B-GL-371-008FP-001 Gun Drill 105mm Howitzer C3 2001.pdf

Loading ...
Global Do...
News & Politics
GUN DRILL, 105
C3 
ARTILLERY IN BATTLE 
 
FIELD ARTILLER
 
(ENGLISH) 
 
 
 
(This publication supercedes B-G
 
WA
ALTHOUGH NOT CLASSIFIED THIS
MAY BE EXEMPT FROM DISCLOSU
ACCESS TO INFORMATION ACT. AN
CONTAINED HEREIN MUST BE CLO
WHETHER OR NOT THE PUBLICAT
RELEASED.
Issued on Authority of the Chief
 
 
 

B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
 mm HOWITZER, 
 
Y 
L-306-011/PT-001, 1974-01-15) 
RNING 
 PUBLICATION, OR ANY PART OF IT, 
RE TO THE PUBLIC UNDER THE 
Y ELEMENTS OF INFORMATION 
SELY SCRUTINIZED TO ASCERTAIN 
ION OR ANY PART OF IT MAY BE 
 of the Land Staff 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
GUN DRILL, 105 mm HOWITZER, 
C3 
 
ARTILLERY IN BATTLE 
 
FIELD ARTILLERY 
 
(ENGLISH) 
 
 
 
(This publication supercedes B-GL-306-011/PT-001, 1974-01-15) 
 
WARNING 
ALTHOUGH NOT CLASSIFIED THIS PUBLICATION, OR ANY PART OF IT, 
MAY BE EXEMPT FROM DISCLOSURE TO THE PUBLIC UNDER THE 
ACCESS TO INFORMATION ACT. ANY ELEMENTS OF INFORMATION 
CONTAINED HEREIN MUST BE CLOSELY SCRUTINIZED TO ASCERTAIN 
WHETHER OR NOT THE PUBLICATION OR ANY PART OF IT MAY BE 
RELEASED.
OPI: DAD 7 
2001-05-21 
Issued on Authority of the Chief of the Land Staff 


Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
PREFACE 
GENERAL 
1. 
This manual is written primarily for detachment 
commanders and instructors.  The duties of the Gun Position Officer 
(GPO) are given in B-GL-371-004/FP-001, Duties at Regimental 
Headquarters and the Gun Position, and are not described in this 
manual unless a description is necessary to understand the duties of 
the detachment. 
2. 
Maintenance which is part of detachment drill is described 
in Chapter 7.  For a general description of the howitzer and 
ammunition, together with full details of routine maintenance and 
the action of all working parts, reference should be made to B-GL-
371-009/Fp-001, Field Artillery, Handbook of Equipment and 
Ammunition, 105 mm Howitzer. 
3. 
Throughout this manual, the term gun and howitzer are 
synonymous. 
4. , , etc. are used throughout this manual to refer to specific 
gun detachment members, i.e. Number 1, Number 2, etc., although 
in a few cases this usage also refers to the guns themselves, e.g.  is 
the Number 4 Gun.  In the latter case, it will be clear from the 
context that the reference is to the gun rather than to detachment 
members. 
5. This publication is available electronically at  http://lfdts-6a.d-
kgtn.dnd.ca/ael/publications.asp?tab=370 on the Defence 
Information Network (DIN) or at www.army.dnd.ca/ael on the 
World Wide Web.
 
i
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
TABLE OF CONTENTS 
PREFACE 
General ..........................................................................................i 
CHAPTER 1 
GENERAL DUTIES 
Duties of  ...................................................................................1 
Duties of  ...................................................................................2 
Duties of  ...................................................................................3 
Duties of  ...................................................................................3 
Duties of  ...................................................................................3 
Duties of  ...................................................................................3 
Duties of  ...................................................................................4 
CHAPTER 2 
GUN DRILL 
Introduction ..................................................................................5 
To Form Detachment Rear (or Front)...........................................6 
To Tell Off....................................................................................7 
To Change Round.........................................................................7 
To Move the Gun..........................................................................7 
To Mount and Dismount...............................................................9 
To Clamp and Unclamp the Cradle ............................................10 
To Open and Close the Breech ...................................................10 
To Prepare for Action .................................................................11 
To Come Into Action..................................................................16 
Positions in Action......................................................................21 
Passage of Orders .......................................................................22 
To Direct the Movement of the Trails ........................................23 
To Move the Trails .....................................................................24 
To Run Up ..................................................................................25 
To Lay in the Centre of Arc........................................................26 
To Record Centre of Arc ............................................................30 
To Record Centre of Arc at Night ..............................................33 
 
iii
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
To Plant Aiming Posts................................................................33 
To Plant Aiming Posts During a Night Occupation ...................35 
To Check Bearing.......................................................................37 
To Measure the Angle of Sight to a Crest ..................................39 
To Load ......................................................................................39 
To Unload...................................................................................44 
To Lay ........................................................................................46 
To Measure the Quadrant Elevation ...........................................53 
To Fire ........................................................................................54 
Misfires.......................................................................................57 
To Record a Target.....................................................................61 
To Check Firing..........................................................................63 
To Stand Fast..............................................................................63 
To Cease Loading.......................................................................63 
To Make Safe .............................................................................63 
To Rest .......................................................................................64 
Stand Easy/End of Mission ........................................................65 
To Take Post...............................................................................66 
To Prepare to Advance (or Withdraw) .......................................66 
To Empty Guns ..........................................................................66 
To Cease Firing and Hook In .....................................................68 
Drill With Reduced Detachments...............................................71 
Drill With Damaged Equipment.................................................71 
Precautions to be Observed When Firing Blank 
Ammunition ........................................................................72 
CHAPTER 3 
ANTI-TANK DRILL 
Preparation for Opening Fire ......................................................73 
Application of Fire .....................................................................76 
Anti-tank Laying ........................................................................82 
Anti-tank Duties .........................................................................82 
Anti-tank Gun Drill ....................................................................86 
The One-man Lay Method .........................................................88 
 
iv
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
CHAPTER 4 
LAYING 
The Panoramic Telescope...........................................................89 
The Elbow Telescope .................................................................91 
Sight Setting ...............................................................................91 
Choice of Gun Aiming Points 1 and 2........................................95 
Point of Aim ...............................................................................96 
Sequence of Laying ....................................................................98 
To Change From One Aiming Point to Another.......................101 
To Reposition the Slipping Scale .............................................102 
To Complete a Deferred Centre of Arc Record ........................102 
Night Laying.............................................................................103 
CHAPTER 5 
SIGHT TESTING 
Notes.........................................................................................105 
Types of Test ............................................................................105 
Preparation for Tests.................................................................106 
Periodic Tests ...........................................................................110 
The Quick Sight Tests ..............................................................116 
Bore Sight and Elevation Tests.................................................119 
Zeroing .....................................................................................125 
CHAPTER 6 
MANHANDLING AND WINCHING 
Introduction ..............................................................................129 
Manhandling.............................................................................129 
Winching ..................................................................................132 
CHAPTER 7 
INSPECTION AND PREVENTIVE 
MAINTENANCE 
General .....................................................................................135 
Aims of Inspection....................................................................135 
Inspection Procedure ................................................................135 
Preventive Maintenance ...........................................................142 
 
v
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
ANNEX A 
DENIAL OF MILITARY EQUIPMENT 
AND SUPPLIES TO THE ENEMY 
Definitions ................................................................................147 
General .....................................................................................147 
Temporary Disablement ...........................................................148 
Destruction ...............................................................................149 
Reporting ..................................................................................149 
Procedure..................................................................................149 
ANNEX B 
CONSTRUCTION OF GUN PITS 
Basic Dimensions .....................................................................151 
Method of Construction............................................................151 
ANNEX C 
THE GUN POSITION OFFICER'S 
INITIAL SEQUENCE OF ORDERS 
ANNEX D 
FIRE PLANS 
General .....................................................................................157 
Preparation of Ammunition ......................................................157 
Sight Testing.............................................................................157 
Timings.....................................................................................157 
Duties of  ...............................................................................158 
Gun Program ............................................................................159 
ANNEX E 
ARTILLERY SALUTES 
General .....................................................................................163 
Precautions ...............................................................................163 
Preparations ..............................................................................163 
Misfires.....................................................................................164 
Drill for Misfires ......................................................................164 
Drill for Jammed Cartridges .....................................................165 
Fire Discipline ..........................................................................166 
 
vi
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
ANNEX F 
OPEN ACTIONS AND SNIPING GUNS 
Open Action..............................................................................169 
Sniping Gun..............................................................................172 
ANNEX G 
INFINITY AIMING REFERENCE 
Collimator M1A1 .....................................................................179 
Setting Up the Collimator.........................................................181 
Record Centre of Arc................................................................181 
Drill ..........................................................................................182 
Laying.......................................................................................183 
ANNEX H 
FIRST AID TREATMENT FOR WHITE 
PHOSPHORUS BURNS 
General .....................................................................................185 
First Aid Treatment ..................................................................185 
ANNEX I 
RADIATION AND POISONING 
HAZARDS OF INSTRUMENTS USING 
RADIOACTIVE LIGHT SOURCES 
General .....................................................................................187 
Safety Precautions ....................................................................187 
ANNEX J 
REFERENCES AND 
STANDARDIZATION AGREEMENTS..189 
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS ........................................................191 
 
vii
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
TABLE OF FIGURES 
Figure 2-1:  Signals for Controlling Vehicle Movement ....................18 
Figure 2-2:  Signals for Directing Movement of the Trails ................24 
Figure 2-3:  Signals Used by  for Planting Aiming Posts ................34 
Figure 2-4:  Approximate Angular Values for an Average Hand .......48 
Figure 2-5:  Normal Indirect Laying Sequence ..................................49 
Figure 2-6:  Indirect Laying Sequence Using the Gunner's 
Quadrant..........................................................................50 
Figure 2-7:  Two-man, Two-sight Method—Sequence of Laying .....52 
Figure 2-8:  One-man Lay Method—Sequence of Laying .................53 
Figure 2-9:  Summary of Causes of Misfires......................................60 
Figure 2-10:  's Target Record .........................................................62 
Figure 3-1:  Initial Leads for a Crossing Target .................................78 
Figure 3-2:  Vertical Displacement in Feet per 100 Metres 
Change in Range .............................................................81 
Figure 4-1:  Displacement Laying ......................................................97 
Figure 4-2:  Normal Indirect Laying Sequence ..................................99 
Figure 4-3:  Quadrant Laying Sequence ...........................................100 
Figure 5-1:  Sight Picture for Standard Angle Test ..........................116 
Figure 5-2:  The Target Testing Sight ..............................................120 
Figure 5-3:  The Elbow Telescope....................................................124 
Figure B-1:  Gun Pit Construction....................................................153 
Figure C-1:  The GPO's Initial Sequence of Orders .........................155 
Figure D-1:  Example of Gun Program ............................................161 
Figure E-1:  The GPO's Sequence of Orders for a Royal Salute ......167 
Figure F-1:  The GPO's Initial Sequence of Orders for an Open 
Action ...........................................................................170 
Figure F-2:  Range/Elevation Table for Charge 7 ............................177 
Figure G-1:  Collimator M1A1.........................................................180 
Figure G-2:  Initial Alignment ..........................................................182 
Figure G-3:  Right Displacement......................................................184 
 
ix
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
CHAPTER 1 
GENERAL DUTIES 
GENERAL 
1. 
The following summary of principal duties is not a 
comprehensive list, but is intended as a guide to detachment 
commanders and instructors. 
DUTIES OF  
2. 
 commands the detachment and is responsible for the 
entire service of the howitzer.  Normally  acts directly on the 
orders of the GPO, but during anti-tank engagements is responsible 
for fire control after the GPO has ordered "ENGAGE". 
3. 
When gun programs are in use,  controls the fire of the 
gun in accordance with the written detail of the gun program, but 
acts immediately on any verbal orders from the GPO. 
4. 
 ensures that detachment equipment is, in all respects, 
serviceable.  Detachment members are responsible to  for the 
completeness and serviceability of parts and stores which they 
examine at preparation for action and examination of equipment.  
 reports any defects in equipment or ammunition to the GPO or 
Troop Leader. 
5. 
 ensures that the gun is, at all times, laid at the correct 
bearing, gun correction and elevation, and checks that fuze and 
charge are correct before loading. 
6. 
 orders the gun loaded and fired. 
7. 
 supervises the preparation and supply of ammunition, 
and reports any unserviceable ammunition to the GPO. 
8. 
 is responsible that the maximum protection is provided 
for the detachment, consistent with the efficient service of the gun. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
1
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
9. 
During pauses in firing,  supervises equipment 
maintenance, and directs clearing up salvage. 
10. 
During firing,  watches the action of the recoil 
mechanism, and corrects any faults as authorized. 
11. 
During firing,  ensures that the spades dig in evenly and 
that they are evenly supported. 
12. 
 arranges reliefs, and may order any member to rest if the 
service of the gun can be maintained without them. 
13. 
 is responsible for the following miscellaneous details: 
a. 
arranging camouflage as ordered by the GPO; 
b. 
recording details of the ammunition fired in each 
series; and 
c. 
destruction of unused propellant charges on the 
orders of the GPO. 
DUTIES OF  
14. 
 operates the breech and firing mechanism. 
15. 
 operates the right brake and ensures it is off before 
travelling. 
16. 
 sets the elevation and gun correction scales, and lays for 
elevation. 
17. 
During prolonged periods of firing,  cleans and lightly 
oils the breech and firing lock as opportunity offers. 
18. 
 fires the gun on order from . 
19. 
 operates the right axle lock and trail locking pin, and 
ensures they are correctly positioned for travelling or firing. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
2
General Duties 
20. 
 is responsible for clamping the cradle strut before 
travelling. 
DUTIES OF  
21. 
 sets the panoramic telescope at the bearing ordered, 
directs  in planting aiming posts and setting up the collimator, and 
lays for bearing. 
22. 
 operates the left brake and ensures it is off before 
travelling. 
23. 
 operates the left axle lock and trail locking pin, and 
ensures they are correctly positioned for travelling or firing. 
DUTIES OF  
24.  assembles and sets up the collimator. 
25.  assembles and plants the aiming posts, when ordered. 
26.  affixes and orients the aiming post lights. 
27. 
During a fire mission,  will load, alternating with  and 
. 
DUTIES OF  
28. 
, assisted by  and , prepares ammunition and loads 
the gun. 
DUTIES OF  
29. 
, assisted by  and , prepares ammunition and loads 
the gun. 
30. 
 lays the loudspeaker cable. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
3
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
DUTIES OF  
31. 
 is the detachment Second in Command (2IC). 
32. 
 operates the fuze setters. 
33. 
 prepares the charge and sets the fuze, if applicable, for 
all fire missions, as soon as the ammunition has been ordered. 
34. 
 ensures that the ammunition is kept clean, and is 
protected from dampness and extremes of temperature.
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
4
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
CHAPTER 2 
GUN DRILL 
INTRODUCTION 
1. 
General.  For the convenience of instructors and 
detachment commanders, explanatory notes are given at the 
beginning of certain sub-sections of this, and subsequent, chapters.  
During training, the contents of these notes should be explained 
indoors, informally around the gun, before instruction in drill is 
given.  Before beginning instruction in gun drill, the instructor 
should ensure that detachment members are familiar with the names 
of the relevant parts of the equipment, and understand how they are 
to be operated. 
2. 
Reduced Detachments.  Drill with reduced detachments 
should be practiced as soon as the detachments are proficient in the 
normal drill.  In the later stages of training, drill with reduced 
detachments should be regarded as normal rather than exceptional. 
3. 
Orientation Definitions: 
a. 
When the gun is hooked into the vehicle or when 
the gun has been unhooked, but the trail is not yet 
lowered to the ground, the term "front" refers to 
the direction in which the vehicle is pointing. 
b. 
When the trail is on the ground, the term "front" 
refers to the direction in which the muzzle is 
pointing. 
c. 
The terms “right”, “left” and “rear” are always 
used in relation to "front" as described in 
paragraph 3a. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
5
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
TO FORM DETACHMENT REAR (OR FRONT) 
4. 
Drill: 
a. 
On the order “DETACHMENT REAR (FRONT)”, 
the detachment falls in, in two ranks:  , , , 
and  from right to left in the front rank; ,  
and  in the rear rank covering ,  and  
respectively, with one space between ranks.  They 
dress by the right and stand at ease. 
b. 
With only six members,  takes the place 
normally occupied by . 
c. 
At detachment rear, when the gun is hooked to the 
vehicle, the front rank is three paces in rear of, and 
facing, the muzzle, with  covering the right gun 
wheel. 
d. 
At detachment rear, when the trails are on the 
ground, the front rank is one pace in rear of the 
lunette, with  covering the right gun wheel.  
They face the breech. 
e. 
At detachment front, when the gun is hooked to 
the vehicle, the front rank falls in three paces in 
front of the vehicle, with  covering the right 
vehicle wheel.  They face the direction the vehicle 
is pointing. 
f. 
At detachment front, when the trails are on the 
ground, the front rank falls in three paces in front 
of the muzzle, with  covering the right gun 
wheel.  They face the direction the muzzle is 
pointing. 
g. 
When the gun is hooked to the vehicle, the driver 
will fall in on his side of the vehicle in line with 
the door. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
6
Gun Drill 
TO TELL OFF 
5. 
On the order “TELL OFF”, the detachment commander 
numbers "one" in a clear voice, the member on the right in the rear 
rank numbers "two", the front rank member "three", and so on. 
TO CHANGE ROUND 
6. 
Drill: 
a. 
On the order “CHANGE ROUND”,  takes one 
pace to the left rear and one pace to the left.  The 
member on the left in the rear rank takes two short 
paces to the front. 
b. 
At the same time, the remainder of the front rank 
take two short paces to the right, and the remainder 
of the rear rank two short paces to the left. 
c. 
When the detachment consists of six members, the 
member on the left in the rear rank takes one pace 
to the left and one pace to the left front. 
TO MOVE THE GUN 
7. 
Notes: 
a. 
The drill described in paragraph 2 is used for 
moving the gun on firm level ground, e.g. in gun 
sheds or on parade squares.  On uneven ground, 
manhandling drill should be employed (see 
Chapter 6). 
b. 
The order “FOR GUN DRILL, PREPARE TO 
ADVANCE (RETIRE)” will normally be given 
when the detachment is in its position at 
detachment rear. 
c. 
If, after the gun has been moved to the front (or 
rear), it is desired to move it in the opposite 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
7
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
direction, the order “HALT” and “PREPARE TO 
RETIRE (ADVANCE)” is given. 
d. 
The order to move the gun is “WALK—
MARCH”.  This indicates that there is no attempt 
to keep in step.  The gun is moved by  and  
pushing in front, or in rear, of the shield, with , 
, , and  on the lifting handles. 
e. 
When the gun is to be moved without the vehicle, 
the order “RETIRE” means that the gun is to be 
moved trails first, i.e. in the direction in which the 
trail is pointing. 
f. 
On the order “ADVANCE”, the gun will be 
moved muzzle first, with the trails at waist height. 
8. 
Drill: 
a. 
On the order, “FOR GUN DRILL, PREPARE TO 
ADVANCE”, the detachment doubles to its 
position, , , , and  to the left of the 
equipment, ,  and  to the right, as follows: 
(1) 
 and  take up their positions in rear of 
the shield; 
(2) 
 is positioned to best supervise the 
movement of the gun; 
(3) 
, , , and  take up their position at 
the trails, the highest numbers nearest the 
lunette; and 
(4) 
the detachment stands at attention facing 
the front, even numbers on the right and 
odd numbers on the left. 
b. 
On the order “WALK”,  and  release the 
brakes,  orders “LIFT”, and , , , and  
raise the trails off the ground. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
8
Gun Drill 
c. 
On the order “MARCH”, the detachment moves 
the gun as directed by . 
d. 
On the order “HALT”,  and  cautiously apply 
the brakes,  orders “LOWER”, and , , , 
and  lower the trails gently to the ground. 
e. 
On the order “FOR GUN DRILL, PREPARE TO 
RETIRE”, the detachment acts as detailed above, 
except that all numbers face the rear, with  and 
 in front of the shield. 
f. 
On the order “PREPARE TO RETIRE”, when the 
detachment is facing the front, or “PREPARE TO 
ADVANCE”, when the detachment is facing the 
rear, , , , , and  turn inward about, 
while  and  move to the required positions at 
the shield. 
TO MOUNT AND DISMOUNT 
9. 
Drill: 
a. 
On the order “MOUNT”, the detachment doubles 
to the vehicle, odd numbers proceeding along the 
right side of the gun, even numbers along the left.  
The detachment mounts and sits in the vehicle 
facing inwards, as follows: 
(1) 
,  and  sit on the right, ,  and 
 on the left, lowest numbers nearest the 
tailgate; and 
(2) 
 sits beside the driver. 
b. 
On the order “DISMOUNT”, the detachment 
dismounts and takes up its position at detachment 
rear. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
9
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
TO CLAMP AND UNCLAMP THE CRADLE 
10. 
Consideration.  In order to avoid damage to the elevating 
and traversing gears, the cradle must always be clamped before 
travelling. 
11. 
Drill: 
a. 
To Clamp the Cradle.   unclamps the cradle 
locking strut from the firing position and clamps 
the cradle, assisted by  operating the elevating 
and traversing gears.   must inform  in which 
direction to move the barrel, e.g. "TRAVERSE 
RIGHT (LEFT)", "ELEVATE (DEPRESS"), 
"STEADY", "CLAMPED". 
b. 
To Unclamp the Cradle.  , assisted by  
easing the elevating and traversing gears, releases 
the retaining catch of the cradle locking strut, 
swings it clear, and secures it in the firing position. 
TO OPEN AND CLOSE THE BREECH 
12. 
Considerations: 
a. 
The breech block is held in the closed position by 
the retaining latch on the breech block operating 
lever. 
b. 
It is held in the open position by its own weight. 
c. 
When a round is inserted, the rim of the cartridge 
engages the extractor and causes the breech block 
to pivot on its axis, thus partially closing the 
breech. 
13. 
Drill: 
a. 
To Open the Breech.  With the left hand,  
grasps the spring loaded handle of the breech 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
10
Gun Drill 
block operating lever, pushes down on the handle 
to release the latch, and rotates the handle to the 
rear, releasing the lever when the breech block has 
reached its stops. 
b. 
To Close the Breech.  With the left hand,  
grasps the spring loaded handle of the breech 
block operating and rotates it in a forward 
direction until the retaining latch is engaged. 
TO PREPARE FOR ACTION 
14. 
Considerations: 
a. 
General: 
(1) 
The Command Post Officer (CPO) will 
normally order “PREPARE FOR 
ACTION” shortly before the guns move 
into action to ensure that the equipment 
is, in all respects, ready. 
(2) 
If time permits, and if the move into 
action is expected to be short, the CPO 
will normally order the quick sight test to 
be carried out at this time. 
b. 
Cover Definitions: 
(1) 
The Overall Cover completely covers the 
barrel group, recoil system, cradle, sight 
quadrant mounts, and traversing and 
elevating mechanisms. 
(2) 
The Breech Cover covers the breech 
mechanism, sight quadrant mounts, and 
cradle. 
(3) 
The Sight Cover covers only the 
panoramic telescope and mount when the 
gun is in action, to be used at night or in 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
11
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
inclement weather.  It is carried in the 
tool box. 
(4) 
The Quadrant Cover covers only the 
range quadrant when the gun is in action, 
to be used at night or in inclement 
weather.  It is carried in the tool box. 
15. 
Drill: 
a. 
Preparation: 
(1) 
On the order “PREPARE FOR 
ACTION”, the detachment dismounts. 
(2) 
 and  go to the rear of the shield,  
on the left,  on the right.  They apply 
the hand brakes and unlock the axle, at 
the same time checking the brakes and 
axle locks for ease of working. 
(3) 
, , , and  go to the trails, odd 
numbers on the right, even numbers on 
the left,  and  nearest the lunette. 
(4) 
 removes the cotter pin from the towing 
hook. 
(5) 
 releases the catch on the towing hook 
of the vehicle, and orders “LIFT”.  The 
trails are lifted clear of the hook.   then 
signals by raising his right arm or 
reporting “CLEAR”. 
(6) 
 signals (or orders) “ADVANCE”, and 
the vehicle is advanced 5 metres and 
halted. 
(7) 
 rotates the drawbar to the firing 
position while the trails are supported by 
,  and . 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
12
Gun Drill 
(8) 
 then orders “LOWER”, and the trails 
are lowered gently to the ground. 
(9) 
 unlocks the trails and fits the 
handspike into its socket. 
(10)  and  take up their positions,  on 
the handspike,  on the drawbar. 
(11)  orders “SPREAD”, and the trails are 
spread by  and . 
(12)  and , working at the breech, and  
and  working at the muzzle, remove the 
overall cover, if still fitted. 
(13)  folds the overall cover and places it in 
the vehicle. 
(14)  locks the right trail in the firing 
position and, assisted by , removes the 
breech cover, placing it alongside the 
right gun wheel.   unclamps the cradle 
lock strut. 
(15)  removes the muzzle cover and places it 
on the right axle, and removes the elbow 
telescope from its case and fits it. 
(16)  uncovers the bubbles of the quadrant 
mount, depresses the gun and opens the 
breech. 
(17)  locks the left trail in the firing position, 
and assists  in removing the breech 
cover and unclamping the cradle lock 
strut. 
(18)  fits the panoramic telescope and 
uncovers the mount bubbles. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
13
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
b. 
Examination: 
(1) 
 examines the bore and recoil system, 
and ensures that the detachment and 
equipment are, in all respects, ready for 
action. 
(2) 
 examines the range quadrant and sight 
scale, the elbow telescope, elevating gear, 
and the breech and firing gear. 
(3) 
 sets the elevation scale to zero and the 
sight scale to 300. 
(4) 
 closes the breech after  examines the 
bore, elevates or depresses the barrel to 
the approximate travelling position, 
covers the bubbles of the quadrant mount, 
removes the elbow telescope, fits the 
telescope in its case, replaces the muzzle 
cover, and places the breech cover on the 
cradle. 
(5) 
, assisted by , clamps the cradle lock 
strut in the travelling position, and 
replaces the breech cover.  then 
removes the right trail locking pin from 
the firing position and inserts it in the 
travelling position. 
(6) 
 examines the panoramic telescope and 
mount, sets the main scale micrometer 
and gunner's aid to zero, replaces the 
panoramic telescope, and leaves the 
telescope mount upright. 
(7) 
 examines the traversing gear and 
traverses the gun to the approximate 
travelling position. 
(8) 
 assists  in clamping the cradle lock 
strut and replacing the breech cover.   
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
14
Gun Drill 
then removes the left trail locking pin 
from the firing position and inserts it in 
the travelling position. 
(9) 
 obtains the breech cover from  and 
place it by the right wheel, and examines 
the aiming posts, aiming post lights, the 
right wheel and tire, and the collimator. 
NOTE 
To avoid damage to aiming posts when replacing them on 
the gun, the posts must be positioned properly in the canvas 
cover, and placed in the brackets with the cover flap 
outward and towards the front. 
(10)  examines the staff sections, and the 
left wheel and tire. 
(11) , assisted by , examines the stores 
and sorts the ammunition. 
c. 
Assembly: 
(1) 
 is on the handspike,  the drawbar. 
(2) 
 orders “CLOSE”, and the trails are 
closed. 
(3) 
 locks the trails in the travelling 
position and replaces the handspike on 
the left trail. 
(4) 
 and  lock the axle locks in the 
travelling position. 
d. 
Hooking In: 
(1) 
On completion of their tasks, the 
detachment takes up position as follows: 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
15
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
 where he can see the detachment and 
direct the vehicle into the required 
position;  and  kneeling beside the 
gun wheels, facing the rear,  on the 
right,  on the left; and , , , and 
 kneeling at the rear of the trails and 
facing the rear, in line with the lunette 
(odd numbers on the left, even numbers 
on the right, highest numbers nearest the 
lunette). 
(2) 
 directs the vehicle into the required 
position, and orders “HOOK IN”. 
(3) 
 orders “LIFT”.  , , , and  lift 
the trails. 
(4) 
 rotates the drawbar to the travelling 
position. 
(5) 
 and  release the brakes and push on 
the shield as necessary, and the gun is 
hooked in. 
(6) 
 locks the catch on the towing hook of 
the vehicle. 
(7) 
 fits the cotter pin. 
(8) 
The detachment then takes up its position 
at detachment rear,  calls for reports, 
then doubles to the CPO and reports any 
deficiencies and the ammunition state. 
TO COME INTO ACTION 
16. 
Considerations: 
a. 
When the guns are brought into action, the order or 
signal “ACTION” will be given as the guns 
approach the selected position.  Each gun platform 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
16
will normally be marked by a flag or m
 brings the gun into action with the te
mount directly over the marker.  When 
are not marked, the responsibility for ch
platform rests with . 
b. 
If the position is to be occupied by the i
method, the guns will be halted under c
to the gun position, and  (and possibl
be taken to the gun position.   will be
platform and will reconnoitre the route 
will then lead the gun into action as ord
Gun Position Officer (GPO). 
c. 
Although equipment is designed to with
use under service conditions, careful wo
driver and detachment can greatly reduc
of damage without loss of efficiency. 
CAUTION 
To reduce risk of an accident, no-one will walk back
when moving the trails. 
d. 
If the ground is difficult, the GPO/CPO
“NUMBER       .  DOUBLE-MAN NU
Any  may, at any time, order his deta
assist another detachment. 
e. 
The signals shown in Figure 2-1 are use
GPO/CPO and  for controlling the m
vehicles when coming into and out of a
Voice control is the simplest method at
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  

Gun Drill 
arker, and 
lescope 
positions 
oosing the 
ndependent 
over close 
y ) will 
 shown the 
to it.   
ered by the 
stand hard 
rk by the 
e the risk 
wards 
 will order 
MBER”.  
chment to 
d by the 
ovement of 
ction.  
 night. 
17
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
 
Ser 
 
 
Order
Signal
1 
 
"ACTION”
The hands are clenched and the arms 
extended straight to the front of the body, 
facing the required bearing of fire. 
2 
“HALT” 
Either arm is raised vertically above the 
head. 
3 
 
“ADVANCE”  faces the driver, extends the right arm to 
the front of the body, and brings the hand 
upwards and towards the face, bending the 
arm at the elbow. 
4 
 
“REVERSE”  places both arms in front of the body with 
elbows bent, with palms upright and towards 
the driver.  moves the forearms backward 
and forward as 
long as 
the reverse 
movement is required. 
4 
 
CHANGE
DIRECTION. 
 extends one arm, with the fist clenched, 
in line with the shoulder, in the direction in 
which the vehicle is to move. 
Figure 2-1:  Signals for Controlling Vehicle Movement 
17. 
Drill: 
a. 
The Approach: 
(1) 
Having received the order or signal 
“ACTION”,  dismounts on approaching 
the gun platform.  stands where he can 
see when the gun is in the required 
position, and can signal the driver that the 
gun has been unhooked.  ’s position 
will normally be to the right front of the 
towing vehicle. 
(2) 
When the gun is in the required position, 
 signals or orders “HALT” to the driver 
and orders “ACTION       “. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
18
Gun Drill 
(3) 
The detachment dismounts. 
b. 
Unhooking: 
(1) 
 and  go to the rear of the shield,  
on the left and  on the right.  They 
apply the handbrakes, unlock the axle, 
and lock the axle locks in the firing 
position. 
(2) 
, , , and  go to the trails, odd 
numbers on the right, even numbers on 
the left,  and  nearest the lunette. 
(3) 
 removes the cotter pin from the towing 
hook,  releases the towing hook and 
orders “LIFT”.  The trails are lifted clear 
of the hook.   then signals by raising his 
right arm, or reporting “CLEAR”. 
(4) 
 signals “ADVANCE”.  The vehicle is 
advanced 5 metres and halted. 
(5) 
 rotates the drawbar to the firing 
position while the trails are supported by 
,  and . 
(6) 
At ACTION REAR,  orders 
“LOWER”, and the trails are lowered 
gently to the ground. 
(7) 
At ACTION RIGHT (LEFT, FRONT),  
orders “TRAILS RIGHT (LEFT)”,  
and  (or  and ) move around the 
drawbar to avoid walking backwards, and 
the trails are moved in the direction 
ordered.   and  operate the 
handbrakes as required.  When the gun is 
pointing in the direction ordered,  
orders “HALT, LOWER”, and the trails 
are lowered gently to the ground. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
19
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
c. 
Positioning: 
(1) 
 unlocks the trails and fits the 
handspike into its socket. 
(2) 
 and  take up their positions,  on 
the handspike and  on the drawbar.   
orders “SPREAD”, and  and  spread 
the trails. 
(3) 
 locks the right trail in the firing 
position and, assisted by , removes and 
places the breech cover by the right gun 
wheel, and unclamps the cradle.  
removes the muzzle cover and places it 
on the right axle; opens the breech, 
ensures that the sight scale is set to 300 
and the elevation scale to zero; and 
uncovers and levels the bubbles. 
(4) 
 locks the left trail in the firing position, 
and assists  in removing the breech 
cover and unclamping the cradle lock 
strut.  fits the panoramic telescope; 
ensures that the main scale, micrometer 
and gunner's aid are set to zero; and 
uncovers and levels the bubbles. 
d. 
Positioning Stores and Ammunition: 
(1) 
 and  remove the tool chest from the 
vehicle and place it 5 metres in rear of the 
left trail. 
(2) 
 and  unload the stores and 
ammunition from the vehicle and place 
them in a convenient position in rear of 
the left trail. 
(3) 
 signals the vehicle to “DRIVE ON”, 
and the vehicle proceeds to the vehicle 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
20
Gun Drill 
area under the supervision of the Troop 
Sergeant Major (TSM). 
(4) 
 lays the loudspeaker cable, and takes 
the gun marker to the command post 
(CP).   connects the cable to the 
speaker. 
(5) 
 sets the respirator to achieve the 
correct buffer action during firing.  
Normal settings are: travelling and 
washing—0; low angle fire—0 or 1; and 
high angle fire—2 or 3. 
(6) 
 prepares the collimator and aiming 
posts. 
e. 
Considerations: 
(1) 
On the completion of its tasks, the 
detachment takes up its position in action. 
(2) 
When guns are to be fired at high angle, 
recoil pits, at least 30 cm (12 inches) 
deep, will be prepared.  After the gun is in 
the firing position, it will be elevated to 
maximum elevation, and a recoil pit, 
which will ensure sufficient clearance 
throughout the limits of traverse, will be 
dug.  The pit should be covered with 
planking or filled with sandbags when 
engaged in low angle fire to facilitate the 
loading of equipment. 
POSITIONS IN ACTION 
18. 
Drill: 
a. 
 kneels in a position to best supervise the work 
of the detachment, usually in rear of, and close to, 
the right trail. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
21
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
b. 
 stands to the right of the breech, close to and 
facing it, outside the trail. 
c. 
 stands on the left of the gun, facing the front, 
and outside the trail. 
d. 
, , , and  kneel 5 metres in rear of the left 
trail, and to the right of the tool box,  nearest the 
tool box. 
e. 
The detachment stands as required to perform its 
duties. 
PASSAGE OF ORDERS 
19. 
Considerations: 
a. 
The guns in action are numbered , , , etc. 
from right to left as viewed from the rear.  In case 
of doubt, due to dispersed siting, the GPO will 
allot numbers.  In all cases, these numbers stand 
throughout the action, regardless of the bearing in 
which the guns are laid. 
b. 
Orders will normally be passed and acknowledged 
through the loudspeaker system.  If this fails, 
orders will be passed by voice and acknowledged 
as follows: 
(1) 
s that are visible from the CP shall raise 
one hand vertically above the head; and 
(2) 
s that are not visible from the CP shall 
report “NUMBER” ____  in succession 
from the right. 
c. 
When orders are being passed by voice, each  
will look towards the next  on the side away 
from the CP, and will read back any orders which 
are not immediately acknowledged.  If  still fails 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
22
Gun Drill 
to acknowledge, the order will be read back by the 
GPO. 
d. 
Repetition of an order will be requested, or 
attention will be called to omissions or obvious 
verbal errors, by use of “VERIFY ______,” e.g. 
“VERIFY BEARING”. 
e. 
 will read back orders affecting the detachment, 
in a voice no louder than is necessary, only when 
the order has not been heard by the members 
concerned or when specially detailed in this 
manual. 
f. 
Reports from  to the GPO will be acknowledged 
by the GPO raising one hand vertically above the 
head, or by ordering “DOWN (NUMBER OF 
GUN(S))”. 
g. 
Orders from the GPO always take precedence over 
reports from . 
TO DIRECT THE MOVEMENT OF THE TRAILS 
 
NOTE 
Figure 2-2 shows the signals used for directing the 
movement of the trails. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
23
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
 
Ser 
 
 
 
Order
Signal
Action
1 
“TRAILS 
RIGHT 
(LEFT)” 
Arm extended 
towards the rear; 
palm of the hand 
turned in the 
direction required. 
 and  move trails in 
the direction indicated 
until the HALT signal is 
given. 
2 
 
 
“HALT”
Fist clenched.
 and  stop the 
movement and remain at 
the trails. 
3 
“TAKE 
POST” 
Sharp tap on the 
buttock with the palm 
of the hand. 
 and  steady the 
trails until the brakes 
have been applied, then 
take up positions in 
action. 
Figure 2-2:  Signals for Directing Movement of the Trails 
TO MOVE THE TRAILS 
20. 
Considerations: 
a. 
When the gun is first laid in the centre of arc (C of 
A), the traversing gear should be approximately 
central.  Thereafter it should not be necessary to 
move the trails unless the traverse becomes 
expended. 
b. 
When  considers that the movement of the trails 
is necessary, he will order “TAKE POST TO 
LAY”.  If the trails are embedded,  must first 
order “RUN UP”. 
c. 
Due to uneven ground or the gun being on a slope, 
it may be necessary to brake one wheel, e.g. if the 
trails are to be moved right,  may order “LEFT 
BRAKE ON:  TRAILS RIGHT”. 
21. 
Drill: 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
24
Gun Drill 
a. 
On the order “TAKE POST TO LAY”,  centres 
the traverse, if necessary. 
b. 
 and  release the handbrakes. 
c. 
 and  take up their positions on the handspike 
and drawbar, respectively. 
d. 
On the signal or order “TRAILS RIGHT (LEFT)”, 
 and  move the trails in the required direction. 
e. 
On the signal or order “TAKE POST”,  and  
apply the handbrakes.  The  then takes up its 
position in action. 
TO RUN UP 
22. 
Considerations: 
a. 
The following drill is used for clearing the spades, 
either at coming out of action, or when the limits 
of traverse have been exceeded and the equipment 
must be re-laid in a bearing beyond the limits of 
the traversing handwheel. 
b. 
If the gun is loaded,  must order “MAKE SAFE” 
before ordering “RUN UP”. 
c. 
If the ground is difficult, the GPO, section 
commander, or  may order “DOUBLE MAN 
NUMBER       ”. 
23. 
Drill: 
a. 
On the order “RUN UP”,  brings the traverse to 
centre. 
b. 
 and  release the handbrakes. 
c. 
 and  take up positions beside the right and 
left wheels respectively, and push on the shield. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
25
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
d. 
 and  on the drawbar, and  and  on the 
handspike, heave upwards and forwards. 
e. 
 coordinates their efforts by ordering 
“TOGETHER:  HEAVE”. 
f. 
 orders “TAKE POST TO LAY” or “CEASE 
FIRING”, as applicable, when the spades are clear. 
g. 
 and  apply the brakes if “CEASE FIRING” 
has been ordered. 
TO LAY IN THE CENTRE OF ARC 
24. 
Considerations: 
a. 
During training, before detailing the drill of this 
and subsequent sections, the instructor will ensure 
that members who are to perform the duties of , 
 and  are familiar with the drill for sight 
setting and laying as detailed in Chapter 4. 
b. 
The GPO ensures that the original bearing to all 
guns is in the direction ordered.  This direction, 
from which all subsequent bearings are measured, 
is known as the C of A. 
c. 
When the individual angle method is to be used, 
and if the passage of orders by voice is likely to be 
difficult, the GPO will either: 
(1) 
order runners to be sent from each 
detachment to the director (the drill as 
described previously, except that all 
orders and reports will be written and  
will not call back angles to the GPO); or 
(2) 
pass the angles to the guns through the 
loudspeaker system (the drill as described 
previously,  calling the angles back to 
the GPO through the loudspeaker). 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
26
Gun Drill 
d. 
When the individual angle method is being used, 
and if time permits, the GPO will read back the 
measurement of the angle to each panoramic 
telescope once  has reported “NUMBER       
FINISHED WITH DIRECTOR”.  This repetition 
will eliminate errors due to the movement of the 
panoramic telescope during laying.  If the GPO 
finds that the original angle remains correct, he 
will order “NUMBER      :  RECORD AT      ”.  If 
a new angle is required, the GPO will order this 
angle, and the drill as described previously will be 
repeated. 
25. 
Drill: 
a. 
Individual Angle Method: 
(1) 
On the order from the GPO “AIMING 
POINT DIRECTOR.     NUMBER       ” 
(angle in mils),  reads back to the GPO 
the angle ordered.  If the repetition is 
incorrect, the GPO orders the correct 
angle again; if the repetition is correct, 
the GPO will acknowledge. 
(2) 
 sets the angle ordered on the main 
scale of the panoramic telescope. 
(3) 
 checks the setting and orders “TAKE 
POST TO LAY”. 
(4) 
 directs the movement of the trails until 
the gun is roughly laid in its bearing. 
(5) 
On the signal or order “TAKE POST”, 
the drill is carried out;  lays on the 
director, reports “ON”, and  checks lay. 
(6) 
When laid,  reports to the GPO 
“NUMBER       :  FINISHED WITH 
DIRECTOR”. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
27
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
b. 
During a Night Occupation (when aiming posts 
are already planted): 
(1) 
Having received the angle to the aiming 
posts from the GPO,  sets the angle 
ordered on the main scale of the 
panoramic telescope. 
(2) 
 checks the setting and orders “TAKE 
POST TO LAY”. 
(3) 
 directs the movement of the trails until 
the gun is laid roughly in its bearing. 
(4) 
On the signal or order “TAKE POST”, 
the drill is carried out. 
(5) 
 lays on the aiming posts making due 
allowance for displacement. 
(6) 
When the gun is laid,  immediately 
records C of A. 
c. 
During a Night Occupation (when aiming posts 
have not been planted): 
(1) 
Having received the first angle to the 
director from the GPO,  sets it on the 
main scale of the panoramic telescope. 
(2) 
 checks the setting and orders “TAKE 
POST TO LAY”. 
(3) 
 directs the movement of the trails until 
the gun is laid roughly in its bearing. 
(4) 
On the signal or order “TAKE POST”, 
the drill is carried out. 
(5) 
 lays on the director, reports “ON”,  
checks lay and, if necessary, illuminates 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
28
Gun Drill 
the panoramic telescope by means of a 
flashlight shining through the eyepiece. 
(6) 
When the gun is laid,  reports to the CP 
through the loudspeaker, “NUMBER       :  
FINISHED WITH DIRECTOR”. 
d. 
Aiming Point Method: 
(1) 
On the order from the GPO, “AIMING 
POINT”,  doubles to the GPO, 
ascertains the aiming point, and then 
doubles back to the gun. 
(2) 
The GPO orders the angle to the aiming 
point and  sets it on the main scale of 
the panoramic telescope. 
(3) 
 checks the setting and orders “TAKE 
POST TO LAY”.   directs the 
movement of the trails until the gun is 
laid roughly in its bearing. 
(4) 
On the signal or order “TAKE POST”, 
the drill is carried out. 
(5) 
 lays on the aiming point. 
e. 
Passing Parallel Line.  Passing and receiving 
parallel line from one gun to another is used when 
a gun cannot see the director or vice versa.  The 
drill involves passing an angle from a gun that has 
been laid in the C of A to a gun which could not 
observe or be observed from the director. 
(1) 
The GPO will order “NUMBER        , 
PASS PARALLEL LINE TO 
NUMBER          ”. 
(2) 
 orders  to turn the head of the 
panoramic telescope onto the telescope of 
the receiving gun. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
29
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
(3) 
 checks the lay, opens the index door, 
notes the reading on the main scale and 
orders  to read. 
(4) 
 reads aloud the main scale reading and 
if they agree,  adds or subtracts 
3200 mils from the reading and passes the 
resulting angle to the receiving gun, e.g. 
“NUMBER FOUR LAY ON NUMBER 
ONE AT 3245”. 
(5) 
The  of the receiving gun will read 
back the angle and lay the gun in the 
C of A. 
TO RECORD CENTRE OF ARC 
26. 
Considerations: 
a. 
The GPO will order the original bearing to be 
recorded as C of A.  Three independent records 
will be made as follows: 
(1) 
a record of the main scale reading to Gun 
Aiming Point (GAP) 1; 
(2) 
a record of the main scale reading to 
GAP 2; and 
(3) 
a record of the bearing of the C of A 
ordered by the GPO. 
b. 
 will select GAPs in the following priority: 
(1) 
by day: collimator, aiming posts, close 
GAP, and distant GAP; and 
(2) 
by night: collimator, aiming posts with 
TRI-LUX lights, and night picket. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
30
Gun Drill 
c. 
As soon as all three records have been completed, 
 will report to the GPO “NUMBER _____ 
RECORDED”. 
d. 
If fire orders are received before the C of A has 
been recorded, the GPO will normally order 
"DEFER SECOND RECORD".   will then 
report “NUMBER        RECORDED”, as soon as 
the detail of sub-subparagraphs a(1) and a(3) have 
been completed and checked.  When the record 
described in sub-subparagraph a(2) has been 
deferred in this way,  will complete this record 
at the earliest opportunity without further orders 
from the GPO. 
e. 
After the C of A has been recorded,  will direct 
planting a marker in the C of A in front of the gun.  
This marker will be used as an aid in measuring 
bearings, and as a means of checking that the gun 
is at all times laid at the correct bearing.   will 
point out GAPs 1 and 2 and the C of A marker to 
all detachment members. 
f. 
The records of the C of A will stand until 
cancelled by a subsequent order from the GPO, 
e.g. “RECORD AT       ”. 
g. 
The original bearing in which the guns are laid 
may be altered by the GPO by ordering a fresh 
bearing, e.g. “BEARING      :  RECORD AT      ”.  
On the latter order,  will lay on the GAP at the 
bearing ordered.  The C of A marker will be 
moved to correctly reflect the bearing C of A in 
which all guns are recorded. 
h. 
In both cases  will order previous records erased, 
and the drill as described above will be carried out 
with the gun laid in the new C of A ordered. 
i. 
During the laying of the gun in the C of A, and the 
recording of C of A, both the longitudinal and 
cross level bubbles of the telescope mount must be 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
31
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
central, and the gunner's aid must be at zero.  The 
setting of the elevating knob of the panoramic 
telescope and the elevation of the gun does not 
affect the accuracy of this drill. 
j. 
Under no circumstances will  amend the C of A 
record without orders from the GPO.  Should it be 
obvious to  that the C of A record is wrong,  
will report the fact to the GPO, who will arrange 
for a check, and order a new record made. 
27. 
Drill for Recording C of A: 
a. 
On the order “RECORD AT       ”,  turns the 
panoramic telescope onto the selected GAP 1. 
b. 
 records the ordered bearing on the record plate. 
c. 
 orders “LOOK:  READ”. 
d. 
 identifies GAP 1 by looking through and over 
the telescope, reads the main scale, and records the 
reading on the record plate. 
e. 
While  is recording this angle,  ensures that 
the gunner's aid is set to 0, slips the slipping scale 
to the bearing ordered, and checks that the 
telescope is still laid on GAP 1.   then reads the 
main scale, checks 's record, and turns the 
telescope onto the selected GAP 2. 
f. 
 orders “LOOK:  READ”. 
g. 
 identifies GAP 2 by looking through and over 
the telescope, reads the main scale, and records the 
reading on the record plate. 
h. 
 reads the main scale, and checks 's record. 
i. 
 orders GAP 1. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
32
Gun Drill 
j. 
 turns the panoramic telescope onto GAP 1.  
 reports the main scale reading, closes the index 
door, and reports the bearing on the slipping scale. 
 ensures that these readings agree with the 
records on the record plate; if they do not  takes 
the necessary steps to correct them, and then 
reports to the GPO “NUMBER _____ 
RECORDED”. 
TO RECORD CENTRE OF ARC AT NIGHT 
NOTE 
For laying by night see appropriate heading. 
TO PLANT AIMING POSTS 
28. 
Considerations: 
a. 
To reduce the danger of aiming posts becoming 
obscured by the muzzle, they should be planted to 
the left front or right rear of the gun. 
b. 
 will order “AIMING POSTS FRONT (OR 
REAR)”. 
c. 
To reduce risk of confusion, aiming posts should 
be planted alternately to the left front and right rear 
of the guns. 
d. 
When aiming posts are to be planted,  should 
indicate to  where the near post will be planted. 
The distance from the gun to the near post should 
be approximately 50 metres; however, the distance 
from the gun to the near post should equal that 
from the near post to the far post, regardless of 
distance. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
33
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
e. 
Radiation Safety.  See Annex I regarding hazards 
from instruments such as TRI-LUX lights which 
have radioactive light sources. 
29. 
Signals.  Figure 2-3 shows the signals used by , their 
meanings, and the action to be taken by . 
Ser 
Order and Signal 
Action by  
1 
“MOVE IN THE 
DIRECTION INDICATED”.  
The right arm is extended 
upwards to the right, or the 
left arm extended upwards to 
the left, the palm of the hand 
in the direction required. 
 holds the post upright, 
clear of the body, and moves 
in the direction indicated, 
continuing until the 
“HALT”. 
2 
 
“HALT”.
Arm dropped. 
 halts and allows the post 
to slip through the fingers 
until the point rests on the 
ground. 
3 
 
“PLANT”.
Both arms dropped from 
above the head. 
 presses the point firmly 
into the ground, ensures that 
the post is upright, and then 
steps clear. 
4 
“MOVE TOP OF POST IN 
DIRECTION INDICATED”. 
Both arms extended above the 
head and moved laterally in 
the direction required. 
 moves the top of the post 
in the direction indicated, 
continuing until the “HALT” 
signal is given.   ensures 
that the post is firmly planted 
and then steps clear. 
5 
 
“PICK UP”.
Both arms extended to the 
front and raised upwards. 
 pulls the post out of the 
ground and awaits further 
signals. 
6 
 
“COME IN”.
Body turned in the direction 
required.  Both arms extended 
above the head and lowered in 
the direction required. 
When at the far post,  
doubles to the near post; 
when at the near post,  
doubles back to his position 
in action. 
Figure 2-3:  Signals Used by  for Planting Aiming Posts 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
34
Gun Drill 
30. 
Drill: 
a. 
On the order “RECORD AT       ”  will order 
“AIMING POSTS FRONT (REAR)”.  obtains 
the aiming posts and doubles to a position about 
50 metres in front (or rear) of the gun as indicated 
by , and, as closely as can be judged, in the line 
indicated.   plants the first aiming post, then 
doubles a further equal distance with the second 
post, and lines it up with the panoramic telescope 
and near aiming post. 
b. 
 faces the gun and awaits further instructions 
from .  As soon as  has planted the near 
aiming post,  turns the panoramic telescope 
accurately onto it.  then directs the planting of 
the far post exactly in line with the near one. 
c. 
 signals  to come in to the near post, to 
straighten it if necessary, and then signals  to 
come in. 
d. 
 checks the alignment and ensures that the 
gunner's aid is set to zero. 
e. 
 and  then complete the drill for recording 
C of A, using the aiming posts. 
TO PLANT AIMING POSTS DURING A NIGHT 
OCCUPATION 
31. 
Considerations: 
a. 
During a night occupation, the C of A is recorded 
by: 
(1) 
collimator; 
(2) 
two aiming posts with TRI-LUX lights; 
and 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
35
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
(3) 
night picket. 
b. 
The GPO orders the C of A to be recorded by 
ordering “RECORD AT       ”. 
c. 
To reduce the possibility of confusion, guns should 
alternate the color arrangement of lights on their 
posts. 
d. 
The light on the far post should be adjusted to 
appear above the light on the near post.  To 
accomplish this, it may be necessary to remove the 
top section of the near post. 
32. 
Drill.  On the order “RECORD AT       ”: 
a. 
 obtains the aiming posts and proceeds to a point 
50 metres to the front/rear of the gun as directed 
by .   plants the first aiming post, fits the 
appropriate light, and turns the light so that it is 
facing the gun. 
b. 
 lays the graticule of the panoramic telescope on 
the light of the first post and, as a signal to , 
momentarily turns the panoramic telescope light 
OFF. 
c. 
On this signal,  turns the light through 3200 mils 
and proceeds a further distance equal to the first 
interval.   lines up the second post with the light 
on the near post and the light in the panoramic 
telescope.   then fits the other light, ensures that 
it is facing the gun, and returns to the near post, 
rotating the light on the near post so that it is 
facing the gun. 
d. 
 checks the alignment and ensures that the 
gunner's aid is set to zero. 
e. 
 and  then complete the drill for recording 
C of A. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
36
Gun Drill 
TO CHECK BEARING 
33. 
Considerations: 
a. 
The aim of the following drill is to ensure that the 
gun is parallel to the director. 
b. 
The drill should be carried out: 
(1) 
as soon as possible after the C of A has 
been recorded; 
(2) 
as soon as possible after the spades are 
embedded by firing; 
(3) 
before the beginning of a fire plan; 
(4) 
at least once daily; 
(5) 
at first light following a night occupation; 
and 
(6) 
when an error in bearing has occurred 
which cannot otherwise be detected. 
c. 
The drill is accomplished by checking the guns at 
the nearest 100 mils to the current bearing.  It is 
carried out by the GPO using the director. 
34. 
Drill: 
a. 
On the order “CHECK BEARING.  AIMING 
POINT DIRECTOR.  CANCEL CONVERGE.  
BEARING       ” (to the nearest 100 mils),  sets 
the gunner's aids to zero, sets the bearing and lays 
on the GAP in use.   checks and  turns the 
panoramic telescope onto the director. 
b. 
 checks the lay and notes the reading on the 
main scale and micrometer. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
37
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
c. 
 orders “READ”.   reads the main scale and 
micrometer, and reports to  as a check. 
d. 
On the order “NUMBER          ”, (gun)  reports 
the reading “NUMBER       , ______”, (angle read) 
and the GPO reads back the angle. 
e. 
If the repetition is correct,  acknowledges.  If the 
repetition is incorrect,  reports the angle again. 
f. 
When the angle reported by  is correct the GPO 
orders “NUMBER ______ CORRECT”. 
g. 
 will order  to lay on GAP 1. 
h. 
When the angle reported by  is incorrect: 
(1) 
the GPO orders “NUMBER       ,   (gun)”, 
(new angle).  This new angle will cause 
the guns to be laid correctly in the current 
bearing of fire; 
(2) 
 reads back the angle to the GPO, and if 
the repetition is correct the GPO orders 
“NUMBER (gun)    , RECORD AT 
______” (current bearing); 
(3) 
at the conclusion of the check, the GPO 
will give the necessary orders for relaying 
the guns on the last target or the Final 
Protective Fire (FPF) task as applicable; 
and 
(4) 
the C of A marker will not be moved 
unless a new C of A has been ordered for 
all guns. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
38
Gun Drill 
TO MEASURE THE ANGLE OF SIGHT TO A CREST 
35. 
Consideration.  Immediately after the guns are in action, 
the GPO may require reports on the vertical angle from each gun to 
any crest visible from the gun position. 
36. 
Drill: 
a. 
On the order “MEASURE ANGLE TO CREST”, 
 assisted by  and  will lay on the crest 
indicated by sighting along the bottom of the bore. 
b. 
 then sets the sight scale to 300 mils, cross 
levels, and, by means of the elevation knob, brings 
the longitudinal bubble into the centre of its run. 
c. 
 reads the angle on the elevation scale and 
reports to the GPO “NUMBER  (gun)      ANGLE 
TO CREST       ”. 
TO LOAD 
37. 
Considerations: 
a. 
General: 
(1) 
The gun will not be loaded without the 
order “LOAD” from , except when 
engaging tanks (see Chapter 3). 
(2) 
When a cartridge only is to be loaded,  
will order “CARTRIDGE ONLY:  
LOAD”. 
b. 
Rules.  will observe the following rules of fire 
discipline in deciding when to order “LOAD”: 
(1) 
Rules applicable when impact fuzes have 
been ordered:  
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
39
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
(a) 
A gun is initially loaded as soon 
as a method of adjustment or 
method of fire for effect (FFE) 
has been ordered for that gun.  
(b) 
In adjustment, only the guns 
ordered to ADJUST FIRE are 
loaded.  
(c) 
Throughout adjustment, the 
adjusting gun(s) will be reloaded 
on receipt of an elevation or the 
order LOAD from the GPO.  
(d) 
Guns will not be loaded sooner 
than is necessary to maintain the 
rate of fire ordered.  After an 
order for FFE has been carried 
out, guns will not be reloaded 
until the GPO orders a new 
method of adjustment or FFE. 
(2) 
Rules applicable when time or CVT fuzes 
have been ordered:  
(a) 
No gun will be initially loaded 
until a method of adjustment or 
orders for FFE have been 
ordered for that gun, together 
with a fuze setting.  
(b) 
Once having loaded, guns will 
be reloaded as follows: during 
adjustment the adjusting gun(s) 
will be reloaded immediately 
after the fuze setting and 
elevation for each succeeding 
round have been ordered.  
(c) 
During FFE the guns will not be 
reloaded sooner than is 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
40
Gun Drill 
necessary to maintain the rate of 
fire ordered. 
(3) 
Rules applicable when time fuzes have 
been ordered:  
(a) 
When the order “FUZE, M    , 
IMPACT” is received, the rules 
for impact fuzes are followed, 
fuzes being set to safe.  
(b) 
When the order “TIME” is 
given, the rules for time fuzes 
are followed, fuzes being set to 
burst in the air. 
c. 
Ammunition: 
(1) 
The preparation of ammunition is 
described in B-GL-371-009/FP-001, 
Field Artillery, Handbook of Equipment 
and Ammunition, 105 mm Howitzer. 
(2) 
Throughout a fire mission, unless a 
specific number of rounds have been 
ordered, six ready rounds will be 
available. 
(3) 
When time fuzes are ordered, fuzes will 
be set only on those rounds which are 
included in the method of adjustment or 
method of FFE, as follows:  
(a) 
fuzes are set by ;  
(b) 
 checks the setting of every 
round before it is loaded, and 
when ammunition has been 
prepared in advance,  ensures 
that the round is taken from the 
correct stack. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
41
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
(4) 
Except when engaging tanks the 
procedure is as follows: 
(a) 
 checks every cartridge before 
it is loaded by receiving the 
excluded charges from the 
loading number to ensure that 
the proper bags are enclosed; 
(b) 
 periodically checks the bore 
for residue and deposit on the 
chamber wall, and orders it 
cleaned when necessary. 
(5) 
 should ensure that the gun is not left 
loaded while the gun is hot.  If orders are 
received which will result in this  
reports “NUMBER  (gun)      LOADED:  
GUN HOT”.  (A gun is considered hot 
when it is painful to touch the barrel.) 
(6) 
As soon as the ammunition is ordered,  
prepares the rounds for loading. 
(7) 
Fuzes are not set until the method of 
adjustment or FFE for that gun has been 
ordered. 
(8) 
 sets CVT, time and impact fuzes to the 
setting ordered. 
(9) 
 adjusts the charge to the charge 
ordered. 
(10) ,  and  load the gun on the orders 
of . 
(11) 
If difficulty is experienced in closing the 
breech after the cartridge has been loaded, 
the loading number obtains the extracting 
and ramming tool, and endeavours to 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
42
Gun Drill 
force the cartridge home.  Should this fail, 
 orders “UNLOAD”. 
(12) 
On no account will an attempt be made to 
drive the cartridge home. 
(13) 
If a gun is loaded with other than the type 
of ammunition ordered,  will so report, 
e.g. “NUMBER  (gun)     LOADED WP”.  
The GPO orders “UNLOAD”, or issues 
orders as to the disposal of the wrong 
ammunition. 
38. 
Drill: 
a. 
Loading Drill with Impact Fuzes: 
(1) 
When the ammunition is ordered,  
prepares rounds for the charge ordered. 
(2) 
, alternating with  and , carries a 
prepared round and excluded charges to 
the gun to be loaded.  The loading 
number takes up the loading position 
beside the left trail, halfway between the 
spade and breech, facing the breech, and 
clear of recoil. 
(3) 
At the appropriate moment  orders 
“LOAD”. 
(4) 
The loading number hands the excluded 
charges to  and calls out “CHARGE 
____.”   checks the fuze setting. 
(5) 
 orders “CORRECT” if the round is 
correct.   holds the excluded charge 
bags for that round until the round is 
fired, and then throws the bags over the 
right trail. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
43
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
(6) 
 orders “WRONG:  CHARGE     ” if 
the charge is incorrect, and the next 
loading number brings a correct round 
forward.  The incorrect round is returned 
to  for correction. 
(7) 
The loading number, holding the round in 
the hollow of the left arm, inserts the nose 
of the projectile into the breech.  With the 
right hand clenched and positioned at the 
base of the cartridge, the loading number 
pushes the round home. 
(8) 
 closes the breech with the left hand. 
b. 
Loading Drill with CVT or Time Fuzes: 
(1) 
 checks the fuze setting of the projectile 
and reports “CORRECT” or “WRONG:  
FUZE       ”.  If the fuze setting is not 
correct, the next loading number brings a 
correct round forward, and the incorrect 
round is returned to  for correction. 
(2) 
 orders “LOAD” and the gun is loaded. 
TO UNLOAD 
39. 
Considerations: 
a. 
When a change of charge, or END OF MISSION 
is ordered after the gun has been loaded,  orders 
“CARTRIDGE ONLY, UNLOAD”. 
b. 
In the case of a change of charge,  then orders 
“CARTRIDGE ONLY, LOAD”, unless the 
complete round has been extracted, when  orders 
“LOAD”. 
c. 
If, on extraction, the projectile remains in the bore 
and “END OF MISSION” has been ordered,  
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
44
Gun Drill 
orders waste to be stuffed into the chamber and the 
breech closed. 
d. 
When “MISFIRE” is reported, the drill for misfires 
must be followed.  A projectile must not be left in 
the bore when the gun is hot. 
40. 
Drill: 
a. 
For Unloading the Cartridge Only: 
(1) 
On the order from  “CARTRIDGE 
ONLY, UNLOAD”,  opens the breech, 
taking care not to eject the cartridge 
violently. 
(2) 
A loading number receives the round, or 
cartridge, and returns it to . 
(3) 
If the cartridge only is ejected,  checks 
that the complete cartridge has been 
removed and orders “CHARGE ______  
CARTRIDGE ONLY, LOAD”. 
(4) 
In the case of “END OF MISSION”, and 
the projectile remains in the bore,  
orders waste stuffed into the breech.   
closes the breech. 
b. 
For Unloading the Complete Round: 
(1) 
On the order from  “UNLOAD”,  
opens the breech taking care not to eject 
the cartridge violently.  A loading number 
receives the round (or cartridge) and 
returns it to .  If the projectile remains 
in the bore,  depresses the gun to the 
horizontal. 
(2) 
Waste is stuffed into the chamber and the 
breech is closed.  assembles the 
rammer and staff,  inserts the assembly 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
45
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
into the barrel until the cup encloses the 
fuze or until it comes in contact with the 
projectile. , assisted by , pushes and, 
if necessary, taps the assembly lightly 
until the projectile is dislodged.  A 
loading number receives the projectile 
and returns it to . 
TO LAY 
41. 
Considerations: 
a. 
The detailed drill for sight setting is given in 
Chapter 4, which describes detachment duties for 
each of the different methods of laying. 
b. 
Indirect laying with the range quadrant is the 
normal method and is used unless otherwise 
ordered. 
c. 
The complete orders and action for laying the gun 
for the first round of a fire mission are given in 
Figure 2-5.  For subsequent rounds, only a few of 
these orders will be necessary. 
d. 
When the trails are embedded, they should not be 
moved if the target is within the scope of the top 
traverse. 
e. 
 ensures that the gun is always laid at the correct 
bearing and elevation.  As a rough check  
therefore measures all bearings from the C of A 
marker by extending the arm to its full length and, 
using the hand, measuring angles (see Figure 2-4). 
f. 
 reports the actual setting of the sight and 
elevation scales, whenever the settings are 
changed, by reporting “GUN CORRECTION (OR 
ELEVATION)       ”. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
46
Gun Drill 
g. 
 examines the setting of the panoramic 
telescope, elevation scale, and sight scale 
whenever he considers it necessary. 
h. 
 determines the exact settings, or alternatives to 
settings, to be applied to the sights in all cases 
when these settings are not ordered by the GPO, 
e.g.: 
(1) 
Elevations.  When laying with the range 
quadrant,  applies the gun correction to 
the sight scale and the elevation to the 
range quadrant scale.  When laying with 
the gunner's quadrant,  applies the 
correction for index error to the elevation 
ordered and sets the resulting elevation on 
the gunner's quadrant. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
47
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
Figure 2-4:  Approximate Angular Values for an Average Hand 
(2) 
Fuze Setting.   applies the fuze 
correction to all subsequent fuze settings, 
and orders the exact fuze setting to . 
i. 
When the gun is not loaded until  and  have 
completed the lay, they will relay. 
42. 
Drill: 
a. 
Normal Indirect Laying.  For normal indirect 
laying sequence see Figure 2-5. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
48
Gun Drill 
Ser 
 
 
Order
Action
1 
 
“CONVERGE”  moves the gunner's aid the number of 
mils ordered. 
2 
 
“BEARING”
 sets the bearing ordered on the 
panoramic telescope and lays for bearing. 
 checks the bearing by measuring from 
the C of A. 
3 
 
“GUN
CORRECTION”
 sets the angle ordered on the sight scale 
and reads back the actual setting on the 
scale:   
“GUN CORRECTION _______________”. 
4 
 
“ELEVATION”  sets the elevation ordered on the 
elevation scale and reads the setting:   
“GUN CORRECTION _______________”. 
 lays for elevation. 
 lays for bearing when all apparent 
motion of the gun has ceased, and reports 
“ON”. 
 makes final adjustments and reports 
“READY”. 
Figure 2-5:  Normal Indirect Laying Sequence 
b. 
Indirect Laying Using the Gunner's Quadrant.  
For indirect laying sequence using the gunner's 
quadrant see Figure 2-6. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
49
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
Ser 
 
 
Order
Action
1 
 
“CONVERGE
______” 
 moves the gunner's aid the number of 
mils ordered. 
2 
 
“BEARING
______” 
 sets the bearing on the panoramic 
telescope and lays for bearing. 
 measures the bearing using the C of A 
marker. 
3 
 
“QUADRANT
LAYING 
______” 
 obtains the gunner's quadrant. 
 cleans the breech levelling plate. 
4 
 
“ELEVATION
______” 
 applies the correction for index error to 
the elevation ordered and sets in on the 
gunner's quadrant.   then hands the 
quadrant to . 
 reads the setting to  and hands it back. 
 holds the quadrant on the breech 
levelling plates with the words "line of fire" 
at the bottom and the arrow pointing 
towards the muzzle.  lays for elevation. 
 lays for bearing and when all apparent 
motion of the gun has ceased, reports “ON”.
 makes final adjustments and reports 
“READY”. 
 removes the quadrant from the breech. 
Figure 2-6:  Indirect Laying Sequence Using the Gunner's 
Quadrant 
c. 
Open Action.  This type of laying may be carried 
out using either the normal two-man, two-sight 
method or the one-man lay method.  The 
differences are described below: 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
50
Gun Drill 
(1) 
Two-Man, Two-Sight Method.   lays 
for bearing and  lays for elevation in 
the normal indirect manner (see  
Figure 2-7). 
(2) 
One-man Lay Method.   lays for both 
bearing and range (see Figure 2-8). 
d. 
Anti-tank Drill (Two-man, Two-sight Method).  
 lays for bearing and  lays for range, using the 
elbow telescope (see Chapter 3). 
e. 
To Change from Direct to Indirect Laying 
During a Fire Mission: 
(1) 
When engaging a target by direct fire 
(one-man lay method), the need may arise 
to change to indirect fire. 
(2) 
Drill: On the order “INDIRECT”,  
turns the panoramic telescope onto a 
GAP;  identifies the GAP by looking 
through and over the telescope;  slips 
the slipping scale to zero;  and  lay as 
for indirect laying. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
51
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
Ser 
 
 
Order
Action
1 
“FIRE MISSION      
GUNS (number of 
guns):  OPEN 
ACTION” 
 sets the main scale and the 
elevation index and micrometer of 
the rotating head to zero.   cross 
levels the mount. 
 checks the settings and slips the 
slipping scale to zero. 
 sets the sight scale to 300 and the 
elevation scale to zero. 
2 
“REFERENCE POINT:  
BEARING ______” 
 sets the bearing ordered (on the 
slipping scale) and lays on the 
reference point, using the reference 
point as a GAP.  C of A is not 
recorded. 
3 
 
“GUN CORRECTION
______” 
“ELEVATION ______”. 
 sets the angle ordered on the sight 
scale. 
 sets the elevation ordered on the 
elevation scale and reads back the 
setting:  “ELEVATION       ” .   
then lays for elevation. 
4 
“BEARING ______ or 
BEARING RIGHT 
(LEFT) ______”. 
Corrections to bearing are applied by 
.  Bearings right (or left) may be 
ordered if no confusion can arise. 
Figure 2-7:  Two-man, Two-sight Method—Sequence of Laying 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
52
Gun Drill 
Ser 
 
 
Order
Action
1 
“DIRECT LAYING.  
ONE MAN LAY” 
 sets the main scale and the 
elevation index and micrometer of 
the rotating head to zero. 
 matches the indices on the 
actuating arm and rocker, and on the 
end of the elevation worm of the 
telescope mount, by means of the 
elevation knob, and clamps them in 
position.   cross levels the mount 
and covers the longitudinal level vial.  
 checks the settings and slips the 
slipping scale to zero. 
2 
 
“REFERENCE POINT
______”.  “RIGHT 
(LEFT) ______”.  
“DESCRIPTION OF 
TARGET” 
 directs the gun at the target by 
ordering “TRAVERSE RIGHT 
(LEFT)” or by movement of the trails 
if necessary, ordering “ON” when the 
gun is directed at the target. 
 satisfies himself that he has 
recognized the target. 
3 
 
“RIGHT (LEFT)
______” (if necessary) 
 sets the correction to the target on 
the slipping scale of the panoramic 
telescope. 
4 
 
“RANGE ______”
 reads back the range, lays the 
correct range line of the reticle on the 
target, lays, and reports “READY”. 
Figure 2-8:  One-man Lay Method—Sequence of Laying 
TO MEASURE THE QUADRANT ELEVATION 
43. 
Consideration.  During a fire mission, the need may arise 
to change to laying by gunner's quadrant.  The GPO will order 
“QUADRANT LAYING:  REPORT QE".  The angle measured will 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
53
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
include the correction for index error.  Therefore,  must 
add/subtract the index error from the measured elevation before 
reporting it to the GPO. 
44. 
Drill: 
a. 
On the order “QUADRANT LAYING:  REPORT 
QE”,  and  lay at the last bearing and 
elevation ordered. 
b. 
 places the gunner's quadrant on the levelling 
plates of the breech ring and centres the bubble by 
moving the arm and micrometer.   then reads the 
setting and passes the quadrant to . 
c. 
 reads and calls out the setting as a check. 
d. 
 adds/subtracts the index error from the reading 
and reports the resulting angle as “NUMBER ____ 
QE ______”. 
TO FIRE 
45. 
Considerations 
a. 
The gun will not be fired without the order 
“NUMBER  (gun)      FIRE” from , except when 
engaging tanks (after the first anti-tank round has 
been fired on the order from ), or when the 
sentry fires the gun on an FPF task. 
b. 
Before ordering the gun fired,  must be satisfied 
that his turn to fire has come, the gun is ready, the 
detachment is clear of recoil, and the trajectory 
will clear any crest or obstacle, such as a tree or 
camouflage, close to the front of the gun.  If 
clearance is in doubt,  will satisfy himself that 
the trajectory will clear such objects by looking 
along the top of the barrel for bearing and along 
the bottom of the bore for elevation. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
54
Gun Drill 
c. 
The opening round of a fire mission will not be 
fired until the GPO has ordered the method of 
adjustment or the order “FIRE FOR EFFECT”. 
d. 
When “AT MY COMMAND” is in force, the 
order to fire must come from the GPO. 
e. 
“AT MY COMMAND” remains in force until a 
new fire mission is ordered, or “CANCEL AT MY 
COMMAND” is given.  When “AT MY 
COMMAND” is in force and the order “FIRE 
FOR EFFECT” includes more than one round, the 
order “FIRE” authorizes all rounds specified to be 
fired without further orders. 
f. 
Whenever the executive order to fire must come 
from the GPO,  orders “NUMBER (gun)      ”, 
and then reports the gun ready, by raising one arm 
if he is visible from the command post, or by 
reporting “NUMBER        READY” if he is not 
visible. 
g. 
After the opening round of a fire mission, and 
when “AT MY COMMAND” is not in force,  
orders the gun fired as follows: 
(1) 
During Adjustment.  Each elevation is 
the order for  of the adjusting gun to 
fire as soon as the gun is ready.  When 
“___ GUNS (NUMBER OF GUNS) OR 
BATTERY RIGHT (LEFT) ADJUST 
FIRE” is ordered, guns fire one round in 
succession from the right (left) as 
ordered.  If no interval is given the 
standard five seconds will be used.  This 
order should be coupled with AT MY 
COMMAND to ensure that all guns are 
ready. 
(2) 
At FFE.  Each gun independently fires 
the number of rounds ordered,  
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
55
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
ordering “FIRE” as soon as the gun is 
ready unless an interval is given. 
h. 
Interval.  The interval is ordered in seconds, e.g. 
“ELEVATION 350:  THREE ROUNDS FIRE 
FOR EFFECT, 60 SECONDS” or “ELEVATION 
350: _____ GUNS RIGHT ADJUST FIRE, 
10 SECONDS”. 
(1) 
At FFE the interval is the time between 
the firing of individual rounds by any one 
gun. 
(2) 
At battery right (left) adjust fire, the 
interval is the time between the firing of 
one gun and the next gun. 
46. 
Drill: 
a. 
 orders “NUMBER (gun)      ” shortly before his 
turn to fire. 
b. 
 stands facing inwards and grasps the handle of 
the firing lanyard with the right hand. 
c. 
 stands facing the front. 
d. 
The loading number kneels clear of recoil. 
e. 
The remainder of the detachment kneel at their 
positions in action. 
f. 
At the appropriate moment  orders “FIRE”. 
g. 
 pulls the firing lanyard with the right hand, and 
opens the breech with the left hand.  (Care should 
be taken when firing at high angles with extreme 
left traverse.) 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
56
Gun Drill 
MISFIRES 
47. 
Considerations: 
a. 
This drill is designed to disclose the cause of 
failure to fire and to indicate the correct immediate 
remedy.  When this remedy is of a temporary 
nature,  at the first opportunity carries out a full 
examination and ensures that the defect is 
corrected.  In the case of defective ammunition  
places the defective component at a safe distance 
from the gun and, at the earliest opportunity, 
notifies the GPO. 
b. 
Throughout the misfire drill, the detachment must 
remain clear of the path of recoil.  The detachment 
and any cartridges must also be clear of the line of 
possible flash when the breech is opened. 
c. 
Failures to fire can be divided into two main 
classes depending on whether or not the firing lock 
has been tripped. 
(1) 
If the Firing Lock Has Not Been 
Tripped.  The probable causes, the 
immediate remedies and the subsequent 
action where necessary are as follows:   
(a) 
The Gun is Set at Safe —  
opens the breech sufficiently to 
clear the firing shaft, allows it to 
move forward, and closes the 
breech.  
(b) 
The Breech is Not Fully 
Closed— closes the breech.   
(c) 
The Gun Has Not Fully Counter-
Recoiled— sets the gun to 
safe.   ensures that the arm on 
the firing shaft is behind the 
trigger shaft.  If the gun cannot 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
57
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
be set to safe,  orders 
“CARTRIDGE ONLY 
UNLOAD”.   sets the 
respirator to a larger opening.  If 
this does not remedy the fault, 
the gun must be taken out of 
action.   
(d) 
Defective Firing Gear— fits 
the spare firing lock or orders 
“EMERGENCY FIRING”. 
(2) 
If the Firing Lock Has Been Tripped.  
The gun is said to have misfired when the 
firing lock has been tripped twice and the 
gun has failed to fire twice.  Due to the 
danger of a hangfire, a pause of one 
minute (30 minutes for blank) is then 
made before the breech is opened to 
investigate the cause.  The probable 
causes, the immediate remedies, and 
subsequent actions, when necessary, are 
as follows:  
(a) 
Primer Not Fairly Struck—this 
fault is due to a broken or worn 
firing pin.   fits the spare firing 
lock, and at the first opportunity 
examines the firing lock and fits 
a new firing pin.   
(b) 
Primer Fairly Struck— orders 
“LOAD” or “CARTRIDGE 
ONLY, LOAD”, as applicable, 
and places the defective 
cartridge clear of all personnel.  
At the first opportunity,  
examines the cartridge to 
determine:  
i 
 
If the Primer Has Not 
Fired—this may be due to a 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
58
Gun Drill 
defective primer or 
insufficient striking force.  If 
the fault recurs, insufficient 
striking force is indicated 
and  fits the spare firing 
lock.  At the first 
opportunity,  cleans the 
breech and firing mechanism 
and its recess, including the 
firing hole.   
ii. 
 
If the Primer Has Fired—the 
failure of the primer to ignite 
the charge indicates either 
defective propellant or 
defective primer.   places 
the defective component at a 
safe distance from the gun 
and at the earliest 
opportunity, notifies the 
GPO. 
d. 
As soon as the gun is again ready,  reports 
"READY" to the GPO, or fires without further 
orders as follows: 
(1) 
If gun programs are in use,  orders the 
correct bearing and elevation for the time 
at which he is ready, and continues the 
program.  Rounds detailed for the time 
that the gun is out of action will not be 
fired. 
(2) 
See Figure 2-9 for a summary of causes 
of misfires. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
59
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
 
Failure to fireLock has not trippedLock has trippedGun setat safeGun notfullycounter-recoiledBreech notfullyclosedDefectivefiringgearPrimernotfairlystruckPrimerfairlystruckPrimernot firedPrimer firedExcessive orheavy oilBroken orworn firing pinInsufficientforce of blowFigure 2-9:  Summary of Causes of Misfires 
48. 
Drill: 
a. 
If the gun fails to fire, and the firing lock has not 
been tripped,  ensures that the gun is not set to 
safe, the breech is fully closed, the firing gear is 
not defective, and the gun is in full counter-recoil 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
60
Gun Drill 
position.  If any of the above is found to be 
incorrect, action is taken to correct it, and  again 
pulls the lanyard. 
b. 
If the gun fails to fire, and the firing lock has been 
tripped,  immediately pulls the firing lanyard a 
second time.  If the gun again fails to fire,  
reports to the GPO “NUMBER       (gun): 
MISFIRE”. 
c. 
After reporting “MISFIRE”,  observes the 
regulation pause of one minute (30 minutes in the 
case of blank ammunition), and then orders 
“CARTRIDGE ONLY, UNLOAD”. 
d. 
 opens the breech carefully and  accepts the 
cartridge (or round) and inspects the primer. 
(1) 
If the printer has been fairly struck  
orders “LOAD” or “CARTRIDGE 
ONLY, LOAD”, as applicable and sets 
the offending cartridge aside for later 
examination. 
(2) 
If the primer has not been fairly struck,  
returns the cartridge or round to a loading 
number and immediately orders the firing 
lock to be changed.   then orders 
“LOAD” or “CARTRIDGE ONLY, 
LOAD”, as applicable. 
e. 
 then reports “NUMBER       (gun) READY” to 
the GPO, or orders “FIRE”, as applicable. 
TO RECORD A TARGET 
49. 
Considerations: 
a. 
A record may be required from each gun which 
has engaged the target, giving complete details of 
the final data.  The GPO orders the target recorded 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
61
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
and includes the letters and number, e.g. 
“RECORD AS TARGET ZP 1234”. 
b. 
 records the actual settings on the sights, the 
fuze and gunner's quadrant where applicable. 
c. 
A record is prepared by  on a Target Record 
Form (see Figure 2-10). 
TARGET RECORD ( TO GPO) 
1 
Target Letter and Number 
ZP 1234 
2 
Number in Action 
3 
3 
 
 
Shell
HE
4 
 
 
Fuze
M557
5 
 
 
Propellant
Dual Gran
6 
 
 
Charge
5
7 
Bearing (on sight) 
3316 
8 
 
 
Convergence
R5
9 
Gun Correction (angle on sight scale) 
313 
10 
 
 
Fuze Setting
Delay
11 Elevation (on sight or gunner's quadrant) 
442 
12 
Index Error Correction 
--- 
Figure 2-10:  's Target Record 
50. 
Drill: 
a. 
On the order “RECORD AS TARGET       ”,  of 
each gun that has fired during the fire mission 
inspects the ammunition and sights, and completes 
a target record form. 
b. 
 then calls for reports of the relevant details 
from ,  and  and compares these with his 
own record.  Having corrected all discrepancies, 
 sends the target record to the CP. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
62
Gun Drill 
TO CHECK FIRING 
51. 
On the order “CHECK FIRING”, all work on the gun is 
continued, but the gun is not fired until the order “CANCEL 
CHECK FIRING” is received. 
TO STAND FAST 
52. 
“STAND FAST” is only used in connection with safety.  
All action on the gun position will cease immediately and 
detachment members will stand motionless.  The order is cancelled 
by “CANCEL STAND FAST”, which may only be given by the 
originator of the “STAND FAST” order. 
TO CEASE LOADING 
53. 
After the order “CEASE LOADING”, no gun will be 
loaded until “CANCEL CEASE LOADING” or orders for a new fire 
mission are received.  The detachment continues its duties and any 
guns previously loaded will be fired at the appropriate moment. 
TO MAKE SAFE 
54. 
Considerations: 
a. 
The order “MAKE SAFE” is normally given by 
, but is also given by the GPO when guns are to 
be laid on their FPF task and left loaded. 
b. 
If the gun is loaded,  must order “MAKE SAFE” 
under the following circumstances: 
(1) 
when the order “REST” is given; 
(2) 
when personnel are required to work in 
front of the gun, or in the path of recoil; 
(3) 
if it is necessary to move the trails; or 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
63
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
(4) 
when ordered to “MAKE SAFE” by the 
GPO. 
c. 
“MAKE SAFE” is cancelled by orders for a new 
fire mission or “CANCEL MAKE SAFE”. 
55. 
Drill 
a. 
On the order “MAKE SAFE” from ,  opens 
the breech sufficiently for the trigger shaft to clear 
the arm on the firing shaft, pulls the firing shaft to 
the rear by means of the firing lanyard, closes the 
breech, and releases the lanyard. 
b. 
 inspects to ensure that the firing shaft is behind 
the trigger shaft. 
c. 
On the order “TAKE POST”,  opens the breech 
sufficiently to clear the firing shaft and closes it. 
TO REST 
56. 
Considerations: 
a. 
When the order “REST” is given, detachments 
remain at their guns ready to fire at short notice.  
 of a gun ordered to rest does not acknowledge 
subsequent orders nor does the detachment follow 
up fire orders.  “REST” is cancelled by “CANCEL 
REST” or by orders for a new fire mission. 
b. 
The guns must remain laid as last ordered. 
57. 
Drill: 
a. 
On the order “REST”,  orders “MAKE SAFE” if 
the gun is loaded. 
b. 
 orders any necessary work to be carried out 
around the gun, and when the work is completed 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
64
Gun Drill 
orders “NUMBER           (gun):  REST”.  The 
detachment rest at its position in action. 
STAND EASY/END OF MISSION 
58. 
Considerations: 
a. 
When the order “STAND EASY” or “END OF 
MISSION” is given, the detachments concerned 
are withdrawn from their guns to a position 
previously ordered by the GPO.   of the 
detachment(s) concerned does not acknowledge 
subsequent orders. 
b. 
At “STAND EASY”  will order any necessary 
work to be carried out.  The gun must remain laid 
as last ordered. 
c. 
When laid on an FPF task, it may be necessary for 
the guns to remain loaded.  In this case, the GPO 
must order “LOAD:  MAKE SAFE” before 
ordering “STAND EASY”. 
d. 
“END OF MISSION” is cancelled by orders for a 
new fire mission. 
e. 
“STAND EASY” is cancelled by “TAKE POST” 
or by orders for a new fire mission. 
59. 
Drill.  On the order “END OF MISSION” or “STAND 
EASY”,  orders “CARTRIDGE ONLY, UNLOAD” if the gun is 
loaded.   orders any necessary work to be carried out around the 
gun.  When completed,  orders “DETACHMENT REAR”, 
marches the detachment to the stand easy position, and orders 
“FALL OUT”. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
65
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
TO “TAKE POST” 
60. 
Consideration.  “TAKE POST” may be used by the GPO 
or  when the detachment is required to resume their positions in 
action.  “TAKE POST” is cancelled by “STAND EASY”. 
TO “PREPARE TO ADVANCE (OR WITHDRAW)” 
61. 
The order “PREPARE TO ADVANCE (WITHDRAW)” is 
given as a warning that a move is anticipated.  will order 
ammunition and stores not required for the immediate service of the 
gun to be repacked.  Preparations for coming out of action will be 
made as far as possible.  The guns must remain in action until 
“CEASE FIRING” is ordered. 
TO “EMPTY GUNS” 
62. 
Considerations: 
a. 
On the order “EMPTY GUNS”, any guns already 
loaded will be laid at the last bearing and elevation 
ordered, and will be fired.  The order “EMPTY 
GUNS” is in itself an order to fire, and no 
additional order is required if “AT MY 
COMMAND” is in force.  Omission of this order 
need only be verified if the gun is loaded. 
b. 
As soon as the gun is empty,  reports 
“NUMBER        EMPTY”. 
c. 
Ammunition which has been removed from its 
container will be examined and if serviceable will 
be dealt with as follows: 
(1) 
Time Fuzes.  Set to safe and reinsert pins. 
(2) 
Impact Fuzes.  Set to quick. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
66
Gun Drill 
(3) 
VT Fuzes.  Set to safe, and if applicable 
remove from projectiles and place in 
containers. 
(4) 
Cartridges.  Make up to charge 7. 
d. 
Unserviceable ammunition will be set aside and its 
condition reported to the GPO. 
e. 
The following ammunition is unserviceable, and 
will not be fired or replaced in the vehicle under 
any circumstances: 
(1) 
fuzes which cannot be set to safe or 
quick; and 
(2) 
projectiles from which VT fuzes cannot 
be removed. 
f. 
At practice, defective ammunition will be set aside 
for examination by an ammunition technical 
officer. 
g. 
During operations, defective ammunition will be 
dumped and clearly marked. 
h. 
The preparation of ammunition for return to the 
vehicle is described in B-GL-306-015/MS-001, 
Field Artillery, Volume 15, Handbook of 
Equipment and Ammunition, 105 mm Howitzer C1. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
67
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
TO “CEASE FIRING” AND “HOOK IN” 
63. 
Considerations: 
a. 
The guns must be empty before “CEASE 
FIRING” is ordered.  will normally be left to 
choose the most convenient direction for hooking 
in.  At drill, the instructor may order the direction 
of hooking in. 
b. 
The signals which are used by  to direct the 
movement of the vehicle are described in 
Figure 2-1. 
c. 
When detailing the drill for “RIGHT (OR LEFT, 
OR FRONT) HOOK IN”, the instructor will give 
the complete detail, modifying the drill for "REAR 
HOOK IN", as follows:  As soon as the trails are 
closed,  orders “TRAILS RIGHT (LEFT)”, and 
the trails are manhandled through 1600 or 
3200 mils in the direction required under the 
orders of . 
d. 
Due to the trails jamming against the axle on 
uneven ground, it may be necessary to lift the 
lower trail leg slightly on closing the trails. 
64. 
Drill 
a. 
Initial Action: 
(1) 
On the order “CEASE FIRING”,  sets 
the respirator to zero, orders “RUN UP”, 
and when the spades have been cleared 
orders “CEASE FIRING”.  disconnects 
the loudspeaker. 
(2) 
 and  remove the trail locking pins 
from the firing position and insert them in 
the travelling position. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
68
Gun Drill 
(3) 
 closes the breech, elevates or depresses 
the gun to the approximate travelling 
position, covers the bubbles of the 
quadrant mount, places the breech cover 
on the breech. 
(4) 
 covers the bubbles of the telescope 
mount and traverses the gun to the 
approximate travelling position.   
replaces the panoramic telescope in its 
case, tilts the telescope mount fully to the 
front, and assists  in clamping the 
cradle lock strut and replacing the breech 
cover. 
(5) 
 collects the aiming posts, if necessary, 
and secures them on the right trail.  
packs up the collimator. 
(6) 
 reels in the loudspeaker cable. 
b. 
Preparing to Hook In: 
(1) 
 is on the handspike;  the drawbar. 
(2) 
 orders “CLOSE” and the trails are 
closed. 
(3) 
 locks the trails in the travelling 
position and replaces the handspike on 
the left trail. 
(4) 
 and  lock the axle locks in the 
travelling position. 
(5) 
 secures the staff sections to the left 
trail. 
(6) 
, , , and  place stores and 
ammunition convenient for loading. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
69
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
c. 
Awaiting the Vehicle.  On completion of its tasks, 
the detachment takes up its position as follows: 
(1) 
 to see the detachment and direct the 
vehicle into the required position; 
(2) 
 and  kneeling beside the gun wheels, 
facing the rear,  on the right,  on the 
left; and 
(3) 
, , , and  kneeling beside the 
trails; odd numbers on the left and the 
even numbers on the right, highest 
numbers nearest the lunette, facing the 
rear. 
d. 
Hooking In: 
(1) 
 directs the vehicle into a convenient 
position for loading stores and 
ammunition and then into the required 
position.   orders “HOOK IN”. 
(2) 
 orders “LIFT”.  , , , and  lift 
the trails. 
(3) 
 rotates the drawbar to the travelling 
position. 
(4) 
 and  release the brakes and push on 
the shield, as necessary, and the gun is 
hooked in. 
(5) 
 locks the catch on the towing hook of 
the vehicle.   fits the cotter pin. 
(6) 
The detachment mounts without further 
orders. 
(7) 
 satisfies himself that the equipment is 
ready to travel, mounts, and directs the 
driver to the assembly position. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
70
Gun Drill 
(8) 
At drill, when no towing vehicle is 
available, the detachment forms 
detachment rear. 
DRILL WITH REDUCED DETACHMENTS 
65. 
Drill.  In action, detachments may be reduced by reliefs, 
casualties or members employed on other details.  With reduced 
detachments the drill is carried out as far as possible in the normal 
way, duties being combined as directed by .  The following 
allotment of duties can be taken as a guide: 
a. 
With Six Members.  The duties of  and  are 
combined. 
b. 
With Five Members.  The duties of ,  and  
are combined. 
c. 
With Four Members: 
(1) 
 performs the duties of  and ; and 
(2) 
the duties of , , , and  are 
combined. 
DRILL WITH DAMAGED EQUIPMENT 
66. 
Consideration.  Variations of drill are used in action when 
damaged equipment cannot be replaced or repaired as follows: 
a. 
Damaged Range Quadrant.  The gun is laid by 
gunner's quadrant. 
b. 
Damaged Panoramic Telescope.  The GPO or 
Section Commander directs the gun onto the 
required bearing by compass. 
c. 
Damaged Cross Level Bubble.   and  follow 
the normal sequence of laying, cross levelling and 
sights as near as they can judge by eye. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
71
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
d. 
Damaged Firing Gear.   attaches the firing 
lanyard to the trigger shaft. 
PRECAUTIONS TO BE OBSERVED WHEN FIRING BLANK 
AMMUNITION 
67. 
Considerations: 
a. 
No officer, NCO, or gun number who has not 
qualified in gun drill may command a section, or 
form part of a gun detachment, firing blank 
ammunition at salutes or during training. 
b. 
When firing blank cartridges, no gun will be 
reloaded within 15 seconds of firing.  Even after 
this interval, no gun will be reloaded until  has 
examined the chamber and bore and removed any 
debris. 
c. 
In the event of a misfire, the normal misfire drill is 
carried out, except that a pause of not less than 
30 minutes must be allowed to elapse before the 
breech is opened.  No one will be in rear of the 
breech when it is opened. 
 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
72
Gun Drill, 105 mm Howitzer, C3 
CHAPTER 3 
ANTI-TANK DRILL 
PREPARATION FOR OPENING FIRE 
1. 
Considerations: 
a. 
In choosing the gun position, the GPO considers 
its suitability for anti-tank defence, and sites 
individual guns to achieve the best defence 
consistent with the need for concealment, ease of 
control, and the ability to carry out normal field 
artillery tasks. 
b. 
In order to ensure an all-round watch for tanks, 
and to provide a rapid means of indicating targets, 
the GPO allots zones of observation to each gun. 
c. 
To provide a means of indicating difficult targets, 
the GPO normally chooses one or two reference 
objects in each zone and indicates these to , 
together with the name of each reference object 
and the range to it. 
d. 
The GPO normally orders the maximum range at 
which fire is to be opened. 
e. 
The GPO is responsible, when necessary, for 
ordering special states of preparedness and for 
general control of the troop’s fire, including 
allotting targets to guns and giving the executive 
order to engage targets. 
f. 
As soon as possible after coming into action,  
ensures that the detachment knows the zone for 
which they are responsible, the ranges to reference 
objects, and the range for opening fire ordered by 
the GPO. 
B-GL-371-008/FP-001  
73