand on the hand-guards 3. Shooter will be standing with their weak side facing down range or in a safe direction, weapon will be at waist level, barrel parallel with the ground. DEMONSTRATE STEPS IN DETAIL Page 14 of 45 LESSON PROCEDURE CONTENT OBJECTIVE 2 CONT.: INSTRUCTOR NOTES TELL CLASS Wall Tower Storage We use the acronym “S.A.F.E.” to help us remember the four steps, in proper sequence, for wall tower storage of the AR-15 rifle. 1. S: Safety on, a safe and clear weapon 2. A: Action closed on a known empty chamber 3. F: Five rounds loaded into a box-type magazine inserted into the rifle 4. E: Erect (or upright) in the rack Load the Magazine: To properly load the box-type magazine, hold the magazine in your weak hand with the weld or rib in the web of your weak hand with the follower facing up. Place a cartridge on top of the follower facing the same way as the facsimile of the cartridge on the follower, and push down on the cartridge until it passes the “lips” on the magazine. Continue to load cartridges until you have loaded 5 cartridges into the magazine. Hold the magazine by the bottom of the magazine with your strong hand and strike the weld or rib on the heel of your weak hand to seat the cartridges to the rear. The “S” Step: The first step of wall tower storage is: Safety on, a safe and clear weapon. Visual Inspection: Starting with a properly benched or grounded weapon, perform a visual inspection Page 15 of 45 DEFINE ACRONYM NOTE: THE MAGAZINE MUST BE LOADED PRIOR TO THE FIRST STEP OF WALL TOWER STORAGE STRESS: PER DOCCS POLICY AND PROCEDURE, THE MAXIMUM CAPACITY IN ANY BOX-TYPE MAGAZINE WILL BE 5 ROUNDS. EXPLAIN THE IMPORTANCE OF A SAFETY CHECK LESSON PROCEDURE CONTENT OBJECTIVE 2 CONT.: INSTRUCTOR NOTES TELL CLASS Come to Bladed Position: DEMONSTRATE IN DETAIL Place your strong hand on the pistol grip index finger along the receiver; place your weak hand on the hand guards. Pick the rifle up just enough to turn it over to check the safety making sure the safety selector lever is pointing towards the word safe or is parallel with the barrel. Shooter will come to the strong hand carry, report to a safe area, and come to the bladed position by stepping rearward with your strong foot, pivoting on the ball of your weak foot, simultaneously lowering the muzzle so the barrel is parallel to the ground and bringing your weak hand to the hand guards with the muzzle pointed downrange or in a safe direction. Check the Safety: Shooter will now rotate the weapon clockwise onto its right side, making sure the safety selector lever is pointed towards the word safe or is parallel with the barrel. Check the Chamber: Shooter will turn the weapon counter clockwise onto its left side, tip the muzzle down and look through the ejection port into the chamber checking for rounds or obstructions. STRESS: THE CHAMBER IS THE AREA TO CHECK. Check the Magazine Loading Port: Shooter will continue to rotate the weapon counter clockwise so the magazine loading port is facing up. Look into the magazine loading port checking for rounds or obstructions. If there are no obstructions present, return to the bladed position. DEMONSTRATE IN DETAIL Page 16 of 45 LESSON PROCEDURE CONTENT OBJECTIVE 2 CONT.: INSTRUCTOR NOTES TELL CLASS Check the Bore: Right-Hand Procedure: Bring the rifle forward slightly to clear the butt end of the stock from under your strong elbow then back over your strong elbow making sure the ejection port is facing up to allow light to enter the bore. Extend your strong arm to the rear. The weak hand will cup the flash suppressor or muzzle end of the barrel. Look down the bore checking for rounds or obstructions. Left-Hand Procedure: After checking the magazine loading port bring the rifle straight back along their left side at the same time rotating the rifle to keep the ejection port facing up to allow light to enter the bore. Weak hand will cup the flash suppressor or muzzle end of the barrel. Look down the bore checking for rounds or obstructions. After completion of the safety check the shooter will return to the bladed position. The “A” Step: The second step of wall tower storage is: Action closed on a known empty chamber. Right-Hand Procedure: The right-handed shooter will cup the front of the magazine loading port with the weak hand. Fingertips will extend below the ejection port; weak hand thumb will depress the top of the bold catch to close the action. Left-Hand Procedure: The left-handed shooter will use the trigger finger of the strong hand to depress the top of the bolt catch to close the action. Page 17 of 45 STRESS: THE SHOOTER MUST SEE LIGHT WHILE CHECKING THE BORE. For AR-15 rifles that do not have a flash suppressor, cup the muzzle end of the barrel while checking the bore. USE CAUTION NOT TO HAVE FINGERS IN THE EJECTION PORT WHEN CLOSING THE ACTION LESSON PROCEDURE OBJECTIVE 2 CONT.: CONTENT The “F” Step: The third step of wall tower storage is: Five rounds loaded into a box- type magazine inserted into the rifle. Both right and left-hand shooters will pick up a box-type magazine placing the weld or ribbed portion of the magazine in the web of the weak hand. Inspect the magazine to see that the cartridges are properly seated and gently insert the magazine into the magazine loading port pushing up until it clicks into place. Give the magazine a tug downward to make sure it is locked in place. The “E” Step: The fourth step of wall tower storage is: Erect (or upright) in the rack. Both right and left-handers will come to strong hand carry. While keeping the muzzle above your head and pointed in a safe direction, carefully place the rifle in the rack. Check safety before leaving the rack. Unloading: NOTE: Right Handed: Visually inspect safety if possible before picking up weapon from the rack remembering to keep your head below the muzzle. 1. Pick up the weapon and check the safety to be sure that it is on. Come to the strong hand carry, and go to a safe area. Blade your target, keeping the muzzle downrange or in a safe direction. 2. Grasp the magazine with the weak hand the same way you inserted it. 3. Press the magazine release button with the index finger of the strong hand and guide the magazine out. Secure the magazine either in your weak rear pocket or on the bench. 4. To open the action, rotate the weapon clockwise onto its right side, ejection port facing down, pistol grip placed in the waist. Page 18 of 45 INSTRUCTOR NOTES TELL CLASS STRESS: ALWAYS KEEP THE MUZZLE ABOVE YOUR HEAD WHEN PLACING IN OR REMOVING THE RIFLE FROM THE RACK. STRESS DEMONSTRATE LESSON PROCEDURE CONTENT OBJECTIVE 2 CONT.: 5. With your weak hand palm cover the magazine loading port with your weak hand finger tips covering the ejection port, taking control of the weapon with the weak hand. 6. Use the index and middle finger of your strong hand to pull the charging handle completely to the rear and hold it there. 7. Depress bottom of the bolt catch with the weak thumb locking the action open, push the charging handle forward until it locks in place. Return to the bladed position. 8. Last step – perform a complete safety check. APPLICATION QUESTION: ANSWER: NOTE: In proper sequence, list the four steps for wall tower storage of the Department authorized rifle. 1. S: Safety on, a safe and clear weapon 2. A: Action closed on a known empty chamber 3. F: Five rounds loaded into a box-type magazine inserted into the rifle 4. E: Erect (or upright) in the rack Left Handed: Visually inspect safety if possible before picking up weapon from the rack remembering to keep your head below the muzzle. 1. Pick up the weapon and check the safety to be sure that it is on. Come to the strong hand carry and go to a safe area. Blade your target, keeping the muzzle pointed down range or in a safe direction. 2. Grasp the magazine with the weak hand the same way you inserted it. 3. Press the magazine release button with the thumb of the weak hand and guide the magazine out, and secure the magazine in your weak rear pocket or on the bench. Page 19 of 45 INSTRUCTOR NOTES TELL CLASS This is done in order to catch and secure a round, which may be loaded in the chamber. If there were a round in the chamber, secure the round and continue unloading procedures. ASK SPECIFIC STUDENT REPEAT ANSWER STRESS DEMONSTRATE LESSON PROCEDURE OBJECTIVE 2 CONT.: CONTENT 4. To open the action, rotate the weapon counter-clockwise onto its left side with the ejection port facing up, pistol grip placed into the waist. 5. With your weak hand palm, cover the magazine loading port, with your weak hand thumb, lift the dust cover just enough to prevent the cartridge from ejecting out of the port. 6. Use the index and middle finger of your strong hand to pull the charging handle completely to the rear, and hold it there. 7. Use any finger of your weak hand that will reach to depress the bottom of the bolt catch locking the action open. Push the charging handle forward until it locks in place. 8. Last step – perform a complete safety check. Charging the Chamber: Slide your weak hand rearward so that the pinky (little finger) is under the slip ring taking control of the weapon at the slip ring. Form a “v” with your strong hand index and middle fingers and place them on the charging handle. Pull the charging handle all the way to the rear letting your fingers slide off the charging handle allowing it to travel forward under pressure from the buffer spring. Do not ride the charging handle forward as this may cause a malfunction, or stoppage. Operating the Safety: To take the safety off of “safe”, the right-handed shooter will: keep their strong hand on the pistol grip with their index finger along the receiver, and with their strong hand thumb, reach up and rotate the safety selector lever clockwise ¼ turn by pushing down on the most rearward portion of the safety selector lever with their strong hand thumb. Page 20 of 45 INSTRUCTOR NOTES TELL CLASS This is done in order to catch and secure a round, which may be loaded in the chamber. If there were a round in the chamber, secure the round and continue unloading procedures. STRESS DEMONSTRATE LESSON PROCEDURE OBJECTIVE 2 CONT.: CONTENT INSTRUCTOR NOTES To put the safety on “safe”, the right-handed shooter will: keep their TELL CLASS strong hand on the pistol grip, index finger along the receiver, and with their strong hand thumb, rotate the safety selector lever ¼ turn counter-clockwise by pushing rearward on the lowest portion of the safety selector lever with their strong hand thumb. To take the safety off of “safe”, the left-handed shooter will: keep their strong hand on the pistol grip and with their strong hand index finger, rotate the safety selector lever ¼ turn clockwise by pushing down on the most rearward portion of the safety selector lever with their strong hand index finger. To put the safety on “safe”, the left-handed shooter will: Keep their strong hand on the pistol grip, and with their strong hand index finger rotate the safety selector lever ¼ turn counter-clockwise by pushing rearward on the lowest portion of the safety selector lever with their strong hand index finger. Stoppages and Immediate Action: A stoppage is any unintentional interruption of the cycle of operation. Some common causes are: faulty ammunition; a faulty and/or dirty weapon; and shooter error (e.g. stove pipe). Malfunction: A mechanical or physical problem with a weapon which prevents it from operating (e.g. buffer spring problem, magazine failure, firing pin faults, etc.). Hang Fire: The delayed ignition of a cartridge. Shooter Error: A shooter induced error which prevents the weapon from being fired (e.g. improper loading of the magazine, improper trigger follow through, double tap). Squib Load: A cartridge characterized by a reduced recoil and sound, usually caused by an insufficient powder charge. Page 21 of 45 EXPLAIN LESSON PROCEDURE CONTENT OBJECTIVE 2 CONT.: NOTE: INSTRUCTOR NOTES TELL CLASS If a malfunction occurs in an EMERGENCY SITUATION the following immediate action should be taken: 1. TAP: Strike the bottom of the magazine to make sure it is fully seated. 2. RACK: Recharge the chamber by pulling back on the charging handle and releasing it. Make sure that the bolt is locked closed. If the weapon is equipped with a forward assist, strike the forward assist before attempting to fire. 3. REASSESS: At this time, reassess the need to shoot. If it becomes apparent that the weapon cannot be placed in operation, notify the nearest armed post that your rifle is out of service and contact your immediate supervisor for replacement. Page 22 of 45 STRESS BE AWARE THAT WHEN A MALFUNCTION TAKES PLACE, A LIVE ROUND MAY BE DISCHARGED FROM THE EJECTION PORT. DEPENDING ON THE SITUATION, IT MAY BECOME NECESSARY TO TRANSITION TO ANOTHER AVAILABLE WEAPON. LESSON PROCEDURE OBJECTIVE 2 CONT.: CONTENT Transferring an Unloaded Rifle: When transferring a rifle to another person you must complete the following steps: 1. Perform a complete safety check. 2. Before exchanging the rifle, move your strong hand to the butt of the stock, and your weak hand to the hand guards, receiver approximately eye level, muzzle vertical. 3. Show safety selector lever – rotate weapon ¼ turn so that the safety selector is facing person receiving weapon, receiving person acknowledges safety is on. 4. Show chamber – rotate weapon ½ turn so that the ejection port is facing person receiving weapon, receiving person looks through the ejection port into the chamber and acknowledges the chamber is safe and clear. 5. Show magazine loading port – rotate weapon ¼ turn so that magazine loading port is facing the person receiving weapon, receiving person looks into the magazine loading port and acknowledges that it is safe and clear. 6. Rotate the weapon ½ turn so that the carrying handle is facing the person receiving the weapon. 7. The person receiving the rifle will place their strong hand on the pistol grip, index finger along the receiver, weak hand on the hand guards and acknowledge having control of the rifle. 8. The person taking control will come to the strong hand carry and report to a safe area and perform a complete safety check. Safety Precautions: AR-15 shooters should be aware that accidental discharges are possible under certain circumstances since the AR-15 is equipped with a free-floating firing pin: 1. Whenever charging the chamber, the muzzle should be pointed downrange or in a safe direction due to the possibility of an accidental discharge. 2. If the rifle is dropped or receives a blow while there is a round chambered, an accidental discharge is possible. Page 23 of 45 INSTRUCTOR NOTES TELL CLASS DEMONSTRATE STRESS: the receiving person does not touch the weapon until they are ready to take control. The transferring person may need to tilt the muzzle of the weapon towards them self to enable the receiving person to have a clear view into chamber and magazine loading port. STRESS: This may occur regardless of the position of the safety selector lever. LESSON PROCEDURE OBJECTIVE 2 CONT.: CONTENT General Safety Precautions: Always keep fingers off the trigger and out of the trigger guard until you are on target and have made the decision to fire. INSTRUCTOR NOTES TELL CLASS There is no combat loading with the rifle, do not put any part of the hand into the ejection port for any reason. A Stoppage or Problem While on the Range: In case of a misfire or malfunction with the rifle while on the range: 1. Keep muzzle pointed downrange or in a safe direction 2. Remove trigger finger from the trigger. 3. Take control of the weapon at the slip ring 4. Raise the non-controlling hand Arsenal Storage: Whenever the weapon is stored in the arsenal it must meet the following four conditions: 1. Unloaded: magazine removed 2. Action closed, dust cover open 3. Trigger pulled 4. Stored upright Note: Once the trigger has been pulled, it will not be possible to return the safety to the safe position. MINI-SUMMARY: SECTION II, RIFLE PROCEDURES ENDS: In proper sequence, the four steps for wall tower storage for the DOCCS authorized rifle (Colt AR-15) are: 1. S: Safety on, a safe and clear weapon 2. A: Action closed on a known empty chamber 3. F: Five rounds loaded in a box-type magazine inserted into the rifle 4. E: Erect (or upright) in the rack Page 24 of 45 Give examples of malfunctions. STRESS: STEPS MUST BE PERFORMED IN PROPER SEQUENCE. LESSON PROCEDURE SECTION III, RIFLE FUNDAMENTALS BEGINS: OBJECTIVE 3: CONTENT INSTRUCTOR NOTES List the five (5) fundamentals of rifle shooting. STATE TO CLASS Fundamentals TELL CLASS 1. Stance: The Bench Rest Shooting Position: 100-yard line The objective of the bench rest shooting position is to support as much of the shooters body against the bench as possible. This will reduce the amount of movement. At the 100-yard line no part of the weapon will touch the bench. The weapon must be supported solely by the shooter. There is no single approved method of shooting from the bench rest position. Any method that meets the established criteria will be allowed. The criteria are as follows: DEMONSTRATE STANCES WHENEVER POSSIBLE. When shooting a rifle, a supported position shall be utilized (e.g. bench rest position). The rifle should never touch the object used for support. A. At no time will the weapon touch the bench B. The shooters position does not compromise or violate any of the established DOCCS range safety rules or regulations. EXAMPLE: Body supported by bench. The weapon is resting on the weak hand, while the weak elbow rests on the bench. The weapon will be held so the butt plate is positioned against the pocket formed by the strong arm and the shoulder. The cheek will be positioned against the comb of the stock so as to allow for proper sight alignment. If a bench is not available, the Weapons Training Officer (WTO) may substitute either the kneeling or sitting position from the 100-yard line. Page 25 of 45 EXPLAIN LESSON PROCEDURE CONTENT OBJECTIVE 3 CONT.: INSTRUCTOR NOTES TELL CLASS Standing Off-Hand Shooting: 75-yard line After blading the target, with the feet shoulder width apart; the weight is distributed equally on both feet. Legs are straight, but with knees not locked; and the body and head are erect. Bring the rifle up to eye level, then place the cheek against the comb of the stock. Establish a good grip on the pistol grip with the strong hand. The weak hand should be placed on the rifle so as to allow the weak elbow to rest against the trunk of the body. The weak hand is used only for support; do not grip the rifle with the weak hand. This can cause muscle strain and unwanted movement when firing the weapon. The weak hand can be placed on the rifle in a number of configurations. One option is placing the palm of the hand facing up under the hand-guards, heel of the hand against the magazine. A second option is forming a “v” with the thumb and index finger of the weak hand. Place the “v” under the rifle and under the slip ring. Be sure to point the palm of the weak hand away from the body; this will ensure that you will keep the fingers away from the ejection port. Other options are available and will be allowed as long as they are safe and approved by the WTO. 2. Grip: Weak hand cradles the hand guard, no pressure applied, and the strong hand is on the pistol grip with enough pressure to control the rifle. Recoil: The rearward thrust or movement of a firearm resulting from firing. Page 26 of 45 DEMONSTRATE LESSON PROCEDURE CONTENT OBJECTIVE 3 CONT.: INSTRUCTOR NOTES TELL CLASS 3. Breath Control: Taking a couple of deep breaths will help you relax and increase the oxygen to your system. Pause your breath before taking your shot. EXPLAIN: NATURAL RESPIRATORY PAUSE. 4. Sight Alignment: The relationship of the front sight to the rear sight when the very top of the front sight is centered top to bottom and left to right in the rear sight aperture. To see proper sight alignment for the rifle, you must look through the rear sight at the front sight. Your secondary vision will see the target and the rearsight as a blur. Your primary vision must be focused on the top of the front sight. The top of the crystal-clear front sight is placed in the center of the blurry target. Thus, the top of the front sight will automatically be centered (top to bottom and left to right) in the rear sight aperture. SHOW SIGHT ALIGNMENT PICTURE ON CHALKBOARD/ NEWSPRINT Sight Picture: The appearance of a firearm’s sights to the shooter’s eye as aligned against a target. Telescopic Sights: Using a telescopic sight simplifies sight alignment. The front and rear sights are combined in the crosshairs of the scope “reticle”. The reticle represents both sights in the same focal plane, there is no alignment required. However, the vision must be focused on the reticle with the same concentration used on the front sight of an open sight system. Page 27 of 45 EXPLAIN: DOCCS’ approved telescopic sight is currently the “Leopold 6x Fixed Scope”. LESSON PROCEDURE OBJECTIVE 3 CONT.: CONTENT The advantage of a telescopic sight (other than magnification) is that the sight and the target are presented on the same focal plane. Instead of two of three points in space to align, there is only one point in which the sights and target are displayed. However, the eye will be drawn to the image of the target since that image is on the same focal plane as the reticle. INSTRUCTOR NOTES TELL CLASS The shooter must discipline themselves to look at the reticle and not the target. Focusing on the reticle is most difficult aspect of shooting with telescopic sights. If the shooter lapses and looks past the reticle at the target, it is extremely difficult to regain focus without taking the eye away from the scope and then placing the reticle in the center of your target again. 5. Trigger Control: Continuous rearward pressure on the trigger allows the rifle to fire a shot without disturbing sight alignment. The purpose of trigger control is to allow the weapon to fire a shot without the shooter knowing when the shot is going to occur, making the shot a total surprise. If the shot is not a total surprise the shooter may anticipate the shot going off, which can disturb your sight alignment. A common problem a shooter may experience that can greatly affect the shooter’s ability to control the trigger is the wobble effect. Wobble is created by several physical conditions. These conditions cause involuntary movement. Examples are heart rate (which pumps the blood through the body), muscle fatigue, nervousness, and the shooters mental state. Page 28 of 45 DEMONSTRATE EXPLAIN LESSON PROCEDURE CONTENT OBJECTIVE 3 CONT.: INSTRUCTOR NOTES TELL CLASS This movement creates an illusion* that the rifle appears to be moving drastically from one side of the target to the other. This illusion increases as the shooter moves farther away from the target. The shooter must ignore the wobble and concentrate on perfect sight alignment while applying slow continuous reward pressure on the trigger. *NOTE: The illusion is the amount of the actual movement compared to the perception of the movement on the target. Lastly, the shooter must practice follow through; which is holding the trigger to the rear after the shot is fired for a second or two before releasing it. Follow through is a necessary part of trigger control because you can release the trigger before the projectile can leave the bore, which will affect the accuracy of the shot. APPLICATION QUESTION: ANSWER: List the five fundamentals of rifle shooting. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Stance Grip Breath Control Sight Alignment Trigger Control ASK SPECIFIC STUDENT REPEAT ANSWER SECTION III, RIFLE FUNDAMENTALS ENDS: Page 29 of 45 LESSON PROCEDURE SECTION IV: RIFLE RANGE PROCEDURES BEGINS: CONTENT INSTRUCTOR NOTES TELL CLASS A. COURSE PROCEDURES 1. Blade: With the shooter in strong hand carry and facing downrange, the shooter steps rearward with the strong foot, pivoting on the ball of the week foot, lowering the muzzle simultaneously taking control of the handguards with the weak hand bringing the weapon parallel with the ground at waist level. 2. Rest: With the shooter at the bladed position, the shooter fully extends his arms keeping the muzzle pointed downrange and the weapon parallel with the ground. The strong hand will grip the stock over the comb, and the weak hand will grip the weapon over the slip ring. Page 30 of 45 LESSON PROCEDURE SECTION IV CONT.: INITIAL COMMANDS BENCH REST POSITION: CONTENT B. COURSE COMMANDS The shooter will report to the 100-yard line with the following equipment: Eye and ear protection in place 2 magazines 10 rounds of.223 ammunition AR-15 rifle in the properly benched/grounded position Initial Commands Bench Rest Position: “Shooters, visually inspect your weapon (check the chamber and magazine loading port) and have a seat at the bench.” “Shooters, load your box-type magazines with 5 rounds each; and place both on the bench.” “Pick up your rifle, muzzle pointed downrange, check for a safe and clear weapon (safety, chamber, magazine loading port, bore).” “Set your weapon up for the first three steps of wall tower storage.” “The course of fire will be five rounds fired from the bench rest shooting position in a five-minute time limit. Once you have completed firing, make the rifle safe and clear and properly bench it. Remain seated at the bench until the line is clear.” Page 31 of 45 INSTRUCTOR NOTES TELL CLASS DEMONSTRATE REST POSITION WHILE SEATED AT BENCH LESSON PROCEDURE SECTION IV CONT.: CALLING THE LINE: CONTENT INSTRUCTOR NOTES TELL CLASS 3 SECOND PAUSE BETWEEN COMMANDS “Is the line ready?” “The line is ready.” “Ready on the right.” “Ready on the left.” “Ready on the firing line.” “Fire” “Cease fire” (blow whistle) at the end of the time limit. CLEARING THE LINE: After the rifle is benched, give standard commands for clearing the line. “Is the line clear?” 3 SECOND PAUSE BETWEEN COMMANDS “The line is clear” “Clear on the right?” “Clear on the left?” “Clear on the firing line” Page 32 of 45 LESSON PROCEDURE CONTENT SECTION IV CONT.: INITIAL COMMANDS STANDING, OFF HAND POSITION: INSTRUCTOR NOTES TELL CLASS Initial Commands Standing, Off Hand Position: “Shooters pick up a magazine loaded with five rounds and place it in your weak rear pocket.” (Magazine placed in the pocket, cartridges down with projectiles facing your strong hand side) “Visually inspect the rifle, then pick it up and check for safe and clear weapon, and come to the strong hand carry.” “Together proceed to the 75-yard line.” “Shooters blade your targets, muzzle pointed downrange.” (This is done simultaneously) “Set your weapon up for the first three steps of wall tower storage.” “Take up a good off hand shooting position.” Page 33 of 45 LESSON PROCEDURE SECTION IV CONT.: CALLING THE LINE: CONTENT “Shooters the course of fire from the 75-yard line is five rounds fired from the off-hand shooting position in five minutes. Upon completion make the rifle safe and clear and come to the strong hand carry. Remain on the line until instructed to return to bench.” INSTRUCTOR NOTES TELL CLASS 3 SECOND PAUSE BETWEEN COMMANDS “Is the line ready?” “The line is ready.” “Ready on the right?” “Ready on the left?” “Ready on the firing line.” “Fire.” “Cease fire” (Blow whistle) at the end of the time limit. CLEARING THE LINE: “Is the line clear?” 3 SECOND PAUSE BETWEEN COMMANDS “The line is clear.” “Clear on the right?” “Clear on the left?” “Clear on the firing line.” Page 34 of 45 LESSON PROCEDURE SECTION IV CONT.: COURSE-OF-FIRE IN-SERVICE: CONTENT “Shooters make an about face and together proceed to the 100-yard line and stand behind your bench. After everyone is behind the firing line, perform a safety check and properly bench or ground your rifle. Do not move from the line until the entire line is cleared by the WTO.” INSTRUCTOR NOTES TELL CLASS C. COURSE-OF-FIRE In Service Course Description: PHASE 1: Five rounds practice to familiarize the shooter with the rifle. PHASE 2: 100-yard line Five rounds Seated at bench or kneeling/sitting Slow fire Five minutes PHASE 3: 75-yards Five rounds Standing off hand Slow fire Five minutes Scoped Rifle The shooter must first qualify with the AR-15 rifle using iron sights. Once the shooter has successfully qualified with the inservice course of fire they may attempt to qualify using the scoped AR-15 rifle if necessary. The scoped course of fire is Identical to the in-service course of fire. Page 35 of 45 Scoring and qualifying scores for the scoped rifle is identical to the scoring for iron sights (i.e. 75 out of a possible 100). LESSON PROCEDURE CONTENT SECTION IV CONT.: COURSE-OF-FIRE INITIAL/RECRUIT: INSTRUCTOR NOTES TELL CLASS Initial/Recruit Course Description: Each recruit must qualify one time in two attempts. No practice. PHASE 1: 100 yards Five rounds Seated at bench or kneeling/sitting Slow fire Five minutes PHASE 2: 75 yards Five rounds Standing, Off hand Slow fire Five minutes D. SCORING The target is scored based on the face value of the B-27E target. A score 75 out of a possible 100 is required to qualify. SECTION IV, RIFLE RANGE PROCEDURES ENDS: Page 36 of 45 LESSON PROCEDURE SECTION V, RIFLE MAINTENANCE BEGINS: CONTENT Rifle Care and Cleaning INSTRUCTOR NOTES TELL CLASS Have students clean rifles following use. 1. Ensure that magazine is removed and the firearm is not loaded so that it cannot be fired. CHECK FOR SAFE AND CLEAR WEAPON. 2. Wear safety glasses in case you lose control of some spring loaded component which could injure your eyes. Explain the effects of cleaning solvents on primers 3. Have WTO remove bolt carrier assembly and disassemble. Making sure to lay the parts out in an orderly fashion. (Remove hand guards only if there is carbon or residue visible.) 4. Note: Avoid contact between cleaning rod and muzzle as resultant wear will reduce accuracy. 5. Attach cotton patch to end of cleaning rod, dip patch in cleaning solution, insert in chamber and pass rod and patch through barrel. 6. Attach brass wire bristle brush to cleaning rod and dip brush into gun cleaning solution. Thoroughly scrub out the bore, by passing the brush all the way through before reversing the movement. If you try to change direction with the brush in the bore, the brush will stick. 7. Attach the larger, chamber cleaning brush to the cleaning rod, dip the brush in the bore cleaning solution, and clean the chamber. Use a minimum of five plunge strokes and three 360degree clockwise, rotational strokes. 8. Continue running patches through the bore until the last patch comes out clean. Page 37 of 45 Rod should always be inserted through the breach if possible LESSON PROCEDURE SECTION V CONT.: CONTENT 9. Wipe all components clean and dry and inspect for excessive wear, corrosion or mechanical damage. If any of these conditions are discovered, have them corrected before using the rifle again. 10. Lightly moisten a cotton patch with gun oil and pass it once through the bore, leaving a thin film of oil on the inside surface. Leave this film of oil on the surface for storage. For use pass a dry patch through the barrel and chamber to remove as much oil as possible. 11. Inspect rifle to make sure cotton fibers and wire brush bristles have not become lodged in any part of the firearm. 12. Then lightly lubricate the following parts: a. Windage drum/rear-sight detents b. Ejection port cover latch c. Trigger and hammer springs d. Front sight detent e. Charging handle lock f. Charging handle lock spring g. Inside rear of bolt h. Mouth of bolt key i. Bolt carrier exhaust ports j. Forward assist 13. Have WTO reassemble rifle, and perform a complete function test. 14. Wipe down outer surface with clean, lightly oiled cloth. SECTION V, RIFLE MAINTENANCE ENDS: Page 38 of 45 INSTRUCTOR NOTES TELL CLASS LESSON PROCEDURE CONTENT INSTRUCTOR NOTES FINAL SUMMARY: OBJECTIVE 1: ANSWER: OBJECTIVE 2: ANSWER: OBJECTIVE 3: ANSWER: Name the make, model, and caliber for the DOCCS authorized rifle. REPEAT ANSWER Colt AR-15.223 or 5.56mm In proper sequence, list the four (4) steps for wall tower storage of the DOCCS authorized rifle. 1. S: Safety on, a safe and clear weapon 2. A: Action closed on a known empty chamber 3. F: Five rounds loaded in a box-type magazine inserted into the rifle 4. E: Erect (or upright) in the rack List the five (5) fundamentals of rifle shooting. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. ASK SPECIFIC STUDENT ASK SPECIFIC STUDENT REPEAT ANSWER ASK SPECIFIC STUDENT REPEAT ANSWER Stance Grip Breath Control Sight Alignment Trigger Control Any Questions? EVALUATION: Post-Test Dismiss Class Page 39 of 45 PRE-TEST Name: _____________________ Date: _____________________ 1. List the make, model, and caliber for the DOCCS authorized rifle. ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________ 2. In proper sequence, list the four (4) steps for wall tower storage of the DOCCS authorized rifle. 1) 2) 3) 4) ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________ 3. List the five (5) fundamentals of rifle shooting. 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________ Page 40 of 45 POST-TEST Name: _____________________ Date: _____________________ 1. List the make, model, and caliber for the DOCCS authorized rifle. ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________ 2. In proper sequence, list the four (4) steps for wall tower storage of the DOCCS authorized rifle. 1) 2) 3) 4) ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________ 3. List the five (5) fundamentals of rifle shooting. 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________ Page 41 of 45 PRE/POST TEST ANSWERS Name: _____________________ Date: _____________________ 1. List the make, model, and caliber for the DOCCS authorized rifle. Colt AR-15 223 or 5.56mm 2. In proper sequence, list the four (4) steps for wall tower storage of the DOCCS authorized rifle. 1) 2) 3) 4) S: A: F: E: Safety on, a safe and clear weapon Action closed on a known empty chamber Five rounds loaded in a box-type magazine inserted into the rifle Erect (or upright) in the rack 3. List the five (5) fundamentals of rifle shooting. 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) Stance Grip Breath Control Sight Alignment Trigger Control Page 42 of 45 Appendix A Colt AR-15 Semi-Automatic Rifle Page 43 of 45 Appendix B The Components of the Rifle Cartridge Characteristics Caliber:.223 (Remington) or 5.56mm (NATO) Projectile Weight: 55 grain Projectile Type: Full Metal Jacket Maximum Range: Approximately 2 miles Maximum Effective Range: 200 Yards Muzzle Velocity: Approximately 3,300 ft./sec. Page 44 of 45 Appendix C AR-15 Bolt Assembly A. C. E. G. I. K. M. Bolt Ejector Spring Extractor Extractor Spring Bolt Carrier Bolt Carrier Key Firing Pin B. D. F. H. J. L. N. Ejector Ejector Pin Extractor Pin Gas Rings Bolt Cam Pin Bolt Carrier Key Screws Firing Pin Retaining Pin Page 45 of 45