CHAPTER 5
This chapter explains the basic firing positions used with light antiarmor weapons. Instructions for each are given for right-handed firers, but the M72-series LAW can be fired from either shoulder by simply reversing the instructions. Though each weapon can be fired from all four of the basic firing positions, individual physique determines exact body and hand positions. Firing from a supported position naturally increases accuracy, which improves the odds for a first-round hit or kill. Basic safety considerations are the same for all light antiarmor weapons, but additional considerations for each firing position are provided here.
5-1. STANDING POSITION
Two standing positions are used: a basic standing position and one modified
for the infantry fighting position.
- a. Basic Standing Position. Raise the launcher slightly higher than
shoulder level. Execute a left face, rotate your shoulder under the launcher,
and spread your feet a comfortable distance apart. Move your left foot 15 to
24 inches forward, keeping your hips level and your weight balanced on both
feet. To obtain a firm, stable position, tuck both elbows tightly into your
body. To track a moving target, turn your body at the waist--not with your
legs. This enables you to track the target smoothly. Unless you are behind a
protective barrier such as a wall, the standing position exposes you more
than any other position to enemy observation and possible suppression.
Differences between weapons with respect to the standing position are as
follows (Figure 5-1):
- (1) M72-Series LAW. Place your nonfiring hand about 4 inches from the front of the muzzle, with your firing hand on the rear cover. After placing
the weapon on your shoulder, release the rear cover and place your firing
hand on the trigger. Cup the launcher in the palm of your nonfiring hand.
Position your firing eye as close to the rear sight as is comfortable.
(2) M136 AT4. Grasp the sling near the launcher with your left hand and the shoulder stop with your right hand. Raise the launcher above shoulder level. After placing the launcher on your shoulder, release the shoulder stop and place your right hand on the trigger. Place your firing eye 2 1/2 to 3 inches from the rear sight.
Figure 5-1. Basic standing positions.
- b. Modified Standing Position. Use this position when you occupy an infantry fighting position. Assume the basic standing position, but instead
of stepping forward, lean against the back wall of the fighting position.
Ensure that the venturi or rear of the weapon extends beyond the rear of the
fighting position. Figure 5-2 shows the modified standing position for the M72-series LAW; Figure 5-3 shows the modified standing position for the M136 AT4. Ensure that NONE of the following are in your backblast area:
- Other soldiers.
- Other fighting positions.
- Equipment.
- Any part of your own fighting position.
- Obstructions within 5 meters.
NOTE: Leaders must ensure that light antiarmor weapons are positioned so that the backblast misses other fighting positions.
Figure 5-2. Modified standing position, M72-series LAW.
Figure 5-3. Modified standing position, 136 AT4.
5-2. KNEELING POSITION
The basic kneeling position is the best position for tracking moving targets.
The modified kneeling position is best for engaging stationary targets, since
it is a supported position. However, either can be used for stationary or
moving targets.
- a. Basic Kneeling Position. Kneel from the basic standing
position onto your right knee, keeping your left thigh parallel to the
ground. Rotate your lower right leg 90 degrees to the left. (This removes your right
foot from exposure to the backblast.) Keep your right thigh and back straight
and perpendicular to the ground. Point your left foot in the direction of
fire and tuck your elbows in to your sides. Though this is not a supported
position, it should be a firm, stable one. Figure 5-4, shows the basic kneeling positions for the LAW and AT4.
b. Modified Kneeling Position. From the basic kneeling position, sit back on your right heel. Place the back of your upper left arm on your left knee, making sure you do not have bone-to-bone contact between your left elbow and left knee. Keep your right elbow tucked in close to your right side. Use any protective barriers available. Figure 5-5 shows the modified kneeling positions for the LAW and AT4.
Figure 5-4. Basic kneeling positions.
Figure 5-5. Modified kneeling positions.
5-3. SITTING POSITION
The sitting position is the most stable firing position. In this position,
the arms are placed on the legs for support. Depending on his physique, the
firer can use either of two versions of the sitting position. Either is
suitable for engaging stationary targets.
- a. Basic Sitting Position. Sit on your buttocks while facing the target, and spread your feet a comfortable distance apart. Lean forward and place
the backs of your upper arms on your knees, avoiding bone-to-bone contact.
Figure 5-6 shows the basic sitting positions for the LAW and AT4.
b. Modified Sitting Position. From the basic sitting position, cross your ankles for added support. Raise or lower your knees to adjust for elevation on the target. Figure 5-7 shows the modified sitting positions for the LAW and AT4.
Figure 5-6. Basic sitting positions.
Figure 5-7. Modified sitting positions.
5-4. PRONE POSITION
The prone position is the most dangerous position due to its proximity to the
ground. Ideally, the ground should slope downward from the rear of the
launcher. This reduces the effects of the backblast.
- a. Lie on your stomach with your body at a 90 degree angle to direction of
fire, and with your body and legs to the left of the direction of fire.
b. Ensure that neither your body nor your legs are in the backblast area.
c. Unlike other firing positions, this one prevents you from placing the launcher on your right shoulder. Instead, you must hold the launcher in place against your upper right arm. For stability, apply extra pressure on the firing mechanism with your right hand. The prone position is the least stable of all firing positions. You must practice it often to become confident using it. Figure 5-8 shows the prone positions for the LAW and AT4.
Figure 5-8. Prone positions.
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