approximately to one-eighth (12.5%) of the range;[1] this may be corrected by taking the mean of a considerable number of estimates, or by employing combined sights at ranges over 1000 m. (the difference between rear sight elevations being 100 to 200 m.), thus increasing the depth of the beaten zone. The accuracy of the resulting fire is influenced by local and atmospheric conditions. (Par. 80 German I. F. R.). Estimates usually fall short of the correct distance when made in bright sunlight; in clear atmosphere; when the sun is in rear of the man estimating; when made over uniform surfaces; over water; when the target is set off by a bright background; when made over rolling ground, especially when the several depressions cannot be seen. On the other hand, estimates frequently exceed the correct range when made in a flickering light; against a dark background; against the sun; when the sky is overcast; during foggy weather; in the dusk, in woods; and against an enemy who is only partially visible. According to the Swiss Firing Regulations (1906) estimates made from a height downward are usually too short, and those made from low ground up, too great.
In action, under the influence of danger, estimates are usually short.[2] Peace training proves that the skill of the
- ↑ Lieutenant-General Rohne, Das Gefechtsmäszige Abteilungsschieszen der
Infanterie, 4th Edition, p. 12.
The following statement is taken from a report made at the British
Musketry School at Hythe (5th Nov., 1905). In a great number of estimates
under 700 yards (630 m.) the results given below were obtained:
Error Greater
Correct ±50 yards ±100 yards errors
Officers of the Regular Army 15 49 20 14%
Officers of Militia and Volunteers 20 44 22 20%France: Officers made errors of 20% at the beginning of the period of instruction, 12% at its close; rank and file of the Regular Army and non-commissioned officers of the Reserve made errors of 30%.
- ↑ The advance of the IInd Battalion of the 2nd Hessian Regiment on August 18th, 1870, from the Bols de la Cusse against the height northwest of Amanweiler: "The companies, who supposed the enemy to be much nearer" (the actual range was 1,100 to 1,200 m.), "advanced, cheering, and were received with mitrailleuse, shell, and rifle fire (from hill 1,030) which swept the railroad line." Hessert. Battle of Plevna. September 11th, 1877. Debouchment from corn fields: "The distance still to be crossed before the Turkish works were reached was underestimated. One company cheered when at a distance of 900 to 1,000 paces from the hostile works: the other troops took up the cry and rushed forward at a run." Kuropatkin-Krahmer, Kritische Rückblicke auf den Russisch-Türkischen Krieg."
