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Handling Instructions: For use by MOD Cadet Forces Only

Cadet Training

Skill at Arms

.177” Air Rifles and Associated


Equipment
This pamphlet supersedes the Air Rifle Pamphlet dated 2021 which should now be
destroyed.

AC 72195

2022
2 (Jan 24, Amendment 2)
Copyright
This publication is British Ministry of Defence Crown copyright. Material and information
contained in this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, and
transmitted for MOD use only. except where authority for use by other organisations or
individuals has been authorised by a Patent Officer of the Defence Intellectual Property
Rights whose details appear below. Crown copyright and Merchandise Licensing,
Defence Intellectual Property rights, Central Legal Services, MOD Abbey Wood South,
Poplar 2 #2214, Bristol BS34 8JH, Email: DIPR-Copyright@mod.gov.uk.

Security
This document is classified OFFICIAL due to the information it contains and is issued for
the information of such persons who need to know its content in the course of their duties.
Any person finding this document should place it in a single envelope with particulars of
how it was found and post to: Freepost, PO Box 3037, London N1 1BR. This document
is to be handled (stored, transmitted, and destroyed) in accordance with its classification
and any handling caveats/descriptors associated with the document (details of which
can be found at the top/bottom of the document). Release to international organisations
and national governments is for Defence purposes only and the information must be
afforded the same degree of protection as that afforded to information of an equivalent
classification originated by the recipient organisation or nation, or as required by the
recipient organisation or nation’s security regulations, as governed by any extant bilateral
agreement. Release to persons outside government service is on a personal basis only
and the recipient to whom it is entrusted in confidence within the provisions of the
OFFICIAL SECRETS Act 1911-1989, is personally responsible for its safe custody,
complying with handling caveats/descriptors and ensuring that its contents are disclosed
only to authorised personnel. If you require further advice on the handling requirements
of this document, please refer to JSP 440 or contact the appropriate MOD Security
Authority. THIS DOCUMENT IS THE PROPERTY OF HIS BRITANNIC MAJESTY’S
GOVERNMENT. THE UNAUTHORISED RETENTION, MODIFICATION,
DISTRIBUTION OR DESTRUCTION OF THE DOCUMENT IS AN OFFENCE UNDER
THE OFFICIAL SECRETS ACT 1911- 1989.

Status
This publication has been produced under the direction and authority of the Chief of the
General Staff by Director Land Warfare (DLW). It is the individual’s responsibility to ensure
that they are using the latest version of this publication, if in doubt the individual should
contact OC SASC ARTAT. The contents constitute mandatory regulations or an MOD
Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) and provide clear military information concerning the
most up to date experience and best practice available for commanders, CFAVs and
Cadets to use for training. To avoid criminal liability and prosecution for a breach of health
and safety law, you must follow the relevant provisions of the ACOP. Breaches or
omissions could result in disciplinary action under the provisions of the Armed Forces Act.

It is the individual’s responsibility to ensure that they are using the latest version of this
publication, if in doubt the individual should contact the OC SASC ARTAT.

i
Distribution
This publication is only made available in electronic format on Cadet Resource Centre
Library or BADER, to order hard (uncontrolled) copies contact your appropriate Cadet
Force 1* HQ stating the reasons why.

AMENDMENTS

Amend No Date Amend No Date


1 Feb 22
2 Jan 24

Amendments
Suggestions for change are welcomed and should be sent to OC ARTAT following the
procedures which can be found in Cadet Training Ranges. Such proposals will be given
due consideration and, if considered necessary, appropriate amendments will be
prepared for publication. Any queries should be sent to the OC ARTAT using the
following e-mail – CMC-SASC-ARTAT-OC@mod.gov.uk. The table below lists the most
recent changes to this publication:

Ser Chap Pg Lesson Para Remarks


1. NA NA NA NA Updated to Air Rifle from Weapon.
Chapter 7. Air Rifle Targetry Systems,
2. Intro vi Intro 4g
TS25 and CARITS.
Removal of Air Rifle and Training
3. Intro vi Intro 8
Vest.
4. 4 4-3 6 NA New Pressure Gauge pictures.
5. 7 7-1 TS25 7001 New lesson for TS25 Screen.
6. 7 7-21 CARITS 7056 New lesson for CARITS.

ii
CONTENTS
Page
Amendments ............................................................................................................... ii
Contents ..................................................................................................................... iii
Illustrations ................................................................................................................. iv
Introduction ................................................................................................................ vi
Chapter 1 - BSA Scorpion .177” Air Rifles .......................................................... 1-1
Lesson 1 – General Description, Safety, Sights, Cleaning and Maintenance.......... 1-2
Lesson 1a – General Description, Safety, Sights, Cleaning and Maintenance...... 1-11
Lesson 2. – Magazine Filling, Fitting the Single Shot Adaptor, Load and Unload . 1-18
Lesson 2a. – Load and Unload ............................................................................. 1-23
Lesson 3. – Holding and Aiming in the Prone Position .......................................... 1-26
Lesson 4. – Firing in the Prone Position and Stoppage Drills................................ 1-35
Lesson 4a. – Firing in the Prone Position and Stoppage Drills.............................. 1-42
Lesson 5. – Firing from Other Positions ................................................................ 1-47
Chapter 2 - Air Arms S200 .177” Air Rifles.......................................................... 2-1
Lesson 1 – General Description, Safety, Sights, Cleaning and Maintenance.......... 2-2
Lesson 1a – General Description, Safety, Sights, Cleaning and Maintenance...... 2-10
Lesson 2. – Magazine Filling, Load and Unload .................................................... 2-17
Lesson 2a. – Load and Unload ............................................................................. 2-21
Lesson 3. – Holding and Aiming in the Prone Position .......................................... 2-24
Lesson 4. – Firing in the Prone Position and Stoppage Drills................................ 2-32
Lesson 4a. – Firing in the Prone Position and Stoppage Drills.............................. 2-39
Lesson 5. – Firing from Other Positions ................................................................ 2-44
Chapter 3 - Break Barrel Air Rifle ........................................................................ 3-1
Lesson 1 – Safety, Loading, Firing and Unloading .................................................. 3-1
Chapter 4 - CFAV Lessons ................................................................................... 4-1
Lesson 6. – Further Stoppages and Charging the Air Cylinder ............................... 4-1
Chapter 5 - Practice Periods ................................................................................ 5-1
Practice Lesson 1 – Lessons 1 – 5 ......................................................................... 5-3
Chapter 6 - Air Rifle - Air Rifle Handling Test (WHT) .......................................... 6-1
BSA Scorpion Cadet Sporter .177” Air Rifle WHT ................................................... 6-3
BSA Scorpion Cadet.177” Air Rifle WHT................................................................. 6-5
Air Arms S200 (Multi Shot) .177” Air Rifle WHT ...................................................... 6-7
Air Arms S200 (Single Shot) .177” Air Rifle WHT .................................................... 6-9
Break Barrel .177” Air Rifle WHT .......................................................................... 6-11
Chapter 7 - Air Rifle - Targetry ............................................................................. 6-1
TS25 Screen ......................................................................................................... 6-31
CARITS ............................................................................................................... 6-319

iii
ILLUSTRATIONS

Page
Fig 1-1 BSA Scorpion Cadet Sporter .177” Air Rifle – Left Side View ........................ 1-8
Fig 1-2 BSA Scorpion Cadet Sporter .177” Air Rifle – Right Side View ...................... 1-8
Fig 1-3 Single Shot Adaptor ....................................................................................... 1-9
Fig 1-4 The Magazine ................................................................................................ 1-9
Fig 1-5 The Safety Catch in the Safe (S) Position .................................................... 1-10
Fig 1-6 The Rear Sight ............................................................................................. 1-10
Fig 1-7 BSA Scorpion Cadet .177” Air Rifle .............................................................. 1-17
Fig 1-8 The Prone Unsupported Position ................................................................. 1-33
Fig 1-9 Leg Positions ................................................................................................ 1-33
Fig 1-10 The Prone Supported Position ................................................................... 1-33
Fig 1-11 Eye Relief ................................................................................................... 1-34
Fig 1-12 The Correct Aim Picture ............................................................................. 1-34
Fig 1-13 Breath Control ............................................................................................ 1-41
Fig 1-14 Breathing, Aiming and Trigger Chart ......................................................... 1-41
Fig 1-15 The Kneeling Position ................................................................................ 1-51
Fig 1-16 The Sitting Position .................................................................................... 1-51
Fig 1-17 The Standing Position ................................................................................ 1-52
Fig 2-1 Air Arms S200 Multi Shot .177” – Left Side View ........................................... 2-8
Fig 2-2 Air Arms S200 Multi Shot .177” – Right Side View ......................................... 2-8
Fig 2-3 The S200 Magazine (5 Pellet) ........................................................................ 2-8
Fig 2-4 The Rear Sight ............................................................................................... 2-9
Fig 2-5 Air Arms S200 Single Shot – Left Side View ................................................ 2-16
Fig 2-6 Air Arms S200 Single Shot – Right Side View .............................................. 2-16
Fig 2-7 Prone Unsupported Position ........................................................................ 2-30
Fig 2-8 Leg Positions ................................................................................................ 2-30
Fig 2-9 Prone Supported Position ............................................................................ 2-30
Fig 2-10 Eye Relief ................................................................................................... 2-31
Fig 2-11 Aim Picture ................................................................................................. 2-31
Fig 2-12 Breath Control ............................................................................................ 2-38
Fig 2-13 Breathing, Aiming and Trigger Chart .......................................................... 2-38
Fig 2-14 The Kneeling Position ................................................................................ 2-48
Fig 2-15 The Sitting Position .................................................................................... 2-48
Fig 2-16 The Standing Position ................................................................................ 2-49
Fig 3-1 Break Barrel Air Rifle ...................................................................................... 3-6
Fig 3-2 Inspecting the Rifle ......................................................................................... 3-6
Fig 3-3 Loading the Rifle ............................................................................................ 3-7
Fig 4-1 BSA 230Bar ................................................................................................. 4-73
Fig 4-2 S200 200Bar ................................................................................................ 4-73
Fig 4-3 DO NOT OVER PRESSURISE .................................................................... 4-83
Fig 4-4 Air Cylinder Cover Removed Showing Female Housing ................................ 4-8
Fig 4-5 The Hills Hand Pump ................................................................................... 4-77
Fig 4-6 The Air Hose Fitted to the Rifle .................................................................... 4-88
Fig 4-7 Air Bottle Rgulator ........................................................................................ 4-88

iv
Fig 7-1 Screen Side Bar ............................................................................................. 7-5
Fig 7-2 Screen Top Bar Assembly .............................................................................. 7-5
Fig 7-3 Top Bar Assembly .......................................................................................... 7-5
Fig 7-4 Bottom Bar Assembly ..................................................................................... 7-6
Fig 7-5 Target Holder Assembly ................................................................................. 7-6
Fig 7-6 Antiluce Catches ............................................................................................ 7-6
Fig 7-7 PVC Screen Fitting ......................................................................................... 7-7
Fig 7-7 ato b Antiluce Catches ...................................................................... 7-7 and 7-8
Fig 7-8 Sides and Top Bars ........................................................................................ 7-8
Fig 7-9 Raising the Screen ......................................................................................... 7-9
Fig 7-10 Raising the Screen ....................................................................................... 7-9
Fig 7-11 Fitting Bungee Line (Correctly) ..................................................................... 4-8
Fig 7-12 Fitting Bungee Line (Correctly) ................................................................... 7-10
Fig 7-13 Bungee Knot Fitted (incorrectly) ................................................................. 7-10
Fig 7-14 Bungee Knot Fitted (incorrectly) ................................................................. 7-10
Fig 7-15 Screen Bottom Lips .................................................................................... 7-10
Fig 7-16 Target Holder Assembly ............................................................................. 7-11
Fig 7-17 Target Bar Fitting (1) ................................................................................. 7-11
Fig 7-18 Target Bar Fitting (2) ................................................................................. 7-11
Fig 7-19 Pellet Catcher ............................................................................................. 7-12
Fig 7-20 Target Bar PVC Shielding .......................................................................... 7-12
Fig 7-21 Foam Feet .................................................................................................. 7-13
Fig 7-22 The Protection Sleeve ................................................................................ 7-14
Fig 7-23 Top Antiluce Removable Spacer ............................................................... 7-14
Fig 7-24 Fixing Pegs ................................................................................................ 7-14
Fig 7-25 The CARITS .............................................................................................. 7-18
Fig 7-26 The CARITS unpacked .............................................................................. 7-19
Fig 7-27 Fixing Slots ................................................................................................. 7-19
Fig 7-28 Panels Fitted .............................................................................................. 7-20
Fig 7-29 Support Feet .............................................................................................. 7-20
Fig 7-30 Ballistic Curtain........................................................................................... 7-21
Fig 7-31 Ballistic Curtain Fitted................................................................................. 7-21
Fig 7-32 “T” Bracket ................................................................................................. 7-22
Fig 7-33 Metal Target Holder.................................................................................... 7-22
Fig 7-34 Baseboard .................................................................................................. 7-22
Fig 7-35 CARITS Assembeled ................................................................................. 7-24

v
CADET 1.77” AIR RIFLES AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT

INTRODUCTION
Cadet Air Rifles

1. This publication details the safe practices required to operate the BSA Scorpion
Cadet .177”, the BSA Scorpion Cadet Sporter .177”, the Air Arms S200 Single Shot, the
Air Arms S200 Multi Shot converted .177” Air Rifles and ‘Break Barrel’ .177” Air Rifles.

2. The Air Arms CZ200 is an earlier version of the Air Arms S200 and so drills for
the Air Arms S200 are applicable to the Air Arms CZ200.

Aim of the Pamphlet

3. This pamphlet aims to support the qualified, current, and competent Detachment
Instructor in teaching:

a. The basic handling skills required to pass the Air Rifle Handling Tests
(WHTs).

b. The maintenance of the Air Rifles.

c. The further actions required by Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs) in


the event of a further stoppage whilst firing the air rifles.

d. The procedures required to safely charge the air cylinders with the Hills
hand pump or a compressed air cylinder in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions.

Note: Live firing practices are contained within the approved Cadet syllabus.

Layout of the Pamphlet

4. The pamphlet is laid out in five chapters as follows:

a. Chapter 1. The BSA Scorpion Cadet Sporter .177” and BSA Cadet
.177” Air Rifle. The lessons to teach and practice the skills required to become
proficient with the air rifle.

b. Chapter 2. The Air Arms S200 Multi Shot and Single Shot .177” Air
Rifle. The lessons to teach and practice the skills required to become proficient with
the air rifle.

c. Chapter 3. The ‘Break Barrel’ .177” Air Rifle. The lessons to teach and
practice the skills required to become proficient with the air rifle.

d. Chapter 4. The lessons to teach CFAVs to deal with further stoppages


and the charging of the rifle’s air cylinder, if fitted.

vi
e. Chapter 5. Practice Periods. Contains the practice periods to revise
facts and to practice and develop the skills taught in the basic periods.

f. Chapter 6. The Air Rifle Handling Tests. Contains all the information
required for a qualified, current, and competent SAAI instructor to conduct WHTs
on the BSA Scorpion Cadet .177”, BSA Scorpion Cadet Sporter .177”, Air Arms
S200 Single Shot and Air Arms S200 Multi Shot converted .177” Air Rifles and a
break action air rifle.

g. Chapter 7. Air Rifle Targetry Systems, TS25 and CARITS.

5. Details printed in italics are instructions for the instructor.

Delivery of Instruction

6. Only qualified Skill at Arms (SAA) Instructors, who are themselves current and
competent for the Air Rifle being referred to, are empowered to instruct the lessons
contained within this pamphlet.

7. The lessons should be taught and practiced in the sequence laid down in the
pamphlet. Instructors are however allowed latitude in the methods they adopt to deliver
the lessons providing they do not deviate from the facts and skills laid down within the
publication. Instructors are not permitted to omit detail or adapt drills to save time.
Instructors should always consult the OC ARTAT if there is any doubt as to what is
required.

Air Rifles Training Dress and Equipment

8. The wearing of webbing or the Cadet Viper Vest during instructional periods, WHTs
or live firing is not required. Cadets and CFAVs are however, required to wear uniform.

Risk to Hearing

9. Issued, serviceable hearing protection MUST be worn during ALL live firing
practices with air rifles. This rule applies to firers, safety supervisors, RCOs and any
other personnel in the immediate vicinity of the live firing whether indoors or outdoors.

Live Firing Practices

10. The rules and regulations for the conduct of all air rifle live firing practices are
contained in Pamphlet No. 71855c. All RCOs and Safety Supervisors are to be
appropriately qualified, current, and competent and strictly adhere to the rules contained
within Pamphlet No. 71855c. The details of the live firing practices are contained within
the appropriate Cadet shooting syllabus and are to be followed during all range periods.

11. CFAVs and Cadets are only permitted to fire the Air Rifle make and variant
which they have passed the appropriate WHTs on.

vii
12. All air rifles should be checked by RCOs before live firing to ensure that the sights
are central, and the correct foresight element is fitted. Checking that the sights are central
will avoid wasted range time and improve the live firing lesson. Sights may be adjusted
to each firer during the live firing lesson if so desired.

13. RCOs and safety staff are to ensure that the air cylinders are kept pressurized
during live firing practices to avoid the ‘bounce back’ of pellets. The procedures laid
down within this document are to be followed as appropriate.

Safety Precautions

14. Air Rifle training is of vital importance as incorrect training can lead to dangerous
practice on the range and therefore must be subjected to rigorous planning and
preparation.

15. Before every lesson, all Air Rifles must be rodded, and magazines must be
inspected to ensure that no unauthorised ammunition is present.

16. Safe System of Training. All elements of the Safe System of Training must be in
place.

17. Safe Persons. All instructors must be qualified, current and competent on the Air
Rifle(s) being instructed.

a. Basic Lessons and Air Rifle Handling Tests (WHTs). All the Basic
Lessons and WHT’s must be delivered by a qualified Skill at Arms Instructor in
accordance with (iaw) Cadet Training – Ranges, Regulations for Cadets Training
with Cadet Air Rifle Systems and Pyrotechnics.

b. Practice Periods. The Practice periods are always to be conducted by a


qualified Skill at Arms Instructor or a suitably qualified senior cadet iaw: Cadet
Training – Ranges, Regulations for Cadets Training with Cadet Air Rifle Systems
and Pyrotechnics.

18. Cadet must be at the correct stage in the syllabus and have received all
necessary training before progressing.

19. Safe Equipment. All equipment used must be safe and suitable for service.

20. Safe Practice. All the drills are to be carried out as laid down in this publication
and iaw: Cadet Training – Ranges, Regulations for Cadets Training with Cadet Air Rifle
Systems and Pyrotechnics.

21. Safe Place. All training should be carried out in authorised and safe areas with
Medical Risk Assessments (MRA) in place. All areas should be checked prior to use.

viii
International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) Competition Training

22. Cadets Training for ISSF competitions are required to use ISSF Safety Lines
(ISSF Rule 6.2.2.2). Safety Lines are used to demonstrate that air rifles are unloaded,
safety lines must be long enough to extend through the full length of the barrel and must
be visible at both ends of the Air Rifle (This plastic line will not harm the barrel and can
be purchased in different lengths). Further advice on the use of the Safety Line can be
sought from the Cadet Council Rifle Shooting (CCRS).

23. The wearing of suitable robust sports dress is required when participating in Air
Rifle Target Sprint live firing to reduce the risk of climatic injuries. Elbow protection such
as a mat is to be provided at the firing point when firing from the prone position when
short sleeve sports kit is worn.

ix
CHAPTER 1 - BSA SCORPION .177” AIR RIFLES

1-1
BSA SCORPION CADET SPORTER .177” AIR RIFLE

LESSON 1 – GENERAL DESCRIPTION, SAFETY, SIGHTS, CLEANING AND


MAINTENANCE

A. INSTRUCTOR NOTES

1001. Aim. To teach the general description, safety precautions, sights, and
maintenance.

1002. Learning Outcomes:

a. Characteristics of the BSA Scorpion Cadet Sporter .177” Air Rifle.

b. To teach the named parts of the Air Rifle.

c. To teach the safety precautions.

d. To describe the sighting system.

e. To teach the cleaning and maintenance of the Air Rifle.

1003. Timings. One 40 minute period.

1004. Method. A basic instructional period best suited to indoors.

1005. Stores.

a. Air rifle complete with sights 1 per Cadet and instructor


wherever possible
b. Chairs 1 per Cadet and instructor
c. Air Rifle stand and pointer 1
d. Table 1
e. .177” Pellets 3
f. Magazine 1
g. Single Shot Adaptor 1 (optional)

1006. Preparation.

a. Set up the table, stand and mount the instructor’s rifle on the stand.

b. Cadet Air Rifles should be placed next to the chairs. Sights are to be fitted
to the rifles prior to the lesson commencing.

1007. Miscellaneous.

1-2
a. When handling the parts of the rifle, the instructor is to name them and
their purpose. However, at this stage, the Cadet is not expected to memorise all
the names.

b. The instructor is to ensure that all rifles, magazine, and single shot adaptor
(optional) are clear before the lesson starts and inform the cadets of this fact. To
ensure that the barrel of each Air Rifle is clear a cleaning rod is to be inserted
from the barrel end and pushed as far as the breech. Observing the rod at the
breech end will prove that the barrel of the Air Rifle is clear.

c. The .177” pellets are to be kept in a tin under the supervision of the
instructor until required. The pellets are used during the characteristics
stage of the lesson only and are to be collected immediately after the stage
is complete. The instructor is to personally account for the pellets and
securely store them before commencing with the next stage of the lesson.

Preliminaries

1008. Safety Precautions. Normal

1009. Revision. Nil.

Introduction

1010. Explain: The .177” Air Rifle may be the first type of Rifle that you will fire as a
Cadet. It is a valuable tool to introduce you to shooting and the practical application of
the marksmanship principles. There are two versions of the BSA Scorpion available
which are the Scorpion Cadet which is a single shot only rifle and the Scorpion Cadet
Sporter which has a multi shot capability. The Scorpion Cadet Sporter can be fitted with
a single shot adaptor for single shot use. This lesson will deal with the Scorpion Cadet
Sporter. Before you are allowed to fire any type of Air Rifle, you must become proficient
in its use and be able to handle it safely. This will allow you to pass your Air Rifle handling
test and progress with the live firing lessons.

B. CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Characteristics of the BSA Scorpion Cadet Sporter .177” Air Rifle

1011. Explain:

a. The BSA Scorpion Cadet Sporter .177” Air Rifle is a bolt operated, multi
shot Air Rifle.

b. It can be single shot, by use of the single shot adaptor or a multi shot Air
Rifle by use of a 10 pellet magazine.

c. The rifle is fitted with a rear dioptre sight and an interchangeable front sight
1-3
element which provide a high degree of accuracy.

d. The air pressure is pre-charged into a fitted air cylinder by means of a Hills
hand pump or air bottle. The CFAVs are trained how to complete this task.
CADETS ARE NEVER TO CHARGE THE AIR CYLINDER.

e. The rife may be fired from the left or right shoulder.

f. The air rifle can be fired indoors at 5.5m or outdoors at 5.5m or 10m
distances depending on the range available.

1012. Confirm by questions.

The Parts of the Air Rifle

1013. Point out the following parts on the Air Rifle (see Figs 1-1 & 1-2):

a. Muzzle.

b. Foresight, locking ring and interchangeable elements.

c. Barrel and chamber.

d. Air cylinder and removable cover. CADETS ARE NEVER TO REMOVE


THIS COVER.

e. Handguard.

f. Trigger guard and trigger.

g. Butt.

h. Bolt and bolt handle.

i. Safety catch (indicate safe (S) and fire (F) positions).

j. Magazine housing and magazine catch (indicate locked and unlocked


positions).

k. Single Shot Adaptor (see Fig 1-3).

l. Magazine (see Fig 1-4).

m. Rear sight (indicate elevation, directional adjustment, and pinch screws).

1014. Confirm by questions.

1-4
Normal Safety Precautions

1015. Explain: The Normal Safety Precautions (NSPs) are to be carried out:

a. At the beginning and end of every lesson, practice, or range period.

b. When handing the Air Rifle to another Cadet or CFAV.

1016. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating:

a. On the command “For inspection – port arms”

(1) Ensure the Air Rifle is pointing in a safe direction. Take control of
the rifle and ensure the safety catch is set to safe (S) (see Fig 1-5). Open
the bolt, move the magazine catch forward and remove the magazine or
single shot adaptor (if fitted). Inspect the face of the bolt, body and in the
chamber to ensure they are clear.

(2) In low light levels a torch must be used to look inside the Air Rifle
and a CFAV may also inspect inside the Air Rifle to ensure that it is clear.

The instructor is to show their own rifle to a member of the squad to prove it is clear and
then inspect the squad’s rifles to make certain that they are also clear. Each Cadet/CFAV
is to have chamber, body and face of the bolt indicated to them at this point.

b. On the command “Ease springs” keep the Air Rifle pointing in a safe
direction then:

(1) Close the bolt, move the safety catch to fire (F) and operate the
trigger (at this stage air will be expelled from the Air Rifle and a pellet may
be fired) then move the safety catch back to safe (S). The bolt is to remain
closed at this point.

(2) Lay the Air Rifle onto the floor with the bolt handle uppermost
(ensuring it is a clean surface) then inspect the magazine or single shot
adaptor to ensure it is clear. Once inspected put the magazine or single
shot adaptor next to the Air Rifle.

1017. Confirm by questions and practice.

Additional Safety Rules (Only to be done by CFAVs)

1018. Explain: In addition to the NSP drills, to ensure that the barrel is not obstructed in
any way, the following procedures are to be carried out by a qualified, current, and
competent CFAV when drawing the Air Rifle from the Armoury, on completion of any live
firing, before removing the Air Rifle from the firing point and prior to leaving the range as
part of NSPs.

a. Explain and Demonstrate: Rodding the Air Rifle.


1-5
(1) Put the safety catch to safe (S) open the bolt, move the magazine
release catch forward and remove the magazine or single shot adaptor if
fitted. Then insert a cleaning rod into the barrel from the muzzle until the
head of the rod can be observed in the breach, confirming that the barrel
is clear. If clear, remove the rod, ensure the Air Rifle is pointing in a safe
direction, close the bolt, put the safety catch to fire (F) operate the trigger
and put the safety catch back to safe (S). If using a safety line, the line
remains in place clearly protruding from the barrel and breach. The safety
catch remains at safe (S) throughout.

(2) If due to an obstruction, the rod cannot be fully inserted into the
barrel, the bolt is to remain to the rear and the safety catch on safe (S),
under no circumstances is the action to be fired off. The Air Rifle is to be
labelled and reported. The Air Rifle is not to be issued for use until the
obstruction has been cleared and the Air Rifle deemed serviceable by a
qualified gunsmith.

1019. Confirm by questions and practice.

Safe Handling

1020. Explain: The Scorpion should only be loaded when it is on the firing point of a
range therefore there is no reason why the Air Rifle should be handed over in a loaded
state. If an air Rifle is found unattended it is to be cleared using the drills already taught.
If an unloaded Air Rifle is to be handed over to another Cadet or CFAV NSPs are to be
carried out up to and including the stage of inspecting inside the Air Rifle. At this stage,
the recipient is also to inspect inside the Air Rifle and once satisfied that it is clear state
“clear.” The remainder of the NSP drill is to be completed before the Air Rifle is handed
over. Emphasise that the Air Rifle is never to be pointed at anyone under any
circumstances even in jest.

1021. Confirm by questions and practice.

The Sights

1022. Explain and Demonstrate: The Scorpion Air Rifle is fitted with a rear dioptre sight
and a front sight element (see Fig 1-6). The foresight can be fitted with interchangeable
elements (demonstrate removing the element) and the rear sight can be moved forwards
and rearwards and adjusted for elevation and direction. On the top of the sight is the
elevation adjustment screw. To move the sights up turn the screw in a clockwise direction
and anticlockwise to move the sights down. On the right side of the sight is the directional
adjustment screw. To move the sights right turn the screw in a clockwise direction and
anticlockwise to move the sights left.

1023. For both elevation and direction, the screw will move one click at a time in either
direction and will stop when the sights are at the limit of their adjustment. The amount of
sight adjustment achieved will be dependent upon the range to the target. The screws are
not to be forced any further as this will damage the sights. Before the Air Rifle is initially
1-6
fired the sights are to be centered by moving the graticules in the scales until they are
central on both axes.

1024. The rear sight can be removed from the sight rail for cleaning by loosening the
pinch screw. Only CFAVs are to complete this action to avoid losing the small parts.

1025. Confirm by questions and practice.

Cleaning and Maintenance

1026. Explain: The Scorpion .177” Air Rifle should not be used in an environment in which
it becomes very dirty however as with any other Air Rifle it will need to be cleaned and
maintained correctly. The following points are to be adhered to:

a. The Air Rifle is to be cleaned with a lightly oiled cloth after use and prior
to storage.

b. Special attention is to be given to metal surfaces as they can rust easily.

c. Ensure the Air Rifle is completely dry before being stored away.

d. NEVER use oils containing SILICON as they can cause damage to


metal surfaces.

e. DO NOT tamper with any of the Air Rifle’s components at any time as
damage may occur rendering the Air Rifle inoperable.

f. Any damage is to be reported in accordance with the manufacturer’s


After Care Documentation or unit SOPs.

C. CONCLUSION
1027. End of Lesson Drill.

a. Questions to and from the squad on the whole lesson.

b. Confirm by questions and practice as time permits.

c. Safety Precautions.

d. Pack kit as required.

e. Summary. To include the following:

(1) The importance of safe handling.

(2) A forecast of the squad’s next lesson.

1028. to 1040. Reserved.

1-7
Fig 1-1 BSA Scorpion Cadet Sporter .177” Air Rifle – Left Side View

Fig 1-2 BSA Scorpion Cadet Sporter .177” Air Rifle – Right Side View

1-8
Fig 1-3 Single Shot Adaptor

Fig 1-4 The Magazine

1-9
Fig 1-5 The Safety Catch in the Safe (S) Position

Fig 1-6 The Rear Sight

1-10
BSA SCORPION CADET.177” AIR RIFLE

LESSON 1A – GENERAL DESCRIPTION, SAFETY, SIGHTS, CLEANING AND


MAINTENANCE

A. INSTRUCTOR NOTES

1041. Aim. To teach the general description, safety precautions, sights, and
maintenance.

1042. Learning Outcomes:

a. Characteristics of the BSA Scorpion Cadet.177” Air Rifle.

b. To teach the named parts of the Air Rifle.

c. To teach the safety precautions.

d. To describe the sighting system.

e. To teach the cleaning and maintenance of the Air Rifle.

1043. Timings. One 40 minute period.

1044. Method. A basic instructional period best suited to indoors.

1045. Stores.

a. Air rifle complete with sights 1 per Cadet and instructor


wherever possible
b. Chairs 1 per Cadet and instructor
c. Air Rifle stand and pointer 1
d. Table 1
e. .177” Pellets 3

1046. Preparation.

a. Set up the table, stand and mount the instructors’ rifle on the stand.

b. Cadet rifles should be placed next to the chairs. Sights are to be fitted to
the rifles prior to the lesson commencing.

1047. Miscellaneous.
a. When handling the parts of the rifle, the instructor is to name them and
their purpose. However, at this stage, the Cadet is not expected to memorise all
the names.

1-11
b. The instructor is to ensure that all rifles are clear before the lesson starts
and inform the cadets of this fact. To ensure that the barrel of each Air Rifle is
clear a cleaning rod is to be inserted from the barrel end and pushed as far as
the breech. Observing the rod at the breech end will prove that the barrel of the
Air Rifle is clear.

c. The .177” pellets are to be kept in a tin under the supervision of the
instructor until required. The pellets are used during the characteristics
stage of the lesson only and are to be collected immediately after the stage
is complete. The instructor is to personally account for the pellets and
securely store them before commencing with the next stage of the lesson.

Preliminaries

1048. Safety Precautions. Normal

1049. Revision. Nil.

Introduction

1050. Explain: The .177” Air Rifle may be the first type of Rifle that you will fire as Cadet.
It is a valuable tool to introduce you to shooting and the practical application of the
marksmanship principles. There are two versions of the BSA Scorpion available which
are the BSA Scorpion Cadet which is a single shot only rifle and the Scorpion Cadet
Sporter which has a multi shot capability. This lesson will deal with the BSA Scorpion
Cadet. Before you are allowed to fire any type of Rifle, you must become proficient in its
use and be able to handle the Air Rifle safely. This will allow you to pass your Air Rifle
handling test and progress with the live firing lessons.

B. CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Characteristics of the BSA Scorpion Cadet.177” Air Rifle

1051. Explain:

a. The BSA Scorpion Cadet .177” Air Rifle is a bolt operated, single shot Air
Rifle.

b. The rifle is fitted with a rear dioptre sight and an interchangeable front
sight element which provide a high degree of accuracy.

c. The air pressure is pre-charged into a fitted air cylinder by means of a Hills
hand pump or air bottle. The CFAVs are trained how to complete this task.
CADETS ARE NEVER TO CHARGE THE AIR CYLINDER.

d. The rife may be fired from the left or right shoulder.


1-12
e. The air rifle can be fired indoors at 5.5m or outdoors at 5.5m or 10m
distances depending on the range available.

1052. Confirm by questions.

The Parts of the Air Rifle

1053. Point out the following parts on the Air Rifle (The majority of the Air Rifle parts are
the same as the BSA Scorpion Cadet Sporter, see Figs 1-1 & 1-2. This Air Rifle has an
open pellet tray, see Fig 1-7 and no magazine catch):

a. Muzzle.

b. Foresight, locking ring and interchangeable elements.

c. Barrel and chamber.

d. Air cylinder and removable cover. CADETS ARE NEVER TO REMOVE


THIS COVER.

e. Handguard.

f. Trigger guard and trigger.

g. Butt.

h. Bolt and bolt handle.

i. Safety catch (indicate safe (S) and fire (F) positions).

j. Pellet Tray.

k. Rear sight (indicate elevation, directional adjustment, and pinch screws).

1054. Confirm by questions.

Normal Safety Precautions

1055. Explain: The Normal Safety Precautions (NSPs) are to be carried out:

a. At the beginning and end of every lesson, practice, or range period.

b. When handing the Air Rifle to another Cadet or CFAV.

1056. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating:

a. On the command “For inspection – port arms”

1-13
(1) Ensure the Air Rifle is pointing in a safe direction. Take control of
the rifle and ensure the safety catch is set to safe (S) (see Fig 1-5). Open
the bolt. Inspect the face of the bolt, pellet tray and in the chamber to
ensure they are clear.

(2) In low light levels a torch must be used to look inside the Air Rifle
and a CFAV may also inspect inside the Air Rifle to also ensure that it is
clear.

The instructor is to show their own rifle to a member of the squad to prove it is clear and
then inspect the squad’s rifles to make certain that they are also clear. Each Cadet/CFAV
is to have chamber, body and face of the bolt indicated to them at this point.

b. On the command “Ease springs” keep the Air Rifle pointing in a safe
direction and:

(1) Close the bolt, move the safety catch to fire (F) and operate the
trigger (at this stage air will be expelled from the Air Rifle and a pellet
may be fired).

(2) Move the safety catch back to safe (S). The bolt is to remain closed
at this point.

1057. Confirm by questions and practice.

Additional Safety Rules (Only to be done by CFAVs)

1058. Explain: In addition to the NSP drills, to ensure that the barrel is not obstructed in
any way, the following procedures are to be carried out by a qualified, current, and
competent CFAV when drawing the Air Rifle from the Armoury, on completion of any live
firing before removing the Air Rifle Air Rifle from the firing point and prior to leaving the
range as part of NSPs.

a. Explain and Demonstrate: Rodding the Air Rifle.

(1) Put the safety catch to safe (S) open the bolt, move the magazine
release catch forward and remove the magazine or single shot adaptor if
fitted. Then insert a cleaning rod into the barrel from the muzzle until the
head of the rod can be observed in the breach, confirming that the barrel
is clear. If clear, remove the rod, ensure the Air Rifle is pointing in a safe
direction, close the bolt, put the safety catch to fire (F) operate the trigger
and put the safety catch back to safe (S). If using a safety line, the line
remains in place clearly protruding from the barrel and breach. The safety
catch remains at safe (S) throughout.

(2) If due to an obstruction, the rod cannot be fully inserted into the
barrel, the bolt is to remain to the rear and the safety catch on safe (S),
under no circumstances is the action to be fired off. The Air Rifle is to be
labelled and reported for further action. The Air Rifle is not to be issued
1-14
for use until the obstruction has been cleared and the Air Rifle deemed
serviceable by a qualified gunsmith.

1059. Confirm by questions and practice.

Safe Handling

1060. Explain: The Scorpion should only be loaded when it is on the firing point of a
range therefore there is no reason why the Air Rifle should be handed over in a loaded
state. If an Air Rifle is found unattended it is to be cleared using the drills already taught.
If an unloaded Air Rifle is to be handed over to another Cadet or CFAV NSPs are to be
carried out up to and including the stage of inspecting inside the Air Rifle. At this stage,
the recipient is also to inspect inside the Air Rifle and once satisfied that it is clear state
“clear.” The remainder of the NSP drill is to be completed before the Air Rifle is handed
over. Emphasise that the Air Rifle is never to be pointed at anyone under any
circumstances even in jest.

1061. Confirm by questions and practice.

The Sights

1062. Explain and Demonstrate: The Scorpion Air Rifle is fitted with a rear dioptre sight
and a front sight element (see Fig 1-6). The foresight can be fitted with interchangeable
elements (demonstrate removing the element) and the rear sight can be moved forwards
and rearwards and adjusted for elevation and direction. On the top of the sight is the
elevation adjustment screw. To move the sights up turn the screw in a clockwise direction
and anticlockwise to move the sights down. On the right side of the sight is the directional
adjustment screw. To move the sights right turn the screw in a clockwise direction and
anticlockwise to move the sights left.

1063. For both elevation and direction, the screw will move one click at a time in either
direction and will stop when the sights are at the limit of their adjustment. The amount of
sight adjustment achieved will be dependent upon the range to the target. The screws are
not to be forced any further as this will damage the sights. Before the Air Rifle is initially
fired the sights are to be centered by moving the graticules in the scales until they are
central on both axes.

1064. The rear sight can be removed from the sight rail for cleaning by loosening the
pinch screw. Only CFAVs are to complete this action to avoid losing the small parts.

1065. Confirm by questions and practice.

Cleaning and Maintenance

1066. Explain: The Scorpion .177” Air Rifle should not be used in an environment in which
it becomes very dirty however as with any other Air Rifle it will need to be cleaned and
maintained correctly. The following points are to be adhered to:

1-15
a. The Air Rifle is to be cleaned with a lightly oiled cloth after use and prior
to storage.

b. Special attention is to be given to metal surfaces as they can rust easily.

c. Ensure the Air Rifle is completely dry before being stored away.

d. NEVER use oils containing SILICON as they can cause damage to


metal surfaces.

e. DO NOT tamper with any of the Air Rifle’s components at any time as
damage may occur rendering the Air Rifle inoperable.

f. Any damage is to be reported in accordance with the manufacturer’s


After Care Documentation or unit SOPs.

C. CONCLUSION

1067. End of Lesson Drill.

a. Questions to and from the squad on the whole lesson.

b. Confirm by questions and practice as time permits.

c. Safety Precautions.

d. Pack kit as required.

e. Summary. To include the following:

(1) The importance of safe handling.

(2) A forecast of the squad’s next lesson.

1068. to 1080. Reserved.

1-16
Fig 1-7 BSA Scorpion Cadet .177” Air Rifle

1-17
BSA SCORPION CADET SPORTER .177” AIR RIFLE

LESSON 2. – MAGAZINE FILLING, FITTING THE SINGLE SHOT ADAPTOR, LOAD


AND UNLOAD

A. INSTRUCTOR NOTES

1081. Aim. To teach the basic handling drills associated with the Scorpion Cadet Sporter
.177” Air Rifle.

1082. Learning Outcomes:

a. How to fill a magazine, fit the single shot adaptor, load, and unload.

1083. Timings. One 40 minute period.

1084. Method. A basic instructional period best suited to indoors.

1085. Stores.

a. Air rifle complete with sights, magazine 1 per Cadet and instructor
and carry case wherever possible
b. .177” Pellets 3 per Cadet and instructor
c. Single Shot Adaptor 1 per Cadet and instructor if
required
d. Chairs 1 per Cadet and instructor

1086. Preparation.

a. Cadet rifles should be placed next to the chairs along with the magazines
or single shot adaptor (if used). Sights are to be fitted to the rifles prior to the
lesson commencing and targets placed opposite each student.

1087. Miscellaneous.

a. The instructor is to ensure that all rifles, magazines, and single shot
adaptors (if used) are clear before the lesson starts and inform the cadets of this
fact. To ensure that the barrel of each Air Rifle is clear a cleaning rod is to be
inserted from the barrel end and pushed as far as the breech. Observing the rod
at the breech end will prove that the barrel of the Air Rifle is clear.

b. As firing with this rifle is usually done from the prone position due to the
design of the Air Rifle, basic handling drills are also to be taught from the prone
position.

1-18
c. The .177” pellets are to be kept in a tin under the supervision of the
instructor until required for use. They are to be used during the magazine
filling stage of the lesson only and are to be collected immediately after the
stage is complete. The instructor is to personally account for the pellets
and securely store them away before commencing with the next part of the
lesson.

Preliminaries

1088. Safety Precautions. Normal.

1089. Revision. Safe Handling.

Introduction

1090. Explain: It is essential that before a Cadet or CFAV moves onto a range with an
air rifle that they are able to handle the Air Rifle correctly, carrying out basic handling drills
and be able to load and unload the Air Rifle. The Cadet or CFAV must be able to pass
the Air Rifle Handling Tests before any live firing can take place.

B. CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Magazine Filling (3 pellets per student are to be issued at this stage).

1091. Explain: The Scorpion Cadet Sporter .177” Air Rifle can be fitted with a 10 pellet
magazine (see Fig 1-4) which is a sealed unit and filled with lubricating grease. It is not
to be stripped under any circumstances as this may cause damage and render the
magazine unusable. Only .177” pellets issued by the Cadet Force are to be filled into the
magazine. The pellets come issued in tins of 500 pellets and are only issued once on
the range. Before placing pellets into a magazine, they must be inspected to ensure that
they are not damaged in any way. Any damaged pellets are to be disposed of and are
not to be fired.

1092. Explain and demonstrate with the squad imitating. To fill the magazine:

a. Hold the magazine between finger and thumb with the cover plate screw
uppermost. Push a pellet nose first into the first magazine chamber and press
down until the pellet skirt is under the cover plate.

b. Rotate the central body of the magazine anti-clockwise until the next
vacant position lines up with the hole in the cover plate. Insert another pellet and
repeat the process until the magazine is full.

c. At any time during filling or when it is necessary to remove pellets from a


magazine that is not required for use, the pellets can be removed one at a time
in the opposite manner to filling. Once a pellet has been removed the magazine
will rotate back one position allowing the next pellet to be removed.
1-19
1093. Confirm by questions and practice.

COLLECT ALL PELLETS BEFORE MOVING ON WITH THE NEXT STAGE OF THE
LESSON.

Load and Unload

1094. Explain and demonstrate from the prone position, the squad imitating. The placing
of a pellet into the single shot adaptor, if fitted, is to be notional: The Air Rifle is loaded
when it has a magazine, or a single shot adaptor fitted. It is ready to fire when the bolt has
been moved forward and locked and a pellet is in the chamber. It is unloaded when it has
no magazine or single shot adaptor fitted and no pellet in the chamber.

a. On the command “Load”:

(1) Support the handguard with the left hand.

(2) Check that the safety catch is set to safe (S) with the left hand.

(3) With the right hand open the bolt and pull it fully to the rear and then
with the left hand ensure the magazine catch is fully forward.

(4) Magazine:

(a) Take a magazine with the number of pellets required and


look to see that the first pellet is fitted correctly. Fit the magazine
to the Air Rifle and ensure that the magazine catch is pushed fully
to the rear locking it in place. Ensure the magazine is securely
fitted at this point. Note that the magazine must be fitted with the
screw facing to the rear. Inform the squad that under no
circumstances is a pellet to be manually fed into the Air Rifle without
the use of a magazine or a single shot adaptor.

(5) Single Shot Adaptor:

(a) Insert the single shot adaptor into the magazine housing
ensuring that the magazine catch is pushed fully to the rear locking
it in place. Ensure the adaptor is securely fitted at this point. Rotate
the adaptor swing arm downwards to expose the pellet chamber.

(b) Insert a pellet into the pellet chamber and rotate the swing
arm upwards to its original position. Inform the squad that under no
circumstances is a pellet to be manually fed into the Air Rifle without
the use of a magazine or a single shot adaptor.

1-20
(6) With the left hand maintain a firm grip of the rifle. With the right
hand push the bolt firmly forward and lock the bolt in place.

(7) The forefinger is to be clear of the trigger and run alongside the
trigger guard.

(8) The Air Rifle is now “loaded” and made “ready”.

b. On the command “Unload”:

(1) Move the safety catch to safe (S).

(2) With the left hand maintain a firm grip of the Air Rifle then with the
right hand open the bolt and pull it fully to the rear.

(3) With the left hand, push the magazine catch fully forward then
remove the magazine or single shot adaptor, whichever has been fitted.
Place the magazine or single shot adaptor down on the floor, first ensuring
it is a clean, dry surface. It is essential for safety reasons that the magazine
or single shot adaptor be removed at this point.

(4) Inspect inside the chamber, body and face of the bolt to check
whether there is a pellet inside. If there is a pellet inside, it cannot be
removed at this stage and will instead be fired in the next part of the unload
drill. Push the bolt forward and lock it with the right hand. If unloading in
low light levels, use a white torch to assist in inspecting the Air Rifle.

(5) Point the Air Rifle at the target area, move the safety catch to Fire
(F) and operate the trigger. At this stage, a pellet may be fired. therefore,
it is essential that the Air Rifle is pointing in a safe direction. Move the
safety catch back to Safe (S).

(6) Lay the Air Rifle on the ground with the bolt handle uppermost. Pick
up the magazine or single shot adaptor, remove any unfired pellets, and
store it safely with the rifle.

1095. Confirm by practice using empty magazines.

C. CONCLUSION

1096. End of Lesson Drill.

a. Questions to and from the squad on the whole lesson.

b. Confirm by questions and practice as time permits.

c. Safety Precautions.

1-21
d. Pack kit as required.

e. Summary. To include the following:

(1) The importance of safe drills.

(2) Emphasise that on the unload a pellet may be fired therefore Air
Rifles must always point in a safe direction.

(3) A forecast of the squad’s next lesson.

1097. to 1110. Reserved.

1-22
BSA SCORPION CADET.177” AIR RIFLE

LESSON 2A. – LOAD AND UNLOAD

A. INSTRUCTOR NOTES

1111. Aim. To teach the basic handling drills associated with the Scorpion Cadet.177”
Air Rifle.

1112. Learning Outcomes:

a. How to load and unload.

1113. Timings. One 40 minute period.

1114. Method. A basic instructional period best suited to indoors.

1115. Stores.

a. Air rifle complete with sights and carry 1 per Cadet and instructor
case wherever possible
b. Chairs 1 per Cadet and instructor

1116. Preparation.

a. Cadet rifles should be placed next to the chairs. Sights are to be fitted to
the rifles prior to the lesson commencing and targets placed opposite each
student.

1117. Miscellaneous.

a. The instructor is to ensure that all rifles are clear before the lesson starts
and inform the cadets of this fact. To ensure that the barrel of each Air Rifle is
clear a cleaning rod is to be inserted from the barrel end and pushed as far as
the breech. Observing the rod at the breech end will prove that the barrel of the
Air Rifle is clear.

b. As firing with this rifle is usually done from the prone position due to the
design of the Air Rifle, basic handling drills are also to be taught from the prone
position.

Preliminaries

1118. Safety Precautions. Normal.

1119. Revision. Safe Handling.


1-23
Introduction

1120. Explain: It is essential that before a Cadet or CFAV moves onto a range with an
air rifle that they are able to handle the Air Rifle correctly, carrying out basic handling drills
and be able to load and unload the Air Rifle. The Cadet or CFAV must be able to pass
the Air Rifle Handling Tests before any live firing can take place.

B. CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Load and Unload

1121. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating. The actions of placing a pellet on
the pellet tray will be notional: The Air Rifle is loaded when a pellet has been placed onto
the pellet tray. It is ready when it has a pellet in the chamber and the bolt is closed. It is
unloaded when it has no pellet in the chamber.

a. On the command “Load”:

(1) Support the handguard with the left hand.

(2) Check that the safety catch is set to safe (S) with the left hand.

(3) With the right hand open the bolt and pull it fully to the rear.

(4) With the right hand, take a pellet, correctly orientate it, and hand
feed it into the chamber until resistance is felt.

(5) With the left hand maintain a firm grip of the rifle. With the right
hand push the bolt firmly forward and lock the bolt in place.

(6) The forefinger is to be clear of the trigger and run alongside the
trigger guard.

(7) The Air Rifle is now “loaded” and made “ready”.

b. On the command “Unload”:

(1) Move the safety catch to safe (S).

(2) With the left hand maintain a firm grip of the Air Rifle then with the
right hand open the bolt and pull it fully to the rear.

(3) Inspect inside the chamber, body and face of the bolt to check
whether there is a pellet inside. If there is a pellet inside, it cannot be
removed at this stage and will instead be fired in the next part of the unload
1-24
drill. Push the bolt forward and lock it with the right hand. If unloading in
low light levels, use a white torch to assist in inspecting the Air Rifle.

(4) Point the Air Rifle at the target area, move the safety catch to Fire
(F) and operate the trigger. At this stage, a pellet may be fired. therefore,
it is essential that the Air Rifle is pointing in a safe direction. Move the
safety catch back to Safe (S).

(5) Lay the Air Rifle on the ground with the bolt handle uppermost.

1122. Confirm by practice.

C. CONCLUSION

1123. End of Lesson Drill.

a. Questions to and from the squad on the whole lesson.

b. Confirm by questions and practice as time permits.

c. Safety Precautions.

d. Pack kit as required.

e. Summary. To include the following:

(1) The importance of safe drills.

(2) Emphasise that on the unload a pellet may be fired therefore Air
Rifles must always point in a safe direction.

(3) A forecast of the squad’s next lesson.

1124. to 1130. Reserved.

1-25
BSA SCORPION CADET SPORTER .177” &
BSA SCORPION CADET .177” AIR RIFLES

LESSON 3. – HOLDING AND AIMING IN THE PRONE POSITION

A. INSTRUCTOR NOTES

1131. Aim. To teach holding and aiming in the prone position with the BSA Scorpion
Cadet Sporter and BSA Scorpion Cadet .177” Air Rifle.

1132. Learning Outcomes:

a. How to adopt the prone position.

b. Holding.

c. Adjusting for eye relief and aiming.

1133. Timings. Two 40 minute periods.

1134. Method. A basic instructional period best suited to indoors.

1135. Stores.

a. Air rifle complete with sights, magazine or 1 per Cadet and instructor
single shot adaptor (if used) and carry case wherever possible
b. Representative targets 1 per Cadet and instructor
c. Aiming aids As required
d. Roll mat or similar for comfort when As required
adopting the prone position

1136. Preparation.

a. Cadet rifles should be placed next to the chairs along with the magazines
or single shot adaptor (if used). Sights are to be fitted to the rifles prior to the
lesson commencing and targets placed opposite each student.

b. Ensure that the correct foresight element has been fitted and is secure.

c. Until the correct eye relief has been set, move the rear sight forwards.

1137. Miscellaneous.

a. The instructor is to ensure that all rifles, magazines, or single shot adaptors
(if used) are clear before the lesson starts and inform the cadets of this fact. To

1-26
ensure that the barrel of each Air Rifle is clear a cleaning rod is to be inserted
from the barrel end and pushed as far as the breech. Observing the rod at the
breech end will prove that the barrel of the Air Rifle is clear.

Preliminaries

1138. Safety Precautions. Normal.

1139. Revision. Load and unload.

Introduction

1140. Explain: The air rifle is an excellent Air Rifle to learn and master the skills and
techniques of marksmanship. These skills are used with the other Rifles you may fire as
a Cadet. To fire the Air Rifle accurately and achieve the standards required to progress
through the shooting syllabus, you must first learn and understand how to apply the
marksmanship principles. They are:

a. The position and hold must be firm enough to support the Air Rifle.

b. The Air Rifle must point naturally towards the target without any undue
physical effort.

c. Sight alignment and the sight picture must be correct.

d. The shot must be released and followed through without undue


disturbance to the position.

1141. The application of these principles demands concentration, combined with the
determination to shoot well. This lesson will cover the first three of these principles.

B. CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

The Prone Unsupported Position

1142. Explain: The basic shooting position is the prone unsupported position as it gives
the firer support and is less tiring. You may adopt variations to the basic position to suit
your height and build, however, the position must provide maximum support.

1143. Explain and demonstrate: On the command “Down” (see Fig 1-8):

a. Maintain a firm grip with the right hand and ensure that no part of the rifle
comes into contact with the ground and lie down.

b. Hold the rifle with the left hand on the handguard. The forefinger of the
right hand is then placed outside the trigger guard.

1-27
c. To aid target alignment, place the feet together, heels uppermost, move
position until the body and rifle are roughly aligned onto the target. Then adopt
either of the leg positions (see Fig 1-9).

(1) Cadets are to be encouraged to try both positions to find which


best suits them.

(2) Whichever position is chosen the body must be relaxed to avoid


muscle tremors.

1144. Position 1. Maintain target alignment, open the legs until the feet are shoulder’s
width apart and feel comfortable. The feet are positioned with the toes pointing outwards
and the inside of the heels on the ground. This position ensures that the right side of the
body, including all the right leg is immediately behind the rifle, it provides maximum
support.

1145. Position 2. Adjust the body until it is slightly angled to the left of the line of fire.
Open the legs with the left leg on the same line as the body, leg relaxed, and toes turned
inwards. Bend the right leg, drawing it up to form a continuation of the line of fire, the right
foot pointing outwards with the heel on the ground. This position lifts the chest higher off
the ground and assists ease of breathing.

1146. When getting up, maintain a firm grip with the right hand, ensure that no part of
the rifle comes into contact with the ground, stand up.

1147. Confirm by practice.

Holding in the Prone Position

1148. In order to aid with consistency, firers should use the following checklist:

a. Leg position.
b. Butt position.
c. Left hand support.
d. Left elbow position.
e. Right hand grip.
f. Right elbow position.
g. Head position.
h. Relaxation in position.
i. Breathing.

1149. Explain and demonstrate (the placing of a pellet onto the pellet tray for the
Scorpion Cadet single shot variant is to be notional): Order “Down” and “Load.”

a. Adopt the preferred body position.

1-28
b. Position the butt into the shoulder and hold the rifle with both hands using
a relaxed grip. Align along the barrel axis and adjust the body line until the Air
Rifle points naturally towards the target.

(1) Correctly placing the butt in the shoulder helps steady the rifle and
prevents the butt slipping. The butt must not be placed onto the collar
bone.

c. The left hand is positioned under the handguard, as far forward as


comfortable. Open the left hand fully, fingers together and rest the handguard
across the palm. Allow the fingers to close around the handguard.

(1) The left hand should be relaxed with a firm enough hold to maintain
steadiness.

(2) No attempt should be made to grip the handguard tightly or to pull


backwards.

d. The left elbow is placed naturally on the ground and positioned as close
as possible to a point directly below the Air Rifle. This ensures bone and not
muscular support.

e. The right hand is the controlling hand and must grip firmly. To achieve this,
raise the right elbow off the ground and open the hand. Position the web of the
forefinger and thumb as high as comfortably possible on the grip and directly
behind it, then wrap the fingers around the grip with the forefinger outside the
trigger guard.

f. Without disturbing the hold and without tilting the rifle, lower the right
elbow to a natural position. A firm, consistent, rearward pressure must be exerted
to keep the butt in its proper position in the shoulder.

g. Lower the head lightly onto the cheek piece. Place the cheek at the same
spot each time for consistent and correct eye relief. The head should be upright
to maintain the instinctive sense of balance and to position the centre of the eye
straight behind the sight.

h. The conscious effort is required to relax in the firing position and to avoid
muscle strain which will result in movement of the rifle and the aim picture.

i. Breathing is covered in detail during the next lesson.

Prone Supported Position

1150. Firing from the prone supported position is achieved by resting the back of the left
hand on a sandbag or similar support (see Fig 1-10). This offers excellent, sustainable
support with little physical effort on the part of the firer. It eliminates the need for strict
1-29
breath control, especially when firing quickly.

1151. Confirm by practice (Remind firers to use the ‘key points’ checklist). Order “Stop
– Unload” at the conclusion of practice.

Adjusting the Eye Relief

1152. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating from the prone position. The sights
can be adjusted forwards and backwards on the sight rail to achieve the correct eye relief.
To do this loosen the pinch screw on the right side of the sight rail and adjust the sight
forward or backwards as required. The correct eye relief is achieved when the sight
rubber is ideally resting on the eyebrow when in the prone position; physical limitations
permitting (see Fig 1-11).

1153. Confirm by practice.

Aiming

1154. Explain and demonstrate using sight picture diagrams (see Fig 1-12): Aiming with
dioptre sights can never become instinctive, though practice will induce speed. Above all
it requires concentration to achieve sight alignment and the correct aim picture, which is
a four point relationship between the eye, the centre of the rear aperture, tip of the
foresight or centre of the aiming circle, and the point of aim.

a. Align the body and rifle onto the target area as taught.

b. Position the head to gain correct eye relief.

c. Close the left eye. Look through the centre of the rear aperture and
centralise the tip of the foresight blade or the centre of the aiming circle in the
aperture. Ensure the foresight is upright and clearly in focus.

d. It may be necessary to move the head slightly in order to achieve the cor-
rect sight alignment; once it is achieved the position of the head must remain
unchanged.

e. Maintaining this alignment, focus the tip of the foresight or aiming circle
onto the selected point of aim to complete the aim picture. It should be noted that
the point of aim on the target will become blurred.

f. During aiming it is necessary to switch focus between the foresight and


point of aim to maintain the correct aim picture, however, focus must be on the
foresight immediately before firing.

1155. Confirm by question and practice. Allow the squad to use aim diagrams to illustrate
their answers.

1-30
Testing and Adjusting in the Prone Position

1156. Explain and demonstrate (the placing of a pellet onto the pellet tray for the
Scorpion Cadet single shot variant is to be notional), Order “Down” and “Load.”

a. Explain: On adopting any firing position the firer must align the body and
rifle onto the target as previously taught. Fine adjustments are made to the body
position to ensure the rifle points naturally along the intended line of fire. No
attempt should be made to push, pull, or lift the arms or hands to force the rifle
onto the point of aim.

b. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating:

(1) To finalise the position, keep the arms passive and adjust the body
position until the aim is correct. Numerous small movements may be nec-
essary to achieve this.

(2) Adjustments for elevation are made by moving the body forwards
or back.

(3) Adjustments for direction are made by moving the lower body left
or right, avoid moving the left elbow.

(4) Whilst breathing, vertical movement of the pointer/foresight directly


through the point of aim, confirms correct alignment. Errors are shown by
diagonal movement across the point of aim.

1157. Confirm by practice. Order “Stop – Unload” at the conclusion of practice.

C. CONCLUSION

1158. End of Lesson Drill.

a. Questions to and from the squad on the whole lesson.

b. Confirm by questions and practice as time permits.

c. Safety Precautions.

d. Pack kit as required.

e. Summary. To include the following:

(1) The importance of stability, a relaxed position with correct hold and
accurate aiming.

(2) The need for correct positioning of the sight to achieve correct eye
relief.

1-31
(3) For consistency always use the ‘key points’ checklist

(4) A forecast of the squad’s next lesson.

1159. to 1170. Reserved.

1-32
Fig 1-8 The Prone Unsupported Position

Fig 1-9 Leg Positions

Fig 1-10 The Prone Supported Position

1-33
Fig 1-11 Eye Relief

Fig 1-12 The Correct Aim Picture

1-34
BSA SCORPION CADET SPORTER .177” AIR RIFLE

LESSON 4. – FIRING IN THE PRONE POSITION AND STOPPAGE DRILLS

A. INSTRUCTOR NOTES

1171. Aim. To teach how to fire the rifle in the prone position by applying the four
marksmanship principles.

1172. Learning Outcomes:

a. Breath control.

b. Deliberate trigger operation.

c. How to recognize a stoppage and carry out the stoppage drill.

1173. Timings. Two 40 minute periods.

1174. Method. A basic instructional period best suited to indoors.

1175. Stores.

a. Air rifle complete with sights, magazine, or 1 per Cadet and instructor
single shot adaptor (if used) and carry case wherever possible
b. Representative targets 1 per Cadet and instructor
c. Aiming aids As required
d. Roll mat or similar for comfort when As required
adopting the prone position

1176. Preparation.

a. Cadet rifles should be placed next to the chairs along with the magazines
or single shot adaptors (if used). Sights are to be fitted to the rifles prior to the
lesson commencing and targets placed opposite each student.

b. Ensure that the correct foresight element has been fitted and is secure.

1177. Miscellaneous.

a. The instructor is to ensure that all rifles, magazines, or single shot


adaptors (if used) are clear before the lesson starts and inform the cadets of this
fact. To ensure that the barrel of each Air Rifle is clear a cleaning rod is to be
inserted from the barrel end and pushed as far as the breech. Observing the rod
at the breech end will prove that the barrel of the Air Rifle is clear.

Preliminaries

1-35
1178. Safety Precautions. Normal.

1179. Revision. Revise the application of the first three marksmanship principles.

a. Check that the firers have positioned the sights for correct eye relief.

b. Ensure the cadets are using the ‘key points’ checklist.

Introduction

1180. Explain: This lesson combines the first three marksmanship principles with the
fourth principle: `The shot must be released and followed through without undue
disturbance to the position.’ If the position and hold are stable and the Air Rifle points
naturally at the target, the pellet will go in the direction the barrel is pointing. This lesson
deals with the integration of breath control, trigger operation and follow through, required
to ensure the shot will be released and the pellet will leave the muzzle without any undue
movement of the Air Rifle.

B. CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Breath Control

1181. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating: Breathing is a natural body function
which will continue steadily and without strain until something disturbs the cycle. The
normal breath rate is between 12 and 20 breaths per minute. It is important to regulate
and control the breathing during the time of shot release and to do it without strain (see
Fig 1-13).

a. The three aspects of the breathing cycle that are important are:

(1) During the normal breathing cycle, the lungs are not completely full
or empty.

(2) After breathing out there is a natural pause.

(3) The whole cycle takes approximately five seconds.

b. As a natural pause occurs after breathing out, it is logical to extend that


pause to six or seven seconds to enable the shot to be released.

c. Before breath control, breathe in and out deeply to oxygenate the body.
The pause must be no longer than six or seven seconds as the natural impulse
to resume breathing will affect firer concentration. If this happens resume normal
breathing again and repeat the breath control.

1182. Confirm by practice, initially seated and then in the prone position to demonstrate
the effect of breath control on aiming.
1-36
Trigger Operation and Follow Through

1183. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating (see Fig 1-14). During breath control
the aim is perfected and the trigger operated smoothly to allow the shot to be released.
The method of trigger operation used should be the one best suited to the situation:

a. First Pressure. Put the safety catch to fire (F) and place the forefinger on
the trigger, ensuring that the finger is not in contact with the side of the grip. Take
up the slack until resistance is met. It is important that this action is smooth, and
the trigger is not snatched.

b. Second Pressure. Continue to apply steadily increasing pressure, as


long as the aim picture is correct, until the shot is fired. Pressure must be applied
directly to the rear to avoid disturbing natural alignment.

c. Follow Through. When the shot is fired, the trigger is held to the rear for
a for a second or two. This should prevent any movement of the barrel caused by
the firer relaxing or raising their head.

1184. Confirm by practice.

Deliberate Trigger Operation

1185. Explain and demonstrate: Order “Down,” “Load” and “Test and Adjust.” The
position and hold of the Air Rifle are to be built up correctly as taught. On the word of
command “Fire” or “Go On” being given:

a. Move the safety catch forward to fire (F).

b. Move the forefinger of the right hand onto the trigger.

c. Restrain the breathing and once the aim picture is correct fire the shot
and follow through.

d. Magazine (Multi shot):

(1) To fire another shot, open the bolt by pulling fully rearwards on the
bolt handle and then push it firmly forward and lock it back into position.
Test and adjust the position and fire the next shot. Repeat the above
stages and ensure that the pellets fired are counted noting once the last
shot has been fired.

e. Single Shot Adaptor:

(1) To fire another shot, open the bolt by pulling fully rearwards on the
bolt handle until it locks to the rear.

1-37
(2) Open the single shot adaptor by rotating the swing arm downwards
to expose the pellet chamber. Insert a pellet into the chamber and rotate
the arm to its original position.

(3) Close the bolt by pushing it fully forward and lock it in position. Test
and adjust the position and fire the next shot. Repeat the above stages
and ensure that the pellets fired are counted, noting once the last shot has
been fired.

f. On the word of command “Stop” or once the last shot has been fired,
move the safety catch to safe (S) and move the forefinger away from the trigger.
Move the Air Rifle out of the aim and await further orders.

1186. Confirm by practice. Order “Stop – Unload” at the conclusion of practice.

Declaration

1187. Explain: The process of ‘follow through’ during deliberate trigger operation, allows
the firer to observe the sight picture at the moment of firing, showing any errors in shot
release. As the shot is fired the recoil action causes the rifle to move slightly away from
the point of aim and the direction of movement should be consistent.

a. The Cadet is to declare that the aim picture at the moment of firing was
“correct” or “incorrect”, concentrating on the pointer/foresight and point of aim will
assist in accurate declaration. If possible, the direction of error should be stated,
e.g., “High right” or “Low left”.

Stoppage Drill

0143 Explain and demonstrate the squad imitating: Order “Down”, “Load” and “Test
and Adjust”, then “Fire” or “Go on”. If the Air Rifle fails to fire the following drill is to
be carried out.

a. Unload the Air Rifle as previously taught. At this stage, a pellet may be
fired. Therefore, it is essential that the Air Rifle is pointing in a safe direction.

b. Load the Air Rifle as previously taught and attempt to fire the Air Rifle.

c. If the Air Rifle still will not fire, unload the Air Rifle and conduct NSPs, as
previously taught, and hand the Air Rifle to the supervising CFAV for a detailed
inspection

d. It is important that any pellet involved in a stoppage, whether it appears


damaged or not, is not to be loaded into a magazine or single shot adaptor, nor
any attempt is made to fire it. Such pellets are to be disposed of.

1188. Confirm by questions and practice. Order “Stop – Unload” at the conclusion of
1-38
practice.

Stoppages Rectified by the Stoppage Drill.

1189. Explain: The stoppage drill will rectify the following stoppages:

a. Incorrect bolt operation failing to cock the Air Rifle.

b. Bolt not locked fully forward.

c. Failure to feed a pellet correctly.

Dry Firing – Failure to Fire a Pellet

1190. Explain:

a. In addition to failing to fire it is also possible for the Air Rifle to dry fire;
discharge air correctly but fail to fire a pellet, caused by:

(1) Empty magazine or single shot adaptor.

(2) Magazine failing to rotate because of a binding or broken


mechanism.

b. If the Air Rifle appears to fire empty, the following actions are to be taken:

(1) Open and close the bolt, ensuring it is brought fully to the rear and
then locked fully forward.

(2) If the Air Rifle continues to dry fire, unload the Air Rifle as taught
and inspect the magazine. If the magazine is not empty, carry out NSPs
as taught and then hand the Air Rifle and magazine to a supervising CFAV
for a detailed inspection.

C. CONCLUSION

1191. End of Lesson Drill.

a. Questions to and from the squad on the whole lesson.

b. Confirm by questions and practice as time permits.

c. Safety Precautions.

d. Pack kit as required.

e. Summary. To include the following:

(1) The importance of breath control when a shot is fired.


1-39
(2) The need for smooth trigger operation, correct follow through and
declaration.

(3) Emphasise that on the unload and stoppage drills a pellet may be
fired therefore, Air Rifles must always point in a safe direction.

(4) Further stoppages will ALWAYS be dealt with by the supervising


CFAV.

(5) A forecast of the squad’s next lesson.

1192. to 1200 Reserved.

1-40
Fig 1-13 Breath Control

Fig 1-14 Breathing, Aiming and Trigger Chart

1-41
BSA SCORPION CADET.177” AIR RIFLE

LESSON 4A. – FIRING IN THE PRONE POSITION AND STOPPAGE DRILLS

A. INSTRUCTOR NOTES

1201. Aim. To teach how to fire the rifle in the prone position by applying the four
marksmanship principles.

1202. Learning Outcomes:

a. Breath control.

b. Deliberate trigger operation.

c. How to recognize a stoppage and carry out the stoppage drill.

1203. Timings. Two 40 minute periods.

1204. Method. A basic instructional period best suited to indoors.

1205. Stores.

a. Air rifle complete with sights and carry 1 per Cadet and instructor
case wherever possible
b. Representative targets 1 per Cadet and instructor
c. Aiming aids As required
d. Roll mat or similar for comfort when As required
adopting the prone position

1206. Preparation.

a. Cadet rifles should be placed next to the chairs. Sights are to be fitted to
the rifles prior to the lesson commencing and targets placed opposite each
student.

b. Ensure that the correct foresight element has been fitted and is secure.

1207. Miscellaneous.

a. The instructor is to ensure that all rifles are clear before the lesson starts
and inform the cadets of this fact. To ensure that the barrel of each Air Rifle is
clear a cleaning rod is to be inserted from the barrel end and pushed as far as
the breech. Observing the rod at the breech end will prove that the barrel of the
Air Rifle is clear.

Preliminaries

1-42
1208. Safety Precautions. Normal.

1209. Revision. Revise the application of the first three marksmanship principles.

a. Check that the firers have positioned the sights for correct eye relief.

b. Ensure the cadets are using the ‘key points’ checklist.

Introduction

1210. Explain: This lesson combines the first three marksmanship principles with the
fourth principle: `The shot must be released and followed through without undue
disturbance to the position.’ If the position and hold are stable and the Air Rifle points
naturally at the target, the pellet will go in the direction the barrel is pointing. This lesson
deals with the integration of breath control, trigger operation and follow through, required
to ensure the shot will be released and the pellet will leave the muzzle without any undue
movement of the Air Rifle.

B. CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Breath Control

1211. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating: Breathing is a natural body function
which will continue steadily and without strain until something disturbs the cycle. The
normal breath rate is between 12 and 20 breaths per minute. It is important to regulate
and control the breathing during the time of shot release and to do it without strain (see
Fig 1-14).

a. The three aspects of the breathing cycle that are important are:

(1) During the normal breathing cycle, the lungs are not completely full
or empty.

(2) After breathing out there is a natural pause.

(3) The whole cycle takes approximately five seconds.

b. As a natural pause occurs after breathing out, it is logical to extend that


pause to six or seven seconds to enable the shot to be released.

c. Before breath control, breathe in and out deeply to oxygenate the body.
The pause must be no longer than six or seven seconds as the natural impulse
to resume breathing will affect firer concentration. If this happens resume normal
breathing again and repeat the breath control.

1212. Confirm by practice, initially seated and then in the prone position to demonstrate
the effect of breath control on aiming.
1-43
Trigger Operation and Follow Through

1213. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating (see Fig 1-15). During breath control
the aim is perfected and the trigger operated smoothly to allow the shot to be released.
The method of trigger operation used should be the one best suited to the situation:

a. First Pressure. Put the safety catch to fire (F) and place the forefinger on
the trigger, ensuring that the finger is not in contact with the side of the grip. Take
up the slack until resistance is met. It is important that this action is smooth, and
the trigger is not snatched.

b. Second Pressure. Continue to apply steadily increasing pressure, as


long as the aim picture is correct, until the shot is fired. Pressure must be applied
directly to the rear to avoid disturbing natural alignment.

c. Follow Through. When the shot is fired, the trigger is held to the rear for
a for a second or two. This should prevent any movement of the barrel caused by
the firer relaxing or raising their head.

1214. Confirm by practice.

Deliberate Trigger Operation

1215. Explain and demonstrate: Order “Down,” “Load” and “Test and Adjust.” The
position and hold of the Air Rifle are to be built up correctly as taught. On the word of
command “Fire” or “Go On” being given:

a. Move the safety catch forward to fire (F) if fitted.

b. Move the forefinger of the right hand onto the trigger.

c. Restrain the breathing and once the aim picture is correct fire the shot
and follow through.

d. To fire another shot, open the bolt by pulling fully rearwards on the bolt
handle. Place a pellet onto the pellet tray. Push the bolt handle firmly forward and
lock it back into position. Test and adjust the position and fire the next shot.
Repeat the above stages and ensure that the pellets fired are counted noting once
the last shot has been fired.

d. On the word of command “Stop” or once the last shot has been fired,
move the safety catch to safe (S) and move the forefinger away from the trigger.
Move the Air Rifle out of the aim and await further orders.

1216. Confirm by practice. Order “Stop – Unload” at the conclusion of practice.

1-44
Declaration

1217. Explain: The process of ‘follow through’ during deliberate trigger operation, allows
the firer to observe the sight picture at the moment of firing, showing any errors in shot
release. As the shot is fired the recoil action causes the rifle to move slightly away from
the point of aim and the direction of movement should be consistent.

a. The firer is to declare that the aim picture at the moment of firing was
“correct” or “incorrect”, concentrating on the pointer/foresight and point of aim will
assist in accurate declaration. If possible, the direction of error should be stated,
e.g., “High right” or “Low left”.

Stoppage Drill

0143 Explain and demonstrate the squad imitating: Order “Down”, “Load” and “Test
and Adjust”, then “Fire” or “Go on”. If the Air Rifle fails to fire the following drill is to
be carried out.

a. Unload the Air Rifle as previously taught. At this stage, a pellet may be
fired. Therefore, it is essential that the Air Rifle is pointing in a safe direction.

b. Load the Air Rifle as previously taught and attempt to fire the Air Rifle.

c. If the Air Rifle still will not fire, unload the Air Rifle and conduct NSPs, as
previously taught, and hand the Air Rifle to the supervising CFAV for a detailed
inspection

d. It is important that any pellet involved in a stoppage, whether it appears


damaged or not, no attempt is made to fire it. Such pellets are to be disposed
of.

1218. Confirm by questions and practice. Order “Stop – Unload” at the conclusion of
practice.

Stoppages Rectified by the Stoppage Drill.

1219. Explain: The stoppage drill will rectify the following stoppages:

a. Incorrect bolt operation failing to cock the Air Rifle.

b. Bolt not locked fully forward.

c. Failure to feed a pellet correctly.

C. CONCLUSION

1220. End of Lesson Drill.

1-45
a. Questions to and from the squad on the whole lesson.

b. Confirm by questions and practice as time permits.

c. Safety Precautions.

d. Pack kit as required.

e. Summary. To include the following:

(1) The importance of breath control when a shot is fired.

(2) The need for smooth trigger operation, correct follow through and
declaration.

(3) Emphasise that on the unload and stoppage drills a pellet may be
fired therefore Air Rifles must always point in a safe direction.

(4) Further stoppages will ALWAYS be dealt with by the supervising


CFAV.

(5) A forecast of the squad’s next lesson.

1221. to 1230 Reserved.

1-46
BSA SCORPION CADET SPORTER .177” &
BSA SCORPION CADET .177” AIR RIFLES

LESSON 5. – FIRING FROM OTHER POSITIONS

A. INSTRUCTOR NOTES

1231. Aim. To teach how to fire the rifle from the kneeling, Sitting, and standing position.

1232. Learning Outcomes:

a. Area Aiming.

b. Kneeling, Sitting and Standing positions.

1233. Timings. One 40 minute period.

1234. Method. A basic instructional period best suited to indoors.

1235. Stores.

a. Air rifle complete with sights, magazine, or 1 per Cadet and instructor
single shot adaptor (if used) and carry case wherever possible
b. Representative targets 1 per Cadet and instructor

1236. Preparation.

a. Cadet rifles should be placed next to the chairs along with the magazines
or single shot adaptor (if used). Sights are to be fitted to the rifles prior to the
lesson commencing and targets placed opposite each student.

b. Ensure that the correct foresight element has been fitted and is secure.

c. Ensure the firers have sufficient area to adopt the kneeling and standing
position.

1237. Miscellaneous.

a. The instructor is to ensure that all rifles, magazines, or single shot adaptor
(if used) are clear before the lesson starts and inform the cadets of this fact. To
ensure that the barrel of each Air Rifle is clear a cleaning rod is to be inserted
from the barrel end and pushed as far as the breech. Observing the rod at the
breech end will prove that the barrel of the Air Rifle is clear.

Preliminaries

1238. Safety Precautions. Normal.

1-47
1239. Revision. Revise firing in the prone position. Remind the firers to use the ‘key
points’ checklist.

Introduction

1240. Explain: Most live firing practices within the Cadet shooting syllabus are fired from
either the prone or prone supported position. That said, there may be some competition
practices that require the firer to adopt other firing positions, such as the kneeling, sitting
or standing position. The four marksmanship principles apply but the accuracy of the rifle
is affected by the position adopted as they are not as stable as the prone position.

B. CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Area Aiming

1241. Explain using a target: As the positions to be taught are less stable than the prone
position, it is difficult to keep the Air Rifle steady when aiming. An area aim instead of a
specific point on the target must be accepted. With practice you will be able to make the
area as small as possible. The size of the area will decrease or increase in direct relation
to the stability of the position and the strength of the firer.

1242. Confirm during the practice of firing from each position.

Kneeling Position

1243. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating (see Fig 1-15): The kneeling position
can be quickly and easily adopted. It provides reasonable stability and can be maintained
for lengthy periods without undue discomfort. To adopt the position:

a. Face half right to the line of fire. Kneel on the right knee, keeping it well
out to the right and sit on the heel or side of the foot. The boot may be positioned
toecap downwards or with the forward part of the sole flat on the ground.
Alternatively, the right knee may be position adjacent to the left foot rather than
keeping it well out to the right.

b. The left foot must be positioned flat on the ground with the toe pointing
slightly inwards. The left knee should afford good support to the left elbow,
enabling bone support to be achieved.

c. Support the weight of the Air Rifle in the left hand, rest the left forearm
behind or in front of the left knee.

d. The handling drills and drill for firing a shot are as for the prone position.

e. On the command “Stop” put the safety catch to safe (S), place the finger
outside the trigger guard; remain in the position looking over the sights.

1-48
f. On the command “Unload”, the Air Rifle is brought out of the shoulder,
the left forearm is to be supported on the knee and the normal drills then carried
out.

1244. Confirm by practice, adopting and firing from the kneeling position. Remind cadets
to use the ‘keys points check list.’

Sitting Position

1245. Explain and Demonstrate, the squad imitating: (see Fig 1 - 16). The sitting position
can be quickly and easily adopted. It provides reasonable stability and can be maintained
for lengthy periods without undue discomfort. To adopt the position:

a. Sit with the legs crossed or apart and the feet in a comfortable position,
digging the heels in if necessary. Slightly angle the lower part of the body to the
target. Hold the Air Rifle in the ‘Rest’ position.

b. As for the kneeling position the head should be higher than usual. Lean
forward, curve the spine, and position the elbows behind, inside, or in front of the
knees. It is important to avoid positioning the point of the elbow with any bone
area of the knee joint.

c. Support the rifle using the hand guard and keep the head upright . The
sequence and drill for firing a shot are the same as for the prone position.

d. On the command “Stop” put the safety catch to Safe (S), place the finger
outside the trigger guard, and remain in the alert position looking over the sights.

e. On the command “Unload”, the Air Rifle is brought out of the shoulder,
and the normal drills then carried out.

1246. Confirm by practice, adopting and firing from the sitting position. Remind cadets to
use the ‘key points check list.’

Standing Position

1247. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating (see Fig 1-17). The standing position
is the least stable firing position and can be the most tiring to maintain:

a. With the feet shoulder’s width apart and the body oblique to the line of fire,
the weight of the body is evenly distributed on both legs, with the feet immediately
beneath the shoulders, toes pointing slightly outwards. To balance the weight of
the rifle, arch the back slightly at the waist. Natural pointing of the Air Rifle is
completed by moving the feet.

b. The left hand supports the rifle by being placed under the handguard and
maintain a firm grip with the right hand pulling the rifle directly back into the
1-49
shoulder. Alternatively, the left hand may be placed immediately forward of the
trigger guard and configured to give the desired height.

c. The left arm is brought towards the front of the body and the upper arm
kept against the chest, the left elbow resting against the top of the hip. The right
arm is raised to form a firm support for the butt in the shoulder.

d. The handling drills and drill for firing a shot are as taught for the prone
position.

e. On the command “Stop” put the safety catch to safe (S), place the finger
outside the trigger guard; remain in the position looking over the sights.

f. On the command “Unload”, the Air Rifle is brought out of the shoulder,
supported at waist height and the normal drills are then carried out.

1248. Confirm by practice, adopting and firing from both standing positions. Remind
cadets to use the ‘keys points check list.’

C. CONCLUSION

1249. End of Lesson Drill.

a. Questions to and from the squad on the whole lesson.

b. Confirm by questions and practice as time permits.

c. Safety Precautions.

d. Pack kit as required.

e. Summary. To include the following:

(1) No matter what position is adopted, the marksmanship principles


are to be applied.

(2) A change of firing position can affect the accuracy of the Air Rifle.

(3) A forecast of the next lesson on this subject.

1250. to 1999 Reserved

1-50
Fig 1-15 The Kneeling Position

Fig 1-16 The Sitting Position

1-51
Fig 1-17 The Standing Position

1-52
CHAPTER 2 - AIR ARMS S200 .177” AIR RIFLES

2-1
AIR ARMS S200 MULTI SHOT .177” AIR RIFLE

LESSON 1 – GENERAL DESCRIPTION, SAFETY, SIGHTS, CLEANING AND


MAINTENANCE

A. INSTRUCTOR NOTES

2001. Aim. To teach the general description, safety precautions, sights, and
maintenance.

2002. Learning Outcomes:

a. Characteristics of the Air Arms S200 Multi Shot .177” Air Rifle.

b. To teach the named parts of the Air Rifle.

c. To teach the safety precautions.

d. To describe the sighting system.

e. To teach the cleaning and maintenance of the Air Rifle.

2003. Timings. One 40 minute period.

2004. Method. A basic instructional period best suited to indoors.

2005. Stores.

a. Air rifle complete with sights, magazine 1 per Cadet and instructor
and carry case wherever possible
b. Air Rifle stand and pointer 1
c. Table 1
d. .177” Pellets 3 per instructor

2006. Preparation.

a. Set up the table, stand and mount the instructor’s rifle on the stand.

b. Cadet rifles should be placed next to the chairs along with the magazines.
Sights are to be fitted to the rifles prior to the lesson commencing.

2007. Miscellaneous.
a. When handling the parts of the rifle, the instructor is to name them and
their purpose. However, at this stage, the Cadet is not expected to memorise all
the names.

2-2
b. The instructor is to ensure that all rifles and magazines are clear before
the lesson starts and inform the cadets of this fact. To ensure that the barrel of
each Air Rifle is clear a cleaning rod is to be inserted from the barrel end and
pushed as far as the breech. Observing the rod at the breech end will prove that
the barrel of the Air Rifle is clear.

c. The .177” pellets are to be kept in a tin under the supervision of the
instructor until required. The pellets are used during the characteristics
stage of the lesson only and are to be collected immediately after the stage
is complete. The instructor is to personally account for the pellets and
securely store them before commencing with the next stage of the lesson.

Preliminaries

2008. Safety Precautions. Normal

2009. Revision. Nil.

Introduction

2010. Explain: The.177” Air Rifle may be the first Air Rifle that you fire as a Cadet. It is
a valuable tool to introduce you to shooting and the practical application of the
marksmanship principles. There are two versions of the Air Arms S200 available which
are, the single shot only rifle and the Air Arms S200 Multi Shot which has had a
magazine adaptor fitted. This lesson will deal with the Air Arms S200 Multi Shot. Before
you are allowed to fire any Air Rifle, you must become proficient in its use and be able to
handle the Air Rifle safely. This will allow you to pass your Air Rifle handling test and
progress with the live firing lessons.

B. CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Characteristics of the Air Arms S200 Multi Shot .177” Air Rifle

2011. Explain:

a. The Air Arms S200 Multi Shot .177” Air Rifle is a bolt operated, multi shot
Air Rifle.

b. The removable magazine holds either five or ten .177” pellets depending
upon the variant.

c. The rifle is fitted with a rear dioptre sight and an interchangeable front sight
element which provide a high degree of accuracy.

2-3
d. The air pressure is pre-charged into a fitted air cylinder by means of a Hills
hand pump or air bottle. The CFAVs are trained how to complete this task.
CADETS ARE NEVER TO CHARGE THE AIR CYLINDER.

e. The rife may be fired from the left or right shoulder.

f. The air rifle can be fired indoors or outdoors at either 5.5 m or 10 m


distances depending on the range available.

2012. Confirm by questions.

The Parts of the Air Rifle

2013. Point out the following parts on the Air Rifle (see Figs 2-1 & 2-2):

a. Muzzle.

b. Foresight, locking ring and interchangeable elements.

c. Barrel and chamber.

d. Air cylinder and removable cover. CADETS ARE NEVER TO REMOVE


THIS COVER.

e. Handguard.

f. Trigger guard and trigger.

g. Butt.

h. Bolt and bolt handle.

i. Magazine housing and magazine safety brake (if Fitted, indicate locked
and unlocked positions).

j. Removable magazine (see Fig 2-3).

k. Rear sight (indicate elevation, directional adjustment, and pinch screws).

2014. Confirm by questions.

Normal Safety Precautions

2015. Explain: The Normal Safety Precautions (NSPs) are to be carried out:

a. At the beginning and end of every lesson, practice, or range period.

b. When handing the Air Rifle to another Cadet or CFAV.

2-4
2016. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating:

a. On the command “For inspection – port arms”

(1) Ensure the Air Rifle is pointing in a safe direction. Take control of
the rifle and move the magazine safety brake (if fitted) forward. Open the
bolt and remove the magazine (if fitted). Inspect the face of the bolt, body
and in the chamber to ensure they are clear.

(2) In low light levels a torch must be used to look inside the Air Rifle
and a CFAV may also inspect inside the Air Rifle to ensure that it is clear.

The instructor is to show their own rifle to a member of the squad to prove it is clear and
then inspect the squad’s rifles to make certain that they are also clear. Each Cadet/CFAV
is to have chamber, body and face of the bolt indicated to them at this point.

b. On the command “Ease springs” keep the Air Rifle pointing in a safe
direction then:

(1) Close the bolt and operate the trigger (at this stage air will be
expelled from the Air Rifle and a pellet may be fired). The bolt is to remain
closed at this point.

(2) Lay the Air Rifle onto the floor with the bolt handle uppermost
(ensuring it is a clean surface) then inspect the magazine to ensure it is
clear. Once inspected put the magazine next to the Air Rifle.

2017. Confirm by questions and practice.

Additional Safety Rules (Only to be done by CFAVs)

2018. Explain: In addition to the NSP drills, to ensure that the barrel is not obstructed in
any way, the following procedures are to be carried out by a qualified, current, and
competent CFAV when drawing the Air Rifle from the Armoury, on completion of any live
firing before removing the Air Rifle from the firing point and prior to leaving the range as
part of NSPs.

a. Explain and Demonstrate: Rodding the Air Rifle.

(1) Remove the magazine safety brake (if fitted), open the bolt, and
remove the magazine (if fitted). Then insert a cleaning rod into the barrel
from the muzzle until the head of the rod can be observed in the breach,
confirming that the barrel is clear. If clear, remove the rod or safety line,
ensure the Air Rifle is pointing in a safe direction, close the bolt and
operate the trigger. If using a safety line, the line remains in place clearly
protruding from the barrel and breach.

(2) If due to an obstruction, the rod cannot be fully inserted into the
barrel, the bolt is to remain to the rear and the safety catch on safe (S),
2-5
under no circumstances is the action to be fired off. The Air Rifle is to be
labelled and reported for further action. The Air Rifle is not to be issued for
use until the obstruction has been cleared and the Air Rifle deemed
serviceable by a qualified gunsmith.

2019. Confirm by questions and practice.

Safe Handling

2020. Explain: The Air Arms S200 Multi Shot .177” Air Rifle should only be loaded when
it is on the firing point of a range therefore there is no reason why the Air Rifle should be
handed over in a loaded state. If an Air Rifle is found unattended it is to be cleared using
the drills already taught. If an unloaded Air Rifle is to be handed over to another Cadet
or CFAV NSPs are to be carried out up to and including the stage of inspecting inside the
Air Rifle. At this stage, the recipient is also to inspect inside the Air Rifle and once satisfied
that it is clear state “clear.” The remainder of the NSP drill is to be completed before the
Air Rifle is handed over. Emphasise that the Air Rifle is never to be pointed at anyone
under any circumstances even in jest.

2021. Confirm by questions and practice.

The Sights

2022. Explain and Demonstrate: The Air Arms S200 Multi Shot .177” Air Rifle is fitted
with a rear dioptre sight and a front sight element (see Fig 2-4). The foresight can be
fitted with interchangeable elements (demonstrate removing the element) and the rear
sight can be moved forwards and rearwards and adjusted for elevation and direction. On
the top of the sight is the elevation adjustment screw. To move the sights up turn the
screw in a clockwise direction and anticlockwise to move the sights down. On the right
side of the sight is the directional adjustment screw. To move the sights right turn the
screw in a clockwise direction and anticlockwise to move the sights left.

2023. For both elevation and direction, the screw will move one click at a time in either
direction and will stop when the sights are at the limit of their adjustment. The amount of
sight adjustment achieved will be dependent upon the range to the target. The screws are
not to be forced any further as this will damage the sights. Before the Air Rifle is initially
fired the sights are to be centered by moving the graticules in the scales until they are
central on both axes.

2024. The rear sight can be removed from the sight rail for cleaning by loosening the
pinch screw. Only CFAVs are to complete this action to avoid losing the small parts.

2025. Confirm by questions and practice.

Cleaning and Maintenance

2026. Explain: The Air Arms S200 Multi Shot .177” Air Rifle should not be used in an
environment in which it becomes very dirty however as with any other Air Rifle it will need
to be cleaned and maintained correctly. The following points are to be adhered to:
2-6
a. The Air Rifle is to be cleaned with a lightly oiled cloth after use and prior
to storage.

b. Special attention is to be given to metal surfaces as they can rust easily.

c. Ensure the Air Rifle is completely dry before being stored away.

d. NEVER use oils containing SILICON as they can cause damage to


metal surfaces.

e. DO NOT tamper with any of the Air Rifle’s components at any time as
damage may occur rendering the Air Rifle inoperable.

f. Any damage is to be reported in accordance with the manufacturer’s


After Care Documentation or unit SOPs.

C. CONCLUSION

2027. End of Lesson Drill.

a. Questions to and from the squad on the whole lesson.

b. Confirm by questions and practice as time permits.

c. Safety Precautions.

d. Pack kit as required.

e. Summary. To include the following:

(1) The importance of safe handling.

(2) A forecast of the squad’s next lesson.

2028. to 2040. Reserved.

2-7
Fig 2-1 Air Arms S200 Multi Shot .177” – Left Side View

Fig 2-2 Air Arms S200 Multi Shot .177” – Right Side View

Fig 2-3 The S200 Magazine (5 Pellet)

2-8
Fig 2-4 The Rear Sight

2-9
AIR ARMS S200 SINGLE SHOT .177” AIR RIFLE

LESSON 1A – GENERAL DESCRIPTION, SAFETY, SIGHTS, CLEANING AND


MAINTENANCE

A. INSTRUCTOR NOTES

2041. Aim. To teach the general description, safety precautions, sights, and
maintenance.

2042. Learning Outcomes:

a. Characteristics of the Air Arms S200 Single Shot .177” Air Rifle.

b. To teach the named parts of the Air Rifle.

c. To teach the safety precautions.

d. To describe the sighting system.

e. To teach the cleaning and maintenance of the Air Rifle.

2043. Timings. One 40 minute period.

2044. Method. A basic instructional period best suited to indoors.

2045. Stores.

a. Air rifle complete with sights and carry 1 per Cadet and instructor
case wherever possible
b. Air Rifle stand and pointer 1
c. Table 1
d. .177” Pellets 3

2046. Preparation.

a. Set up the table, stand and mount the instructor’s rifle on the stand.

b. Cadet rifles should be placed next to the chairs. Sights are to be fitted to
the rifles prior to the lesson commencing.

2047. Miscellaneous.
a. When handling the parts of the rifle, the instructor is to name them and
their purpose. However, at this stage, the Cadet is not expected to memorise all
the names.

2-10
b. The instructor is to ensure that all rifles are clear before the lesson starts
and inform the cadets of this fact. To ensure that the barrel of each Air Rifle is
clear a cleaning rod is to be inserted from the barrel end and pushed as far as
the breech. Observing the rod at the breech end will prove that the barrel of the
Air Rifle is clear.

c. The .177” pellets are to be kept in a tin under the supervision of the
instructor until required. The pellets are used during the characteristics
stage of the lesson only and are to be collected immediately after the stage
is complete. The instructor is to personally account for the pellets and
securely store them before commencing with the next stage of the lesson.

Preliminaries

2048. Safety Precautions. Normal

2049. Revision. Nil.

Introduction

2050. Explain: The.177” Air Rifle may be the first Air Rifle that you fire as a Cadet. It is
a valuable tool to introduce you to shooting and the practical application of the
marksmanship principles. There are two versions of the Air Arms S200 available which
are, the single shot only rifle and the Air Arms S200 Multi Shot which has had a
magazine adaptor fitted. This lesson will deal with the Air Arms S200 Single Shot. Before
you are allowed to fire any Air Rifle, you must become proficient in its use and be able to
handle the Air Rifle safely. This will allow you to pass your Air Rifle handling test and
progress with the live firing lessons.

B. CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Characteristics of the Air Arms S200 Single Shot .177” Air Rifle

2051. Explain:

a. The Air Arms S200 Single Shot .177” Air Rifle is a bolt operated, single shot
Air Rifle.

b. The rifle is fitted with a rear dioptre sight and an interchangeable front sight
element which provide a high degree of accuracy.

c. The air pressure is pre-charged into a fitted air cylinder by means of a Hills
hand pump or air bottle. The CFAVs are trained how to complete this task.
CADETS ARE NEVER TO CHARGE THE AIR CYLINDER.

d. The rife may be fired from the left or right shoulder.

2-11
e. The air rifle can be fired indoors or outdoors at either 5.5 m or 10 m
distances depending on the range available.

2052. Confirm by questions.

The Parts of the Air Rifle

2053. Point out the following parts on the Air Rifle (see Figs 2-5 and 2-6):

a. Muzzle.

b. Foresight, locking ring and interchangeable elements.

c. Barrel and chamber.

d. Air cylinder and removable cover. CADETS ARE NEVER TO REMOVE


THIS COVER.

e. Handguard.

f. Trigger guard and trigger.

g. Butt.

h. Bolt and bolt handle.

i. Pellet tray.

j. Rear sight (indicate elevation, directional adjustment, and pinch screws).

2054. Confirm by questions.

Normal Safety Precautions

2055. Explain: The Normal Safety Precautions (NSPs) are to be carried out:

a. At the beginning and end of every lesson, practice, or range period.

b. When handing the Air Rifle to another Cadet or CFAV.

2056. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating:

a. On the command “For inspection – port arms”

(1) Ensure the Air Rifle is pointing in a safe direction. Take control of
the rifle. Open the bolt and inspect the pellet tray, face of the bolt, and in
the chamber to ensure they are clear.

(2) In low light levels a torch must be used to look inside the Air Rifle
2-12
and a CFAV may also inspect inside the Air Rifle to ensure that it is clear.

The instructor is to show their own rifle to a member of the squad to prove it is clear and
then inspect the squad’s rifles to make certain that they are also clear. Each Cadet/CFAV
is to have chamber, body and face of the bolt indicated to them at this point.

b. On the command “Ease springs” keep the Air Rifle pointing in a safe
direction then:

(1) Close the bolt and operate the trigger (at this stage air will be
expelled from the Air Rifle and a pellet may be fired). The bolt is to remain
closed at this point.

2057. Confirm by questions and practice.

Additional Safety Rules (Only to be done by CFAVs)

2058. Explain: In addition to the NSP drills, to ensure that the barrel is not obstructed in
any way, the following procedures are to be carried out by a qualified, current, and
competent CFAV when drawing the Air Rifle from the Armoury, on completion of any live
firing before removing the Air Rifle from the firing point and prior to leaving the range as
part of NSPs.

a. Explain and Demonstrate: Rodding the Air Rifle.

(1) Open the bolt and then insert a cleaning rod into the barrel from
the muzzle until the head of the rod can be observed in the breach,
confirming that the barrel is clear. If clear, remove the rod or safety line,
ensure the Air Rifle is pointing in a safe direction, close the bolt and
operate the trigger. If using a safety line, the line remains in place clearly
protruding from the barrel and breach.

(2) If due to an obstruction, the rod cannot be fully inserted into the
barrel, the bolt is to remain to the rear and the safety catch on safe (S),
under no circumstances is the action to be fired off. The Air Rifle is to be
labelled and reported for further action. The Air Rifle is not to be issued
for use until the obstruction has been cleared and the Air Rifle deemed
serviceable by a qualified gunsmith.

2059. Confirm by questions and practice.

2-13
Safe Handling

2060. Explain: The Air Arms S200 Single Shot .177” Air Rifle should only be loaded when
it is on the firing point of a range therefore there is no reason why the Air Rifle should be
handed over in a loaded state. If an Air Rifle is found unattended it is to be cleared using
the drills already taught. If an unloaded Air Rifle is to be handed over to another Cadet
or CFAV NSPs are to be carried out up to and including the stage of inspecting inside
the Air Rifle. At this stage, the recipient is also to inspect inside the Air Rifle and once
satisfied that it is clear state “clear.” The remainder of the NSP drill is to be completed
before the Air Rifle is handed over. Emphasise that the Air Rifle is never to be pointed at
anyone under any circumstances even in jest.

2061. Confirm by questions and practice.

The Sights

2062. Explain and Demonstrate: The Air Arms S200 Single Shot .177” Air Rifle is fitted
with a rear dioptre sight and a front sight element (see Fig 2-4). The foresight can be
fitted with interchangeable elements (demonstrate removing the element) and the rear
sight can be moved forwards and rearwards and adjusted for elevation and direction. On
the top of the sight is the elevation adjustment screw. To move the sights up turn the
screw in a clockwise direction and anticlockwise to move the sights down. On the right
side of the sight is the directional adjustment screw. To move the sights right turn the
screw in a clockwise direction and anticlockwise to move the sights left.

2063. For both elevation and direction, the screw will move one click at a time in either
direction and will stop when the sights are at the limit of their adjustment. The amount of
sight adjustment achieved will be dependent upon the range to the target. The screws are
not to be forced any further as this will damage the sights. Before the Air Rifle is initially
fired the sights are to be centered by moving the graticules in the scales until they are
central on both axes.

2064. The rear sight can be removed from the sight rail for cleaning by loosening the
pinch screw. Only CFAVs are to complete this action to avoid losing the small parts.

2065. Confirm by questions and practice.

Cleaning and Maintenance

2066. Explain: The Air Arms S200 Single Shot .177” Air Rifle should not be used in an
environment in which it becomes very dirty however as with any other Air Rifle it will need
to be cleaned and maintained correctly. The following points are to be adhered to:

a. The Air Rifle is to be cleaned with a lightly oiled cloth after use and prior
to storage.

b. Special attention is to be given to metal surfaces as they can rust easily.

2-14
c. Ensure the Air Rifle is completely dry before being stored away.

d. NEVER use oils containing SILICON as they can cause damage to


metal surfaces.

e. DO NOT tamper with any of the Air Rifle’s components at any time as
damage may occur rendering the Air Rifle inoperable.

f. Any damage is to be reported in accordance with the manufacturer’s


After Care Documentation or unit SOPs.

C. CONCLUSION

2067. End of Lesson Drill.

a. Questions to and from the squad on the whole lesson.

b. Confirm by questions and practice as time permits.

c. Safety Precautions.

d. Pack kit as required.

e. Summary. To include the following:

(1) The importance of safe handling.

(2) A forecast of the squad’s next lesson.

2068. to 2080. Reserved.

2-15
Fig 2-5 Air Arms S200 Single Shot – Left Side View

Fig 2-6 Air Arms S200 Single Shot – Right Side View

2-16
AIR ARMS S200 MULTI SHOT .177” AIR RIFLE

LESSON 2. – MAGAZINE FILLING, LOAD AND UNLOAD

A. INSTRUCTOR NOTES

2081. Aim. To teach the basic handling drills associated with the Air Arms S200 Multi
Shot .177” Air Rifle.

2082. Learning Outcomes:

a. How to fill a magazine, load and unload.

2083. Timings. One 40 minute period.

2084. Method. A basic instructional period best suited to indoors.

2085. Stores.

a. Air rifle complete with sights, magazine 1 per Cadet and instructor
and carry case wherever possible
b. .177” Pellets 3 per Cadet and instructor

2086. Preparation.

a. Cadet rifles should be placed next to the chairs along with the magazines.
Sights are to be fitted to the rifles prior to the lesson commencing and targets
placed opposite each student.

2087. Miscellaneous.

a. The instructor is to ensure that all rifles and magazines are clear before
the lesson starts and inform the cadets of this fact. To ensure that the barrel of
each Air Rifle is clear a cleaning rod is to be inserted from the barrel end and
pushed as far as the breech. Observing the rod at the breech end will prove that
the barrel of the Air Rifle is clear.

b. As firing with this rifle is usually done from the prone position due to the
design of the Air Rifle, basic handling drills are also to be taught from the prone
position.

c. The .177” pellets are to be kept in a tin under the supervision of the
instructor until required for use. They are to be used during the magazine
filling stage of the lesson only and are to be collected immediately after the
stage is complete. The instructor is to personally account for the pellets

2-17
and securely store them away before commencing with the next part of the
lesson.

Preliminaries

2088. Safety Precautions. Normal.

2089. Revision. Safe Handling.

Introduction

2090. Explain: It is essential that before a Cadet or CFAV moves onto a range with an
air rifle that they are able to handle the Air Rifle correctly, carrying out basic handling drills
and be able to load and unload the Air Rifle. The Cadet or CFAV must be able to pass
the Air Rifle Handling Test before any live firing can take place.

B. CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Magazine Filling - 3 pellets per student are to be issued at this stage.

2091. Explain: The Air Arms S200 Multi Shot .177” Air Rifle can be fitted with a 5 or 10
pellet magazine which is not to be stripped under any circumstances as this may cause
damage and render the Air Rifle unusable. Only .177 pellets issued by the Cadet Force
are to be filled into the magazine. The pellets come issued in tins of 500 pellets and are
only issued once on the range. The pellets are to be inspected prior to use to ensure that
they are not deformed in any way. Any deformed pellets are to be disposed of and are
not to be fired.

2092. Explain and demonstrate with the squad imitating. To fill the magazine:

a. Hold the magazine between finger and thumb with the flat side facing
away (the flat side is the front of the magazine) and with the five or ten pellet
holes uppermost.

b. Push a pellet into the first pellet hole, take care to ensure that the pellet is
pushed nose first into the magazine.

c. Ensure that the pellet is pushed fully into the hole and that it sits over the
rubber O ring thus locking it in place.

d. Ensure the pellet is locked into position by turning the magazine


downwards.

e. Continue to fill the magazine to a maximum of five or ten pellets,


depending upon the type of magazine.

2093. Explain and demonstrate with the squad imitating. To empty the magazine, use a
2-18
pencil or thin rod to push the pellets out of the magazine from the nose end. Store any
unused pellets away for future use.

2094. Confirm by practice.

COLLECT ALL PELLETS BEFORE MOVING ON WITH THE NEXT STAGE OF THE
LESSON.

Load and Unload

2095. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating: The Air Rifle is loaded when it has
a magazine fitted. It is ready to fire when the bolt has been moved forward and locked
and a pellet is in the chamber. It is unloaded when it has no magazine fitted and no pellet
in the chamber.

a. On the command “Load”:

(1) Support the handguard with the left hand.

(2) With the right hand open the bolt and pull it fully to the rear.

(3) Ensure that the magazine safety brake (if fitted) is fully forward then
take a magazine with the number of pellets required and look to see that
the first pellet is fitted correctly. Fit the magazine to the Air Rifle ensuring
that the magazine slot fits into the grooves in the Air Rifle. The elongated
slot in the edge of the magazine must line up with the corner of the
magazine housing, which will orientate the pellet holes from the 6 to 12 o’
clock position for the 5 pellet magazine. Ensure that the magazine safety
brake (if fitted) is pushed fully to the rear locking it in place. Ensure the
magazine is securely fitted at this point. Inform the squad that under no
circumstances is a pellet to be manually fed into the Air Rifle without the
use of a magazine.

(4) With the left hand maintain a firm grip of the rifle. With the right
hand push the bolt firmly forward and lock the bolt in place.

(5) The forefinger is to be clear of the trigger and run alongside the
trigger guard.

(6) The Air Rifle is now “loaded” and made “ready”.

b. On the command “Unload”:

(1) With the left hand maintain a firm grip of the Air Rifle then with the
right hand, ensure the magazine safety brake (if fitted) is fully forward and
2-19
then open the bolt and move it fully to the rear

(2) With the right hand remove the magazine (the magazine may have
to be turned slightly at this point).

(3) Place the magazine down on the floor first ensuring that it is a clean
and dry surface. It is essential for safety reasons that the magazine is
removed at this point.

(4) Inspect inside the chamber, body, and face of the bolt to check
whether there is a pellet inside. If there is a pellet inside, it cannot be
removed at this stage and will instead be fired in the next part of the unload
drill. Push the bolt forward and lock it with the right hand. If unloading in
low light levels, use a white torch to assist in inspecting the Air Rifle.

(5) Point the Air Rifle at the target area and operate the trigger. At this
stage, a pellet may be fired. therefore, it is essential that the Air Rifle is
pointing in a safe direction.

(6) Lay the Air Rifle on the ground with the bolt handle uppermost. Pick
up the magazine remove any unfired pellets and store it safely with the rifle.

2096. Confirm by practice using empty magazines.

C. CONCLUSION

2097. End of Lesson Drill.

a. Questions to and from the squad on the whole lesson.

b. Confirm by questions and practice as time permits.

c. Safety Precautions.

d. Pack kit as required.

e. Summary. To include the following:

(1) The importance of safe drills.

(2) Emphasise that on the unload a pellet may be fired therefore Air
Rifles must always point in a safe direction.

(3) A forecast of the squad’s next lesson.

2098. to 2110. Reserved.

2-20
AIR ARMS S200 SINGLE SHOT .177” AIR RIFLE

LESSON 2A. – LOAD AND UNLOAD

A. INSTRUCTOR NOTES

2111. Aim. To teach the basic handling drills associated with the Air Arms S200 Single
Shot .177” Air Rifle.

2112. Learning Outcomes:

a. How to load and unload.

2113. Timings. One 40 minute period.

2114. Method. A basic instructional period best suited to indoors.

2115. Stores.

a. Air rifle complete with sights and carry 1 per Cadet and instructor
case wherever possible
b. Chairs 1 per Cadet and instructor

2116. Preparation.

a. Cadet rifles should be placed next to the chairs. Sights are to be fitted to
the rifles prior to the lesson commencing and targets placed opposite each
student.

2117. Miscellaneous.

a. The instructor is to ensure that all rifles are clear before the lesson starts
and inform the cadets of this fact. To ensure that the barrel of each Air Rifle is
clear, a cleaning rod is to be inserted from the barrel end and pushed as far as
the breech. Observing the rod at the breech end will prove that the barrel of the
Air Rifle is clear.

b. As firing with this rifle is usually done from the prone position due to the
design of the Air Rifle, basic handling drills are also to be taught from the prone
position.

Preliminaries

2118. Safety Precautions. Normal.

2119. Revision. Safe Handling.


2-21
Introduction

2120. Explain: It is essential that before a Cadet or CFAV moves onto a range with an
air rifle that they are able to handle the Air Rifle correctly, carrying out basic handling drills
and be able to load and unload the Air Rifle. The Cadet or CFAV must be able to pass
the Air Rifle Handling Test before any live firing can take place.

B. CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Load and Unload

2121. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating. The actions of placing a pellet on
the pellet tray will be notional only: The Air Rifle is loaded when a pellet has been placed
onto the pellet tray. It is ready when it has a pellet in the chamber and the bolt is closed. It
is unloaded when it has no pellet in the chamber.

a. On the command “Load”:

(1) Support the handguard with the left hand.

(2) With the right hand open the bolt and pull it fully to the rear.

(3) With the right hand, take a pellet, correctly orientate it, and hand
feed it into the chamber until resistance is felt.

(4) With the left hand maintain a firm grip of the rifle. With the right
hand push the bolt firmly forward and lock the bolt in place.

(5) The forefinger is to be clear of the trigger and run alongside the
trigger guard.

(6) The Air Rifle is now “loaded” and made “ready”.

b. On the command “Unload”:

(1) With the left hand maintain a firm grip of the Air Rifle then with the
right hand open the bolt and pull it fully to the rear.

(2) Inspect inside the chamber, body and face of the bolt to check
whether there is a pellet inside. If there is a pellet inside, it cannot be
removed at this stage and will instead be fired in the next part of the unload
drill. Push the bolt forward and lock it with the right hand. If unloading in
low light levels, use a white torch to assist in inspecting the Air Rifle.

2-22
(3) Point the Air Rifle at the target area and operate the trigger. At this
stage, a pellet may be fired. therefore, it is essential that the Air Rifle is
pointing in a safe direction.

(4) Lay the Air Rifle on the ground with the bolt handle uppermost.

2122. Confirm by practice.

C. CONCLUSION

2123. End of Lesson Drill.

a. Questions to and from the squad on the whole lesson.

b. Confirm by questions and practice as time permits.

c. Safety Precautions.

d. Pack kit as required.

e. Summary. To include the following:

(1) The importance of safe drills.

(2) Emphasise that on the unload a pellet may be fired therefore Air
Rifles must always point in a safe direction.

(3) A forecast of the squad’s next lesson.

2124. to 2130. Reserved.

2-23
AIR ARMS S200 MULTI SHOT .177” &
AIR ARMS S200 SINGLE SHOT .177” AIR RIFLES

LESSON 3. – HOLDING AND AIMING IN THE PRONE POSITION

A. INSTRUCTOR NOTES

2131. Aim. To teach holding and aiming in the prone position with the Air Arms S200
Multi Shot and Single Shot .177” Air Rifle.

2132. Learning Outcomes:

a. How to adopt the prone position.

b. Holding.

c. Adjusting for eye relief and aiming.

2133. Timings. Two 40 minute periods.

2134. Method. A basic instructional period best suited to indoors.

2135. Stores.

a. Air rifle complete with sights and 1 per Cadet and instructor
magazine (if multi shot) and carry case wherever possible
b. Representative targets 1 per Cadet and instructor
c. Aiming aids As required
d. Roll mat or similar for comfort when As required
adopting the prone position

2136. Preparation.

a. Cadet rifles should be placed next to the chairs along with the magazines
(if multi shot). Sights are to be fitted to the rifles prior to the lesson commencing
and targets placed opposite each student.

b. Ensure that the correct foresight element has been fitted and is secure.

c. Until the correct eye relief has been set, move the rear sight forwards.

2137. Miscellaneous.

a. The instructor is to ensure that all rifles, magazines (if multi shot) are clear
before the lesson starts and inform the cadets of this fact. To ensure that the

2-24
barrel of each Air Rifle is clear a cleaning rod is to be inserted from the barrel
end and pushed as far as the breech. Observing the rod at the breech end will
prove that the barrel of the Air Rifle is clear.

Preliminaries

2138. Safety Precautions. Normal.

2139. Revision. Load and unload.

Introduction

2140. Explain: The air rifle is an excellent Air Rifle to learn and master the skills and
techniques of marksmanship. These skills are used with the other Rifles you may fire as
a Cadet. To fire the Air Rifle accurately and achieve the standards required to progress
through the shooting syllabus, you must first learn and understand how to apply the
marksmanship principles. They are:

a. The position and hold must be firm enough to support the Air Rifle.

b. The Air Rifle must point naturally towards the target without any undue
physical effort.

c. Sight alignment and the sight picture must be correct.

d. The shot must be released and followed through without undue


disturbance to the position.

2141. The application of these principles demands concentration, combined with the
determination to shoot well. This lesson will cover the first three of these principles.

B. CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

The Prone Unsupported Position

2142. Explain: The basic shooting position is the prone unsupported position as it gives
the firer support and is less tiring. You may adopt variations to the basic position to suit
the individual’s height and build, but the position must provide maximum support.

2143. Explain and demonstrate: On the command “Down” (see Fig 2-7):

a. Maintain a firm grip with the right hand and ensure that no part of the rifle
comes into contact with the ground and lie down.

b. Hold the rifle with the left hand on the handguard. The forefinger of the
right hand is then placed outside the trigger guard.

2-25
c. To aid target alignment, place the feet together, heels uppermost, move
position until the body and rifle are roughly aligned onto the target. Then adopt
either of the leg positions (see Fig 2-8).

(1) Cadets are to be encouraged to try both positions to find which


best suits them.

(2) Whichever position is chosen the body must be relaxed to avoid


muscle tremors.

2144. Position 1. Maintain target alignment, open the legs until the feet are shoulder’s
width apart and feel comfortable. The feet are positioned with the toes pointing outwards
and the inside of the heels on the ground. This position ensures that the right side of the
body, including all the right leg is immediately behind the rifle, it provides maximum
support.

2145. Position 2. Adjust the body until it is slightly angled to the left of the line of fire.
Open the legs with the left leg on the same line as the body, leg relaxed, and toes turned
inwards. Bend the right leg, drawing it up to form a continuation of the line of fire, the right
foot pointing outwards with the heel on the ground. This position lifts the chest higher off
the ground and assists ease of breathing.

2146. When getting up, maintain a firm grip with the right hand, ensure that no part of
the rifle comes into contact with the ground, stand up.

2147. Confirm by practice.

Holding in the Prone Position

2148. In order to aid with consistency, firers should use the following checklist:

a. Leg position.
b. Butt position.
c. Left hand support.
d. Left elbow position.
e. Right hand grip.
f. Right elbow position.
g. Head position.
h. Relaxation in position.
i. Breathing.

2149. Explain and demonstrate (the placing of a pellet onto the pellet tray for the single
shot variant is to be notional): Order “Down” and “Load.”

a. Adopt the preferred body position.

b. Position the butt into the shoulder and hold the rifle with both hands using
a relaxed grip. Align along the barrel axis and adjust the body line until the Air
Rifle points naturally towards the target.
2-26
(1) Correctly placing the butt in the shoulder helps steady the rifle and
prevents the butt slipping. The butt must not be placed onto the collar
bone.

c. The left hand is positioned under the handguard, as far forward as


comfortable. Open the left hand fully, fingers together and rest the handguard
across the palm. Allow the fingers to close around the handguard.

(1) The left hand should be relaxed with a firm enough hold to maintain
steadiness.

(2) No attempt should be made to grip the handguard tightly or to pull


backwards.

d. The left elbow is placed naturally on the ground and positioned as close
as possible to a point directly below the Air Rifle. This ensures bone and not
muscular support.

e. The right hand is the controlling hand and must grip firmly. To achieve this,
raise the right elbow off the ground and open the hand. Position the web of the
forefinger and thumb as high as comfortably possible on the grip and directly
behind it, then wrap the fingers around the grip with the forefinger outside the
trigger guard.

f. Without disturbing the hold and without tilting the rifle, lower the right
elbow to a natural position. A firm, consistent, rearward pressure must be exerted
to keep the butt in its proper position in the shoulder.

g. Lower the head lightly onto the cheek piece. Place the cheek at the same
spot each time for consistent and correct eye relief. The head should be upright
to maintain the instinctive sense of balance and to position the centre of the eye
straight behind the sight.

h. The conscious effort is required to relax in the firing position and to avoid
muscle strain which will result in movement of the rifle and the aim picture.

i. Breathing is covered in detail during the next lesson.

Prone Supported Position

2150. Firing from the prone supported position is achieved by resting the back of the left
hand on a sandbag or similar support (see Fig 2-9). This offers excellent, sustainable
support with little physical effort on the part of the firer. It eliminates the need for strict
breath control, especially when firing quickly.

2151. Confirm by practice (Remind firers to use the ‘key points’ checklist). Order “Stop
– Unload” at the conclusion of practice.
2-27
Adjusting the Eye Relief

2152. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating from the prone position. The sights
can be adjusted forwards and backwards on the sight rail to achieve the correct eye relief.
To do this loosen the pinch screw on the right side of the sight rail and adjust the sight
forward or backwards as required. The correct eye relief is achieved when the sight
rubber is ideally resting on the eyebrow when in the prone position; physical limitations
permitting (see Fig 2-10).

2153. Confirm by practice.

Aiming

2154. Explain and demonstrate using sight picture diagrams (see Fig 2-11): Aiming with
dioptre sights can never become instinctive, though practice will induce speed. Above all
it requires concentration to achieve sight alignment and the correct aim picture, which is
a four point relationship between the eye, the centre of the rear aperture, tip of the
foresight or centre of the aiming circle, and the point of aim.

a. Align the body and rifle onto the target area as taught.

b. Position the head to gain correct eye relief.

c. Close the left eye. Look through the centre of the rear aperture and
centralise the tip of the foresight blade or the centre of the aiming circle in the
aperture. Ensure the foresight is upright and clearly in focus.

d. It may be necessary to move the head slightly in order to achieve the cor-
rect sight alignment; once it is achieved the position of the head must remain
unchanged.

e. Maintaining this alignment, focus the tip of the foresight or aiming circle
onto the selected point of aim to complete the aim picture. It should be noted that
the point of aim on the target will become blurred.

f. During aiming it is necessary to switch focus between the foresight and


point of aim to maintain the correct aim picture, however, focus must be on the
foresight immediately before firing.

2155. Confirm by question and practice. Allow the squad to use aim diagrams to illustrate
their answers.

Testing and Adjusting in the Prone Position

2156. Explain and demonstrate (the placing of a pellet onto the pellet tray for the single
shot variant is to be notional): Order, “Down” and “Load.”

2-28
a. Explain: On adopting any firing position the firer must align the body and
rifle onto the target as previously taught. Fine adjustments are made to the body
position to ensure the rifle points naturally along the intended line of fire. No
attempt should be made to push, pull or lift the arms or hands to force the rifle
onto the point of aim.

b. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating:

(1) To finalise the position, keep the arms passive and adjust the body
position until the aim is correct. Numerous small movements may be nec-
essary to achieve this.

(2) Adjustments for elevation are made by moving the body forwards
or back

(3) Adjustments for direction are made by moving the lower body left
or right, avoid moving the left elbow.

(4) Whilst breathing, vertical movement of the pointer/foresight directly


through the point of aim, confirms correct alignment. Errors are shown by
diagonal movement across the point of aim.

2157. Confirm by practice. Order “Stop – Unload” at the conclusion of practice.

C. CONCLUSION

2158. End of Lesson Drill.

a. Questions to and from the squad on the whole lesson.

b. Confirm by questions and practice as time permits.

c. Safety Precautions.

d. Pack kit as required.

e. Summary. To include the following:

(1) The importance of stability, a relaxed position with correct hold and
accurate aiming.

(2) The need for correct positioning of the sight to achieve correct eye
relief.

(3) For consistency always use the ‘key points’ checklist

(4) A forecast of the squad’s next lesson.

2159. to 2170. Reserved.


2-29
Fig 2-7 Prone Unsupported Position

Fig 2-8 Leg Positions

Fig 2-9 Prone Supported Position

2-30
Fig 2-10 Eye Relief

Fig 2-11 Aim Picture

2-31
AIR ARMS S200 MULTI SHOT .177” AIR RIFLE

LESSON 4. – FIRING IN THE PRONE POSITION AND STOPPAGE DRILLS

A. INSTRUCTOR NOTES

2171. Aim. To teach how to fire the rifle in the prone position by applying the four
marksmanship principles.

2172. Learning Outcomes:

a. Breath control.

b. Deliberate trigger operation.

c. How to recognize a stoppage and carry out the stoppage drill.

2173. Timings. Two 40 minute periods.

2174. Method. A basic instructional period best suited to indoors.

2175. Stores.

a. Air rifle complete with sights, magazine 1 per Cadet and instructor
and carry case wherever possible
b. Representative targets 1 per Cadet and instructor
c. Aiming aids As required
d. Roll mat or similar for comfort when As required
adopting the prone position

2176. Preparation.

a. Cadet rifles should be placed next to the chairs along with the magazines.
Sights are to be fitted to the rifles prior to the lesson commencing and targets
placed opposite each student.

b. Ensure that the correct foresight element has been fitted and is secure.

2177. Miscellaneous.

a. The instructor is to ensure that all rifles, magazines are clear before the
lesson starts and inform the cadets of this fact. To ensure that the barrel of each
Air Rifle is clear a cleaning rod is to be inserted from the barrel end and pushed
as far as the breech. Observing the rod at the breech end will prove that the
barrel of the Air Rifle is clear.

Preliminaries

2-32
2178. Safety Precautions. Normal.

2179. Revision. Revise the application of the first three marksmanship principles.

a. Check that the firers have positioned the sights for correct eye relief.

b. Ensure the cadets are using the ‘key points’ checklist.

Introduction

2180. Explain: This lesson combines the first three marksmanship principles with the
fourth principle: `The shot must be released and followed through without undue
disturbance to the position.’ If the position and hold are stable and the Air Rifle points
naturally at the target, the pellet will go in the direction the barrel is pointing. This lesson
deals with the integration of breath control, trigger operation and follow through, required
to ensure the shot will be released and the pellet will leave the muzzle without any undue
movement of the Air Rifle.

B. CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Breath Control

2181. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating: Breathing is a natural body function
which will continue steadily and without strain until something disturbs the cycle. The
normal breath rate is between 12 and 20 breaths per minute. It is important to regulate
and control the breathing during the time of shot release and to do it without strain (see
Fig 2-13).

a. The three aspects of the breathing cycle that are important are:

(1) During the normal breathing cycle, the lungs are not completely full
or empty.

(2) After breathing out there is a natural pause.

(3) The whole cycle takes approximately five seconds.

b. As a natural pause occurs after breathing out, it is logical to extend that


pause to six or seven seconds to enable the shot to be released.

c. Before breath control, breathe in and out deeply to oxygenate the body.
The pause must be no longer than six or seven seconds as the natural impulse
to resume breathing will affect firer concentration. If this happens resume normal
breathing again and repeat the breath control.

2182. Confirm by practice, initially seated and then in the prone position to demonstrate
the effect of breath control on aiming.
2-33
Trigger Operation and Follow Through

2183. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating (see Fig 2-14). During breath control
the aim is perfected and the trigger operated smoothly to allow the shot to be released.
The method of trigger operation used should be the one best suited to the situation:

a. First Pressure. Place the forefinger on the trigger, ensuring that the finger
is not in contact with the side of the grip. Take up the slack until resistance is met.
It is important that this action is smooth, and the trigger is not snatched.

b. Second Pressure. Continue to apply steadily increasing pressure, as


long as the aim picture is correct, until the shot is fired. Pressure must be applied
directly to the rear to avoid disturbing natural alignment.

c. Follow Through. When the shot is fired, the trigger is held to the rear for
a for a second or two. This should prevent any movement of the barrel caused
by the firer relaxing or raising their head.

2184. Confirm by practice.

Deliberate Trigger Operation

2185. Explain and demonstrate: Order “Down,” “Load” and “Test and Adjust.” The
position and hold of the Air Rifle are to be built up correctly as taught. On the word of
command “Fire” or “Go On” being given:

a. Move the forefinger of the right hand onto the trigger.

b. Restrain the breathing and once the aim picture is correct fire the shot
and follow through.

c. To fire another shot, open the bolt by pulling fully rearwards on the bolt
handle then push it firmly forward and lock it back into position. Test and adjust
the position and fire the next shot. Repeat the above stages and ensure that the
pellets fired are counted noting once the last shot has been fired.

d. On the word of command “Stop” or once the last shot has been fired,
move the forefinger away from the trigger. Move the Air Rifle out of the aim and
await further orders.

2186. Confirm by practice. Order “Stop – Unload” at the conclusion of practice.

Declaration

2187. Explain: The process of ‘follow through’ during deliberate trigger operation, allows
the firer to observe the sight picture at the moment of firing, showing any errors in shot
release. As the shot is fired the recoil action causes the rifle to move slightly away from
2-34
the point of aim and the direction of movement should be consistent.

a. The Cadet is to declare that the aim picture at the moment of firing was
“correct” or “incorrect”, concentrating on the pointer/foresight and point of aim will
assist in accurate declaration. If possible, the direction of error should be stated,
e.g., “High right” or “Low left”.

Stoppage Drill

2188. Explain and demonstrate the squad imitating: Order “Down,” “Load” and “Test
and Adjust,” then “Fire” or “Go on.” If the Air Rifle fails to fire the following drill is to
be carried out.

a. Unload the Air Rifle as previously taught. At this stage, a pellet may be
fired. Therefore, it is essential that the Air Rifle is pointing in a safe direction.

b. Load the Air Rifle as previously taught and attempt to fire the Air Rifle.

c. If the Air Rifle still will not fire, unload the Air Rifle and conduct NSPs, as
previously taught, and hand the Air Rifle to the supervising CFAV for a detailed
inspection

d. It is important that any pellet involved in a stoppage, whether it appears


damaged or not, is not to be loaded into a magazine or single shot adaptor, nor
any attempt is made to fire it. Such pellets are to be disposed of.

2189. Confirm by questions and practice. Order “Stop – Unload” at the conclusion of
practice.

Stoppages Rectified by the Stoppage Drill.

2190. Explain: The stoppage drill will rectify the following stoppages:

a. Incorrect bolt operation failing to cock the Air Rifle.

b. Bolt not locked fully forward.

c. Failure to feed a pellet correctly.

2-35
Dry Firing – Failure to Fire a Pellet

2191. Explain:

a. In addition to failing to fire it is also possible for the Air Rifle to dry fire;
discharge air correctly but fail to fire a pellet, caused by:

(1) Empty magazine.

(2) Magazine failing to rotate because of a binding or broken


mechanism.

b. If the Air Rifle appears to fire empty, the following actions are to be taken:

(1) Open and close the bolt, ensuring it is brought fully to the rear and
then locked fully forward.

(2) If the Air Rifle continues to dry fire, unload the Air Rifle as taught
and inspect the magazine. If the magazine is not empty, carry out NSPs
as taught and then hand the Air Rifle and magazine to a supervising CFAV
for a detailed inspection.

C. CONCLUSION

2192. End of Lesson Drill.

a. Questions to and from the squad on the whole lesson.

b. Confirm by questions and practice as time permits.

c. Safety Precautions.

d. Pack kit as required.

e. Summary. To include the following:

(1) The importance of breath control when a shot is fired.

(2) The need for smooth trigger operation, correct follow through and
declaration.

(3) Emphasise that on the unload and stoppage drills a pellet may be
fired therefore, Air Rifles must always point in a safe direction.

(4) Further stoppages will ALWAYS be dealt with by the supervising


CFAV.

(5) A forecast of the squad’s next lesson.

2-36
2193. to 2200 Reserved.

2-37
Fig 2-12 Breath Control

Fig 2-13 Breathing, Aiming and Trigger Chart

2-38
AIR ARMS S200 SINGLE SHOT .177” AIR RIFLE

LESSON 4A. – FIRING IN THE PRONE POSITION AND STOPPAGE DRILLS

A. INSTRUCTOR NOTES

2201. Aim. To teach how to fire the rifle in the prone position by applying the four
marksmanship principles.

2202. Learning Outcomes:

a. Breath control.

b. Deliberate trigger operation.

c. How to recognize a stoppage and carry out the stoppage drill.

2203. Timings. Two 40 minute periods.

2204. Method. A basic instructional period best suited to indoors.

2205. Stores.

a. Air rifle complete with sights and carry 1 per Cadet and instructor
case wherever possible
b. Representative targets 1 per Cadet and instructor
c. Aiming aids As required
d. Roll mat or similar for comfort when As required
adopting the prone position

2206. Preparation.

a. Cadet rifles should be placed next to the chairs. Sights are to be fitted to
the rifles prior to the lesson commencing and targets placed opposite each
student.

b. Ensure that the correct foresight element has been fitted and is secure.

2207. Miscellaneous.

a. The instructor is to ensure that all rifles are clear before the lesson starts
and inform the cadets of this fact. To ensure that the barrel of each Air Rifle is
clear a cleaning rod is to be inserted from the barrel end and pushed as far as
the breech. Observing the rod at the breech end will prove that the barrel of the
Air Rifle is clear.

Preliminaries

2-39
2208. Safety Precautions. Normal.

2209. Revision. Revise the application of the first three marksmanship principles.

a. Check that the firers have positioned the sights for correct eye relief.

b. Ensure the cadets are using the ‘key points’ checklist.

Introduction

2210. Explain: This lesson combines the first three marksmanship principles with the
fourth principle: `The shot must be released and followed through without undue
disturbance to the position.’ If the position and hold are stable and the Air Rifle points
naturally at the target, the pellet will go in the direction the barrel is pointing. This lesson
deals with the integration of breath control, trigger operation and follow through, required
to ensure the shot will be released and the pellet will leave the muzzle without any undue
movement of the Air Rifle.

B. CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Breath Control

2211. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating: Breathing is a natural body function
which will continue steadily and without strain until something disturbs the cycle. The
normal breath rate is between 12 and 20 breaths per minute. It is important to regulate
and control the breathing during the time of shot release and to do it without strain (see
Fig 2-13).

a. The three aspects of the breathing cycle that are important are:

(1) During the normal breathing cycle, the lungs are not completely full
or empty.

(2) After breathing out there is a natural pause.

(3) The whole cycle takes approximately five seconds.

b. As a natural pause occurs after breathing out, it is logical to extend that


pause to six or seven seconds to enable the shot to be released.

c. Before breath control, breathe in and out deeply to oxygenate the body.
The pause must be no longer than six or seven seconds as the natural impulse
to resume breathing will affect firer concentration. If this happens resume normal
breathing again and repeat the breath control.

2212. Confirm by practice, initially seated and then in the prone position to demonstrate
the effect of breath control on aiming.
2-40
Trigger Operation and Follow Through

2213. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating (see Fig 2-14). During breath control
the aim is perfected and the trigger operated smoothly to allow the shot to be released.
The method of trigger operation used should be the one best suited to the situation:

a. First Pressure. Put the safety catch to `F’ and place the forefinger on the
trigger, ensuring that the finger is not in contact with the side of the grip. Take up
the slack until resistance is met. It is important that this action is smooth, and the
trigger is not snatched.

b. Second Pressure. Continue to apply steadily increasing pressure, as


long as the aim picture is correct, until the shot is fired. Pressure must be applied
directly to the rear to avoid disturbing natural alignment.

c. Follow Through. When the shot is fired, the trigger is held to the rear for
a for a second or two. This should prevent any movement of the barrel caused
by the firer relaxing or raising their head.

2214. Confirm by practice.

Deliberate Trigger Operation

2215. Explain and demonstrate: Order, “Down,” “Load” and “Test and Adjust.” The
position and hold of the Air Rifle are to be built up correctly as taught. On the word of
command “Fire” or “Go On” being given:

a. Move the forefinger of the right hand onto the trigger.

b. Restrain the breathing and once the aim picture is correct fire the shot
and follow through.

c. To fire another shot, open the bolt by pulling fully rearwards on the bolt
handle. Place a pellet onto the pellet tray. Push the bolt handle firmly forward and
lock it back into position. Test and adjust the position and fire the next shot.
Repeat the above stages and ensure that the pellets fired are counted noting once
the last shot has been fired.

d. On the word of command “Stop” or once the last shot has been fired,
move the safety catch to Safe (S) and move the forefinger away from the trigger.
Move the Air Rifle out of the aim and await further orders.

2216. Confirm by practice. Order “Stop – Unload” at the conclusion of practice.

2-41
Declaration

2217. Explain: The process of ‘follow through’ during deliberate trigger operation, allows
the firer to observe the sight picture at the moment of firing, showing any errors in shot
release. As the shot is fired the recoil action causes the rifle to move slightly away from
the point of aim and the direction of movement should be consistent.

a. The firer is to declare that the aim picture at the moment of firing was
“correct” or “incorrect”, concentrating on the pointer/foresight and point of aim will
assist in accurate declaration. If possible, the direction of error should be stated,
e.g., “High right” or “Low left”.

Stoppage Drill

0143 Explain and demonstrate the squad imitating: Order “Down”, “Load” and “Test
and Adjust”, then “Fire” or “Go on”. If the Air Rifle fails to fire the following drill is to
be carried out.

a. Unload the Air Rifle as previously taught. At this stage, a pellet may be
fired. Therefore, it is essential that the Air Rifle is pointing in a safe direction.

b. Load the Air Rifle as previously taught and attempt to fire the Air Rifle.

c. If the Air Rifle still will not fire, unload the Air Rifle and conduct NSPs, as
previously taught, and hand the Air Rifle to the supervising CFAV for a detailed
inspection

d. It is important that any pellet involved in a stoppage, whether it appears


damaged or not, no attempt is made to fire it. Such pellets are to be disposed
of.

2218. Confirm by questions and practice. Order “Stop – Unload” at the conclusion of
practice.

Stoppages Rectified by the Stoppage Drill.

2219. Explain: The stoppage drill will rectify the following stoppages:

a. Incorrect bolt operation failing to cock the Air Rifle.

b. Bolt not locked fully forward.

c. Failure to feed a pellet correctly.

C. CONCLUSION

2220. End of Lesson Drill.

2-42
a. Questions to and from the squad on the whole lesson.

b. Confirm by questions and practice as time permits.

c. Safety Precautions.

d. Pack kit as required.

e. Summary. To include the following:

(1) The importance of breath control when a shot is fired.

(2) The need for smooth trigger operation, correct follow through and
declaration.

(3) Emphasise that on the unload and stoppage drills a pellet may be
fired therefore Air Rifles must always point in a safe direction.

(4) Further stoppages will ALWAYS be dealt with by the supervising


CFAV.

(5) A forecast of the squad’s next lesson.

2221. to 2230 Reserved.

2-43
AIR ARMS S200 MULTI SHOT .177” &
AIR ARMS S200 SINGLE SHOT .177” AIR RIFLES

LESSON 5. – FIRING FROM OTHER POSITIONS

A. INSTRUCTOR NOTES

2231. Aim. To teach how to fire the rifle from the kneeling and standing position.

2232. Learning Outcomes:

a. Area Aiming.

b. Kneeling and Standing positions.

2233. Timings. One 40 minute period.

2234. Method. A basic instructional period best suited to indoors.

2235. Stores.

a. Air rifle complete with sights, magazine (if 1 per Cadet and instructor
multi shot) and carry case wherever possible
b. Representative targets 1 per Cadet and instructor

2236. Preparation.

a. Cadet rifles should be placed next to the chairs along with the magazines
(if multi shot). Sights are to be fitted to the rifles prior to the lesson commencing
and targets placed opposite each student.

b. Ensure that the correct foresight element has been fitted and is secure.

c. Ensure the firers have sufficient area to adopt the kneeling and standing
position.

2237. Miscellaneous.

a. The instructor is to ensure that all rifles, magazines (if multi shot) are clear
before the lesson starts and inform the cadets of this fact. To ensure that the
barrel of each Air Rifle is clear a cleaning rod is to be inserted from the barrel
end and pushed as far as the breech. Observing the rod at the breech end will
prove that the barrel of the Air Rifle is clear.

Preliminaries

2238. Safety Precautions. Normal.

2-44
2239. Revision. Revise firing in the prone position. Remind the firers to use the ‘key
points’ checklist.

Introduction

2240. Explain: Most live firing practices within the Cadet shooting syllabus are fired from
either the prone or prone supported position. That said, there may be some competition
practices that require the firer to adopt other firing positions, such as the kneeling, sitting
or standing position. The four marksmanship principles apply but the accuracy of the rifle
is affected by the position adopted as they are not as stable as the prone position.

B. CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Area Aiming

2241. Explain using a target: As the positions to be taught are less stable than the prone
position, it is difficult to keep the Air Rifle steady when aiming. An area aim instead of a
specific point on the target must be accepted. With practice you will be able to make the
area as small as possible. The size of the area will decrease or increase in direct relation
to the stability of the position and the strength of the firer.

2242. Confirm during the practice of firing from each position.

Kneeling Position

2243. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating (see Fig 2-14): The kneeling position
can be quickly and easily adopted. It provides reasonable stability and can be maintained
for lengthy periods without undue discomfort. To adopt the position:

a. Face half right to the line of fire. Kneel on the right knee, keeping it well
out to the right and sit on the heel or side of the foot. The boot may be positioned
toecap downwards or with the forward part of the sole flat on the ground.
Alternatively, the right knee may be position adjacent to the left foot rather than
keeping it well out to the right.

b. The left foot must be positioned flat on the ground with the toe pointing
slightly inwards. The left knee should afford good support to the left elbow,
enabling bone support to be achieved

c. Support the weight of the Air Rifle in the left hand, rest the left forearm
behind or in front of the left knee.

d. The handling drills and drill for firing a shot are as for the prone position.

e. On the command “Stop”, place the finger outside the trigger guard; remain
in the alert position looking over the sights.

2-45
f. On the command “Unload”, the Air Rifle is brought out of the shoulder,
the left forearm is to be supported on the knee and the normal drills then carried
out.

2244. Confirm by practice, adopting and firing from the kneeling position. Remind cadets
to use the ‘keys points check list.’

Sitting Position

2245. Explain and Demonstrate, the squad imitating: (see Fig 2-15). The sitting position
can be quickly and easily adopted. It provides reasonable stability and can be maintained
for lengthy periods without undue discomfort. To adopt the position:

a. Sit with the legs crossed or apart and the feet in a comfortable position,
digging the heels in if necessary. Slightly angle the lower part of the body to the
target. Hold the Air Rifle in the ‘Rest’ position.

b. As for the kneeling position the head should be higher than usual. Lean
forward, curve the spine and position the elbows behind, inside, or in front of the
knees. It is important to avoid positioning the point of the elbow with any bone
area of the knee joint.

c. Support the rifle using the hand guard and keep the head upright . The
sequence and drill for firing a shot are the same as for the prone position.

d. On the command “Stop”, place the finger outside the trigger guard, and
remain in the alert position looking over the sights.

e. On the command “Unload”, the Air Rifle is brought out of the shoulder,
and the normal drills then carried out.

2246. Confirm by practice, adopting and firing from the sitting position. Remind cadets
to use the ‘key points check list.’

Standing Position

2247. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating (see Fig 2-16). The standing position
is the least stable firing position and can be the most tiring to maintain:

a. With the feet shoulder’s width apart and the body oblique to the line of fire,
the weight of the body is evenly distributed on both legs, with the feet immediately
beneath the shoulders, toes pointing slightly outwards. To balance the weight of
the rifle, arch the back slightly at the waist. Natural pointing of the Air Rifle is
completed by moving the feet.

b. The left hand supports the rifle by being placed under the handguard and
maintain a firm grip with the right hand pulling the rifle directly back into the
2-46
shoulder. Alternatively, the left hand may be placed immediately forward of the
trigger guard and configured to give the desired height.

c. The left arm is brought towards the front of the body and the upper arm
kept against the chest, the left elbow resting against the top of the hip. The right
arm is raised to form a firm support for the butt in the shoulder.

d. The sequence and drill for firing a shot are as taught for the prone position.

e. On the command “Stop”, place the finger outside the trigger guard; remain
in the alert position looking over the sights.

f. On the command “Unload”, the Air Rifle is brought out of the shoulder,
supported at waist height and the normal drills are then carried out.

2248. Confirm by practice, adopting and firing from both standing positions. Remind
cadets to use the ‘keys points check list.’

C. CONCLUSION

2249. End of Lesson Drill.

a. Questions to and from the squad on the whole lesson.

b. Confirm by questions and practice as time permits.

c. Safety Precautions.

d. Pack kit as required.

e. Summary. To include the following:

(1) No matter what position is adopted, the marksmanship principles


are to be applied.

(2) A change of firing position can affect the accuracy of the Air Rifle.

(3) A forecast of the next lesson on this subject.

2250. to 2999 Reserved

2-47
Fig 2-14 The Kneeling Position

Fig 2-15 The Sitting Position

2-48
Fig 2-16 The Standing Position

2-49
CHAPTER 3 - BREAK BARREL AIR RIFLE

LESSON 1 – SAFETY, LOADING, FIRING AND UNLOADING

A. INSTRUCTOR NOTES

3001. Aim. To introduce the cadet to the break barrel air rifle and to teach them how to
handle it safely.

3002. Learning Outcomes:

a. To teach the named parts of the Air Rifle.

b. To teach the safety precautions.

c. To teach the load, aiming, firing, and unloading of the Air Rifle.

3003. Timings. One 40 minute period.

3004. Method. A basic instructional period best suited to indoors.

3005. Stores.

a. Air rifle complete with sights 1 per Cadet and instructor


wherever possible
b. Chairs 1 per Cadet and instructor
c. Air Rifle stand and pointer 1
d. Table 1
e. .177” Pellets 3

3006. Preparation.

a. Set up the table, stand and mount the instructor’s rifle on the stand.

b. Cadet rifles should be placed next to the chairs. Sights are to be fitted to
the rifles prior to the lesson commencing.

c. Where the ‘U’ type backsights are used, prepare aim diagrams to show
the correct aim picture.

3007. Miscellaneous.

a. The subject matter contained in this lesson assumes that the air rifle being
used is of the usual “break open” design, fitted with an aperture backsight. Where
matters of detail in this lesson are at variance with the Air Rifle possessed, the
instructor should consult the maker’s instructions.

3-1
b. When handling the parts of the rifle, the instructor is to name them and
their purpose. However, at this stage, the Cadet is not expected to memorise
all the names.

c. The instructor is to ensure that all rifles are clear before the lesson starts
and inform the cadets of this fact. To ensure that the barrel of each Air Rifle is
clear a cleaning rod is to be inserted from the barrel end and pushed as far as
the breech. Observing the rod at the breech end will prove that the barrel of the
Air Rifle is clear.

d. The .177” pellets are to be kept in a tin under the supervision of the
instructor until required. The pellets are used during the characteristics
stage of the lesson only and are to be collected immediately after the stage
is complete. The instructor is to personally account for the pellets and
securely store them before commencing with the next stage of the lesson.

Preliminaries

3008. Safety Precautions. Normal

3009. Revise the rules for handling Air Rifles.

Introduction

3010. Explain: The .177” Air Rifle may be the first Air Rifle that you fire as a Cadet. It
is a valuable tool to introduce you to shooting and the practical application of the
marksmanship principles. This lesson will deal with the break barrel, single shot air rifle.
Before you are allowed to fire any Air Rifle, you must become proficient in its use and be
able to handle the Air Rifle safely. This will allow you to pass your Air Rifle handling test
and progress with the live firing lessons. The rifle may be fired from the left or right
shoulder and can be fired indoors at 5.5m or outdoors at 5.5m or 10m distances
depending on the range available.

B. CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

The Parts of the Air Rifle

3011. Point out the following parts on the Air Rifle (See Fig 3-1):

a. Muzzle.

b. Foresight.

c. Barrel and chamber.

3-2
e. Handguard.

f. Trigger guard and trigger.

g. Butt.

i. Safety catch (if fitted).

k. Rear sight.

3012. Confirm by questions.

Normal Safety Precautions

3013. Explain: Like any other Rifle an air rifle must be inspected to ensure that it is
unloaded. To do this the rifle must be broken open.

3014. Explain: The Normal Safety Precautions (NSPs) are to be carried out:

a. At the beginning and end of every lesson, practice, or range period.

b. When handing the Air Rifle to another Cadet or CFAV.

3015. Explain and demonstrate, the squad imitating:

a. On the command “For inspection – port arms”

(1) Pick up the air rifle, point the muzzle in a safe direction, grasp the
small of the butt firmly with the right hand, keeping the fingers clear of the
trigger and tuck the remainder of the butt under the forearm. Grasp the
barrel with the left hand as near as is comfortable towards the foresight
block. Press firmly and sharply down with the left hand and simultaneously
force upwards with the right hand, ensure you do not cock the air rifle.

(2) The rifle should now break open so that the breech can be
inspected (See Fig 3-2).

(3) Look into the breech and ensure no pellet is loaded; look through
the bore and ensure it is clear.

(4) It is unnecessary to fully cock the action to inspect the rifle;


furthermore, it is harmful to the piston head to cock and release the action
unless a pellet is to be fired

(5) In low light levels a torch must be used to look inside the Air Rifle
and a CFAV may also inspect inside the Air Rifle to ensure that it is clear.

3-3
The instructor is to show their own rifle to a member of the squad to prove it is clear and
then inspect the squad’s rifles to make certain that they are also clear. Each Cadet/CFAV
is to have chamber, body and face of the bolt indicated to them at this point.

b. On the command “Ease springs” keep the Air Rifle pointing in a safe
direction and close the rifle and keeping the muzzle pointed in a safe direction,
operate the trigger.

3016. Confirm by questions and practice.

Loading

3017. Explain and demonstrate: Adopt the lying position (See Fig 3-3).

a. To load, break open the rifle and pull the barrel fully down until the sear
on the trigger engages the bent on the piston. When this happens, a distinct click
will be felt and heard.

b. Push the barrel forward until the inspection position is assumed and place
a pellet, nose leading, into the breech.

c. To close the rifle, keep the fingers clear of the trigger, hold the barrel firmly
with the left hand and raise the butt until the locking action is completed.

d. A cadet of slight physique may have difficulty in cocking the action in the
lying position. It may, therefore, be necessary to provide an assistant to do this
for him. The assistant will kneel on one knee on the right hand side of the firer
(left side for left handed firers), take the rifle from the firer and, keeping the muzzle
pointed in the direction of the target, break it open, cock the action, bring the
barrel up to the inspection position and hand the rifle back to the firer for him to
load. Under no circumstances will the assistant load the rifle.

Holding, Aiming and Firing

3018. The principles of holding, aiming, and firing a shot are the same as are explained
in detail in Chapters 1 and 2 of this pamphlet. Observance of the procedure for “follow
through” is of vital importance if good shooting results are to be achieved.

3019. Confirm by questions and practice.

Unloading

3020. Explain and Demonstrate:

a. Once a pellet has been loaded it is difficult to remove, so it should be fired.


Hence there is no unloading procedure except that at the end of any firing practice
the air rifle must be broken open, as for the inspection, and laid on the firing point.
3-4
b. The firer will be ordered to stand up behind the firing point. All rifles will be
inspected before anyone is allowed to go forward to change the targets.

C. CONCLUSION

3021. End of Lesson Drill.

a. Questions to and from the squad on the whole lesson.

b. Confirm by questions and practice as time permits.

c. Safety Precautions.

d. Pack kit as required.

e. Summary. To include the following:

(1) The importance of quickly recognising and rectifying faults.

(2) The importance of charging the air cylinders slowly and not to
exceed the stated pressures.

(3) A forecast of the next lesson on this subject.

3022. to 3999 Reserved

3-5
Fig 3-1 Break Barrel Air Rifle

Fig 3-2 Inspecting the Rifle

3-6
Fig 3-3 Loading the Rifle

3-7
CHAPTER 4 - CFAV LESSONS

LESSON 6. – FURTHER STOPPAGES AND CHARGING THE AIR CYLINDER

A. INSTRUCTOR NOTES

4001. Aim. To teach CFAVs further stoppage action and charging of the air cylinder for
the BSA Scorpion Cadet Air Rifles and the Air Arms S200 Air Rifles.

4002. Learning Outcomes:

d. How to recognise and rectify further stoppages.

e. The actions to be taken with an unserviceable Air Rifle.

f. How to charge the air cylinder.

4003. Timings. One 40 minute period.

4004. Method. A basic instructional period best suited to indoors.

4005. Stores.

a. Air rifle complete with sights, magazine 1 per CFAV instructor


and carry case wherever possible
b. Hills hand pump and associated 1 per CFAV instructor
accessories wherever possible
c. Air Bottle (if available) 1
d. Air Compressor (if available) 1

4006. Preparation.

a. CFAV rifles should be placed next to the chairs along with the magazines.

4007. Miscellaneous.

a. The instructor is to ensure that all rifles and magazines are clear before
the lesson starts and inform the CFAVs of this fact. To ensure that the barrel of
each Air Rifle is clear a cleaning rod is to be inserted from the barrel end and
pushed as far as the breech. Observing the rod at the breech end will prove that
the barrel of the Air Rifle is clear.

b. THIS LESSON IS ONLY TO BE TAUGHT TO CFAVs. UNDER NO


CIRCUMSTANCES ARE ANY OF THE SKILLS TAUGHT IN THIS LESSON TO
BE CARRIED OUT BY A CADET.

c. The air cylinder must have been inspected and certified as safe within 5
years of use.

4-1
Preliminaries

4008. Safety Precautions. Normal

Introduction

4009. Explain: It is essential that as a CFAV you know how to recognise a fault with the
.177” air rifles in use by Cadet forces and the actions to be carried out with a faulty Air
Rifle. This will prevent potentially putting cadets or CFAVs at risk by using faulty
equipment. Likewise, the air rifles will need to be charged with air on a regular basis. The
rifle may be charged by a Hills Hand Pump or from an Air Bottle. It is essential that you
know how to complete this task quickly and safely using the issued equipment.

B. CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Further Stoppages

4010. Explain: If when carrying out the stoppage drill an Air Rifle cannot be cleared or
an Air Rifle repeatedly stops, once NSPs have been completed, the Air Rifle should be
removed from the CFAV or Cadet firer and inspected by a supervising CFAV. The Air
Rifle should be carefully inspected to ensure no parts of the Air Rifle are broken. If broken
parts are found the Air Rifle is to be segregated and placed into its case along with the
magazine or single shot adaptor (once emptied of pellets) if used. Any damage is to be
reported in accordance with the unit’s procedures and the manufacturer’s After Care
Documentation.

4011. In addition, if there is doubt that the barrel may be blocked a cleaning rod may be
inserted from the muzzle end as far as the chamber to ascertain if the barrel is blocked.
If the barrel was blocked by a pellet or part thereof and the RCO is satisfied that it is fully
cleared, the Air Rifle may be returned to the firer and fired. If a blockage cannot be
removed, the Air Rifle is to be tagged in some manner to clearly indicate that the barrel is
blocked, and no attempt should be made to fire the rifle and the fault must then be
reported through the appropriate fault reporting chain.

4012. Confirm by questions and practice.

Charging the Air Cylinder

4013. Explain: The air cylinder in the rifle may become low in pressure which in turn will
cause the pellets not to fire with the intended muzzle velocity. If pellets are bouncing back
towards the firing point this will indicate that the air cylinder needs charging. When the
rifle needs to be charged with air, first unload the rifle, and carry out NSPs. The
maximum charging pressures are:

a. BSA Scorpion Air Rifles. A pressure of 230 Bar has been achieved. The
pressure in the air cylinder is not to exceed 230 Bar (Fig 4-1).

b. Air Arms S200. A pressure of 200 Bar has been achieved (Fig 4-2). The
pressure in the air cylinder is not to exceed 200 Bar (Fig 4-3).
4-2
Fig 4-1 BSA 230Bar Fig 4-2 S200 200Bar

Fig 4-3 DO NOT OVER PRESSURISE

4014. There are three methods of repressurizing the rifle’s internal air cylinder, the Hills
Hand Pump, air provided by a pressurized air bottle like those used by divers and a
suitable air compressor.

4015. Air bottles are required to be periodically inspected and certified as safe for use.
The interval between tests is dictated by the bottle material and its intended use. The
interval can be between 3-5 years.

4016. Dive shops/commercial outlets providing a re-filling service will refuse to recharge
the air bottle if it is not ‘in test.’

4017. Explain: Hills Hand Pump:

a. Unscrew the removable cover from the end of the rifle’s air cylinder (see
Fig 4-1). Inspect the Hills hand pump for serviceability.

b. The hoses, pressure gauge, rubber ‘O’ rings and unions are to be
inspected in detail and if damaged the pump is not to be used (see Fig 4-2).

4-3
c. Ensure that the bleed screw located on the lower housing of the pump
is screwed fully closed – this is to be hand tight only.

d. Connect the appropriate hose to the pump.

e. Connect the hose male adaptor to the rifle female housing (see Fig 4-3).
The adaptor is to be pushed home fully ensuring that the air holes are lined up.

f. Lay the Air Rifle on the floor ensuring that the air hose is not twisted.

g. Slowly pump the Hills pump handle and watch the pump air gauge.
Continue to pump until the required charging pressure is reached.

h. Release residual pressure by opening the bleed screw then disconnect


the pump and place it to one side.

i. When pumping, care is to be taken to ensure that the pump does not
become hot. To avoid the pump becoming too hot a pause is to be observed after
every 50 pumps for one minute before recommencing the action.

j. Once complete, replace the air cylinder cover and place the rifle back onto
the firing point.

k. Remove the hose from the pump then store away for future use.

4018. Regularly check the condition of the filling probe ‘O’ rings and apply a little
Molycote 111 grease. Only use this grease on the ‘O’ rings as automotive mineral oils
and grease can cause an explosion if used with high pressure air.

4019. Confirm by questions and practice.

4020. Explain: Air Bottle:

a. Unscrew the removable cover from the end of the rifle’s air cylinder (see
Fig 4-1).

b. The air pressure contained in the air bottle can be checked by securing a
dust plug to the air fill line attached to the bottle and opening the fill valve (see fig
4-4). Once satisfied that there is sufficient air in the bottler, close the air fill valve
and open the bleed valve to release the pressure and then close the bleed valve.

c. Connect the appropriate hose to the air bottle and ensure that it is secure.

d. Connect the hose male adaptor to the rifle’s female housing (see Fig 4-3).
The adaptor is to be pushed home fully ensuring that the air holes are lined up.

4-4
e. Lay the rifle on the floor ensuring that the air hose is not twisted and
ensure that the air bottle is placed on its side to avoid toppling over during filling.

g. Slowly open the feed valve and watch the bottle air gauge. Continue until
the required charging pressure is reached. The rifle and compressor are not to
be left unattended during the charging cycle.

h. Close the feed valve and then release residual pressure by opening the
bleed valve. Once complete, close the bleed valve.

i. Disconnect the air bottle from the rifle.

j. Once complete, replace the rifle’s air cylinder cover and place the rifle back
onto the firing point.

4021. Explain: Air Compressor:

a. Ensure the air compressor is prepared for use in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions.

b. Remove the air cylinder cover from the rifle and connect the air line from
the compressor to the air rifle with the appropriate adaptor.

c. Set the charge limit for the rifle type to be charged (auto cut-off compressor
only).

d. Operate the compressor as shown within the manufacturer’s operating


instructions.

e. Once complete, replace the rifle’s air cylinder cover and place the rifle back
onto the firing point.

4022. Regularly check the condition of the filling probe ‘O’ rings and apply a little
Molycote 111 grease. Only use this grease on the ‘O’ rings as automotive mineral oils
and grease can cause an explosion if used with high pressure air.

4023. Confirm by questions and practice.

C. CONCLUSION

4024. End of Lesson Drill.

a. Questions to and from the squad on the whole lesson.

b. Confirm by questions and practice as time permits.

c. Safety Precautions.

4-5
d. Pack kit as required.

e. Summary. To include the following:

(1) The importance of quickly recognising and rectifying faults.

(2) The importance of charging the air cylinders slowly and not to
exceed the stated pressures.

(3) A forecast of the next lesson on this subject.

4025. to 4999 Reserved

4-6
Fig 4-4 Air Cylinder Cover Removed Showing Female Housing

Fig 4-5 The Hills Hand Pump


(AA Adaptor (left) and BSA Adaptor (right)

4-7
Fig 4-6 The Air Hose Fitted to the Rifle

Fig 4-7 Air Bottle Regulator

4-8
CHAPTER 5 - PRACTICE PERIODS

Delivery

5001. Practice periods are to be conducted by a qualified Skill at Arms Instructor or a


suitably qualified senior Cadet in accordance with Cadet Training Ranges. When Senior
Cadets are conducting practice periods:

a. They must be supervised by a qualified SAA Instructor.

b. The practice period must be prepared under direction of the qualified SAA
Instructor.

c. The Cadets being practiced have previously been taught the lessons by a
qualified and current SAAI.

General

5002. Training must be progressive; unnecessary repetition is bad instructional practice.


A Cadet learns skills and facts in the basic lessons which should be taught only once
during their training. They then need practice to speed up their actions and establish the
facts firmly in their mind.

5003. The sequence of a practice period is:

a. REMIND - By explanation.

b. ASSESS WEAKNESS - See Methods paragraph below.

c. WORK ON WEAKNESSES - By practice.

d. PROGRESSIVE PRACTICE - See Methods paragraph below.

5004. The practice period in this pamphlet is intended to reinforce and confirm the basic
instruction by providing progressive, interesting practice, leading to WHT pass standards
and as a guide to the best way of exercising cadets during training. The instructor should
plan the period on an assessment of the cadets’ weak points.

5005. Faults should be brought to the notice of the Cadet and corrected immediately,
otherwise they will go on making the same mistakes.

5006. It may become obvious during a practice period that the cadets have failed to grasp
a particular skill or fact. The instructor will, therefore, have to teach that part of the basic
lesson again.

Competition

5007. The incentive of competition will always help to make practice more interesting,
provided cadets can achieve acceptable skills standards. If not, additional practice will be
5-1
necessary before competition is worthwhile. Some points on framing competitions are:

a. They may be on an individual or on a team basis.

b. If run on a team basis the instructor must ensure that the selected teams
are all fairly equal as regards performance. The more advanced members of the
team will help along the weaker members.

c. Marks can be earned up to a given total, or a total started with, and marks
lost for mistakes as the competition progresses.

d. A chart drawn on a board or a sheet of paper on which to mark-up results


should always be used.

e. Further interest can be developed by making one team or individual watch


another, criticising and awarding or deducting marks.

f. Above all the instructors must make certain that competitions are simple,
realistic and relevant, i.e., that they exercise the cadets in the facts and skills
related to their basic instruction and appropriate to their stage of training.

Master and Pupil

5008. The master and pupil method of practice, in its simplest form, is for one Cadet (the
pupil) to work under the supervision of another (the master); the instructor keeps an eye
on both.

5009. At all stages of training, it stimulates interest, keenness, and attention to detail. It
is particularly useful with large squads and in competitions. Used regularly, it also
develops initiative and leadership, and potential leaders may well be discovered by
watching the masters at work.

5010. to 5020 Reserved

5-2
PRACTICE LESSON 1 – LESSONS 1 – 5

A. INSTRUCTOR NOTES

5021. Aim. To revise the facts and practice the cadets in the knowledge and skills learnt
in Lessons 1 – 5 including:

a. The characteristics of the Air Rifle.

b. The named parts of the Air Rifle.

c. NSPs and safe handling of the Air Rifle.

d. Magazine filling.

e. The load and unload.

f. Firing in the prone and other positions.

g. Stoppage drills.

5022. Timings. Two 40 minute periods.

5023. Method. An indoor practice period.

5024. Stores.

a. Air rifle complete with sights, magazine 1 per Cadet and instructor
and carry case wherever possible
b. Air Rifle stand and pointer 1
c. Table 1
d. Prepared competition chart 1
e. .177” pellets 3 per Cadet and instructor
f. Roll mat or similar for comfort 1 per Cadet and instructor

5025. Preparation.

a. Prepare a chalkboard for the final practice

5026. Miscellaneous.

a. The instructor is to ensure that all rifles and magazines are clear before
the lesson starts and inform the cadets of this fact. To ensure that the barrel of
each Air Rifle is clear a cleaning rod is to be inserted from the barrel end and
pushed as far as the breech. Observing the rod at the breech end will prove that
the barrel of the Air Rifle is clear.

b. Re-teaching is only to be done when considered necessary.


5-3
Preliminaries

5027. Safety Precautions. Normal

5028. Revision. Nil

Introduction

5029. Explain: It is essential that cadets and CFAV are proficient in the use of the air rifle.
You have been instructed in the basic skills but must be competent in these skills before
attempting the WHTs and firing the rifle.

B. CONDUCT OF THE PRACTICE

Suggested Practices

5030. A Quiz. Test the cadets on:

a. The characteristics of the rifle.

b. The named parts of the rifle.

c. Occasions when NSPs would be carried out.

d. The 4 marksmanship principles.

5031. Safe Handling:

a. Question the squad on safe handling drills.

b. Practice the squad in safe handling drills in different situations, e.g.,


handing the Air Rifle over to another person and picking up an Air Rifle.

5032. Magazine Filling. Practice the squad in filling and emptying magazines.

5033. Load and Unload:

a. Explain: In the WHTs the Cadet or CFAV must complete these drills
correctly. They will fail if they make any mistake that affects safety, however there
is no time limit imposed.

b. Practice the squad, use the commands “Load” and “Unload”.

5034. Adopting Fire Positions:

a. Practice the squad in adopting the Prone, Kneeling, Sitting and Standing
positions.
5-4
b. Question the squad on the 9 ‘key point’ checklist.

5035. Firing Drills. Practice the squad in the firing drills, use the commands:

a. Multi Shot Air Rifles: “Load”, “Down”, “Test and Adjust” and “Fire” or
“Go on”.

b. Single Shot Air Rifles: “Down”, “Load”, “Test and Adjust” and “Fire”
or “Go on”.

5036. Stoppage Drills.

a. Practice the squad in the stoppage drills.

b. Use the commands:

(1) “Rifle fails to fire”

(2) “Rifle still fails to fire”

5037. Final Practice. Conduct the final practice:

a. Conduct the practice as a competition.

b. Divide the squad into teams, each fault checking their opposing team
member.

c. Record individual and team scores.

C. CONCLUSION

5038. End of Lesson Drill.

a. Questions from the squad on the entire period.

b. Safety Precautions.

c. Pack kit as required.

d. Summary. To include:

(1) Highlight any failings that have been corrected or require further
work.
(2) Regular practice will improve skills.

5039. to 5999 Reserved.


5-5
CHAPTER 6 - AIR RIFLE - AIR RIFLE HANDLING TEST (WHT)

GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS

Purpose

6001. The purpose of Air Rifle WHTs is to provide a measure of personal Air Rifle
handling skills throughout the Cadet Force. Cadets and CFAVs who are issued with the
.177” Air Rifle are to be competent in its use. Mandatory testing ensures that handling
skills of all personnel are monitored accurately and rectified if necessary.

6002. Cadets and CFAVs are only permitted to fire the Air Rifle make and variant
(single shot or multi shot) upon which they have been tested, and they have
successfully passed the Air Rifle WHT for that Air Rifle make and variant.

Testing

6003. Air Rifle WHTs are to be completed on the following occasions:

a. On completion of formal training with the Air Rifle.

b. Within six months prior to live firing taking place.

Results

6004. Results are to be recorded in the appropriate unit records on either


WESTMINSTER or BADAR.

Instruction Prior to Testing

6005. All personnel whether a Cadet or CFAV are to have received formal training from
a qualified, current, and competent CF Skill at Arms (SAA) Instructor prior to completing
the test. After initial training and before subsequent tests a period of revision should be
undertaken prior to the test.

Conduct

6006. WHTs are to be conducted as follows:

a. The test is to be conducted by a qualified, current, and competent CF SAA


Instructor who is current and competent on the Air Rifle.

b. The test is to be conducted in a controlled environment which lacks


distractions.

c. Tests are to be carried out wearing combat dress without webbing.

6-1
d. No more than two Cadets or CFAVs may be tested concurrently by one
assessor.

e. A barrier is to be placed between students being tested to prevent visual


prompts being received.

Equipment and Stores

6007. The following equipment will be required to complete the test:

a. .177” Air Rifle to CES – 1 per student.

b. 3 Pellets per student if using multishot Air Rifles.

c. Representative target – 1 per student.

d. Table, chair, WHT register – 1 per instructor.

Training Performance Standards

6008. Standards to be achieved are as follows:

a. Pass – Pass in all stages of the test.

b. Fail – Fail in any stage of the test.

6009. A Cadet or CFAV is considered competent once they have achieved the pass
standard. Failing to achieve the pass standard indicates that the Cadet or CFAV is not
competent, and they must receive a period of re-training on the stage or stages of the test
they failed. After re-training is complete the test(s) must be repeated successfully to
demonstrate competency with the Air Rifle system.

Safety

6010. Prior to completing the Air Rifle WHTs the CF SAA Instructor must carry out
NSPs on the Air Rifles to be used during the test.

6011. Multi Shot Air Rifles. Pellets are to be issued to the Cadet/CFAV during the
magazine filling stage of the test only. The instructor is to issue them at the beginning of
the magazine filling stage and recover them once the stage is complete. Under no
circumstances are magazines with pellets fitted to be used during any other stage of the
WHTs. Instructors are to account for all pellets before any drills are carried out on
the Air Rifle and are to secure them away.

6-2
BSA SCORPION CADET SPORTER .177” AIR RIFLE WHT

6012. Tests, conditions, and standards for the BSA Scorpion Cadet Sporter .177” Air
Rifle are as follows:

Test No Subject Stores Conditions Marking


(a) (b) (c) (d) (e)
1 Safety BSA Scorpion 1. Order the 1. Standard:
Cadet Sporter Cadet/CFAV to “take Pass – No mistakes.
u n l o a d e d with control of the Air
the bolt forward Rifle”. Without further Fail – Any mistakes.
and safety catch direction the
set to fire (F). Cadet/CFAV is to pick The Cadet/CFAV is to be told
Air Rifle lying on up the Air Rifle and that no time limit is imposed.
the ground. carry out full normal
safety precautions. 2. Award no qualification if
any mistake affects safety
2. Order the Cadet or
CFAV to hand over the
Air Rifle. The Cadet or
CFAV is to point the
muzzle in a safe
direction and carry out
NSPs before handing
the Air Rifle over to the
instructor
2 Loading BSA Scorpion 1. Order “Prone 1. Standard:
Position Down”. Pass – No mistakes.
Cadet Sporter
– empty 2. Order “Load”. Fail – Any mistakes.
magazine or 3. Order “Test and
Single Shot Adjust” onto a
The Cadet/CFAV is to be told
Adaptor representative that no time limit is imposed.
target.
4. The placing of a
pellet into the
single shot
adaptor is to be
notional.
3 Stoppage BSA Scorpion 1. Order “Fire” or “Go 1. Standard:
Drill Cadet Sporter on.” Pass – No mistakes.
from test 2. 2. Order “Rifle fires Fail – Any mistakes.
Representative alright – rifle stops.”
target Cadet/CFAV is to The Cadet/CFAV is to be told
unload fully then that no time limit is imposed.
reload the Air Rifle
and attempt to fire a
shot. Order “STOP.”
4 Further Nil 1. Question the Standard:
Stoppages Cadet/CFAV. “What Pass – Correct Answer.
action are you to take Fail – Incorrect Answer.
if the stoppage drill
fails to clear a
stoppage?”

6-3
Test No Subject Stores Conditions Marking
(a) (b) (c) (d) (e)
2. Answer – Air Rifle
is to be unloaded,
NSP conducted and
handed to the
supervising CFAV for
further action.
5 Unloading BSA Scorpion 1. Order “Unload”. 1. Standard:
Cadet Sporter 2. Order the Pass – No mistakes.
from test 4. Cadet/CFAV to leave Fail – Any mistakes.
the rifle and
magazine on the The Cadet/CFAV is to be told
floor and stand up. that no time limit is imposed.
6 Magazine BSA Scorpion 1. Instruct the THE SAFETY RULES GIVEN
Filling Magazine. Cadet/CFAV to fill the IN THE INSTRUCTORS
3 x .177 pellets magazine with 3 NOTES ABOVE ARE TO BE
pellets. STRICTLY COMPLIED
2. Once filled ask WITH DURING AND AFTER
the Cadet/CFAV to THE CONDUCT OF THIS
empty the PART OF THE TEST
magazine.
1. Standard:
Pass – Correctly filled.
Fail – Incorrectly filled.

The Cadet/CFAV is to be told


that no time limit is imposed.

6-4
BSA SCORPION CADET.177” AIR RIFLE WHT

6013. Tests, conditions, and standards for the BSA Scorpion Cadet.177” Air Rifle are
as follows:

Test No Subject Stores Conditions Marking


(a) (b) (c) (d) (e)
1 Safety BSA Scorpion 1. Order the 1. Standard:
Cadet unloaded Cadet/CFAV to “take Pass – No mistakes.
with the bolt control of the Air
forward and Rifle”. Without further Fail – Any mistakes.
safety catch set direction the
to fire (F). Cadet/CFAV is to pick The Cadet/CFAV is to be told
Air Rifle lying on up the Air Rifle and that no time limit is imposed.
the ground. carry out full normal
safety precautions. 2. Award no qualification if
any mistake affects safety
2. Order the Cadet or
CFAV to hand over the
Air Rifle. The Cadet or
CFAV is to point the
muzzle in a safe
direction and carry out
NSPs before handing
the Air Rifle over to the
instructor
2 Loading BSA Scorpion 1. Order “Prone 1. Standard:
Cadet Position, Down”. Pass – No mistakes.
2. Order “Load” Fail – Any mistakes.
3. Order “Test and
Adjust” onto a The Cadet/CFAV is to be told
that no time limit is imposed.
representative target.
4. The placing of a
pellet onto the
pellet tray is to be
notional.
3 Stoppage BSA Scorpion 1. Order “Fire” or “Go 1. Standard:
Drill Cadet on”. Pass – No mistakes.
from test 2. 2. Order “Rifle fires Fail – Any mistakes.
Representative alright – rifle stops”.
target Cadet/CFAV is to The Cadet/CFAV is to be told
unload fully then that no time limit is imposed.
reload the Air Rifle
and attempt to fire a
shot. Order “STOP”.
4 Further Nil 1. Question the Standard:
Stoppages Cadet/CFAV. “What Pass – Correct Answer.
action are you to take Fail – Incorrect Answer.
if the stoppage drill
fails to clear a
stoppage?”

6-5
Test No Subject Stores Conditions Marking
(a) (b) (c) (d) (e)
2. Answer – Air Rifle
is to be unloaded,
NSP conducted and
handed to the
supervising CFAV for
further action.
5 Unloading BSA Scorpion 1. Order “Unload”. 1. Standard:
Cadet 2. Order the Pass – No mistakes.
Cadet/CFAV to leave Fail – Any mistakes.
the rifle and
magazine on the The Cadet/CFAV is to be told
floor and stand up. that no time limit is imposed.

6-6
AIR ARMS S200 (MULTI SHOT) .177” AIR RIFLE WHT

6014. Tests, conditions, and standards for the Air Arms S200 (Multi Shot) .177” Air Rifle
are as follows:

Test No Subject Stores Conditions Marking


(a) (b) (c) (d) (e)
1 Safety Air Arms S200 1. Order the 1. Standard:
(Multi Shot) Cadet/CFAV to “take Pass – No mistakes.
control of the Air
unloaded with
Rifle”. Without further Fail – Any mistakes.
the bolt forward.
direction the
Air Rifle lying on
Cadet/CFAV is to pick The Cadet/CFAV is to be told
the ground.
up the Air Rifle and that no time limit is imposed.
carry out full normal
safety precautions. 2. Award no qualification if
any mistake affects safety
2. Order the Cadet or
CFAV to hand over the
Air Rifle. The Cadet or
CFAV is to point the
muzzle in a safe
direction and carry out
NSPs before handing
the Air Rifle over to the
instructor
2 Loading Air Arms S200 1. Order “Prone 1. Standard:
Position Down”. Pass – No mistakes.
(Multi Shot)
– empty 2. Order “Load”. Fail – Any mistakes.
magazine 3. Order “Test and
Adjust” onto a
The Cadet/CFAV is to be told
representative that no time limit is imposed.
target.
3 Stoppage Air Arms S200 1. Order “Fire” or “Go 1. Standard:
Drill (Multi Shot) on”. Pass – No mistakes.
from test 2. 2. Order “Rifle fires Fail – Any mistakes.
Representative alright – rifle stops”.
target Cadet/CFAV is to The Cadet/CFAV is to be told
unload fully then that no time limit is imposed.
reload the Air Rifle
and attempt to fire a
shot. Order “STOP”.
4 Further Nil 1. Question the Standard:
Stoppages Cadet/CFAV. “What Pass – Correct Answer.
action are you to take Fail – Incorrect Answer.
if the stoppage drill
fails to clear a
stoppage?”
2. Answer – Air Rifle
is to be unloaded,
NSP conducted and
handed to the

6-7
Test No Subject Stores Conditions Marking
(a) (b) (c) (d) (e)
supervising CFAV for
further action.
5 Unloading Air Arms S200 1. Order “Unload”. 1. Standard:
(Multi Shot) 2. Order the Pass – No mistakes.
from test 4. Cadet/CFAV to leave Fail – Any mistakes.
the rifle and
magazine on the The Cadet/CFAV is to be told
floor and stand up. that no time limit is imposed.
6 Magazine Air Arms S200 1. Instruct the THE SAFETY RULES GIVEN
Filling (Multi Shot). Cadet/CFAV to fill the IN THE INSTRUCTORS
magazine with 3 NOTES ABOVE ARE TO BE
3 x .177 pellets
pellets. STRICTLY COMPLIED
2. Once filled ask WITH DURING AND AFTER
the Cadet/CFAV THE CONDUCT OF THIS
PART OF THE TEST
to empty the
magazine.
1. Standard:
Pass – Correctly filled.
Fail – Incorrectly filled.

The Cadet/CFAV is to be told


that no time limit is imposed.

6-8
AIR ARMS S200 (SINGLE SHOT) .177” AIR RIFLE WHT

6015. Tests, conditions, and standards for the Air Arms S200 (Single Shot) .177” Air
Rifle are as follows:

Test No Subject Stores Conditions Marking


(a) (b) (c) (d) (e)
1 Safety Air Arms S200 1. Order the 1. Standard:
(Single Shot) Cadet/CFAV to “take Pass – No mistakes.
unloaded with the control of the Air
bolt forward. Rifle”. Without further Fail – Any mistakes.
Air Rifle lying on direction the
the ground. Cadet/CFAV is to pick The Cadet/CFAV is to be told
up the Air Rifle and that no time limit is imposed.
carry out full normal
safety precautions. 2. Award no qualification if
any mistake affects safety
2. Order the Cadet or
CFAV to hand over the
Air Rifle. The Cadet or
CFAV is to point the
muzzle in a safe
direction and carry out
NSPs before handing
the Air Rifle over to the
instructor
2 Loading Air Arms S200 1. Order “Prone 1. Standard:
(Single Shot) Position, Down”. Pass – No mistakes.
2. Order “Load” Fail – Any mistakes.
3. Order “Test and
Adjust” onto a The Cadet/CFAV is to be told
that no time limit is imposed.
representative target.
4. The placing of a
pellet onto the
pellet tray is to be
notional.
3 Stoppage Air Arms S200 1. Order “Fire” or “Go 1. Standard:
Drill (Single Shot) on”. Pass – No mistakes.
from test 2.
2. Order “Rifle fires Fail – Any mistakes.
Representative
alright – rifle stops”.
target
Cadet/CFAV is to The Cadet/CFAV is to be told
unload fully then that no time limit is imposed.
reload the Air Rifle
and attempt to fire a
shot. Order “STOP”.
4 Further Nil 1. Question the Standard:
Stoppages Cadet/CFAV. “What Pass – Correct Answer.
action are you to take Fail – Incorrect Answer.
if the stoppage drill
fails to clear a
stoppage?”
6-9
Test No Subject Stores Conditions Marking
(a) (b) (c) (d) (e)
2. Answer – Air Rifle
is to be unloaded,
NSP conducted and
handed to the
supervising CFAV for
further action.
5 Unloading Air Arms S200 1. Order “Unload”. 1. Standard:
(Single Shot) 2. Order the Pass – No mistakes.
from test 4. Cadet/CFAV to leave Fail – Any mistakes.
the rifle on the floor
and stand up. The Cadet/CFAV is to be told
that no time limit is imposed.

6-10
BREAK BARREL .177” AIR RIFLE WHT

6016. Tests, conditions, and standards for the Break Barrel .177” Air Rifle are as
follows:

Test No Subject Stores Conditions Marking


(a) (b) (c) (d) (e)
1 Safety Rifle, barrel/ 1. Order the student to pick up the 1. Standard:
lever closed. rifle. The student, without further Pass – No mistakes.
Rifle lying on direction, is to:
the ground. a. Pick up the rifle, point it in a Fail – Any mistakes.
safe direction and, if fitted, apply
the safety catch. The Cadet/CFAV is to
b. Bring the rifle to the horizontal be told that no time limit
position, break the barrel/partially is imposed.
open the lever if the rifle is not
already open. Ensure the 2. Award no
chamber is empty. qualification if any
Note: Rifle is not to be cocked at mistake affects safety
this stage.

2. Order the student to hand over


the rifle. The student is to:
a. Point the rifle in a safe
direction.
b. Bring the rifle to the horizontal
position, break the barrel/partially
open the lever and ensure the
chamber is empty.
c. Hand the rifle the examiner
saying, “This rifle is unloaded.”
Note: The rifle is not to be cocked.
2 Loading Rifle 1. Remind the student that the 1. Standard:
insertion of pellets is to be Pass – No mistakes.
simulated and therefore the rifle is
Fail – Any mistakes.
not to be fully cocked.

2. Ask the student why the rifle The Cadet/CFAV is to


should not be fired if it does not be told that no time limit
contain a pellet. is imposed.

3. Order the position to be


adopted.

4. Order “Load”. Without further


direction, the student is to:
a. Break the barrel/open the lever
without fully cocking the rifle.
b. Simulate inserting a pellet.
c. Close the barrel/lever and apply
the safety catch, if fitted.
5 Unloading Rifle 1. Order “Unload”. 1. Standard:
Pass – No mistakes.
2. Without further direction the
6-11
Test No Subject Stores Conditions Marking
(a) (b) (c) (d) (e)
student is to: Fail – Any mistakes.
a. Point the rifle in the safe
direction. The Cadet/CFAV is to be
b. Break the barrel/open the lever told that no time limit is
(without recocking the rifle). imposed.
c. Lay rifle down.

6-12
CHAPTER 7 - AIR RIFLE – TARGETRY
AIR ARMS TS25 SCREEN

7001. Aim. To teach the components and set up of the Air Arms TS25 Screen.

7002. Timings. Two 40 minute periods.

7003. Method. A lesson best taken in a the Contingent/Detachment (or on an indoor


Range or on an outside area).

7004. Stores.

TS25 Screen Complete 1 Screen


Pointer 1
Chairs As Required

7005. Preparation.

a. Ensure screen is operational.


b. Set out chairs as required.

7006. Miscellaneous. When describing the screen, the instructor is to name the
different parts and their purpose.

Preliminaries

7007. Safety Precautions. Aspects of the equipment contain sharp edges and
protrusions. Care should be taken to prevent eye injury.

7008. Organise the students and explain that at certain stages of the demonstration they
will be required to move around the screen and adopt demonstration formations.

7009. Revision. Nil.

Introduction

7010. Explain. The TS25 is a portable target screen and pellet catcher fitted with
adjustable height bar encompassing multiple paper target holder and pellet catcher's and
has been procured and issued to Cadet Forces to assist in facilitating low level
marksmanship training at Contingent/Detachment level.

Set Up Location

7011. Explain. The TS25 is to be set up in accordance with Cadet Training Ranges and
DSA 03 OME Pt 3 Chapter 22. In addition, the following rules are to be enforced:

7-1
a. The screen may be set up either indoors with the firing point being a
distance of 5.5m from muzzle to target, or outdoors 5.5m or 10m from muzzle to
target.

b. If erected inside, the room needs to be long enough to allow a firer


to adopt the prone position, so will need to be at least 7.5m or more.

d. The screen is 2.5m wide. When erecting the screen, care is required to
ensure that there are no obstructions, such as columns, partitions, or fixtures near
the Line of Sight (LofS) that may form a ricochet hazard i.e., a radiator, metal
locker or light switches. A clear height of at least 600mm above the LofS at the
firing point and 250mm above the LofS at the Target is essential. Sides must
provide a minimum of 500mm clearance from each flank LofS. The room will need
to be at least 3.5m wide.

e. All doors and windows of the room are to be secured and the RCO is to
control the access into and out of the room at all times.

f. If erected outside the same firing distances apply. However, consideration


must be made to prevent a person from entering into the AR RDA. Therefore, the
Danger Area should be marked out the same way as taught for a temp outdoor
range.

g. Only the Air Weapons procured through the Cadets (BSA Scorpion, Air
Arms CZ200 and Gamo) may be used with the screens and only pellets that have
been procured through the Cadets.

h. Safety glasses manufactured to EN 166:2001 that are in serviceable


condition are to be worn at all times.

7012. Confirm by questions.

The Screen

7013. Explain. The TS25 Screen comprises of the following:

Target Bar and Pellet Catcher Assembly

Item No Part Number Description Qty


1 TS17 Pellet Catcher Mounting Boss 6
2 TS16-25 2.5m Mounting Bar 1
3 TS18-R Mounting Bar Bracket (Right Handed) 1
4 TS18-L Mounting Bar Bracket (Left Handed) 1
5 TS14 Pellet Catcher 3
6 TS15 Target Holder Assembly 3
7 RW35 M5 Washer 12
8 TS16-1 Mounting Bar Inner PVC Shield Assembly 2
7-2
9 TS16-2 Mounting Bar Outer PVC Shield Assembly 2
10 TS20-1 No. 8 x 1 ¼” Woodscrew 6
11 TS20 No. 10 x 1 ¼” Woodscrew 6
12 KDT008 M5 NYLOC Nut 6
13 KDT009 M5 x 12 Hex Set Bolt 6
14 TS28 Pellet Catcher Toweling Assembly 3
15 TS16-4 Mounting Bar PVC Shield Retaining Coord 8

7014. Confirm by questions.

Main Target Screen Assembly

Item No Part Number Description Qty


1 TS07A-R Frame Upright Right Hand Assembly 1
2 SNKR20 Bung 8
34 TS01-4 End Panel Foam Stand Off 10
5 TS06-1 Foot Front Protector 2
6 TS24 Mounting Bracket Boss 12
7 TS23 Frame Bottom Brace Assembly 1
8 TS07A-L Frame Upright Left Hand Assembly 1
9 TS07-2 Round Bung 4
10 TS13A Frame Top Bar 2.5m Assembly 1
11 TS22 Antiluce 4
12 TS23-7 Top Antiluce Spacer 2
13 TS01-2 PVC Screen Type 3 1
14 TS01-2 PVC Screen Type 3 1
7-3
15 TS01-1 PVC Screen Type 2 3
16 TS01-3 Screen Backing Strip 7
17 TS01 PVC Screen Type 1 3
18 TS01-5 Cord 1
19 TS23-6 Top Antiluce Removable Spacer 2
20 TS04 Guy Line Slider 2
21 SNKR06 M8 x 50 Hex Bolt 12
22 T3022 M12 Washer 2
23 T3022 M12 Washer 4
24 T1006 M12 Nyloc Nut 4
25 RW27 ¼ x ¾ x 17G 10
26 TS11 M6 x 65 Hex Bolt 8
27 RW13 M6 Nyloc Nut 10
28 SNKR19 M6 x 40 Bolt 2
29 TS29 Thread Protector 2
30 TS31 Folder 1

7015. If any damage is found it should be returned to the QM and replaced BEFORE
USE.

7-4
7016. Confirm by questions.

Assembling the Target Screen

7017. Explain. The target screen and pellet catcher construction comprises of the
following.

a. 1 x right handed side bar assembly (LH example).


b. 1 x left handed side bar assembly (Fig 7-1).
c. 1 x top bar assembly, fitted with the main curtains (Fig 7-2).
d. 1 x bottom bar assembly (Fig 7-3).
e. 1 x target bar assembly (Fig 7-4).
f. 3 x target holder assemblies with pellets catchers, shown fitted in (Fig 7-
5).

7018. Assembly is to be carried out with two people as the top bar assembly is heavy
and can be difficult to manoeuvre.

Fig 7-2

Fig 7-2

Fig 7-1

7-5
Fig 7-3

Fig 7-4

Fig 7-5

7019. Confirm by questions.

7020. Explain. The 4 main assembly bars of the screen are held together and locked in
place using antiluce catches (Fig 6). The picture on the left shows the antiluce open and
ready to assembly or disassemble the screen. The picture on the right show the antiluce
locked in position after assembly.

Fig 7-6

7021. Explain and Practice. First lay the components out on the floor as shown in the
picture below (Fig 7-7). Lay the top bar assembly on the floor with the screens facing
down. The bar should be on top of the screens with the back plates visible.

7-6
Fig 7-7

7022. The two side bar assemblies are held either side at the bottom of the screens,
with the string on the outside edge and the antiluce pointing away from the curtains.
The bottom bar is placed between the feet of the side bars.

7023. Each corner of the screen has a number 1-4. Looking at the finished assembly
from the front Number 1 is the bottom left corner, number 2 is the top left corner, number
3 is the top right corner and number 4 is the bottom right corner. The top, bottom and
side bars have a number at each end. When assembling the frame, the number on each
component must be matched with the joining piece, e.g., number 1 at the foot of the side
bar is matched with number 1 on the left end of the bottom bar, see Fig 7-7 a to d below.
Fig 7-7 b shows the top left corner.

7024. First fit the bottom bar to the side bars. There are two holes in the plates at each
end of the bottom bar assembly. The large top hole fits over the antiluce at the bottom
of the side bar assembly, the second hole fits over the location pin below the antiluce
lock. Once the plate is pushed back the anitluce catch can be turned and locked into
place.

Fig 7-7 a Fig 7-7 b

7-7
Fig 7-7 c Fig 7-7 d

7025. The target bar location bosses should be on the outside of the frame.

7026. Lay the side bars and bottom over the top of the PVC screens, the top of the side
bars are now next to the end of the top bar assembly (Fig 7-8).

7027. The antiluce can now be passed through the fitting hole in the top bar and the two
locating pins can be positioned. Once the plate is pushed back to the bar, the antiluce
can be locked in place.

Fig 7-8

7028. The frame can now be raised into the upright position. The best way io do this is
with two people, one person on each side of the frame. This way the weight is spread
evenly (Fig 7-9 and 7-10).

7-8
Fig 7-9

Fig 7-10

7029. CAUTION: THE ASSEMBLED SCREEN IS HEAVY; CARE MUST BE TAKEN


WHEN LIFTING.

7030. ONCE THE SCREEN IS ERECTTED IT WILL BE TOP HEAVY, CARE MUST BE
TAKEN WHEN MOVING THE SCREENS. FINAL POSITIONING SHOULD BE
ACHIEVED BY CAREFULLY MOVING THE FRAME INTO PLACE BY TWO PEOPLE.

7031. THE SCREEN ASSEMBLY SHOULD NOT BE LIFTED OFF OF THE FLOOR
DUE TO THE TOP HEAVY NATURE OF THE ASSEMBLY
7-9
7032. Next attach the bungee line around the back of the side bars and fix the loop over
the pin on the plate. Pull the bungee tab to take up any slack in the line (Fig 7-11 & 7-
12).

Fig
Fig7-11
16 Fig 7-12

7033. The knot in the bungee must be in the correct position at the front on the screen,
the arrows on the pictures below show how the knot should be placed (Fig 7-13 Correct
& 7-14 Incorrect).

Fig 7-13 Fig 7-14

7034. Ensure that the PVC screens are correctly aligned, i.e., covering the upright frame
and no gaps between each screen.

7035. Once the framework has been placed in its final position, the bottom lips of the
PVC screens must be folded under the frame. Failure to do this may result in unwanted
ricochets (Fig 7-15).

Fig 7-15

7-10
7036. THERE SHOULD BE NO GAPS UNDER THE PVC SCREENS.

Target Holder Assembly

7037. Explain and practice. The target holder assembly comprises of three pellet
catchers and target holders mounted to a wooden bar (Fig 7-16). The wooden bar can
be fitted to the Target Screens at three height positions. These are for standing, kneeling
and prone shooting. The fixings points on main target frame are on the outside edges of
each upright bar assemblies.

Fig7- 16

7038. The target bar is fitted to the screen by hooking onto the bosses on each side of
the frame. The bracket at each end of the target bar slides into the boss and is pushed
down to lock into place (Fig 7-17 and 7-18).

Fig 7-17 Fig 7-18

7039. The pellet catcher & target holder assemblies are mounted on the wooded bar by
means of a boss attachment. In the back of the pellet catcher there are two key shaped
holes, these holes hook onto the bosses on the wooden bar and then slide down into
position (Fig 7-19).

7-11
7040. The keyway hole in the back of the pellet catcher hooks over the mounting boss
fixed to the target bar and is then pushed down to lock in place. One area requires
extra mention. The mounting boss (No.1 below) for the pellet catcher must not be over
tightened, this may pull the boss into the wood and make it difficult to slide the pellet
catcher over the boss (Fig 7-19).

Fig 7-19

7041. The above picture at Fig 19 has been cut away to show the boss detail.

7042. When the frame is complete and ready for use all potential ricochets areas are
protected. The hanging screens shield the main structure. The target bar is protected in
between the catchers with PVC shielding (Fig 7-20).

Fig 7-20

7-12
7043. The feet of the frame have 20mm of foam (Fig 7-21), over the metal work to
prevent any bounce back from the pellets.

Fig 7-21

7044. The PVC shielding on the target bar is held in place using shock cord to avoid
ricochets. The bottom of the screen assembly also uses shock cord to ensure correct
overlap of the PVC screens and reduce movement in light winds.

7045. ENSURE ALL SHIELDING AND PROTECTION IS IN GOOD CONDITION AND


FITTED CORRECTLY.

7046. Ensure that the foot protection is in place, covering the entire forward section of
the foot. Also check to ensure that the foam is in good condition.

7047. Ensure the PVC target bar protectors are in the correct position with the outside
protectors butting up against the pellet catchers, also ensure that the PVC is in good
condition.

7048. The finished Target Screen (Fig 7-2).

7049. Once the screen is in use it will be subject to wear and tear. Careful monitoring
and inspection of all components must take place with each use. Parts must be replaced
as required.

Guy line Use

7050. If the screen is to be used outdoors, the guy lines MUST be fitted. The screen
must also be positioned on even ground to maintain stability. Make sure the frame is well
supported until the guy lines are securely fixed using the pegs supplied with the kit.

7-13
7051. Wind and uneven ground will make the frame very unstable if not correctly
secured.

7052. The guy line assembly consist of 3 components as follows (Fig 7-22, 7-23 and 7-
24):

a. The protection Sleeve (TS03-1).


b. The guy lines (TS03).
c. The guy line slider (TS04).
d. Top antiluce removable spacer (TS23-6).
e. Fixing Pegs (TS05).

Fig 7-22

Fig 7-23

Fig 7-24
7-14
Collapsing the Target Screen

7053. Explain and practice. To take down the Target Screen reverse the process to
assembly the Target Screen (para 7020 to 7052).

Conclusion

7054. End of Lesson Drills.

a. Questions from the squad on the entire lesson.

b. Confirm by final practice, if required and time permits.

c. Pack kit.

d. Summary.

7-15
TS25 SCREEN CHECK LIST

7-16
CADET AIR RIFLE INDOOR TARGET SCREEN (CARITS)

7055. Aim. To teach the components and set up of the CARITS.

7056. Timings. One 40 minute period.

7057. Method. A lesson best taken in a the Contingent/Detachment (or on an indoor


Range or on an outside area).

7058. Stores.

CARITS Complete 1 screen


Pointer 1
Chairs As Required

7059. Preparation.

a. Ensure screen is operational.


b. Set out chairs as required.

7060. Miscellaneous. When describing the screen, the instructor is to name the
different parts and their purpose.

Preliminaries

7061. Safety Precautions. Aspects of the equipment contain sharp edges and
protrusions. Care should be taken to prevent eye injury.

7062. Organise the students and explain that at certain stages of the demonstration they
will be required to move around the screen and adopt demonstration formations.

7063. Revision. Nil.

Introduction

7064. Explain. The CARITS is a portable target screen encompassing a multiple paper
target holder and pellet catcher and has been procured and issued to Cadet Forces to
assist in facilitating low level marksmanship training at Detachment level.

Set Up Location

7065. Explain. The CARITS is to be set up in accordance with Cadet Force Standing
Order 35021 and DSA 03 OME Pt 3 Chapter 22.

1 Approval and Management of Army Cadet Air Rifle Ranges Issued 15 June 2023.
7-17
The Screen

7066. The CARITS can be used indoors or (exceptionally) outdoors in dry and/or
covered conditions. It must be noted that the back board is only designed to capture
pellets with the Cone of Fire (CoF) for a prone, kneeling or sitting positions at 5.5m (Fig
7-25). Firing from the Standing position is not permitted.

Fig 7-25

7067. The target holder is smaller than the NSRA standard size. BSA single spot
targets are to be used as issued. In exception, an NSRA AIR 5.5m target may be
trimmed to fit the holder, so that the centre aiming mark is in the centre of the card. In
this case only the centre diagram (aiming mark) can be fired upon.

7068. Confirm by questions.

Assembling the CARITS

7069. Explain. The CARITS and pellet catcher construction comprises of the following
(Fig 7-26):

a. 3 x Screen panels.
b. 4 x Support feet.
c. 1 x Ballistic curtain.
d. 1x Target Bracket.

7070. Confirm by questions.

7-18
Fig 7-26

7071. Explain and Practice. To assembly the CARITS carryout the following:

a. Check that all slot fixings are secure on Panel A, B and C. (Fig 7-27).
b. Check all button fixings are secure on Panel A, B and C (Fig 7-27).

Front Side

A B C

7-19
Fig 7-27

A B C

Fig 7-28

c. Assemble Panels together by locking Green Lugs on Panel B into black


key slots on Panel A. Repat for Panel C and B (Fig 7-34).

A C

Fig 7-29

7-20
d. Insert 4 x support feet into slots in panels A and C and ensure they are
fitted securely (Fig 7-29).

f. Fix ballistic curtain onto top rail using the Velcro strip provided (Fig 7-30).

Fig 7-36

Fig 7-31

7-21
g. Place metal target holder over the “T” bracket and hook over central screw
to secure (Fig 7-32 and 33).

7-41
Fig 7-32 Fig 7-33

h. For additional safety fit base board to rear of unit to close off floor gap
(see arrow) (Fig 7-34).

Fig 7-34

7-22
7072. Explain. This is a natural wood product that can become adversely effected by its
surrounding conditions. Please keep dry and away from heat sources. Store flat if
disassembled or upright if assembled.

7073. Once the screen is in use it will be subject to wear and tear. Careful monitoring
and inspection of all components must take place with each use. Parts must be replaced
as required (Fig 7-35).

Fig 7-35

Collapsing the CARITS

7074. Explain and practice. To take down the CARITS reverse the process to assembly
the screen (para 7069).

Conclusion

7075. End of Lesson Drills.

a. Questions from the squad on the entire lesson.

b. Confirm by final practice, if required and time permits.

c. Pack kit.

d. Summary.

7-23

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