This is a catch-all bucket for topics that don't fit well into the above categories. As we read and learn we will do our best to post the highlights and insights gained.
If you hang a 4.5-inch wooden ball with a twisted cord and let it spin as it untwists, it will move in one vertical plane. But, if you spin it while it's swinging, it will move to one side, influenced by how its spin interacts with its forward motion.
Bullet Path Experiment:
By shooting bullets through parallel sheets of tissue paper, you can see how much a bullet deviates from a straight path. This shows that the bullet's deflection isn't just proportional to distance; other forces are at play due to rotation.
Bent Barrel Experiment:
Robins bent a gun barrel slightly to the left near the muzzle. When fired, the bullet initially went left but ended up hitting to the right of the intended target line. This demonstrates how the bullet's spin can cause it to deviate in unexpected ways.
Explaining Projectile Motion:
Forces on Projectiles:
The motion of a projectile can be straightforward if a force acts directly through its center of gravity. But if there's already movement and another force is applied, the projectile might speed up, slow down, or change direction based on whether these forces work together or against each other or if they apply at an angle.
Rotation and Translation:
If a projectile is both moving forward and spinning, adding a new force won't affect its spin if it passes through the center of gravity. But if the force doesn't go through this center, the projectile's path changes as if the force were applied in a straight line through the center, and it might also start spinning around a new axis.
Validation: The experiments described, like using tissue paper screens or the bent barrel, are classic methods for demonstrating principles in ballistics, particularly how rotation influences projectile paths. These align with historical methods for studying bullet behavior.
The principles discussed about forces acting on a projectile are fundamental physics concepts, still valid in understanding dynamics in ballistics, though modern science has added more nuanced layers with aerodynamics and advanced materials.
Perfectly Centered Ball in a Barrel: If a perfectly spherical and solid ball is fired from a barrel that fits it exactly, the force from the gunpowder would push directly through the ball's center of gravity along the barrel's axis. With no space (windage), there would be little friction from the ball's weight. However, without windage, there's always significant friction. This friction opposes the force from the powder, causing the ball to rotate around its axis.
Off-Center Gravity: If the ball's center of gravity is not at its center but near the edge, when fired, the force from the powder goes through the ball's center but not its center of gravity. This misalignment causes the ball to spin around its center of gravity.
Rotation and Material: The speed of this rotation depends on the ball's material density or uniformity. The direction of spin depends on where the center of gravity is relative to the ball's center.
Determining Center of Gravity: You can find a bullet's center of gravity by floating it in mercury, marking the highest point, then marking the point directly opposite on the bottom. The line between these marks shows where the center of gravity lies.
Impact on Bullet Path (from Sir Howard Douglas's Experiments): When the center of gravity is above the center of the ball, the bullet travels further. Below, it travels less. To the side, it deviates sideways.
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A cannonball with an off-center gravity traveled 1,640 yards, while one with perfectly aligned centers went 500 yards further. For perfectly centered shots, friction mainly causes deviation, but for eccentric shots, rotation alone can cause the bullet to veer off course.
Validation:
The concepts discussed, like the effects of center of gravity, friction, and rotation in ballistics, are consistent with principles of physics and ballistics.
The specific reference to Sir Howard Douglas and his experiments adds historical context, but the exact figures and outcomes would need specific historical data to confirm. However, the general principle that an off-center gravity affects trajectory is well-established in ballistics.
The explanation of using mercury to find the center of gravity is a practical, if somewhat archaic, method for understanding bullet dynamics.
This summary captures the key points of projectile motion in a way that's understandable for someone studying ballistics or physics, with each point reflecting established scientific principles.
Air vs. Vacuum: In air, a projectile's path (trajectory) is very different from what it would be in a vacuum due to air resistance.
Trajectory Shape: Imagine drawing a line straight up from the highest point of the projectile's path; you'll see two parts. One near the start is almost straight, while the other curves away. This can be visualized by watching water from a hose at various angles.
Trajectory Variables: The shape of this curve changes with the launch angle, initial speed, projectile shape, density, and center of gravity.
Momentum and Range: More mass in a projectile means more momentum, thus generally a longer range if all other factors are equal.
Acceleration and Resistance: When a projectile's speed matches air resistance, its range reaches its limit.
Point Blank Range: Adjusting the angle of the gun changes how far the point blank range extends from the barrel.
Marksman's Goal: The aim is to match the rifle's point blank range with the target's distance.
Point Blank Points: There are two points where the trajectory crosses the line of sight (firing line); one close to the barrel, both called point blank. To hit a target, aim under it if it's within point blank range, or above if beyond.
Windage and Accuracy: Too much space around the projectile (windage) and the resulting spin are major causes of inaccuracy in firearms. Modern efforts focus on minimizing this windage to improve accuracy.
Validation:
Air Resistance: This is a fundamental principle in ballistics; air affects the path of projectiles significantly compared to a vacuum.
Trajectory: The description of the trajectory's shape, with a straighter part near the muzzle and a more curved descent, is accurate based on physical principles of motion under gravity and air resistance.
Factors Influencing Motion: The influence of initial velocity, angle, projectile characteristics, etc., on trajectory shape is well-documented in physics.
Momentum: The relationship between mass, momentum, and range is a basic concept in physics.
Point Blank Range: This term and its implications in shooting are correctly described, though "point blank" typically refers to one range where no elevation adjustment is needed.
Windage: Reducing windage to increase accuracy is a known strategy in firearm design, showing an understanding of how barrel-projectile fit affects performance.
A student learning to shoot should now understand the basics of rifle science. If they've been accepted into the Hythe training classes, they're ahead of others who are just starting there. At Hythe, they'll learn that less prior rifle experience might actually make you a better shooter in less time because it prevents bad habits.
The Hythe shooting method is very precise and doesn't allow for deviations from its established rules. These rules, developed through extensive testing, ensure that even without firing a single bullet, one can become highly proficient by strictly following the aiming and positioning drills.
To become an expert, one must quickly learn to judge distances intuitively and coordinate eye and hand movements perfectly.
[list]Aiming, whether at a stationary or moving target, involves aligning three points in a straight line.
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Unlike French rifles with a fixed back sight, English rifles have adjustable sights for various distances, from 50 to 1000 yards. The front sight should be thin and precisely aligned with the rifle's barrel, possibly protected by a steel tube for both safeguarding and aiding visibility.
Adjusting the back sight is simple to learn, but it's crucial to keep it (back sight) perfectly vertical, as even a minor tilt can ruin your shot.
When shooting, close your non-dominant eye (the book specifies "left") and use your other eye (book specifies "right") to look through both the front and back sights on the rifle barrel directly at your target. Focus intensely on the target. After some practice, you'll find that the front sight naturally aligns with the target without much effort. If you try to look from the front sight to the target in the usual way, aiming becomes much harder.
Sight Types:
Fine-Sight: When you see just the tip of the front sight through the notch of the back sight.
Full-Sight: When the entire front sight fills the back sight notch.
Half-Sight: Somewhere between fine and full, best for beginners.
For practice:
Setup: Use three sticks to make a stable tripod, about six feet long each, connected near one end. Place a sandbag (about half a bushel of sand) in the fork of this tripod to rest your rifle on.
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Aiming: Aim at an object like a black post against a white background, at around 40-50 yards, following the aiming rules taught.
Instruction: If you have an instructor, they'll check your sight alignment, correct any mistakes, and teach you how to avoid errors.
Practice: Repeat this aiming exercise at 17 different distances from 100 to 900 yards, spaced 50 yards apart, for several days.
Self-Correction: If you're alone, after setting up your rifle, step away for a moment. When you return, you'll often spot your own mistakes, improving faster by self-assessment.
After Practice: After each session, lower the sights, look down the barrel, and note how much elevation you used for each distance.
Once you're comfortable with this setup and practice, move on to the second lesson, which involves learning the correct shooting positions.
Validation:
Shooting Techniques: The described method of aligning sights and focusing on the target is fundamental to marksmanship. The use of different sight alignments (fine, full, half) is consistent with historical shooting practices.
Training Equipment: The use of a makeshift tripod for rifle support and a sandbag for stability reflects common practices in rifle training to ensure consistent positioning and to mimic field conditions.
Progressive Training: The step-by-step approach from basic sight alignment to practicing at various distances mirrors traditional rifle training methods, especially in military contexts where precision and adaptability are key.
Left Arm and Body Position: Use your left arm to support the rifle's weight. Stand with your body in a comfortable firing position, ensuring your left hand is about halfway between the lower band and the lock plate on the rifle.
Grip: Hold the rifle firmly but not so tight that your body's pulse shakes it. Some prefer balancing the rifle on the fingertips of the left hand, but this is not recommended for beginners.
Right Hand Position: Place your right hand behind the trigger guard with your thumb bent over the stock.
Body Alignment: Stand with your shoulders half-turned, feet at right angles, eyes on the target, head upright, not leaning on the stock.
Firing Sequence:
At 'Present': Quickly raise the rifle with your left arm extended, keeping elbows close to your body. The rifle should be almost horizontal with the muzzle slightly down, heel-plate just below the shoulder line, and your trigger finger outside the guard.
At 'Two': Push the rifle back into your shoulder with your left hand, aligning your left elbow under the rifle, right elbow slightly forward, body and head still upright.
At 'Three': Move the rifle to the capping position, keeping your body posture, but move your trigger finger inside the guard.
Kneeling Position:
Foot Position: Move your right foot back 12 inches, toe down, left leg straight, weight on your right heel.
At 'Two' (Kneeling): Support the rifle with your left elbow on your left knee.
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Aiming and Firing:
Head and Eye Position: Slightly tilt your head forward and to the right, close your left eye, aim with your right through the sights.
Trigger Action: Place your finger on the trigger, inhale moderately, hold your breath, align sights perfectly, and pull the trigger without jerking, keeping the rifle steady and aimed.
Repeat: Return to the capping position and repeat the sequence.
This simplification should help in understanding the key movements and positions for rifle shooting practice, maintaining the core elements of the original instructions while making them more accessible.
This practice combines the platoon exercise's "loading" with previously described movements.
When an instructor is present, they should ensure:
The sights remain upright.
The rifle is held firmly against the shoulder.
The trigger is pulled smoothly without jerking, using only the forefinger without aid from the hand or arm.
The hammer's fall doesn't move the rifle's muzzle.
Self-Practice:
When practicing alone, balance a penny or similar disc on the rifle, an inch from the muzzle sight. If you can perform all movements, including pulling the trigger, without the penny falling, you're doing well.
Overcoming Challenges:
You might blink involuntarily when the hammer falls. It's crucial to overcome this habit before proceeding further.
After mastering this, practice dry firing at a target, taking the same care as if you were firing live ammunition.
Indoor Practice:
All these steps can be learned indoors. If you have access to an old rifle, practicing these exercises several times daily will help you get familiar with handling and aiming.
Using Caps and Blank Ammunition:
A military cap can blow out a candle from several feet away if aimed correctly. This shows good aim without a gun range.
Use 50 to 100 caps for practice. Once you have access to a range, practice with blank ammunition for a few days before using live rounds. Woolwich's blank cartridges mimic real loading with a mock bullet, preparing you for actual service.
Recoil:
You'll notice a slight "kick" from the rifle's recoil, which diminishes the steadier you hold the rifle.
Initial Knowledge: By now, you've learned about how projectiles work, how to handle a rifle, and how to aim.
Hythe Experiment:
Last summer, 50 officers went to Hythe for musketry training. Thirty were beginners. They were given three bullets each to shoot at an 8 ft by 6 ft target from 600 yards. Initially, they only hit 18 out of 90 shots. After one basic training session, they hit 30 out of 90, showing significant improvement.
Proven Results:
Every time this test was done, similar improvements were seen. You're better prepared than most who've shot without formal training.
Starting Practice:
Begin with targets at 40-50 yards.
For your first shots, use less powder to ease into the recoil; a drachm per cartridge is enough.
Target Details:
150-300 Yards: Use a 6 ft by 2 ft iron slab, divided into 24 squares for scoring. It has an 8-inch central bullseye within a 2-foot diameter circle. The rest is whitewashed, with black for the bullseye.
400-600 Yards: The entire 2-foot circle is black.
650-900 Yards at Hythe: Targets are larger with a 3-foot diameter bullseye.
Shooting Position:
Stand for up to 300 yards; kneel beyond that.
Shooting Range Setup:
Secure targets on an oak beam, facing north-south for best light, with the sun behind the shooter. East-west is the next best.
Use mounds, walls, or cigarette stacks for safety. Cigarette stacks should be fortified with clay layers and thatched for longevity.
Flags:
The shots that strike the target are denoted by flags of different colors. These flags, together with the number of points indicating the value of the shots.
Marker Safety:
At Hythe, protective embankments collect stray bullets. Markers work from a trench or an iron sentry box with small viewing holes and signal flags:
Red Flag: "Danger" - stop firing for target maintenance.
Cease Fire: Signal by raising the danger flag from the marker's position; resume by lowering it.
Daily Setup: A team of at least six men, led by a non-commissioned officer under the musketry instructor's command, prepares the shooting range. They handle target setup, cleaning, signaling hits, and ensure safety by keeping people out of the firing line.
Scoring System:
Up to 300 Yards:
Outer (White/Yellow): 1 point
Centre (Dark Blue): 2 points
Bull’s-eye (Red/White): 3 points
Ricochet (R): Not counted, signaled by waving a red flag twice
Miss: 0 points
Beyond 300 Yards:
Similar, but no bull’s-eye; just outer, centre, ricochet, and miss.
Recording Scores: Each sergeant uses a register listing the names of shooters, marking 1, 2, 3, R, or 0 for each shot based on where it hits.
Firing Process Example:
At 150 yards, commands are given to load, aim, and fire. Each shot's result is signaled:
No. 1 misses (0 points).
No. 2 hits the centre (2 points).
No. 5 scores a bull’s-eye (3 points).
The section scores 25 points in total, showing training's effectiveness.
Advancement:
Shooters start in the third class, needing 15 points from 20 shots to move to the second class (ranging from 150 to 300 yards).
Second class involves shooting at 400 to 600 yards, needing 12 points for the first class.
First-class shooters fire at 650 to 900 yards, needing 7 points to be deemed a "marksman."
Verification and Record-Keeping:
After shooting, results are checked against the target, corrected, and averages calculated.
The register is signed and verified, with points recorded for future reference.
Ammunition Use:
Each recruit or soldier fires 90 rounds annually:
60 individually
10 in file firing
10 in volleys
10 in skirmishing
Rules:
No more than 10 rounds or 2 distances per day per squad or section.
If a shooter can't complete a session, their score up to that point counts towards their class standing.
