Marine Corps Common Skills Handbook (1B)

3. Assume the firing position.
- Selecting a Firing Position. The selection of a firing position (prone, sitting, kneeling, standing) is based on terrain, available
cover, dispersion of targets, and other limiting factors. A Marine must select a position that offers stability, mobility, and
observation.
(1) Stability. A firing position must provide a stable platform for accurate and consistent shooting. If the position is solid, the
rifle sights should recover after recoil to the same position on the target. This allows for rapid reengagement of the enemy.
The prone position provides the most stability for firing, while the standing position provides the least stability.
(2) Mobility. A firing position must provide a Marine with the mobility required to move to new cover or to another area. The
standing position permits maximum mobility. It allows the most lateral movement for engagement of widely dispersed
targets. The prone position allows the least mobility and limited lateral movement.
(3) Observation of the Enemy. A firing position must limit a Marine’s exposure to the enemy, yet allow observation of the
enemy. Manmade structures and terrain features (e.g., vegetation, earth contours) often dictate the shooting position. The
standing position normally provides the best field of view, but it usually allows the most exposure to the enemy. The prone
position normally allows the least exposure, but it usually provides a limited field of view.
4. Place the rifle in condition 3.
a. Ensure the weapon is in condition 4.
b. Withdraw the magazine from the magazine pouch.
c. Ensure the magazine is filled.
d. Fully insert the magazine in the magazine well.
e. Without releasing the magazine, tug downward on the magazine to ensure it is seated. Do not hit the magazine to make sure it is
seated.
f. Fasten the magazine pouch.
g. Close the ejection port cover.
5. Place the rifle in condition (1).
a. Ensure the weapon is in condition 4.
b. Withdraw the magazine from the magazine pouch.
c. Ensure the magazine is filled.
d. Fully insert the magazine in the magazine well.
e. Without releasing the magazine, tug downward on the magazine to ensure it is seated. Do not hit the magazine to make sure it is
seated.
f. Pull the charging handle to the rear and release. There are two methods of doing this.
(1) Grip the pistol grip firmly with the right hand and pull the charging handle with the left hand to its rearmost position and
release.
(2) Grip the hand guards firmly with the left hand and pull the charging handle with the right hand to its rearmost position and
release.
g. To ensure ammunition has been chambered, conduct a chamber check if the tactical situation permits.
h. Check the sights to ensure proper BZO setting, correct rear sight aperture, etc.
i. Close the ejection port cover, if time and situation permits.
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