Question

Describe the objective and method of the Trigger Operation Exercise No. 3.

Hint:

Trigger Operation Exercise No. 3 is the ultimate dry-firing practice. It combines a steady hold, breath restraint, and a smooth trigger squeeze, with the goal of keeping the rifle barrel absolutely still.

Answer 1

Step 1: Identifying the Core Concept of Trigger Control:
In weapon training (using the $.22\text{ Deluxe}$ rifle or $7.62\text{ mm}$ SLR), accurate shooting is impossible without a steady trigger squeeze. To teach cadets how to squeeze the trigger without jerking or moving the rifle barrel, specific dry-practice exercises are conducted.

Step 2: Understanding the Objective (Object) of Exercise No. 3:
According to the official NCC Weapon Training Manual, the objective of Trigger Operation Exercise No. 3 is:
• To practice and master the complete co-ordination of correct holding, breathing control (breath restraint), and smooth, independent trigger operation, with zero movement or quiver in the rifle barrel during dry firing.

Step 3: Detailing the Step-by-Step Method:
The exercise is executed systematically using the following method:
• Initial Preparation: The rifle is completely unloaded, the safety catch is set to 'Safe' (S), and the magazine is removed. The cadet assumes the standard comfortable lying position.
• Steady Hold and Alignment: The cadet achieves a firm, steady hold, forming the stable horizontal and vertical body triangles on the ground. The butt plate is bedded firmly into the shoulder joint.
• Breathing Restraint: Just before taking the final aim, the cadet takes a normal breath, partially exhales, and then gently restrains their breathing to stabilize the chest and rifle.
• Trigger Finger Placement: The index finger is placed on the trigger so that the trigger is contacted midway between the first and second joints of the finger.
• Smooth Squeeze and Hold: The right-hand grip remains extremely steady. The cadet independently moves only the index finger, taking up the first pressure (halka khichav) and then smoothly squeezing back to release the second pressure (sakht khichav).
• Follow-Through verification: During and immediately after the click, no discernible movement or quiver of the rifle barrel is permitted. The hold, head position, and trigger finger are kept completely static for $2$ seconds to build muscle memory.