RPG-7 Infantry Training PDF

1 INFANTRY TRAINING INFANTRY PLATOON WEAPONS LIGHT ANTI-TANK GRENADE LAUNCHER RPG-7 SECTION 1 - INTRODUCTION General 1. The anti-tank grenade RPG-7 has been introduced to provide the rifle platoon with a powerful and yet a light anti-tank weapon. It is shoulder controlled, open tube and has no recoil. It can be easily man carried and taken anywhere, even when crawling, and can be fired from any of the normal firing positions. The initial motive force is obtained by gas pressure produced by the burning of a propellant charge inside the rocket. 2. The weapon is fired by a firing pin which is struck by a cocking piece when the trigger is pressed. Although primarily anti-tank, it can also be used against pill boxes, fortifications and personnel with considerable devastating effect. Characteristics 3. The main characteristics of the weapon are its mobility, light weight, accuracy and penetration. It can be used against all known types of A and B vehicles with accuracy ensuring a first round hit. It weighs approximately 6.3 kg and can be carried and fired by one man but needs a second man to act as rocket carrier and loader. 4. When the rocket is fired, gases and flames emerge from the convergent-divergent nozzle at high velocity. Number 1 and 2 must take precautions against this back blast, the danger zone of which extends up to 30 metres from the rear of the launcher. 5. The RPG-7 grenade launcher is a smooth bore, open end tube with two pistol grips, one for steady holding of the launcher and the other with trigger and firing mechanism. The middle of the tube is 2 enlarged and covered with a wooden casing. The rear end has a bell mouth shape. One fixed mechanical sight and a telescopic sight is fitted to the body on the left side of the tube (See Figure 1). Figure 1- Mechanical Sights. 6. The anti-tank grenade RPG-7 fired from the launcher is rocket shaped and is loaded from the front of the launcher i.e. muzzle end (as against breach loading in 3.5" RL or 83 mm Blindacide). The tail end goes into the body while the lead stays out (See Figure 2). If the rocket does not encounter an object within 4 to 6 seconds of firing the electric detonator starts operating, detonates primer of the self destruction device and explodes the grenade nose. 3 Figure 2 - RPG-7 With Round Loaded. 7. It is a smooth barrel weapon and is used to launch HEAT and practice rockets. The HEAT rocket is capable of penetrating heavy armour up to 320 mm. However, the fuze is a piezo electric type which produces a voltage when the nose of the round is crushed against an inner skin. This provides a means of rendering the missile inoperative by shorting out the fuze-for example: by placing wire in front of the target so that the nose cone, in touching two strands of the mesh, shorts out the fuze. The HEAT war head of the missile will then not function. If it is fired into sandbags the self destruction element of the fuze will function but the main HEAT charge will by then have broken up and the effect on target is virtually nil. 4 8. The missile has reasonable accuracy if there is no cross wind but with a cross wind it is erratic. Whilst the rocket motor is burning and producing an up wind thrust greater than the down wind drag, the missile heads into wind and moves up wind. When the motor produces less up wind thrust than the down wind drag, or has burnt out, the rocket heads into wind as would be expected with a fin stabilised projectile, but is blown bodily down wind. 9. Tabulated Data RPG-7 grenade launcher (See Figure 3). Calibre of launcher 40 mm Calibre of Projectile 85 mm Length of launcher 950 mm Weight of launcher with 6.3 Kg telescopic sight Weight of grenade 2.25 Kg Muzzle velocity 3000 Metres per sec Maximum effective range 500 Metres static target Effective range static target 400 Metres Maximum effective range 300 Metres - if the target is moving target 2.7 Metres high Range to self destruction 920 Metres Rate of fire 4 to 6 Round per minute Penetrating power 40.14 cm in steel 60.96 cm in masonary Back blast area 30 Metres behind bell mouth. 10. Sum up. 5 Mechanical Sight Telescopic Sight Figure 3 - RPG -7 Left Side View. SECTION 2 - GENERAL DESCRIPTION Parts 1. The anti-tank grenade launcher RPG-7 consists of following four major parts (See Figure 4):- a. Barrel assembly. b. Firing pin mechanism. c. Firing and trigger mechanism. d. Sighting mechanism. Barrel Assembly 2. The barrel assembly directs the flight of the grenade and retracts the burnt gases after firing. It consists of a smooth bore tube 6 with a chamber, having the shape of a widened breach end and a sleeve interconnected with a thread. The tube and sleeve are interlocked with an obstruction ring which prevents the escape of gases from this point. The sleeve is welded to the tube to prevent accidental unscrewing. The barrel is chromium plated. 3. Mounted on the left side of the barrel is the open sight and a mount for the telescopic sight. There are two lugs for the front and rear swivel for the shoulder strap mounting. The outer surface also has mountings for firing and trigger mechanism, firing pin mechanism and additional grip. 4. The muzzle face has a recess for fixing the round while loading. The sleeve on the rear end is a plain tube with nozzle fitted to the chamber and a bell mouth opening at the breach end. 5. Two wooden guards secured around the barrel with clamping collars, prevent the operator from heat burns while firing the launcher. The wooden guards have front and rear spacers of steel, which provide a clearance between the barrel and the guards, to enable flow of air to cool the barrel. Firing Pin Mechanism 6. The firing pin mechanism is designed to detonate the igniting primer of the shell. It is assembled in the rocket of firing pin mechanism base. Firing and Trigger Mechanism 7. These consist of a right hand grip, trigger and firing pin mechanism. This group fires the round. 7 A. General View: B. Firing and Trigger Mechanism; C. Top View of Launcher Muzzle End; 7 1. Foresight; 2. Pin; 3. Foresight Guard; 4. Tube; 5. Sight Leaf Casing; 6. Sight Leaf; 7. Sight Slide; 8. Sight Leaf Pin; 9. Fastening Strip; 10. Front Clamping Collar; 11. Wooden Hand Guards; 12. Sleeve; 13. Rear Clamping Collars; 14. Rear Swivel; 15. Disc; 16. Obstructing Ring; 17. Additional Grip; 18. Screws; 19. Screw; 20. Side Pieces; 21. Screw; 22. Cover; 23. Cotter; 24. Front Swivel! 25. Nut; 26. Plunger Spring; 27. Plunger; 28. Safety Lock; 29. Trigger; 30. Trigger Pin; 31. Screw; 32. Sear; 33. Cocking-Piece Pin; 34. Body; 35. Cocking Piece; 36. Spring Rod; 37. Cocking Spring; 38. Cocking Piece. Figure 4 - Anti-Tank Grenade Launcher RPG - 7. 8 Sight Mechanism 8. The sight mechanism of the anti-tank grenade launcher RPG-7 consists of the open sights and telescopic sight which allow the firing at fixed and moving targets to a range of up to 500 m. 9. Sum Up. SECTION 3 - TRAINING AND INSTRUCTIONAL LESSONS LESSON l - STRIPPING AND ASSEMBLING Aim 1. To teach the assembling and stripping of the RPG-7. Stores 2. One or more grenade launcher per squad, tool kit, cleaning kit, charts and ground sheet. Safety Precautions 3. Make sure that there are no live or practice grenades on parade. Characteristics 4. Explain the characteristics and general data be fore proceeding with the lesson. Confirmation 5. Ask questions from the squad. 9 Assembling and Stripping 6. General. The grenade launcher should be stripped for cleaning, lubrication, inspection and replacement of defective parts. Frequent stripping of the launcher is, however, inadvisable, as it results in unnecessary wear and tear. The launcher should be stripped and assembled on a table or on a clean ground sheet. 7. While stripping or assembling the launcher keep the following points in mind:- a. Do not apply excessive force or strike any part against the other. b. When driving screws in or out, hold the screw driver firmly in the hand and tightly insert the driver blade into the screw slot, applying even pressure. c. Do not remove the blade from the screw until the screw starts moving easily, then remove the screw by hand. d. While driving in screws, observe the same rules. e. Make sure to use the tools issued, as part of the tool kit. 8. The grenade launcher can be stripped in field condition for field maintenance and stripped in detail for thorough checks and inspection, et cetera. 9. Field Stripping and Assembling. The launcher is field stripped to study the design of launcher mechanisms, cleaning, lubrication and examination of the launcher before firing (See Figure 5). 10 Figure 5 - The Launcher is field stripped. a. Field Stripping. It is carried out as follows:- (1) Press the drift and knock out the trigger mechanism locking pin and detach the firing and trigger mechanism from the barrel. (2) To remove the firing pin mechanism from the barrel, hold the launcher by the wooden hand guards with the left hand, and stand it on the muzzle and unscrew firing pin locking nut with the right hand with the help of combination wrench, then take-out the firing pin, firing pin spring and bearing bush out of the base. Remove the spring from the firing pin. (3) Unscrew the four screws and remove cover of the firing and trigger mechanism body. (4) If necessary, the firing and trigger mechanism and the firing pin mechanism of the launcher can be stripped separately. To do this. Carry out field stripping of the firing and trigger mechanism in the following sequence:- 11 (a) Arm the cocking piece and set the firing and trigger mechanism at safe. (b) Stand the launcher on the muzzle and holding the barrel with the left hand, use the right hand for screwing out the firing pin locking nut with help of the combination wrench. (c) Remove the firing pin with its spring and the bearing bush from the base. (d) Detach the spring from the firing pin. b. Field Assembling. Assemble the firing and trigger mechanism and the firing pin mechanism to the launcher in the following order:- (1) Place cover of the firing and trigger mechanism in position and drive in the four screws. (2) Fit spring into the firing pin. (3) Insert bearing bush and the firing pin with spring into the firing pin mechanism socket and screw in firing pin locking nut. (4) Place the firing and trigger mechanism on the barrel till the lug of the firing pin mechanism base enters the recess in the body of the firing and trigger mechanism. Insert trigger mechanism locking pin by pressing it in with the wrench. 10. Check the grenade launcher for proper assembly. Arm the cocking piece until it clicks, then press the trigger and see strike of the firing pin looking down the barrel. The launcher is now fit for firing. 12 11. Detailed Stripping and Assembling a. Detailed Stripping. It is done to replace defective parts of grenade launcher and to thoroughly clean the launcher as follows:- (1) Field strip the launcher as described above. (2) Press the tongue of the cocking piece and insert the thinner end of the drift into the hole provided on the spring rod lower end. Holding the firing and trigger mechanism with the left hand by the body handle press the trigger with the forefinger of the same hand, lift the sear, and remove the cocking piece from its pin with right hand (See Figure 6). Figure 6 - Inserting the Drift into the Spring Rod Hole. 13 Figure 7 - Removing the Cocking Piece from its Pin. (3) For detaching spring rod with cocking spring, remove the rod complete with the cocking spring from. The body and insert them into the firing and trigger mechanism assembling and disassembling device with aid of a drift (See Figure 8). Figure 8 - Detaching the Rod from the Cocking Spring. 14 Fit the combination wrench and screw driver into the device slot, bear the rod head against a hard object. Pressing the combination wrench and Inserting the drift into the spring rod hole, screw driver, compress the cocking spring, remove the drift from the rod hole, then, releasing pressure against the combination wrench and screw driver, gradually expand the cocking spring, remove the spring together with the spring rod from the device and detach them from one another. While detaching the spring rod, act with due care since the rod can be thrown out with force by the tension of the compressed cocking spring. (4) Detach the trigger by knocking out trigger pin by the thinner end of the drift and remove it from the opening inside the body. (5) Withdraw the safety lock by pressing it from the right side, if the lock has been set at safe, then carefully remove safety lock plunger and safety lock plunger spring. NOTE:- DO NOT REMOVE THE SEAR WHEN DISASSEMBLING THE FIRING AND TRIGGER MECHANISM. (6) Detach the side pieces from the handgrip with the help of screw driver. (7) Remove the wooden body covers by unscrewing the clamping collars. Now, shift the clamping collars down the barrel and detach the hand guards from the barrel. NOTE:- DO NOT REMOVE THE CLAMPING COLLARS FROM THE BARREL. 15 b. Detailed Assembling. To assemble the grenade launcher, proceed as follows:- (1) Connect the hand guards by placing the guards in position on the right and left sides of the barrel, shift the clamping collars to their places and tighten them up with screws. (2) Attach the side pieces of the handgrip by driving in the screws. (3) Connect safety lock after inserting spring into the socket of firing and trigger mechanism body, put plunger onto the spring and insert safety lock. (4) Connect the trigger by fitting trigger and trigger pin into the body. (5) Fit cocking spring on rod, insert the cocking spring with rod into the passage of the device so that the hole in the spring rod should match with the slot for the drift and the big lug of the spring rod should be on the right side. Insert the combination wrench and screw driver into the slot of the device. Rest the rod against an object, press the combination wrench and screw driver and compress the cocking spring. Fit the drift into the hole of the spring rod until bearing against the device wall. Remove the rod with cocking spring and drift from the device and insert them into the socket for the cocking spring so as to let the drift enter the slot of the firing and trigger mechanism body. (6) Fit cocking piece on cocking piece pin by lifting the sear with trigger. Arm the cocking piece and remove the drift from the hole in spring rod. Press the trigger and release the cocking piece. 16 (7) Complete the assembling according to the instructions for assembling the grenade launcher after field stripping. Revision/Confirmation 12. Ask questions from the squad and carry out further practice as necessary. Conclusion 13. Sum up by revising the salient points of the lesson. LESSON 2 - CARE AND MAINTENANCE Aim 1. To teach care and maintenance of RPG-7 grenade launcher. Stores 2. RPG-7 tools, accessories kit and spare parts, documents and maintaining logs, lubrication, cleaning material and rags. Approach 3. Inspection. The inspection is aimed at timely detection and elimination of faults and malfunctions. The launcher should be inspected regularly by concerned officers, JCOs and NCOs. One must bear in mind that minor faults if not detected and eliminated in time can cause heavy damage to the grenade launcher and may even render it unserviceable. The launcher number should examine the launcher in the course of cleaning operation each time before and after firing, training, exercise, or march, and also after a sudden change of temperature. He would immediately report through normal channels of command of all faults detected after examining the launcher, 17 telescopic sight and accessories. The launcher with equipment and telescopic sight is laid out as shown in Figures 9 and 10 respectively. 4. Examination. While examining the launcher check the general condition of the launcher, telescopic sight, open sight, functioning of the launcher mechanism, condition of the belt corners, grenade carriers, spare parts and accessories in the following manner:- a. Condition of Launcher (1) Presence of pits, rust, dirt scratches et cetera on the outer metal parts; cracks, chippings and damage on the wooden parts. (2) Bending of foresight and sight leaf, and the security of the leaf springs with sight in the vertical position. Figure 9 - The Launcher with Equipment. 18 Figure 10 - Telescopic Sight. b. Condition of Barrel Bore. To check, lift the barrel to eye level and look in the tube from the muzzle end then turning the barrel, carefully examine the bore for scratches, chippings of chromium plating cracks, dirt and rust. c. Functioning of Firing and Trigger Mechanism (1) Return of Cocking Piece. Check this by arming the cocking piece and smoothly pressing the trigger (a clicking sound of the cocking piece striking at the firing pin should be heard); the pressed and released trigger should move smoothly forward and backward. (2) Action of Safety Lock. Press the safety lock on the left side of the body and press it. Pressed trigger should not be depressed and the armed cocking piece should not come off the cocking cam. (3) To remove the firing and trigger mechanism from the safety lock press the safety lock on the right side of the body and depress it. d. Functioning of Firing Pin Mechanism. Cock the launcher and looking into the barrel from the muzzle end, press the 19 trigger. The firing pin should flash into the bore and return to the previous level i.e. flush with the bore. e. Condition of Telescopic Sight. Check for following:- (1) Presence of cracks, chipping, scratches and dirt on optical parts. (2) Presence of bubble, dirt or spots in the field of view. (3) Illuminating set for proper operation. (4) Rubber parts for cracks or tears. (5) Filters. (6) Fix sight on launcher and check for firmness. f. Check spare parts, tools and accessories against the delivery list and note any chipping of parts et cetera. 5. Detailed Inspection of Launcher. Before detailed inspection, wipe the outer surface of the launcher and clean the bore. Strip the launcher and inspect each separate unit, in the following order:- a. Inspection of Outer Surface Barrel (1) The outer surface of the barrel should be free from cracks, dents and deep scratches. (2) The muzzle and breech faces should be free from bulged metal notches. (3) There should be no cracks or chippings on the wooden barrel covers. (4) The clamping collars should securely clamp the barrel covers to the outer surface of the barrel. 20 b. Inspection of Open Sight (1) The foresight tip should be free from bends and must be intact. (2) The painted figures on sight leaf should be clearly visible. (3) The sight leaf and foresight should be easily movable from the horizontal to the vertical position and vice versa without winding, and must be securely fixed in the up right position. (4) There should be no play of the sight leaf and foresight. (5) The rear sight slide should move freely and the notch should function smoothly c. Inspection of Barrel Bore. The bore should be free from chipping of chromium plating, rust, cracks, scratches or dirt. d. Inspection of Firing Pin Mechanism (1) Disassemble the firing pin mechanism; wipe the socket of the firing pin mechanism and the hole for the pin needle. (2) There should be no rust, carbon deposit, bends or dents in the firing pin mechanism socket and the hole fox, the firing pin mechanism should not be clogged. (3) Check the operation of the assembled firing pin mechanism by pressing the pin-up with the combination wrench and screw driver, the pin should energetically return to the initial position. (4) When pressing the tongue, bottom of the cocking piece set at safe, the firing pin should not protrude 21 beyond the Surface of the bore in normal condition. e. Examining the Firing and Trigger Mechanism and Checking its Functioning. The following points will be checked:- (1) The split nosed firing pin end should be beyond the barrel ear and properly fixed. There should be no play in the firing and trigger mechanism. (2) The cover screws and the side piece fastening screw should be properly secured. (3) The armed cocking piece should move upwards with force without bending or jerking. (4) The safety lock should move from one position to the other without too much effort and must be securely fixed in both the above positions. (5) No dents, notches, scratches or cracks should be on the outer surface of the firing and trigger mechanism body and cover. (6) Turn the cocking piece upward and see that there is no clearance between the cocking piece bearing surface and nipple. The firing pin should protrude on to the barrel bore. When the pressure is removed the firing pin should sink by the spring tension and the firing pin needle should enter completely the hole in the barrel wall. (7) The slits of all screws should be free from dents or stripping. f. Remove the grip from the Grenade Launcher and detach the cover to inspect the firing and trigger mechanism:- (1) The cocking piece set at safe should rest on both lugs of the firing spring rod and a clearance should 22 be provided between the tooth of the sear and the safety lug of the cocking piece. The clearance value is not checked. (2) The armed cocking piece should be moved slightly downwards. (3) Hold the tongue and release the cocking piece after inspection, check the tension of the spring. (4) The parts of the firing and trigger mechanism should be free from cracks, scratch, rust or other defects. g. Inspection of Telescopic Sight. Check:- (1) Cleanliness of lenses. (2) Breakage of mechanical parts and corrosion of glass and metallic surfaces. (3) Reliability of operation of temperature correction knob. (4) To see the condition of illuminating set, set the switch in position ON and look through the eye piece, with the cap filled. If the reticle is clearly visible the set is in sound condition. If the reticle is not visible then replace the cell or the lamp. (5) Ensure that the wires are intact, bulb is not fuzed, and the battery container is clean. Check tension of spring and cap stud in battery container. (6) To check the condition and operation of accessory illuminating set by connecting the set to the switch. (7) Check the fastening of the sight when fixed on the launcher; adjust the clamping screw, if necessary. 23 h. Inspection of Spare Parts, Tools and Accessories (1) The shoulder sling, belt with covers and carriers for two and three grenades. With charges should be kept in good condition. (2) The spare parts, tools and accessories should be kept together as a complete set and should be in serviceable condition. j. Checking the Correctness of Launcher. Storage. Check the condition of launchers, cleanliness and lubrication points when in store. k. Checking Documents and Maintaining the Logs. Check the entries made in the weapon history sheet and firing record. The entries regarding inspection of the launcher and sight must be made in the service log issued with each launcher. Cleaning and Lubrication of Grenade Launcher 6. The launcher should be kept clean and properly maintained. Cleaning of the launcher should be carried out in the following manner:- a. Immediately after the termination of firing, clean and lubricate the bore and firing pin mechanism at the range. Clean and oil the launcher daily for next three days. b. When the launcher is not being used for any duration of time it should be cleaned and oiled at least once a week. c. After the field and other long-term training exercises without firing. 7. Materials. The materials used for cleaning and lubricating the grenade launcher are:- 24 a. Alkaline compound in water for cleaning the carbon deposit in the barrel, sleeve and other parts of the launcher. b. Normal rifle lubricant for lubricating the bore and Darts of the launcher mechanisms after cleaning. This lubricant is used at temperature above 5 degrees centigrade. c. Rifle oil for lubricating the parts and mechanisms of the grenade launcher at an air temperature below 50 centigrade. d. A mixture of gun grease with rifle lubricant mixed at a ratio of 1: 1 for lubricating the bore, parts, mechanism, and accessories of the launcher before storing for long periods. e. Use saddle lubricant for leather parts of slings and covers of the grenade launcher. f. To clean slots, recesses and holes use an ordinary point brush. 8. Cleaning of RPG-7 in Cold Climate. In cold climatic conditions when the temperature is below freezing point, following actions will be taken:- a. Keep the moving parts dry which prevents sluggish action. b. Protect the weapon from frost by wiping it dry after exposure and keep it covered when not in use. If the weapon is brought to a heated room, strip it and wipe it dry. After drying, clean the weapon and oil it before assembling. c. Use the oil which does not freeze even at comparatively low temperatures. If it is not available, apply very little oil or keep it dry. 25 9. Cleaning of RPG-7 in Hot Climate a. Hot climate causes the oil film to dissipate rapidly; therefore, frequent oiling of all the working parts is necessary. b. Keep small pins and screws oiled to prevent rusting. c. After handling, rust can be caused by perspiration of individual working on the weapon. Therefore wipe the weapon and oil it to prevent rust. d. Keep the dust wiped and keep RPG-7 in an airy room. 10. Cleaning Under Sandy or Dusty Conditions. Take following actions under dusty conditions:- a. In dust and sand protect the weapon by proper covers. b. Dust and sand accumulate in the barrel and other parts, which interferes with the functioning of the weapon. To prevent this, lubricate and clean RPG-7 as frequently as possible. c. Oil and dust mixture form an abrasive that wears the parts. To avoid, clean the weapon and apply oil as frequently as possible. d. While lubricating, apply thin coat of oil for proper functioning. Oil the moving parts and contacting surface only. Keep the remainder of the weapon dry and free of moisture. 11. Cleaning in Moist or Salty Atmosphere. Moist and salty air causes the steel to rust and destroys the rust preventive qualities in the oil readily. Therefore exercise extreme care in maintaining the weapon. Apply measures as explained when cleaning under hot climatic conditions. 26 12. Kerosene can be used to remove lubricants especially after long periods of storage. 13. After using water, alkaline compound or kerosene, the parts and mechanisms of the grenade launcher should be thoroughly wiped with flannel or tissue paper and lubricated. 14. Storage and Preservation of Sight. The sight is a precision telescopic. instrument and it must be handled with care, When storing or handling the sight; observe the following rules:- a. Protect the sight from sharp blows, jerks or penetration of moisture inside. b. Keep the covered sight in a room on racks. Under camp conditions, the sight should be stored in a wooden box which protects the light from moisture and dust. c. Before putting the sight into the cover, examine the sight and wipe the lenses with a flannel cloth making circular motions. Do not wipe the sight lenses with cotton waste which has been used for wiping other parts of the sight. d. Do not touch the sight lenses with the fingers neither lubricate them. e. Do not keep the sight near a heat source and protect the lenses from direct sun light. NOTE:- NEVER ROTATE THE SIGHT KNOBS UNNECESSARILY. Revision and Confirmation 15. Ask question from the squad and carry out further practice as necessary. 27 Conclusion 16. Sum up by revising the salient points of the lesson. LESSON 3 - FIRING POSITIONS - LOADING AND UNLOADING Aim 1. To teach firing positions of grenade launcher RPG-7. Stores 2. One or more launcher per squad, one or more drill grenades per launcher and silhouette tank. Notes 3. During the demonstrations which require a team of two, the instructor should detail members of the squad to act as No. 1 and No.2. He should explain and demonstrate, if necessary, the duties to be performed by each member. 4. The best firing position for moving targets is the one which gives the greatest flexibility, combined with comfort and steadiness. Tanks should preferably be engaged from trenches or other suitable shelters since the splinters of the armour and the grenade may fly up to a distance of 100-150 metres. Safety Precautions 5. The launcher should not be fired when the barrel is clogged with dirt or earth, the breech should not be held against any object or against the ground when firing or loading the weapon to avoid injury in accidental firing. The muzzle should be held and kept at a height of 28 at least 20 centimetres from the ground, to prevent breaking of the grenade stabilizer fins. 6. It should be borne in mind that the launcher has a back-blast. Care should be taken to see that no personnel, ammunition, explosives or other inflammable materials are located within 30 metres behind the launcher, both when firing and during loading and unloading. 7. DO NOT ALLOW ANY ONE TO STAND BEHIND THE LAUNCHER WHEN IT IS LOADED. 8. Ensure that no live or practice rocket is on parade. The launcher, at all times, should be directed towards the target. While firing the launcher No. 2 will always keep his head down to guard against back blast. Revision 9. Squad to revise assembling, stripping, care and cleaning. Approach 10. Tell the squad that the launcher can be fired from lying, sitting, kneeling and standing positions. Emphasise that owing to a very restricted traverse, the lying position is not suitable for use when firing at a moving target. Explain that moving targets may be engaged at 330 metres, if the target is 2.7 metres high and static targets up to 500 metres. The position which gives the easiest and most free field of fire and reasonable cover should be used when engaging making targets, but for static targets the lying position provides the greatest steadiness. Owing to extreme elevation of the launcher at a distance of over 330 metres, the back-blast will strike dangerously close to the crew, the lying position is therefore not recommended beyond that range. Quick and accurate taking up of firing positions and loading should be combined with quick and accurate aiming. 29 The Lying Position (See Figure 11) 11. There are two lying positions:- a. First Lying Position (1) Position of Number 1. Number 1 lies at an angle of approximately 45 degrees to the line of fire. Moves the left leg as far forward as possible towards the muzzle, keeping both the heels flat on the ground. If forced to track a moving target from this position, he should maintain the 45 degrees angle so that his legs do not, even accidentally, enter the back-blast area. (2) Position of Number 2. Number 2 takes up a position flat on the ground opposite to number 1. At a right angle to the line of fire facing slightly to the rear. He should rest himself on both elbows and be close enough to number 1 to be able to communicate with him, and at the same time load or unload the launcher. The two main duties of number 2 are to ensure that the legs of Number 1 are safe from the back-blast and to load the weapon. He must also conform to all movements of number 1. b. Second Lying Position (1) Position of Number 1. Hold the launcher in both hands to take up lying position. Put the right hand on the ground, holding the launcher in the left hand. Remember that no portion of your body should be behind the launcher. Place both the elbows on the ground and hold the launcher like any other position. 30 (2) Position of Number 2. Takes lying position on the same side on the left of Number 1. Carries out duties as any other position. 12. Practice the squad. Loading 13. Explain and demonstrate with the help of an assistant, working as Number 1 and 2 briefly explain the procedure of preparing the grenade for firing before loading. Number 2 examines the grenade, connects the cartridge and removes the safety cap from the fuze. He makes sure that the rounds, with external signs of damage, to fuze or body, grenade or booster, are not fired, and then prepares the grenade for firing in the following sequence:- a. Opens the plastic/paper case and removes the cartridge from it. b. Unscrews the safety lock with gasket from the tail of the rocket booster. c. Screws the cartridge on to the lug at the bottom of the rocket booster until the end face of the cross piece projecting beyond the base surface joins the bottom. NOTE:- DO NOT APPLY EXCESSIVE FORCE WHEN SCREWING THE CARTRIDGE. ROUNDS WITH IN COMPLETELY SCREWED CARTRIDGE SHOULD NOT BE USED FOR FIRING 14. Now explain and demonstrate the duties of Number 1 and Number 2:- a. Duties of Number 1. Number 1 removes the safety cap from the rocket by pulling out the safety pin by the tape and removes the cap. He will then move the safety lock to 'SAFE' and makes sure the cocking piece is up, taps 31 Number 2 on the shoulder and orders "LOAD". He then places his right hand on the launcher body to hold it steady and keeps the launcher pointed in the direction of the target. b. Duties of Number 2. Number 2 on receiving the command "Load" from Number 1 acts as follows:- (1) Repeats the command "Load." (2) Picks up the grenade in his left hand, the head of the grenade pointing towards the target. (3) Inserts the round into the muzzle end of the launcher tail first and pushes it firmly in, till the grenade retainer stud fully enters the recess on the barrel muzzle end. (4) If the round is tight or if the grenade retainer does not sit in the recess in the muzzle end, the round is turned counter-clockwise and pushed in. (5) Taps Number 1 on the shoulder and calls "UP." c. Number 1 moves his right hand to the grip of firing and trigger mechanism, and prepares to fire. Unloading 15. Explain and demonstrate the duties of Number 1, using a student as Number 1. Instructor should be in position as Number 2:- a. Action of Number 1. In case the grenade is not fired and has to be removed from the launcher, Number 1 makes the launcher safe, Taps Number 2 on the shoulder and calls "Unload" placing his right hand on the launcher. b. Action of Number 2. Number 2, repeats the command of "Unload" and withdraws the round from the launcher muzzle. Unscrews the cartridge from the bottom of the 32 grenade, places the cartridge in the case, screws the safety lock with gasket on to the bottom of the grenade. NOTE:- IF THE COCKING PIECE HAS BEEN ARMED NUMBER 1 HOLDS THE COCKING PIECE WITH HIS THUMB, PRESSES THE TRIGGER AND SLOWLY RELEASES THE COCKING PIECE 16. Practice the squad in loading and unloading in lying position. Figure 11 - Lying Position. Sitting Position 17. Explain that there are two sitting positions; the first can be used when firing at moving targets and second for firing on stationary targets. 33 a. First Sitting Position. (See Figure 12) (1) Position of Number 1. Number 1 sits with his legs crossed and faces half left to the target. The body is bent lightly forward from the hips and the back is kept straight. The elbows should not rest on the knees. Hold the head so that the eye comes in line with the sight. Traverse up to 90 degrees can be obtained by moving the hips. Figure 12 - First Sitting Position. (2) Position of Number 2. For either of the sitting positions, he should sit or kneel on both knees opposite Number 1, close enough to be able to communicate with Number 1, load the launcher and assist in observation of fire. If Number 1 is using the legs apart sitting position, Number 2 should be close enough to Number 1 to enable him to rest his knee against the right knee of Number 2. 34 b. The Second Sitting Position (See Figure 13). In this position Number 1 sits on his haunches with his feet spread apart and heels dug in, knees bent upwards and elbows rested on the knees or legs. Traverse from this position is restricted. Figure 13 - Second Sitting Position. 18. Practice the squad in sitting position. The Kneeling Position 19. The kneeling position has been found to be the best when firing in the open or behind the cover. It is easy to follow a target, the silhouette presented is small, quick movement to an alternative position is facilitated and it is possible to get close to the cover when firing from a defiladed position. Explain and demonstrate the position of Number 1 and Number 2 (See Figure 14). There are two kneeling positions:- a. First Kneeling Position (1) Position of Number 1. In this position the right knee of Number 1 is planted on the ground. 35 Attempt should be made to sit on the heels. The left leg and foot should be pointing towards the target and be at a right angle and opposite to the right knee. The body is held erect, traverse is obtained by moving the waist. Figure 14 - Kneeling Position. (2) Position of Number 2. Number 2 kneels down on both the knees square to the launcher opposite Number 1. He should be close enough to load the launcher, communicate with Number 1 and assist in the observation of fire. b. Second Kneeling Position. Explain and demonstrate the position of Number 1 and Number 2:- (1) Position of Number 1. He should take up position in the same way as is taken while firing the launcher from the first kneeling position. Weight of the body should be on the heels. The holding of the launcher should be similar to the holds in standing position. 36 (2) Position of Number 2. He should take up a position on the left of Number 1. His right. Knee should be on the ground and the weight of the body on both hee1s. He performs the duties as in any other position. 20. Practice the squad in kneeling position. The Standing Positions 21. Standing position may be adopted when firing from high cover or when taking a quick shot in the open. In defence normally, the standing position will be used, while firing from a fire trench emplacement modified to take Number 1 and Number 2, the grenades and one rifle or sten. There are two standing positions. a. First Standing Position. Explain and demonstrate the first standing position (See Figure 15). Figure 15 - Standing Position. (1) Position of Number 1. The body is evenly balanced on both feet, facing half to the right, with the feet one to two feet apart according to the height of the 37 firer. The position of the hands and arms is the same as for the first kneeling position. Movement for traversing is obtained by pivoting the ankles. (2) Position of Number 2. Number 2 positions himself opposite Number 1, close enough to load the weapon and to communicate with Number 1, assist in observation of fire and adjusts his position according to the position of Number 1. b. Second Standing Position. In second position Number 2 stands behind Number 1 on the same side. In this position number 2 does all the actions of load/ unload ete over the left shoulder of Number 1. 22. Practice the squad in standing positions. Conclusion 23. Questions to and from the squad. 24. Practice weak points. 25. Sum up. LESSON 4 - SIGHT SETTING AND AIMING TELESCOPIC SIGHT RS 1A AND MECHANICAL SIGHT Aim 1. To teach sight setting and aiming at stationary and moving targets. Stores 2. One or more launchers, a table for each launcher, sandbags or some other type of rest, aim diagrams and tank silhouette targets as follows:- 38 a. One right and one left direct crosser. b. Oblique crossers:- (1) 45 degrees left and right crossing - advancing (2) 45 degrees left and right crossing - withdrawing (3) Narrow angle left and right crossing - advancing (4) Narrow angle left and right crossing - withdrawing (5) Wide angle left and right crossing - advancing (6) Wide angle left and right crossing - withdrawing c. One "head on" and one "rear on." One white screen or a suitable vertical surface for pinning up silhouette. One large diagram, about two feet square, of the sight pattern. Notes 3. The sight equipment of the launcher is meant to assist in accurate lying of the launcher on the target. The launcher is fitted with telescopic sight PGO-7 and PGO-7B and an open sight, both allow firing at static and moving targets upto a range of 500 metres. Hit probability at various ranges has been established as under:- S/No Ranges Hit Probability a. 300 m - 100% b. 400 m - 80% c. 500 m - 30% 4. The best method of teaching aiming is, by drawing a large diagram of the sight pattern upon some transparent material, such as glass (a window pane) or talc. The tank silhouette can then be placed behind the diagram, thus giving the man "sight picture" required. The "sight picture" is important for the man to remember. 39 5. During training, the men must be shown and practiced in the following:- a. The appearance of tanks at various ranges. b. The speed of tanks at 5, 10, 20, 25 and 30 mph (8, 16, 32, 40, 48 kmph). c. The appearance of tanks approaching and withdrawing at (narrow angle) 45 degrees and wide angle. 6. For elementary practice, silhouette tank targets should be pinned on a wall or screen 10 yards from the launcher. Screens of different colours should be used to provide practice against different backgrounds. Overall dimensions of the targets are:- a. Crossers - 21.59 cms x 8.89 cms. b. Head on and rear or - 10.16 cms x 8.89 cms. 7. Efficiency with the sights will only be gained by constant practice, using actual moving targets. Every advantage must be taken of vehicles moving in the vicinity of the place of work. Safety Precautions 8. Check that there are no live or practice rockets on parade. Have launchers assembled and placed on tables. Sight RS 1A Telescopic 9. The sight works on prism type inverting system, with a reticle arranged within its focal plane along with a rangefinder scale for measuring the range of a 2.7 metres high target from 200 to 1000 metres in 100 metres graduations. 10. Data Sight RS 1A Telescopic (See Figure 16). a. Magnification - 2.7 times 40 b. Field of view - 13 Degrees c. Range scale limits - 200 -1000 Metres in 200 metres graduations d. Length with light - 140 mm filter and eye shield e. Height - 180 mm f. Width - 62 mm g. Weight -.50 Kg (500 gms) h. Weight of sight in cover -.95 kg (950 gms) with spare parts, tools and accessories i. Diameter of exit pupil - 4.5 mm j. Distance of exit pupil - 27 mm k. Lateral deflection scale - +-.50 degrees limits l. Adjustment limits - +-.08 degrees elevation m. Line - +-.08 degrees 1. Bore-Sighting Mechanism; 2. Body; 3. Reticle Illuminating Set; 4. Bracket; a. Lug; b. Index. Figure 16 - Telescopic Sight RS 1A. 41 11. Following are the major parts of the sight (See Figure 17):- a. Body. b. Objective. c. Eye Piece. d. Rubber cap. e. Eye shield. f. Temperature correction knob. g. Lateral adjustment screw. Elevation adjustment screw. h. Prism. j. Bracket locking handle. k. Forehead rest. l. Illuminating Set. m. On/off switch. n. Battery container. o. Two colour filters and one combination wrench and screw driver are issued additionally. p. Optical system and bore sighting mechanism. q. Reticle illuminating set. r. Bracket with a clamping device for fastening the sight to the launcher. 12. The Sight Body. All the parts of.the sight are made as a single unit and this complete unit is called the sight body. 13. The Optical System. It consists of:- a. Glass covers designed to protect the internal mechanism against penetration by moisture and dust. b. Double-lens objective to bring the image of the target to bear on the prism. 42 c. Prism, for the complete rotation of the image. d. A reticle holder with the reticle picture. e. A four lens eye piece, for seeing the image of the object. 14. The objective is encased in the carriage, both of which can be rotated in the vertical and horizontal plane by the movement of lateral and elevation adjustment screws. 1 3 A. Side View ; B. Front View; C. Bottom View of Sight Bracket 1. Bore Sight Mechanism. 2. Body; 3. Raticle Illuminating Set 4. Bracket; 5. Knob; 6. Cover Glass; 7. Objective Cell; 8. Carriage; 9. Objective; 10. Prism; 11. Reticle; 12. Recticle Holder; 13. Threaded Ring; 14. Threaded Ring; 15. Nut; 16. Clips; 17. Eyepiece; 18. Eyepiece Cell; 19. Eye Shield; 20. Cover Glass; 21. Lamp Contact; 22. Electric Lamp; 23. Tumbler Switch; 24. Handle; 25. Latch; 26. Lack; 27. Washer; 28. Claping Screw; 29. Screw; 30. Illuminating Set Body; 31. Section; 32. Contact; 33. Cap; 34. Stop; 35. Spring; 36. Wires; c. Latch Position after Turning; d. Latch Position after Lowering; e. Hole; f. Lug. Figure 17 - Telescopic Sight 43 Sight RS 1A Telescopic 15. The sight offers to measure the distance, speed and lead to be applied for a target, at a distance between 200 to 1000 metres. The sight is the same in all the characteristics of PGO 7 (old sight), less the reticle pattern which offers the measurement of speed, distance and lead to be applied to engage the target. 16. Description of the Reticle Pattern. For diagram of reticle pattern of RS 1A see in figure 18. Details are as following:- a. There are three types of scale in the reticle pattern:- (1) Network scale. (2) Range finding scale. (3) Speed scale. b. Network Scale. The network scale further comprises two scales i.e. range scale and lead lines. (1) Range Scale. From top to down, is marked as 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 graduated in 100 metres. As the effective range of RPG - 7 for a moving target is 300 metres, therefore, the line 3 is prominent than other four lines. (2) Lead Lines. At top centre of the reticle pattern the horizontal line is intersected by 17 x vertical line, known as lead lines. The central line contains (+) sign, the bore sight cross at the top, which is also known as line of fire. There are 8 x vertical line on either side of the line of fire marked after interval of 4, 8, 12 and 16 each (from line of fire to out word). Each vertical line represents 1 x lead for a target moving with the speed of 2 metres/second. Lead will be applied in the same side of reticle pattern from where the target is approaching. 44 c. Range Finding Scale. Below the range scale, there are three diagonal scales to determine the range of target having heights of 1.5, 2.3 and 3 metres respectively. The range finding scale consists of two lines each:- (1) An upper dotted curved line with the figure 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 written above it. (2) A lower continuous straight line, with the figure 1.5, 2.3 and 3 written under each. (3) The figure above the dotted curved lines represents the distance in 100 of metres and figure under the straight line represents the height of the target in metres. d. Speed Scale. At the bottom of reticle pattern the horizontal line, marked as 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 graduated in 100 of metres, is known as speed scale. For example, if a target is at 300 metres moving from left to right, coincides the target with figure 3, the number of lines the target crosses in one second will be the speed of the target in metres/second. Figure 18 - Determining the Range to Target (500 m). 45 17. Mounting the Telescopic Sight on the Launcher. The telescopic sight is installed on the grenade launcher fastening strip. When fitting the sight into the grenade launcher proceed as follows:- a. Wipe clean the launcher strip and the sight bracket. b. Turn the clamping screw handle fully towards the eye shield. c. Match the locating surfaces of the grenade launcher and the sight and slide the sight forward. d. Turn the handle completely towards the muzzle end until the lock clicks and holds sight in position against the bracket. While doing so, the telescopic sight should be held by hand to prevent its slipping. e. If the fitting of the sight on the bracket is loose and it does not properly catch the mounting bracket then proceed as follows (See Figure 17). (1) Shift latch with combination wrench and screw driver to position "C", push to position "D" and remove. (2) Remove handle and move required No of teeth and reinstall. (3) Replace latch, so that lug "f" enters hole “e". 18. The Illuminating Set and Winter Illuminating Set. To assist the firer in lying the launcher at night and in conditions of adverse visibility the sight has an inbuilt illuminating set and an auxiliary winter illuminating set (See Figure 19). a. The Built in Illuminating Set. This consists of a battery box, a bulb fitted in the body, a On/Off tumbler switch and connecting wire. The set uses one Mercury Oxide cell (type 20 p2k). Once switched on, the bulb illuminates the retile pattern in the sight. 46 Cap Wire Hold Down Contact Contact Plug Body Figure 19 - Winter Illuminating Set. b. The Winter Illuminating Set. This is an external set and consists of a tube for cells (tubes for one or two cells are issued) a connecting wire and a cap. To use this set the cap of the built in set is put on the tube and the tube cap with cable is put in place of it. c. On/Off is indicated on Russian made sights and on Korean models as BK/BBIK respectively. 19. Two light filters are issued with each sight, an orange filter for use under conditions of poor light or haze and a neutral or smoky filter for use in bright sun and glare. A rubber eye shield covers the eye piece to block unwanted light from the viewer's eye and a rubber cover is provided for the objective lens. Both are secured to the body with rubber straps. 20. The Sight Carrier. This is a canvas pouch and is used to keep the sight along with the spare parts, tools and accessories, and for its protection, when mounted on the launcher. The spare parts, tools and 47 accessories are kept in pouch pockets. A flannel cloth for cleaning the outside and optical parts and the winter illuminating set are kept in the outer pocket. The inner pocket contains:- a. Spare cells. b. Spare electric lamps. c. Two light filters; orange and neutral. d. Combination wrench. e. Screw driver. All carriers do not have inner and outer pockets; some only have pockets on the outside. Telescopic Sight Mount Pistol Grips Figure 20 - Open or Mechanical Sight. Open or Mechanical Sight (See Figure 20) 21. In the event of the telescopic sight being rendered unserviceable or being lost, an open or Mechanical sight is fitted on to the launcher 48 to enable the firer to continue his task unhampered. This sight is constructed on a normal open sight system and has a foresight and rear sight (See Figure 21). 22. The Foresight. The open sight consists of a foresight which is housed in a casing, and of a sight leaf placed in a casing which carries a slide and a catch. Foresight casing and casing of the sight leaf are trough shaped and spring loaded. The side walls of the casings are provided with holes for pins by which they are fixed to lugs on the barrel. Riveted to the casing bottom are locking springs which serve for locking the foresight and sight leaf in the horizontal and the vertical firing positions. The sight has a tip which is aligned along with the "V" of rear sight into the target. There are two types of launchers with regards to this sight. a. Launcher with Single Foresight Tip. A single non modified foresight tip is meant for use in temperature below four degrees centigrade. This tip does not have any indication on it. b. Launcher with Two Foresight Tips. Certain launchers have two foresight tips, one fixed in the foresight and is meant for use in below four degrees centigrade and a modified foresight tip which is reverted in the sight and raised or lowered by rotation. When the sight is raised a plus (+) sign is visible which is pliant for fire in temperatures above two degrees centigrade whereas when the sight is fully lowered a minus (-) sign is visible. In the raised position the plus (+) tip protrudes slightly above the built in tip. 49 View A 1 3 A 4 6 5 2 a B View A B 1. Main Front Sight; 2. Main Front Sight Spring; 3. Supplementary Front Sight; 4. Supplementary Front Sight Spring; 5. Supplementary Front Sight Pin; 6. Rivet; A-Setting the Supplementary Front Sight to Fire at Ambient Temperatures Above 00 C; Be-Setting the Supplementary Front Sight to Fire at Ambient Temperatures Below 00 C. Figure 21 - Front Sight. 50 23. The Rear Sight. The rear sight is also housed in a casing and is leaf spring loaded. One side of the sight dents and a spring loaded stud connected to the sight. The slide engages these when the latch is moved up or down. The sight has the figure 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 cut into it which indicates a range of one to five hundred metres. The rear sight slide which moves up and down when the stud is pressed, has a window for seeing the range and a “V” on top. 24. With the raised sight the launcher is aimed like a normal rifle ie "V" of the rear sight and the tip of the foresight are brought in line with firer's eye and the target. 25. Question the squad and let them view the picture as seen through the sights. Aiming 26. In order to obtain the greatest effect from the launcher there must be accurate judging of distance together with quick and accurate sight setting and aiming. Apart from accurate judging of distance, firer has to determine the apparent speed and direction of the target. Then he has also to sight target in the reticle pattern/alignment with mechanical sight at an appropriate angle and lead He must always keep the launcher upright by keeping the two lines extending below the reticle pattern straight. Basically, two types of targets are encountered and have to be dealt with, ie stationary and moving. 27. Aiming on Stationary Targets. Explain using the diagram how to aim (See Figure 22):- a. Using Mechanical Sight. Since mechanical sight is designed as a normal rifle sight, aim with it will be on the same principle. Estate the range and put it at the scale division corresponding to the range. Now bring the "V" of the rear sight and the tip of the foresight in line with the firer's eye and the target. At a very close range a 51 vulnerable spot on the target can be selected such as the sides and rear of engine compartment and the sides under the turret where the emollition is stored. The least vulnerable parts are the sloping plate on the front and the front of the turret. b. When Using Telescopic Sight. Aim the launcher by the telescopic sight, using the cross hairs of the range and lateral deflection scales corresponding to the required firing range. Figure 22 - Stationary Target Range. 2.7 Figure 22 - Stationary Target Range. 28. It must be remembered that in all cases of engagement of moving targets, only "apparent speed" can be estimated and as such some deviation of point of impact from the point of aim must be expected and accepted. In case of major error, correction of fire may even be necessary. 52 29. Lay correct aim. Squad to see. 30. Practice the squad in lying aim, at directly approaching and withdrawing targets, direct crossers and oblique crossers. 31. Further practice at any moving vehicles. Conclusion 32. Question to and from the squad. 33. Sum up. LESSON 5 - MECHANISM OF RPG-7, TRIGGER OPERATION, MISFIRE AND MALFUNCTIONS Aim 1. To teach mechanism of RPG-7 and trigger operation. Stores 2. One or more RPG - 7, drill rockets, silhouette tank, targets and diagrams of trigger and firing mechanism. Notes 3. The best method of teaching trigger operation is by explaining with the help of a diagram and if possible the working of actual parts should be shown. During demonstrations which require a team of two, the instructor should detail members of the squad to act as Number 1 and 2 and should explain and demonstrate the actions to be performed. DO NOT ALLOW ANY ONE TO STAND BEHIND THE LAUNCHER WHEN IT IS LOADED 53 Revision 4. Loading and unloading in any position. Safety Precautions 5. Inspect all rockets to ensure that there are no live or practice rockets among them. Approach 6. Combined with quick and accurate aiming and loading there must be quick and accurate firing Number 1 and Number 2 must work as a team in order to get the greatest value from the weapon and maxi- mum number of hits. Mechanism of RPG -7 7. Firing Pin Mechanism. Explain with the help of a diagram and demonstrate where possible. Firing Pin Mechanism 8. The firing pin mechanism which detonates the ignition primer of the rocket grenade consists of firing pin, bearing, firing pin spring and firing pin locking nut. 9. The firing pin is shaped like a needle; a cylindrical housing carries the firing pin spring, collar and tail section. Bearing bushing supports the upper end of the firing pin spring and has a hole to receive the firing pin and a rocket for the firing pin spring. Firing pin spring is meant, to return the firing pin after firing, to the initial position. One end of the spring rests against bearing bushing and the other against collar of the firing pin. The firing pin locking nut screwed into the rocket of the firing pin mechanism base keeps the parts of the firing pin mechanism and controls the movement of the firing pin (See Figure 23). 54 10. Functioning of Firing Pin Mechanism. Before the striking of the firing pin with the cocking piece, the parts of the firing pin mechanism occupy the position indicated in Figures 6 and 7. The firing pin actuated by its spring is held in the lower most position. The firing pin needle is located, flushed with the barrel hole and does not project into the barrel. The tail section of the pin protrudes outside beyond the locking nut hole. 3 2 1 4 a 1. Firing Pin; 2. Bearing Bushing; 3. Firing Pin Spring; 4. Nipple; a. Collar. Figure 23 - Firing Pin Mechanism. 11. With the cocking piece striking the firing pin base the firing pin spring, moves upwards and the firing pin hits the ignition primer of the grenade. The firing pin spring then returns the firing pin to the initial position. 55 12. Firing and Trigger Mechanism. The firing and trigger mechanism fire the launcher. The mechanism body forming the base of the firing and trigger mechanism accommodates the cocking piece safety lock, sear, plunger and plunger spring. The middle section has two sockets for the plunger, and for the safety lock plunger and its spring. The rear section has recesses for the plunger and a recess for connecting the body to the barrel by means of the lug of the firing pin mechanism base. The body ends with a plate which together with the two wooden side pieces from the launcher grip (See Figure 24). 19. Screws; 20. Sidepieces; 21. Screw; 22. Cover; 23. Cotter; 24. Cocking-Piece Pin; 25. Body; a. Trigger Guard; b. Cotter Hole; c. Threaded Holes; d. Sear Slot; e. Hole for Trigger Pin; f. Threaded Hole for Cocking-Piece Pin; g. Cocking Piece Recess h. Shaped Socket; i. Rod Socket; j. Hole for Safety Lock; Figure 24 - Body of Firing and Trigger Mechanism. 13. Construction of Cocking Piece. The cocking piece strikes the firing pin when the trigger is pressed. It rotates on a pin screwed in the 56 firing and trigger mechanism body, and has a serrated tongue for arming it. There are two lugs, a cocking nose and a safety lug, which are coupled with the sear. There is a hole to completely receive the cocking piece pin (See Figure 25). c b a d A. Cocking Nose; B. Safety Lug; C. Serrated Cocking Tongue; D. Hole For Cocking-Piece Pin. Figure 25 - Cocking Piece. 14. Construction of Safety Lock. The safety lock prevents the accidental firing of the launcher by limiting the movement of the trigger. The safety lock has a collar and two recesses which the safety plunger occupies when pressed, depending on the position of the safety lock. To set the firing and trigger mechanism at safe, press in the safety stud from the left to bring the red circular strip flushed with the body cover (See Figure 26). 15. Construction of Trigger. The trigger has a upper tooth which disengages the sear from the cocking nose, a hole for the trigger pin, a tail piece 'for pressing when firing the shot, a lower tooth for bearing against the safety lock collar when the launcher is set at safe (See Figure 27). 16. Construction of Sear. The sear is a fiat spring provided with a tooth at the front end for engaging the cocking piece. The tail section 57 of the sear has a hole for fastening the sear to the body of the firing and trigger mechanism with a screw (See Figure 28). 26. Plunger Spring; 27. Plunger; 28. Safety Lock a. Collar; b. Recess. Figure 26 - Safety Lock, Disassembled. a b c d A. Upper Tooth; B. Trigger Pin Hole; C. Lower Tooth; D. Tail Piece. Figure 27 - Trigger. 58 31 a 32 b 31. Screw; 32. Sear; a. Hole for Screw; b. Tooth. Figure 28 – Sear. 17. Construction of Plunger Spring. The plunger and plunger spring imparts the rotary motion necessary for bearing the cocking piece to strike the firing pin. The plunger has a head with guiding arms and two lugs, one small and the other large, and a hole for putting the drift into when disconnecting the rod with plunger from the body of the firing and trigger mechanism (See Figure 35). 18. Operation of Firing and Trigger Mechanism. Before the cocking piece is armed, the parts of the mechanism occupy the following position:- a. The cocking piece is held in position by the pressure of the two lugs of the plunger. b. The cocking piece is engaged by the sear on the safety lug. c. One end of the sear rests against the cocking piece safety lug and simultaneously presses against the upper tooth of the trigger, thus resulting in the projection of the trigger tail piece beyond the opening of the mechanism body. (See Figure 29). 59 19. When arming the cocking piece by moving it downward (See Figure 30) the parts of the firing and trigger mechanism move and act as follows:- a. Cocking piece pressed by the thumb of the hand, rotates round its pin and presses against the big lug of the plunger rod. b. The sear moves upwards and engages the cocking nose, thereby arming the cocking piece. c. The trigger occupies the forward most position due to the movement of the sear. a b c 37 36 d 36. Rod; 37. Cocking Spring; a. Big Lug; b. Small Lug; c. Head; d. Hole for Drift. Figure 29 - Rod with Cocking Spring. 60 30. Trigger Pin, 32. Sear; 33. Cocking Piece Pin; 35. Cocking Piece; 36. Rod; 37. Cocking Spring. Figure 30 - Firing and Trigger Mechanism in Cocked Position. 20. When the trigger is pressed, the parts of the firing and trigger mechanism function as follows:- a. The trigger, turning on its pin, lifts the sear with its upper tooth. b. The sear disengages from the cocking nose of the cocking piece. c. The plunger reacting under the pressure of its spring moves upwards, presses against the cocking piece with its big lug and turns round on its pivot. d. On reaching the position occupied before arming, cocking piece keeps on turning round its pin and moves upwards under force of inertia and not under the pressure of plunger spring. e. While doing so, the cocking piece strikes the firing pin, which detonates the grenade. The upward movement of cocking piece is stopped by firing pin. f. As the cocking piece moves upwards under its own movement, its shorter arm goes down, presses against the 61 smaller lug of the plunger and makes the plunger rod move slightly down there by slowing the further movement of the cocking piece. g. After the force of inertia has been dispelled, the plunger rod, actuated by the pressure of the plunger spring rises with its smaller lug, the short arm of the cocking piece and thus turn it on its pin in the opposite direction to lower its serrated section till contact is made with the bigger lug of the plunger. h. One end of the sear rests on the horizontal surface of the cocking piece safety lug. j. One complete movement from cocking to firing is thus completed. k. Caution. Except for firing, the safety switch is always kept in its "SAFE" position. 21. Question the squad and remove doubts. Firing 22. Explain and Demonstrate. After the rocket has been loaded remove the firing and trigger mechanism from the safety lock by pressing it with the fore finger on the right side, and arm the cocking piece. Pull the cocking piece down so that the cocking, earn engages the catch producing a snap sound. 23. If the launcher is fired after loading with some time delay, do not remove the firing and trigger mechanism from the safety lock before firing the rocket. If the cocking piece is armed then set the firing and trigger mechanism at safe and press the safety lock on the left side of the trigger and firing mechanism and depress it. 24. Aim the launcher by the telescopic sight, using the cross hair of the range and lateral deflection scales corresponding to the range and 62 selected lead. If the telescopic sight is out of order, sight the launcher through the notch on the sight slide set at a scale division corresponding to the firing range and the upper face of the open sight foresight. 25. Squeeze the trigger with smooth, steady rearward pressure with the right hand forefinger. As with the rifle, the breathing should be restrained while aiming and operating the trigger. He must keep the launcher pointing towards the target with the correct sight picture till the grenade has cleared the launcher, or in the event of a misfire, until after he has released the trigger for a possible "hang fire". 26. Number 1 and Number 2 should watch the strike of the grenade. After the rocket has struck, Number 1 calls "Load" and Number 2 loads another grenade. 27. The rate of fire is from 4 to 6 rockets per minute, but may be increased if the launcher team is more proficient in its handling. 28. Explain that during practice as the grenade does not leave the barrel, Number 2 will go through the correct motions of loading and unloading. 29. Practice the squad in firing, in all positions, at stationary and any handy moving targets. Misfire 30. Action on Misfire. Explain and demonstrate If the round does not fire after pressing the trigger then following action is taken:- a. Action of Number 1 (1) Arms the cocking piece again and takes the aim and fires. 63 (2) If no fire occurs then takes out his finger from the trigger guard. Puts the safety lock on safe. Makes sure that the cocking piece is up. (3) Puts his hand on the shoulder of Number 2 and calls "misfire". b. Action of Number 2 (1) Repeats command of misfire. (2) Sees that the round has not been incompletely rammed into the launcher bore. Fits the round until the retainer bears against the bottom of the muzzle face recesses. (3) Calls up. 31. Repeats the drill as per para 30a. If the round still does not fire then following action is taken:- a. Action of Number 1 (1) Repeats drill as per para 30a. (2) Gives order to Number 2 "Misfire unload." b. Action of Number 2 (1) Repeats command of misfire. (2) Takes out the round from the barrel and checks the primer:- (a) Sees ignition primer in defective. (b) Sees if the firing pin is worn out. (3) If the primer has been hit, loads another round. (4) Changes firing pin. (5) If the firing pin does not strike against primer with force owing to contamination of lubricant on firing 64 and trigger mechanism or the barrel is dirty. He cleans firing and trigger mechanism or barrel and reloads the same round. Changes lubricant if required. 32. If the round is still not fired, then Number 1 giving following order to Number 2. a. Orders to Number 2. "Misfire unload." b. Strips firing pin assembly and if the firing pin is broken changes it. c. If the firing pin is not broken then he strips firing pin and trigger mechanism cover plate and checks trigger assembly. If some part is broken or has shifted from its original place then takes launcher to workshop. Malfunctions 33. The launcher can develop the following malfunctions:- a. Round Fails to Enter Barrel Bore. If the bore is dirty and there is carbon deposit and remnants of card board case. Remove the dirt, carbon deposits and card board case remnants by cleaning the bore. b. Telescopic Sight Loose. The fault occurs. When the sight fastening adjustment has been disturbed. Adjust the sight fastening. c. Sight Leaf or Foresight Bent. The sight leaf and foresight will bend only if they have struck some hard surface. They would require repairs at workshop. d. Foresight or Sight Leaf of Open Sight Fails to Fix in Firing or Travelling Position. The fault occurs when the sight spring is weak or is broken. This would need workshop repair. 65 e. Firing Pin Moves Freely in its Base. This happens when the firing pin spring is weak or broken. Replace the firing pin spring. f. No clearance between cocking piece and nipple with firing pin pressed completely by cocking piece. This fault occurs when the nipple is screwed incompletely. Screw the nipple sight home. g. Safety Lock Loose. This will happen when the lock spring is weak. Replace the lock spring. h. Wooden Hand Guards Crack. This fault occurs owing to the blows caused by falling down of launcher and due to frequent removal of guards from barrel. Replace the wooden hand guards. Conclusion 34. Question to and from the squad. 35. Practice weak points and sum up. LESSON 6 - ZEROING Aim 1. To teach the methods of zeroing of the launcher, with a view to ensuring that, when fired accurately, under normal conditions the shots strike at the correct place. Stores 2. A rest to support the launcher, maintenance outfit, launcher, bore sighting gauge, and plumb line. 66 3. Launcher Rest. Any type of rest will suffice provided the launcher is held secure and firm. Suggested dimensions for making of laying stand, are indicated in diagram shown in Annex B. 4. During demonstration the instructor should ensure that the squad views the aim on which the weapon is laid and the picture as seen through the sights. Approach 5. All weapons must be zeroed before firing to ensure that correct alignment of the barrel and the sight is obtained. The sighting equipment of anti-tank grenade launcher RPG-7 consists of the telescopic sight and an open mechanical sight. The open sight being rigidly fixed can only be checked for accuracy and cannot be adjusted at user level. The telescopic sight can, however, be adjusted. Preparation of Launcher for Zeroing 6. The following procedure should be adopted to prepare the launcher for zeroing:- a. Put the launcher on a rest/laying stand, ensuring secure fastening and accurate laying. b. Stretch strings cross wise in the bore sighting gauge. c. Insert the bore sighting gauge into the barrel from the muzzle end. d. Fix the telescopic sight on the grenade launcher. e. Set the telescopic sight temperature correction knob in position. f. Erect the sight leaf with slide and foresight in the firing position with the sight slide at scale reading 3, i.e. for 300 metres. 67 Methods of Zeroing 7. There are two methods for zeroing the anti-tank grenade launcher RPG-7:- a. The testing target method. b. The aiming point method. 8. Both methods are accurate and give a correctly zeroed weapon. The method used will, however, depend upon the circumstances. The testing target method can be used indoors or under bad visibility conditions effectively, whereas an outdoor area and good visibility are essential for the aiming point method. The design of testing target is given at Figure 31. A. For Grenade Launcher RPG-7 With One Foresight. B. For Grenade Launcher RPG-7 with two Foresights. Figure 31 - Scheme of Testing Target. 68 The Testing Target Method 9. For testing the mechanical sight, explain and demonstrate as follows:- a. Place the testing target at a distance of 20 metres from the rear sight slide. Ensure with the help of a plumb line, that testing target is upright. b. Lay the launcher on the testing target so that the cross wires of bore sight gauge are aligned with the cross lines in the cross of the testing target upper circle (See Figure 32). c. Sight the launcher keeping the eye about 15 centimetres behind the rear sight. d. The tip of the plus (+) foresight i.e. for firing at temperatures above zero, when seen through the sight slide notch should not go beyond the limits of the upper white rectangle in the rectangle of the testing target. e. The tip of the minus (--) foresight i.e. for firing at temperatures below zero, when seen through the sight slide notch should not go beyond the limits of lower white rectangle of the testing target. d a b c e A. General View; B. Left Side View; C. Right-Side View; a. Tube; b. Head; c. Slot, d. Locating Pin; e. Slots. Figure 32 - Bore Sighting Gauge. 69 f. Repeat the process at least four times. g. If the foresight tip is beyond the limits of the respective white rectangles of the testing target, in 50% of the total sighting the' launcher should be sent to the workshop for adjustment of the sights. 10. For testing the telescopic sight, sight the launcher through the telescopic sight and align the plus (+) sign, in the upper part of the sight picture with the small cross lines in the testing. target cross in the upper circle. If the plus (+) sign does not coincide with the hair line cross, adjust the telescopic sight as follows (See Figure 33):- a. Adjustment of Error in Deflection. Unscrew cover of the deflection screw, insert a screw driver into the screw and turn the screw until the plus (+) sign in the sight moves in line with and covers the hair line cross in the testing target (See Figure 34). b. Adjustment of Error in Elevation. Loosen the three fixing screws on the Elevation Adjusting Knob, insert screw driver into the centre screw and rotate the screw until the plus (+) sign on the reticle covers is in line with the wire cross of the testing target. Tighten the three fixing screws on the elevation adjusting knob (See Figure 35 and 36). c. Check the sight for proper setting. The Aiming Point Method 11. The second method for testing and zeroing the launcher is the Aiming Point Method. To check the telescopic sight by this method the following procedure is adopted:- a. Select an aiming point at a distance of approximately 300 metres from the launcher. b. Lay the launcher through the bore sighting mechanism onto the aiming point. 70 View of screw III Along arrow A, with cover 13 removed View of screw 3 Along arrow B 1. Body; 2. Bushing; 3. Screw; 4. Base; 5. Knob; 6. Spring; 7. Slide; 8. Carriage; 9. Guide; 10. Locking Plunger; 11. Nut; 12. Screw; 13. Cover; 14. Ball; 15. Ring; 16. Screw. Figure 33 - Bore Sighting Mechanism. c. Look through the telescopic sight, the sign plus (+), in the sight should cover the aiming point in the same way as the bore sighting cross. If the telescopic sight is not properly aligned, correct the telescopic sight setting in the same way as explained in para 9a and b above. 71 a. De-flection Adjusting Screw. c. Fixating Screw. b. Elevation Adjusting Screw. Figure 34 - Adjusting Screws. d. While checking the sighting equipment, check the correctness of barrel on the aiming point periodically to ensure correct zeroing. Conclusion 12. Question and practice the squad. 13. Questions to and from the squad. 14. Sum up. 72 SECTION 4 - AMMUNITION General 1. This section deals with the ammunition of the RPG-7 grenade launcher i.e. the grenade launcher RPG-7 B to enable the users to understand the actions that take place in the grenade to launch, and finally detonate it (See Figure 41). This subject has been dealt with in the following sub sections:- a. Sub Section 1 - Design. b. Sub Section 2 - Functioning of Fuze. c. Sub Section 3 - Functioning of Ammunition. d. Sub Section 4 - Packing and Marking of Ammunition. e. Sub Section 5 - Handling of Ammunition. 2. The main characteristic of the grenade anti-tank RPG-7 B are:- a. Calibre at grenade nose 85 rom. b. Length of grenade with cartridge 925 mm. c. Length of grenade 640 mm. d. Weight of grenade with cartridge 2.2 kg. e. Weight of grenade 1.8 kg. 73 A B C A. Grenade Body. B. Propellant Charge. C. Expelling Charge. 73 1. Fairing Bushing; 2. Current-Conducting Cone; 3. Fairing; 4. Insulator; 5. Insulating Ring; 6. Funnel; 7. Body; 8. Block; 9. Screen; 10. Block; 11. Bushing; 12. Nozzle Assembly; 13. Diaphragm; "14. Retainer; 15. Washer; 16. Tube; 17. Powder Charge; 18. Stop; 19. Igniter; 20. Base; 21 Cap; 22. Washer; 23. Diaphragm; 24. Fin; 25. Pill; 26. Crosspiece; 27. Powder He- I 38; 28. Turbine; 29. Gasket; 30. Wad; 31. Guket; 32. Nut; 33. Tracer; 34. Sleeve; 35. Main Igniter; 36. Additional Igniter; 37. Cap 38. Igniter Primer; 39. Compensator; 40. Time-Delay Squib; 41. Base Section of Fuze Rpg-7; 42. Conductor; 43. Nose-Cap of Fuze RPG-7: a. Nozzle Hole; b. Lug; c. Axial Passage; d. Radial Passage; e. Guide Band. Figure 35 - Round PG-7B. 74 f. Muzzle velocity:- (1) Initial 120 Metres (2) Boosted (Rocket velocity) 300 Metres g. 5 rounds are carried by the two man crew on man pack basis, the “carrier bags” contain two and three rounds of ammo carried by Number 1 and Number 2. h. Penetration power - 40.14 cm in steel 60.96 cm in masonary j. Back Blast Area - 30 metres behind bell mouth. Ammunition Design 3. The grenade RPG-7B comprises of three major parts (See Figure 42):- a. Anti-tank grenade. b. Cartridge. c. Fuze. 4. The anti-tank grenade comprises of two parts:- a. The Nose. The nose forms the warhead of the grenade and consists of following parts:- (1) The body containing the HE fillings. (2) The current conducting cone. (3) Hollow cone to give shape to the HE fillings. The HE filling is arranged in two blocks separated by a screen. b. Rocket Booster. This is designed to boost the muzzle velocity into rocket velocity of the grenade during the flight and consists of:- 75 (1) A tube. (2) Propellant charge. (3) Igniter and igniting primer. (4) Time delay element. (5) Nozzle assembly. 5. The base of the booster tube has been screwed on safety device with gasket to prate the igniting primer from accidental detonation or damage during transportation and handling. This safety device is removed before connecting the anti-tank grenade to the cartridge. The portion of the booster tube joining the body of the grenade is the nozzle assembly and has six sealed outlet holes through which the gases are released from the rocket booster. (The time delay element is designed to ignite the propellant charge of the rocket booster, after the initial jump from the launcher by the cartridge). Cartridge 6. The cartridge imparts initial velocity to the grenade and consists of the propellant charge (nitroglycerine strips), the tracer element and the fin stabilizer with 4 fins. The cartridge is screwed into the base of the rocket booster before loading. The entire charge is placed in a paper cover whereas the charge, fins and the tracer are enclosed in a cardboard cover. The complete cartridge is painted green. Fuze 7. The fuze is piezo electric, point initiated, base detonated and instantaneous direct arming type with a self destruction device which is designed to ensure detonation of the grenade at a maximum range of 900 metres to 1000 metres even if it fails to encounter an obstacle. The fuze consists of nose fuze with cap and a base fuze (See Figure 41). 76 a. Nose Fuze: See Figure 42). It is composed of a body, a piece generator, contacts and insulator. The piece generator serves to transfer mechanical energy into electrical energy when the fuze strikes a target. The body carries a safety cap, secured to it by a safety pin to protect the fuze nose cap from deformation/damage during handling and transportation. 1 Note - The Safety Pin is Pulled out Before Firing. 1. Fuze Nose Cap. 2. Fuze Base. Figure 36 - Fuze Nose. 77 7 6 8 5 9 4 10 3 2 1 11 12 1. Rubber Gasket; 2. Insulator; 3. Contact; 4. Body; 5. Nut; 6. Diaphragm: 7. Safety Cap; 8. Contact; 9. Piezo Cell; 10. Safety Pin; 11. Tape; 12. Contact. Figure 37 - Fuze Nose Cap. 78 1. Insulating Disc; 2. Central Contact; 3. Bushing 4. Spring; 5. Slider; 6. Body; 7. Outer Shell; 8. Inner Shell; 9. Detonator Block; 10. Shell; 11. Gasket; 12. Bushing; 13. Steel Insert; 14. Shield; 15. Spark Electric Detonator; 16. Conical Spring; 17. Bushing; 18. Bushing; 19. Lock; 20. Screw; 21. Base Nut; 22. Retaining Ball; 23. Retaining Ball; 24. Plunger; 25. Spring; 26. Disc; 27. Firing Point; 28. Spring; 29. Igniting Primer; 30. Detonating Primer; 31. Bushing. Figure 38 - Fuze Base. 79 b. The Base Fuze. (See Figure 38). It consists of an armed safety device electric detonator, self destruction device and a detonating device. The spark produced by the nose fuze is conveyed to the contact cap of the electric detonator through the outer metallic body of the grenade and the internal cone funnel conductor of the warhead. Safety during handling is ensured by the following:- (1) Steel balls. (2) Steel insert between the spark electric detonator and the main detonator. (3) Spring of the electric detonator pin. (4) Short circuiting of the electric current during handling. c. If the fuze fails to operate or if the grenade does not meet any obstacle after 4 to 6 seconds of firing, the electric detonator operates the detonating primer of the self destruction device which explodes the grenade. Functioning of Fuze 8. The fuze nose cap is joined with the bush of grenade fairing with a raised part known as thread of body, and with grenade cone through contact when screwed. 9. The fuze base sections contact with the grenade conductor is through a pin in the base nut. Electrical connection between the fuze nose cap and base is made through the outer (fairing body) and the inner (cone funnel conductor) circuits of the grenade metal parts. The piezo cell in the fuze nose cap is short circuited through the metal parts of the fuze base. Electric detonator (See Figure 39) is disconnected from the piezo cell electric circuit and shorted through metal to the parts of the fuze base. 80 32. Contact Cap; 33. Spring; 34. Rod; 35. Insulation; 36. Cup; 37. Sleeve; 38. Explosive; 39. Cap. Figure 39 - Spark Electric Detonator. 10. The above indicated position of electric detonator is kept in place by a slider which is held in position with the he

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