FIELDCRAFT

ESSENTIALS
A basic guide on how to thrive in
the field.
WHATS IS FIELDCRAFT

 The term fieldcraft is a set of skills that enables you to thrive in the
field. Often fieldcraft is rendered down to skills that focus on
sustainment or outdoor related tasks like knots.

 The reality however is that fieldcraft includes fundamentals in

regard to individual behavior in the field. This includes resting,
moving and communicating. Those skills are the most relevant
parts of fieldcraft.

 It does not take a lot to learn fieldcraft related skills. But it takes a
lot of discipline to stick to them or to be able to apply them under
pressure. Even simple rules of behavior can mean the difference
between life and death, not only for you, but also for your unit.
TOPICS COVERED Behavior: Sorted by the 7S of camouflage,
effects of movement on concealment,
We generally will approach the topic
of fieldcraft in three chapters.
improving concealment, hand signs, command
Chapter one is covering basic rules
language…
of behavior that help improving
concealment and security.
Chapter two is handling skills and
elemental tactics which are essential
for thriving in the field.
Chapter three is exploring individual
Skills & Tactics: Basic Map Reading, React to
skills that allow you to thrive in the
field. Those are the more „outdoors“
Contact Drills, Setting up a base
related topics.

Individual Skills: Basic Knots, How to start a

fire, Building Shelter, Poncho Float, Field
Latrine, Fighting Positions, Water Filtration,
Sleeping Positions…
1 BEHAVIOR & CONCEALMENT
1.1. 7S OF CAMOUFLAGE

The 7S of camouflage are a basic

concept that you should always Silhouette: Avoid
apply, control and improve upon. exposing your
Shine: Cover shiny silhouette to
They are namely: objects and avoid contrasting
signal colors backgrounds
SHINE Spacing:
Don’t stack
up to close
SHAPE
SHILOUETTE Shadow: Stay
in shadows
SHADOW whenever
possible
Speed: Avoid
SPEED hasty
movements
Shape: Break
SOUND common shapes
(Helmet, Face,
SPACING Guns…)
Sound: Silence
yourself and
your equipment
 Use helmet
1 BEHAVIOR & CONCEALMENT covers!
Avoid large
reflective surface
1.1.A SHINE like dust goggles.

SHINE
Paint your
rifle in a
Shine refers to bright colors, fitting color
reflections and light discipline.
• Shiny objects need to be covered
whenever possible
• Avoid bright colors in all
garment, kit and equipment
layers Cover
Wear sleeves Watches!
• Make sure to not accidentally long!
activate lights (e.G. Batteries
turned around at day.
• Slick surfaces like e.G. helmets
need to be covered in fabric or Avoid Bright
matte colors colored Objects
Prevent Light
• No visible jewelry or “morale discharge!
patches” No Morale
• Don’t apply face camo in a way Patches!
that it contrasts or starts to
create a shiny surface.
1 BEHAVIOR & CONCEALMENT
1.1.B SHAPE
SHAPE
Burlap and proper
Lack of Face face camo obscure
Shape refers to the characteristic Camo and helmet and face
shape of objects that the human
brain is able to pick up immediately Helmet Scrim shape
Shape can be mitigated by:
• Camo Patterns
• Scrim
Cover
Keep in mind that scrim should Watches!
never interfere with your ability to
fire, observe and maneuver.
• Objects with a distinguishable
Shape
• Human Face Avoid Bright
colored Objects
• Helmet
• Rifles and Weapons Contrast breaks
shape!
• NVGs
Hunched posture breaks
Weapons have a
• The human body distinguishable
human shape!
shape!
1 BEHAVIOR & CONCEALMENT
1.1.B2 SHAPE APPENDIX
SHAPE (ADDITIONAL NOTES)
Helmet Scrim Ghillie & Full
No camo
So everyone should wear a ghillie, besides Face Camo camouflaged
right? Wrong. Uniform Rifle
Always balance your mission Painted rifle
statement with your camouflage
measures.
The picture on right shows troopers
with no camo at all, some additional
helmet camo and a full ghillie.
A little scrim on your helmet and a
simple paintjob on your rifle has a
huge impact over no camo measures
at all.
While a ghillie adds a lot to this,
keep in mind that it will always
restrict your ability to fire, maneuver
and even communicate significantly.

Eight troopers are hidden in this picture!

 Movement along an elevation to illustrate silhouette. NOTE: Inefficiency of
1 BEHAVIOR & CONCEALMENT all camouflage measures when thrown against a contrasting background.

1.1.C SILHOUETTE

SILHOUETTE
Silhouette describes the ability of
humans to instantly recognize
objects when casted against a
contrasting background.
No matter how good your scrim or
your other camo measures are. They
are not effective when you “skyline”
or wear an utterly unsuited camo
pattern.
Therefore:
• Conduct movement along
military crests
• Stay in a hunched position
whenever possible.
• Make use of concealment in the
background.
• Move on the side of an elevation GOOD: No sky lining,
that is opposite to the proposed WRONG: Top of the
BETTER: No sky lining, protection from enemy,
enemy position. crest, massive sky
protection from enemy vegetation eliminates
lining renders all other silhouette, allows for
observation
measures inefficient. crossing of crest
1 BEHAVIOR & CONCEALMENT
1.1.D SHADOW
SHADOW
There are three reasons why shadow is
important:
The trooper in the
• Avoid casting a shadow! This can give your
center is positioned
position away very fast and is especially of
right!
importance during night operations. Watch
if you cast a shadow from time to time.

• Use the shadow provided by depth of

concealment! Being in the first tree line is
usually not efficient.

• Watch if shadow is covering your whole

body. This is again of utter important for
night operations. Check if you get
illuminated by starlight, moonlight or
artificial light sources.

When working with NODs, use your natural You cast a shadow at
nightvision from time to time to see “what the night and day.
others see” Especially at night it is Working from the “depth of concealment” is
very prominent. critical to utilize shadow.
 1 BEHAVIOR & CONCEALMENT
1.1.E SPEED
SPEED
The human eye is great in picking up
sudden movement. Speed during
approach should therefore always Example of the enemies POV
be slow. This is especially referring when observing the flare. Any
to movements like suddenly going unnecessary movement will catch
prone. attention and create sound.

Therefore:
-Slow down your pace, don’t go to
“auto pilot”.
-Go prone, kneeling or stand up in a
slow and controlled fashion (this
does not apply to combat!)
-Conduct SLLS halts on a regular
basis.
-Freeze instead of running to cover
when you think you get observed.
The road gets illuminated by a flare. The only chance the four-man fireteam has is
to freeze and wait until it has settled. Rushing to cover or concealment would give
away the position of all squad members.
 1 BEHAVIOR & CONCEALMENT
1.1.F SOUND

SOUND
Sound is an inevitable byproduct of movement. There is no special
movement technique that eliminates all sound.

However:

• Watch your feet to avoid cracking vegetation. Cover “Metal on Avoid Velcro when
Set phones to silent! Metal” silence is imperative.
• Apply SLLS halts on a regular basis. This way you avoid constant noise.

• Watch the ground, soft ground or concrete creates way less sound
than for example forest full of branches and leafs.

Lets talk about the sound that we can avoid:

• Use hand signs instead of verbal communication whenever possible!

• Turn radios silent.

• Silence your kit.

• Don’t whisper, talk in a low, calm voice.

Execute SLLS on a Use bright gloves or
REMEMBER: Sound is the most important factor at night! Sometimes you
have to give up other factors in favor of sound. NOTE: NODs make Watch your feet and regular basis. Use take on off to pass
inexperienced users less aware of the sound they produce. the ground! hand-signs! hand-signals more
efficient.
 1 BEHAVIOR & CONCEALMENT
1.1.G SPACING

SPACING
Aside from being a very important aspect of camo,
spacing is offering protection for any infantry
formation. The modern battlefield goes hand in
hand with more and more devastating weapons.
30mm guns or drones are able to take out a badly
Red Fireteam is having a higher
dispersed squad in no time. amount of spacing and no
concealment from the front. Still its
Also, the human eye recognizes a mass of moving hard to spot, not only due to distance.
objects way faster as it will perceive it as one large
object.
Despite having more concealment, the
Therefore: The more spacing the better! blue fireteam is highly visible due to a lack
of spacing.
Still, we have to adjust spacing due to the following
factors:

• Communication/ Connection: Spacing should

never disrupt connection or communication in a
squad.

• Cover/ Concealment: The squad should always

be in concealment and/or cover.
 1st SQD is flanking correctly
by conducting lateral
1 BEHAVIOR & CONCEALMENT movement to a release 600 meters
1.2. FURTHER BASICS OF CONCEALMENT point outside of small arms
range through a suitable
1.2A LATERAL MOVEMENT avenue of approach. From
there on it moves to attack
When approaching the (proposed) position of the position.
enemy it will never be approached in a lateral
fashion. While lateral movement is life in combat,
it is utterly dangerous during the approach.
2nd SQD is conducting a
Therefore: “Never conduct lateral movement when fixing effort conducting a
frontal approach.
approaching the enemy” Maximizing concealment
If forces need to approach from the flanks, due to a and firepower to the front
proposed flanking attack, they need to move in a
lateral fashion by:
• Finding a suitable avenue of approach
• Moving laterally out of small arms range (At 3rd SQD is conducting
least 400 meters!)
lateral movement inside
As soon as the lateral movement is conducted, the of small arms range and 1st SQD 2nd SQD 3rd SQD
approach is conducted in a frontal fashion again. therefore not only risking
You have seen many pages in this manual showing protection, but also having
formations observed from the flanks, this is due to a higher risk of being
the fact that observation in defilade allows us to Enemy OPs will always be in close proximity to the
detected.
spot and identify mass and composition of a unit objective. Making lateral approach even more
really easy. dangerous!
THE ENEMY & FIELDCRAFT

“The enemy” is often described as an

incompetent, anonymous and underequipped
entity.
No matter his training regime or his funding,
never draw this misconception in regard to his
fieldcraft. It only takes a simple farmer or local
hunter to outsmart you by blunt shrewdness.
Mistakes in regard to fieldcraft are deadly in
nature and can endanger even well-planned
battalion sized operations.
Therefore, we always assume that the enemy
will apply the best fieldcraft possible.
1 BEHAVIOR & CONCEALMENT RP is secured. The larger
1.2. FURTHER BASICS OF CONCEALMENT the scout party, the more
security is possible.

1.2B SCOUTING/ PATHFINDING 600 meters

No matter how effective your concealment is, areas need to
be scouted! This applies to patrol bases, ORPs, assembly Scout party uses flash
code or parole in order
areas and other release points. Without a suitable route its to make contact with
hard to conceal larger formations. security. Platoon
establishes security at
RP.
A part of your squad or your platoon therefore needs to
reconnoiter those areas in advance. In order to do this:

1. Find a safe and concealed position for your unit outside

Half of the scout party
of small arms range. returns to platoon.
FT sized scout party
2. Establish security. conducts route recon.
Selects a route that offers
enough concealment Scout party takes point
3. Select the scouting party. for platoon!

4. Issue a mission according to SMEAC

5. Let the scouting party only carry what's necessary

6. Give a fixed time of return Scout party returns,

briefs on route, terrain
7. The scouting party then either returns as a whole or Platoon has and situation.
provides security at the release point and sends two established
runners back. security
8. The scouting party will now take the point to lead your
unit to the RP on the same way they came.

A scouting party needs an excellent understanding of not only fieldcraft but also of the mission! Is it possible
to move the platoon as a whole? Is a squad-by-squad infiltration required? Is the RP suitable towards the
commander's intent?
1 BEHAVIOR & CONCEALMENT
1.2. FURTHER BASICS OF CONCEALMENT

1.2C ROUTINE & DISCIPLINE 600 meters

Individual and collective excellence in regard to
Routine and Discipline have a huge impact on
concealment. Here are a few key points:
Reports from Ukraine talk
about tanks being able to track K9s can smell cigarette smoke, the smell of cooking and trash over
• Knowing vs. Applying the 7S of camouflage cigarettes with thermals over
long distances. Signal colors are a huge giveaway too.
huge distances
• Don’t smoke!

• Don’t cook or start fire if not necessary.

• Take away trash and store it in smell proof bags.

• Avoid unnecessary noise by repacking your pack

and knowing where which item is located.

• Communicate in a short and clear fashion.

• Avoid light (also red light) whenever possible. If

necessary, use a poncho to conceal it.
If your scrim looks like this, why do Fire and light (ALSO RED LIGHT!!!) are visible for
• Inspect, adjust , improve and refresh camo you even wear one? Adjust and the human eye over long distance. Don’t use
measures whenever necessary! refresh your camo CONSTANTLY! them unless its absolutely necessary
 Two well concealed squads. At least in the visual and acoustic spectrum.
1 BEHAVIOR & CONCEALMENT
1.2. FURTHER BASICS OF CONCEALMENT
1.2D SIGNATURE MANAGEMENT
600 meters
The electro magnetic spectrum is no longer only a concern of
large-scale operations, air forces and naval warfare. It has
reached the infantryman at the smallest level.

Its time to add an 8th S to the 7S of camouflage:

Signature!

-This includes:
In EMS, it’s a different story!

• Radio emissions (Radios, Phones, Satcom)

Don’t send unless its necessary, don’t take private phones to

the field, Employ radios with a low power output, send
directional, employ drone operators at a safe distance.

• Infrared (Heat)

Make use of mylar blankets and multiple layers of solid

concealment. Top cover is crucial.

• Near Infrared (Night vision)

Avoid strobes when not necessary, don’t use passive aiming

for designating targets before a firefight, be careful with laser
range finders, wear NIR rated clothing.
1 BEHAVIOR & CONCEALMENT Just sticking to the
1.2. FURTHER BASICS OF CONCEALMENT Troopers in column center of the road
make appropriate makes squads highly
1.2E AERIAL OBSERVATION use of provided top visible to aerial
cover. Details observation!
Aerial observation is not a new threat. It is present matter!
since WW1. The threat of UAVs and the presence
of thermal imaging however make it an even
bigger issue for ground forces.

Did the techniques change in 100 years? No! They

just need to get applied even more religiously!

The only answer to aerial observation is top cover

and top concealment. Whenever possible, seek the
proximity of trees or stay in the shadow of
elevations.
Top cover integrated Fighting position
You can add top concealment to any fighting into fighting position without top cover!
position, layer it if possible and integrate mylar
blankets.

Aerial observation challenges the efficiency of your camo!

1 BEHAVIOR & CONCEALMENT
1.3. CONCEALMENT TECHNIQUES

1.3A HELMET SCRIM 600 meters

Helmet Scrim is mandatory in order to break the
easily recognizable shape of a helmet. The same
principle also works with a boonie.
Care for your scrim!
Those are the steps you should know:

1. A commercial laser cut scrim is a great

baseline. You can also go with a helmet net.

2. Add burlap, strips of uniform, camo netting or a

combination.

3. Break the shape of the helmet, but don’t build

“antennas” or obscure your field of view

4. Natural camo like grass or leaves should be

added. Everything that grows around you at the
shoulder level and below.
Commercial
5. Keep natural vegetation well maintained. No Camo Burlap Foliage
Scrim
1 BEHAVIOR & CONCEALMENT
1.3. CONCEALMENT TECHNIQUES

1.3B FACE CAMO

Face camo is applied in order to break the shape of the
human face. It works by the principle of displacement.
Therefore, darker areas like the eye sockets get a bright
color, protruding areas like the forehead and cheeks get
a darker color.
Green Black With Helmet
There are plenty of ways to do it, here is the simplest No Camo
one. Foundation Z-Shape Scrim
1. Pick a color that fits your surroundings (usually
green or brown)

2. Apply it in a THIN film all over your face, neck and

ears!

3. Use black and draw a “Z” starting with your

eyebrow area, going over one of your cheeks, over
your nose under your cheek and finish it along your
chin.

4. Don’t over do it.

5. A Balaclava is NO replacement for face camo!

This is what proper face camo can achieve for you!
1 BEHAVIOR & CONCEALMENT
1.3. CONCEALMENT TECHNIQUES
1.3C FIELD EXPEDIENT CAMO SCREEN

Camo screens get built to further add depth to

already camouflaged positions. They are easy to
make and provide you with valuable concealment
that is also portable.
Square Tie Down
This is how you make them: Three sticks Vegetation
Lashing Points
1. Pick three branches that are half of a fist in
thickness. Height is variable, but knee height is
usually fine.

2. Sharpen the bottom pieces

3. Tie them together by square lashing them.

4. Create a web of paracord as attachment points

or just use chicken wire.

5. Add natural camouflage as needed.

NOTE: Pieces of mylar blanket add protection

against thermal sensors!
While it does not replace choosing a good position, a camo screen is a great option
CAMOUFLAGE & REALITY

While we should always chase excellence in

camouflage, we should clearly chase this
excellence, not fantasy worlds!
Your surrounding is green? Your camouflage is
green! Good, enough of that topic! We can never
reach an unrealistic degrees of perfection.
We must carry IFF patches, shades and sometimes
what we wear just does not blend in with that burnt
out field.
Movement techniques, the 7S and rules of behavior
is what we should discuss!
Our enemy will most likely not even be aware of the
brand or style of the pattern he wears!
1 BEHAVIOR & CONCEALMENT
1.4. OBSERVATION
1.4A Z-FOLD OBSERVATION

Observing a sector or NAI is a tiresome task for

personnel. Getting sucked into tunnel vision
happens regularly. The human brain also focuses
on where it suspects movement to happen.

To move away from both of this habits you must

break tunnel vision from time to time.

The Z-Fold Observation is applied in this case:

1. Look into your arc of observation as you would

normally do.

2. Stop assessing the ground in front of you

3. Look diagonally and check foreground,

background treetops and buildings.

4. Check the sky for aerial threats and smoke.

Troops, Mines, UXOs, UAVs, and Tree Shooters are present in this picture.
 2: Now you can for
1 BEHAVIOR & CONCEALMENT 1: KNOW how far example divide this
value by two if its
1.4. OBSERVATION an object is away
double the size or 1: Know the length of an 2: Close the other eye
when it is as big as
1.4B ESTIMATING DISTANCE tall as your thumb. multiply it by two if its object. For example, car: and see how much
half the size…. 500cm your thumb “jumps”.
E.g.: Average
Estimating distance can be done in various ways.
Human 100m
The first method is to use common distances you
know:

Examples:

1. Length of a soccer field: 100m (according to

FIFA standards)

2. Length of a Football Court: Approx 75m

3. Diameter of an Olympic Running track: 88m

4. Overall length of an Olympic Running track

300m
In this case the jump is half the
The next way is using your thumb as illustrated at length. So, divide 500 by two
the right. Always align your elbow when doing so. 250cm and multiply it by 10cm
(distance of your thumb from
your eye) the result is 2500cm
(250m)

Method 1 Method 2
1 BEHAVIOR & CONCEALMENT
1.4. OBSERVATION You can quickly add to the ´3Ds´
by using proper nomenclature
1.4C DESCRIBING TERRAIN for terrain features!

An important factor for fieldcraft is naming and

describing terrain.

“That tree on the left” will only cause confusion.

“200meters, 1o clock , in front of saddle on

uneven ground, , one thumb right of uneven
Hill
needle tree” will bring your closer to the target. Saddle
Additionally, we can name distinct terrain
features or buildings by their distinct appearance. Cliff

Forest Edge
Ridge

Depression

Uneven Ground
Tree Line
1 BEHAVIOR & CONCEALMENT
1.4. OBSERVATION “Machinegun, 400
meters, 1´o Clock, below
1.4D TARGET ACQUISITION
ridge, enemy fireteam!”
The three D´s of target acquisition are the
foundation of the directed firefight.

Excelling in the directed firefight is the main task

of any infantry squad. Squad and fireteam leaders
will assign targets to rifleman, main effort- and
support weapons.

Distance: The distance to the target

Direction: The direction of the target using a

simple clock system

Description: Where is the target located?

As stated, before you can use terrain

nomenclature to make the target acquisition
process easier
1 BEHAVIOR & CONCEALMENT
1.4. OBSERVATION
1.4E TERRAIN SKETCH

Terrain sketches are crucial to remember terrain

designations, distances and of course showing
others what you have seen.

They can be made in a first-person perspective or

in a bird's eye perspective!

Keep them simple but add a sense of depth.

Always include:

1. Distances to objects and terrain features

2. True North

3. Name, Date, Unit, Location

1 BEHAVIOR & CONCEALMENT
1.4. OBSERVATION Freeze! Establish Security.
1.4F SLLS
Stay silent.

SLLS halts are conducted in order to

Stop movement to to better focus on your senses

Look for signs of enemy presence, UXOs, Battle

Look for movement, shine,
Damage, Civilian Population or comparable factors shape, silhouette…..
Listen for battle noise, vehicles, lack or presence of
wildlife

Smell for signs of fire, contamination, fuel and

other fumes that are off.
Listen for noises that
stand out or that are
An infantry squad has to conduct SLLSs halts on a
regular basis, even more at night. Conduct SLLSs missing.
halts on a regular basis and don’t make them last
for a few seconds. Focus on your senses. Especially
during night patrols, it can be rewarding to listen
into the night for several minutes.
Smell for fumes that are
NOTE: A meeting engagement between night not fitting into the
patrols is usually won by the party that applied a
SLLS halt before. environment.
1 BEHAVIOR & CONCEALMENT
1.5. CONNECTION/ COMMUNICATION
1.5A MAINTAINING CONNECTION

Without proper connection, a unit is not able to

work as a whole. Connection can be lost between
individuals, Fireteams or buddy teams.

When not decided otherwise on a deliberate basis, WRONG! Both fireteams lose
squads and fireteams are always staying within visual contact due to terrain.
each others line of sight. At least one trooper of a
fireteam has to maintain connection to the other
squad components.

We are talking about nothing else than line of sight

communications here. So, terrain plays a major
role.

Each squad member must be aware of this and

must move and position accordingly.

RIGHT! Yellow team independently realizes

that it will lose line of sight and is halting in
order to keep up connection
1 BEHAVIOR & CONCEALMENT
1.5. CONNECTION/ COMMUNICATION
1.5B COMMAND LANGUAGE

In the field you will verbally communicate using

what is called command or battle language. This
encompasses: First Squad, LDA ahead. Bravo
will provide security, while
Alpha crosses the LDA. Alpha
• Short, clear and comprehensive statements. Bound on my signal and secure
the far-side. After that I will
• Proper nomenclature. bound with Bravo at your signal.

• Lack of politeness. Don’t feel offended.

Alpha, LDA ahead! Bravo
provides security while we cross
• Use of schematics in sentences like SMEAC and establish security. Prepare
(Situation, Mission, Execution). for crossing on my signal.

• Use of abbreviations and mnemonics (SLLS,

SOSRA, GOTWA…).

• No small talk.

• Reading back orders and missions.

Bravo, ready to cross LDA and
• Passing information back and forth. provide security on far-side! Correct Alpha! Go.

Note how Bravo leader is not only back reading the order but is also preparing his
team to cross the LDA!
1 BEHAVIOR & CONCEALMENT
1.5. CONNECTION/ COMMUNICATION
1.5C GOTWA
GOTWA, also known as the five-point contingency
plan is essential when it comes to keeping
connection. As soon as a leader, runner or patrol
will separate from a unit the leader has to issue a
GOTWA plan.
GOING – Where is the element going?
OTHERS – Who else is going with them?
TIME- How long will the element be away?
WHAT – What procedures are taken if the element
fails to return.
ACTIONS – What actions will the departing
element take when facing enemy contact?
Important: Never separate from your unit alone!
The smallest element is a buddy team!
Listen up First Squad, I will go to
Silver crest in order to make
connection with Second Squad.
I will take Jones with me for my
security.
I will be back in a maximum
timeframe of 30 minutes.
If I don’t return in time, Smith is
in charge of first Squad. Try to
make contact to me and second
squad via radio. If this fails,
reach out to HQ in order to
continue the mission.
If we make contact with the
enemy we will break contact
into your direction.
Always include an intent into your GOTWA!
 Challenge
1 BEHAVIOR & CONCEALMENT
1.5. CONNECTION/ COMMUNICATION
1.5D CHALLENGE & PASSWORD
FLASH
Challenge and password are used to identify unknown
elements. Password
The three elements, Challenge, Password and usually a
Countersign are defined in the comms plan. For more
information look into our COMMS & SIGNALING
manual. We will care for the basics here:
THUNDER
1. When you spot an unknown element you first off
prepare a hasty ambush.

2. Wait until the element moves closer, look if you can

already identify it visually.

3. If you are not sure, call the CHALLENGE.

4. The unidentified element will now respond with the

correct password.

A. If the password is correct answer with the

Countersign. Let the element approach. Countersign
B. If there is no response or an incorrect
response conduct the ambush!
WELCOME
Never challenge a party when not in a superior position!
1 BEHAVIOR & CONCEALMENT Flash Code is seven
1.5. CONNECTION/ COMMUNICATION
1.5E FLASH CODE

Flash codes work the same way as challenge and

password do. But instead of verbal communication
you are using flashes of light:

Therefore, Flash codes:

• Work best in darkness

• Can give away your position easier

• Have a longer range.

The flash code is always a number, the challenging

party sends a number of light signals lower than
the value.

The challenged party now has to respond with the Challenge: Three Flashes Response: 4 Flashes
remaining number of flashes to complete the value
of the flash code.

Flash code is correct!

2 SKILLS & TACTICS
2.1. LAND NAVIGATION 4: You also recognize
2.1A READING A MAP the elevation.
NOTE: For in depth info on land navigation, read
our LAND NAVIGATION GUIDE! This section will
only provide you with the very basics.

Terrain association is the most important skill for 2: Took this path to the
reading a map. If you need to find your location, west
watch for major landmarks you have crossed
before.

Point your map towards north.

Follow your last direction of travel and watch for

minor landmarks on the way. As soon as you
identify one or more of those landmarks, judge the 3: You recognize this
distance and mark your position on the map. T-crossing.

5: Judging distance and

compass, you are here.
1: You KNOW you came
from this highway
 500mE 1000mE
2 SKILLS & TACTICS
2.1. LAND NAVIGATION
2.1B READING MGRS COORDINATES

MGRS coordinates are a simple way to transmit

your position.
27kmE LOCATION!
MGRS Coordinates can be up to 1 meter in
accuracy. Usually, an accuracy of 100 to 10 is
enough they consist of the following values;

16S GL
500mN
GZD 100km
E
A
2 7 5 0 0 S
T
10km 1km 100m 10m 1m
N 100km
O
8 6 5 0 0 R
T
10km 1km 100m 10m 1m H

NOTE: Its basically drawing distances to the east and to the north.
Their intersection is your coordinate. Don’t get lost ;) 86kmN 1000mN
GZD
ON PROCEDURES

Procedures are the link between tactics and

techniques. While tactics are either hastily created
or adjusted in the brush, or deliberately planned in a
briefing room; procedures provide us with set best
practices.
They are not there to replace tactics; they are
intended to take the burden of decision making from
your shoulder. While not every procedure will fit
situation or terrain, they can easily be adjusted.
Look at them as simple bricks, most often you will
be able to build a house with them. But sometimes
they require some tooling.
NOTE: This guide only provides you with the most
basic procedures for meeting type engagements.
For further reading, check out our guides SQUAD
MOVEMENT, THE ATTACK, THE INFANTRY SQUAD IN
COMBAT, RAID and AMBUSH
2 SKILLS & TACTICS
2.2. COMBAT PROCEDURES
2.2A BREAK CONTACT FRONT

Situation: Enemy fire from the front, the enemy

fire is overwhelming, or the leader sees breaking
contact as more beneficial.

Intent: Getting out of the line of fire, to own forces

or to advantageous terrain by conducting a
bounding retreat.
1: Unfold formation and form base of fire. Prepare for movement
The point of the squad will immediately open fire. (UNFOLDING OF FORMATION IS NOT NECESSARY WHEN ALREADY IN LINE)

Both fireteams unfold to line.

Leader announces his intent to break contact and

which fireteam will bound first.

First fireteam bounds to suitable cover. Second

fireteam provides covering fire.

First team provides covering fire. Second team

bounds.

Repeat until desired end state.

2: Bounding movement. “No movement without fire”
2 SKILLS & TACTICS
2.2. COMBAT PROCEDURES
2.2B BREAK CONTACT FLANK

Situation: Enemy fire from the flank, the enemy

fire is overwhelming, or the leader sees breaking
contact as more beneficial.

Intent: Getting out of the line of fire, to own forces

or to advantageous terrain by conducting a
bounding retreat.

The point of the squad will immediately open fire. 1: Unfold formation and form base of fire. Prepare for movement
(UNFOLDING OF FORMATION IS NOT NECESSARY WHEN ALREAD IN COLUMN)
Both fireteams unfold to line.

Leader announces his intent to break contact.

Team closest to the enemy bounds first!

First fireteam bounds to suitable cover, BEHIND

second fireteam. Second fireteam provides
covering fire.

First team provides covering fire. Second team

bounds BEHIND first fireteam.

Repeat until desired end state.

2: Bounding movement. “No movement without fire”
“Never move in front of a friendly gun”
2 SKILLS & TACTICS
2.2. COMBAT PROCEDURES
2.2C REACT TO AMBUSH

Situation: The enemy is conducting a linear

ambush on your dismounted squad. Your troopers
can break contact and must react immediately.

Intent: Closing with the enemy in order to disrupt

his ambush.

Execution:

1. Elements within the Killzone immediately

return fire, seek for cover if possible.

2. Elements outside the suppress the enemy.

3. Elements inside the Killzone start to assault

enemy positions.

4. Elements outside the Killzone shift fire in

accordance to the assault

All elements need to gain fire superiority as fast as

Assault through, shift fire!
possible.
2 SKILLS & TACTICS
2.2. COMBAT PROCEDURES
2.2D ESTABLISH 360° SECURITY FOR A
BREAK (SQUAD)
For a longer stop in order to sustain, rest or wait
security needs to be established first.

In order to do that:

1. Leader reconnoiters suitable site and issues GOTWA

2. Leader returns

3. Squad moves to site.

4. Squad establishes 360° security in buddy teams.

5. Leader issues a clear intent for the duration of the

stay. Encourages to hydrate, change socks or eat.

6. Leader reminds squad about noise discipline and

camouflage.

7. One buddy secures, one buddy moves to the center

to sustain, rest or sleep. Shifts are established
independently.
2 SKILLS & TACTICS
2.2. COMBAT PROCEDURES
2.2D ESTABLISH 360° SECURITY FOR A
BREAK (PLATOON)
For a longer stop in order to sustain, rest or wait security
needs to be established first.

In order to do that:

1. Leader reconnoiters suitable site and issues GOTWA PLT HQ

2. Leader returns Observation Post

3. Platoon moves to site

4. Platoon establishes three lines of security close to the

center in a triangular fashion. Triangle points towards
most likely direction of the enemy.

5. Leader establishes one two man OP per squad in front of

each side of the triangle.

6. Each squad builds ruck hide.

7. Leader reminds squad about noise discipline and

camouflage. Tentative line of defense

8. OPs take over security, remains prepare defensive

positions.
Depending on enemy situation, troopers either
9. After defensive positions are prepared, remains of the rest in their defensive positions or close to their
squad patrol, change OP in shifts and rest. ruck hides.
Ruck Hide
3 INDIVIDUAL CRAFT
3.1. SHELTER BUILDING One-Person
Basha
3.1.A BASHA/ PONCHO SHELTER
Tent-Stake A
Variant
Building shelter using a basha or poncho is simple:

1. Attach a length of paracord to each corner.

2. Use trees as anchor points.

3. Place the anchor points lower than a human

silhouette (knee height)

4. Place it diagonally so that rain can rinse down

the fabric.
One-Person
5. For single person shelters you only need three Basha B
corners if you want to save space. Tree-Only
Variant

Two-person basha shelter:

A: Tent Stake Variant
B: Tree, only variant
3 INDIVIDUAL CRAFT
3.1. SHELTER BUILDING
3.1.B DEDICATED SHELTER

Dedicated Shelter can be built when tent stakes

are available. The biggest advantage is that the
shelter hangs low.

It can be built as a one-person variant with one

tarp or poncho being used. Either as simple, low
diagonal shelter or as a smaller shelter, which seals
two sides against wind and rain.

When combining two ponchos or tarps, it can also

make a decent two-person shelter.
3 INDIVIDUAL CRAFT
3.1. SHELTER BUILDING
3.1.C GROUND PREPARATION FOR
PROLONGED SHELTER/ HARSH WEATHER
Pit deep enough to protect you
Rain, wind and snow will have a high toll if you
don’t prepare your shelter the right way.
Tarp or poncho
First off you must dig a hole that will comfortably
accept you and your rifle while sleeping. It must be
near tie down points if you want top cover.

After that you will build two drainages for water.

Once this is done, you have to use dry grass or

small branches to further insulate the pit.

Now you just add a tarp or poncho

Dry grass for comfort and dryness

Water Drainage on both sides.
3 INDIVIDUAL CRAFT
3.1. SHELTER BUILDING
3.1.D RUCK HIDE

When the squad is resting for a prolonged time,

rucks need to be stored in order or shelter has to
be built big enough to accept and hide a ruck.

As the latter is usually not the case, we align all

rucks of the squad. Four rucks with their top
pointing to the ground and four rucks stacked
above them with their suspension system pointing
to the bottom.

This interlocks the backpacks and makes the best

out of their pack covers. Additionally, we can add
natural vegetation and/ or a tarp.

Consider marking the ruck hide with a small piece

of glint tape of a chem light that’s slammed into
the ground like a stake.
 Adjustable taut line hitch Slipknot
3 INDIVIDUAL CRAFT
3.2. KNOTS
3.2.A BASIC KNOTS

The two basic knots for fieldcraft are:

A. The adjustable taut line hitch. This knot

enables you to tighten down cordage and
adjust it. Its friction locking and therefore stops
adjusting when its under tension. To adjust it,
just grasp and compress the wrapped portion
of the knot.

A. The slipknot, this knot is like a square knot, but

opens when you pull on the running end, no
matter how tight it is. You can finish off any
other knot with it as it allows you to break
down your camp immediately.
3 INDIVIDUAL CRAFT
3.3. FIRE
3.3.A BASIC CAMPFIRE

The first question in regard to fire is: “When should

I start a fire?” The answer is: “Never, unless you
have to”. Very cold conditions can sadly force us to
start a fire. Cooking equipment in the form of MRE
heaters, solid fuel stoves or gas cookers is Star Fire: Universal fire, easy to Cabin Log Fire: Indian Fire: Universal fire
nowadays readily available in large quantities. Heat Fire
maintain. With low signature
Still, there are two qualities different types of
campfires have:

Cooking and Heating: No fire excels at both. Some

make a compromise and are called universal fires.

Any ground for a campfire should be cleaned of

any items you don’t want to set on fire.

On the right you see basic types of campfire.

Teepee Fire: Simple starting

fire with no outstanding Log Grid Fire: Great Cooking Slit Fire: Great for cooking,
capabilities. You start any fire Fire with low smoke signature excels at nothing else!
with this one.
3 INDIVIDUAL CRAFT
3.3. FIRE The basic pit fire is a good
compromise as it still radiates
3.3.B HIDDEN FIRES some heat.

Hidden fires of “cave fires” are what you should go to

when you have to start a fire! They produce less smoke,
light and heat signature!

Note that not every soil is made for cave fires, as they
require a lot of digging. If the soil is moist, you should
reinforce your fire with a smoke filter made from
multiple layers of branches.

The two types of cave fires are:

A. The basic “pit fire”, a pit fire is nothing else than a

log reinforced pit with a Teepee fire inside of it. It is
great for cooking.

B. The Dakota Fire Pit is well concealed and has a low

signature, especially when combined with smoke
filters. It does however excel in nothing except
cooking. The Dakota Fire Pit requires a
suitable soil and some work,
As you may see, hidden fires are an option, but usually
but it is a well-hidden fire.
don’t produce enough heat to help us employing them
for the main purpose we have to start a fire for:
Hypothermia Prevention.
3 INDIVIDUAL CRAFT
3.3. FIRE
3.3.C STARTING A FIRE

What you need to start a fire is:

A lighter, dry wood and a working brain.

Understand the flame pyramid, if your fire doesn’t

start or stops its lacking either heat, fuel or
oxygen.

Wet wood is a lack of heat, add some solid fuel to

the mix and you are done. Instead of solid fuel you
can also use natural tinder like birch bark.

There can also be too much heat for too less fuel
or too much fuel for too less heat. Balance it! Start
your Teepee fire with small sticks of wood, dry
larger logs on the side.

Ferro rods? The only time you probably will have

to use them is when you want to use them. Keep
them on person, play around with them, but they
are not your primary tool for starting a fire.
3 INDIVIDUAL CRAFT
3.4. SUSTAINMENT
3.4.A HYDRATION On Stops: Refill your
On Opportunity: easy to access water
Collect water and sources!
Hydration is the most critical part of sustainment.
filter it with simple Drink from your
On a day of moderate physical activity in temperate methods. hard to access
weather conditions you need to plan in at least 6l of water sources
water a day for maximum performance.

Therefore:

• Drink small sips of water.

• Plan in refill points during route planning.

• If in doubt you have to carry all your water

requirements in your backpack.

• Carry at least one canteen made from steel or with a

steel cup in your backpack or on person.

• Drink small sips of 100 to 200ml

• Drink warm beverages in the cold.

• As a squad leader, plan in water redistribution stops

from pack to kit. You don’t want to carry huge
amounts of water in your fighting load.
On the move: Drink from your easy to
access water sources.
3 INDIVIDUAL CRAFT
3.4. SUSTAINMENT
3.4.B WATER PURIFICATION Fill water into
empty containers During contingencies you can drink
directly out of your squeeze filter
Water purification starts with selecting the right water
source. Avoid: Use purification
tabs (Amount and
• Standing Waters Select best water time as designated
source! by manufacturer)
• Waters near cities, agricultural or industrial facilities.

• Swamps

The three methods of water purification are:

• Chemical Purification

• Filtration using DEDICATED systems

• Boiling water

It is highly advised to combine chemical purification and Run it through a squeeze filter and squeeze
filtration systems. it into your primary hydration sources!

NOTE: Improvised filtration is no longer an option due

to the inability of improvised filters to kill certain
viruses and bacteria.
 Even with simple methods an OP is hard to
locate!
3 INDIVIDUAL CRAFT
3.5. FIGHTING POSITIONS
3.5.A OBSERVATION POST/ HASTY
FIGHTING POSITION Buil top concealmnt using stakes!
Both are constructed in the same way! Any micro
terrain, natural depression or even a log can make
a great baseline if it has enough room for two
troopers.

The occupants will have to stay prone.

Use natural camouflage.

Camo screens should be near by to grant a larger

field of observation.
Add camouflage in the background
Avoid crests!

Build the position in depth of concealment

The OP can later on be reinforced with sandbags

and additional digging.

A tree stump in front of a small

mold works great in terms of
Use plenty of camo screens! concealment and as a rifle rest.
3 INDIVIDUAL CRAFT
3.5. FIGHTING POSITIONS
3.5.B FIGHTING POSITIONS W/ FOX
HOLE
A dedicated fighting position is hard work! Not all
soils allow to build them without specialized
equipment,

1. Dig a hole wide enough for two occupants.

2. Dig it deep enough to allow for the occupants

to stand and aim.

3. Add a small step to the hole and add a small

cave providing top cover!
Dense soil and/or sandbags as rifle
rest/ cover.
4. Add a small pit for water drainage.

Step allows occupants to fire and

observe

The actual “Fox-Hole” provides

protection against observation and
Water drainage Use plenty of camo screens! indirect fires.
3 INDIVIDUAL CRAFT
3.6. MISC
3.6.A PONCHO FLOAT

Building a poncho float is often necessary to cross

large bodies of water.
Align buttons by
wrapping the poncho
1. Tie the hood of your poncho over your pack. Close
buttons
2. Put it flat on the ground

3. Waterproof your pack and its content.

Waterproof pack and contents Tie down hood
4. Add air to trash bags, canteens and the like, Place pack on poncho
use dry grass to add flotation.

5. Wrap the poncho around your backpack, so

that the buttons align

6. Close the buttons

7. Tie down the open ends of the roll you just

created.

Trash bags add flotation and

protection
Add anything that grants flotation Leave Air in Stuff sacks
Fieldcraft, the ability to thrive in the field, is
a set of skills that every professional
soldier or responsible citizen should
master.
From judging distance over basic knots,
this book will present you some skills that
not only make sense in a conflict driven
environment, but also in everyday life.
But outdoor related skills are only a small
section of this book. Basic battle drills,
principles of camouflage and squad
movement are explained in a simple to
digest, yet comprehensive fashion.
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