TM-9-2350-311-10

TM 9-2350-311-10

2–12

PREPARATION FOR FIRING — CONTINUED

2-12.7

Direct Fire Procedures

a. General

Direct fire on targets located closer than 875 yards (800 m) from the howitzer will be fired on

during combat situations only. Lethal fragments can travel up to 656 yards (600 m) from point of

burst causing injury to personnel.

Direct fire is used against either stationary or moving targets at close range (normally less than 2,187 yards (2,000 m)).

The section will usually fire the HE projectile and highest authorized charge. Either fuze quick, delay, or time maybe

used. Fuze quick is best against close-in targets.

There are three direct fire techniques:

Two man/two sight

Two man/one sight

One man/one sight

The two man/two sight technique is the primary means of direct fire. One man/one sight is least effective. All three

techniques will be covered in the following pages. The next steps apply to all three direct fire techniques.

All numbered cannoneers perform the same duties in direct fire as they do during indirect fire missions.

Driver’s hatch cover must be closed to guard against pressure from cannon blast.

2 Driver must be in driver’s compartment with engine operating and ready to move howitzer, if necessary.

b. Two Man/Two Sight

System

NOTE

When command to engage in direct fire is given, chief of section is in complete control and

directs firing of this section.

Chief of section first identifies designated target. If target consists of several weapons, chief of section

selects target that is the greatest threat to position.

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