Language selection

Government of Canada / Gouvernement du Canada

Search

54-04 - Lee Enfield Rifle Drill

Cadet Administrative and Training Orders (CATOs)

General

1. This order provides direction and establishes uniformity for Lee Enfield Rifle Drill specific to Air Cadets. It is to be used as a supplement to the Canadian Forces Manual of Drill and Ceremonial (A-PD-201-000/PT-000).

Terminology

2. In this CATO, “shall”, “will”, “is” and “are” are to be construed as imperative, and “may” as permissive.

References

3. Each kind of weapon has, by its form and dimensions, its proper drill. It is very important that those are used for an easy use of the rifle. Rifle drill described in the CF Manual of Drill and Ceremonial for C1 and C7 rifles is not be used.

Rifle Movements

4. Cadets carrying out rifle exercises are to have impressed on them the following important points:

  1. the body and head are to be kept perfectly still while the rifle is moving;
  2. the eyes are not to follow the movement of the rifle, but are to be kept looking to their front at their own level unless otherwise detailed in the movement;
  3. the rifle during its movements is to be kept as close to the body as possible;
  4. the rifle is always to be moved as quickly as possible unless otherwise detailed in the movement, and in those exercises which consist of several movements, a standard pause shall be observed between them;
  5. the fingers, except where stated otherwise, are to be kept close together; and
  6. the disengaged hand is brought to the rifle by the shortest route and as quickly as possible; and the same principle applies when returning the disengaged hand to the position of attention.

5. There are two methods of grasping the rifle for the movements outlined in this chapter:

  1. Full Round Grasp. The specified part of the rifle is held with a tight grip, thumb on one side, fingers together and grasping as much of the weapon as possible around the opposite side; and
  2. Y-Grip. The specified part is held with the thumb on one side, fingers together and straight on the opposite side. If fingers are to be pointed in a certain direction, it shall be stated in the movement.

Attention

6. To assume the position of attention (order arms), squad members shall:

  1. grasp the rifle with the right hand in the Y-grip, just below the lower band, fingers extended straight down the right side of the rifle with the thumb on the left side touching the seam of the trousers. The position of the right hand will not vary with the height of the individual, but the position of the right elbow will be either bent or straight. If the elbow is bent it will be held close to the body and to the rear;
  2. place the butt flat on the ground with the rifle touching the boot, toe of the butt in line with the small toe of the right foot; and
  3. keep the magazine to the front.

Back to top

Stand at Ease from Attention

7. On the command, STAND AT — EASE, squad members shall:

  1. raise the left foot 15 cm (6 inches) and place it smartly on the ground 25 cm (10 inches) to the left; and
  2. as the left foot is placed on the ground, force the rifle directly to the front and to the full extent of the right arm, keeping the toe of the butt in contact with the ground and in line with the small toe of the right foot.

Stand Easy from Stand at Ease

8. On the command, STAND — EASY, squad members shall shift the grasp of the right hand smartly to the end of the stock, take a standard pause, and relax.

9. On the next cautionary order, squad members will immediately assume the position of STAND AT EASE.

Stand at Ease from Stand Easy

10. On the command, SQUAD, the squad shall assume the position of stand at ease.

Attention from Stand at Ease

11. On the command, ATTEN — TION, squad members shall:

  1. raise the left foot 15 cm (6 inches) and place it beside the right as in the position of attention; and
  2. as the left foot is placed on the ground, return the muzzle of the rifle to the right side of the body.

Short Trail from the Order

12. The short trail is used when marching the squad short distances or during dressing when squad members are required to move.

13. Although the short trail arms shall be given before marching with arms at the order, if members are directed to close to the right or left, or to take any number of paces forward or back, or to form two ranks, they are to assume the short trail arms on the first movement and resume order arms on the last.

14. On the command, SHORT TRAIL — ARMS, given only when the squad is in the position of attention, squad members shall:

  1. bend the right arm and raise the butt of the rifle 2.5 cm (1 inch) from the ground; and
  2. keep the rifle vertical and close to the body.

15. On the command, AT THE SHORT TRAIL, QUICK — MARCH, simultaneously with the detail in paragraph 14 above, step off with the left foot.

16. On the command, SQUAD — HALT, the squad shall halt as ordered and, as the right knee is straightened, lower the rifle to the attention position.

17. When a squad is at the order arms position and the command, QUICK — MARCH, is given, the squad shall automatically adopt the short trail position as they step off with the left foot.

Back to top

Ground Arms

18. The GROUND ARMS is used when it is necessary to move the squad without arms. GROUND ARMS is only ordered when a squad is at the open order. Care must be given not to kick or step on arms when they are grounded.

19. On the command, GROUND ARMS BY NUMBERS, SQUAD — ONE, squad members shall:

  1. take a half pace forward with the left foot and by bending the knees, adopt a squatting position;
  2. keeping the right arm straight, with the right hand in line with the right knee, simultaneously rotate the rifle to the right, lay it on the ground with the trigger to the right and the muzzle pointing straight to the front;
  3. keep the shoulders square to the front and look down at the muzzle; and
  4. keep the left arm straight against the body and hip.

20. On the command, SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall:

  1. release the rifle; and
  2. assume the position of attention.

21. On the command, GROUND — ARMS, the two movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

Take up Arms

22. On the command, TAKE UP ARMS BY NUMBERS, SQUAD — ONE, squad members shall:

  1. take a half pace forward with the left foot and squat with the weight of the body on the right foot;
  2. look down at the muzzle and grasp the rifle at the point below the foresight with the right hand; and
  3. keep the left arm straight against the body and hip.

23. On the command SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall assume the position of attention by:

  1. standing erect, bending the left knee and bringing the left foot smartly back to the right; and
  2. simultaneously, rotating the rifle to the left, bringing the underside to the front and placing the heel of the butt of the rifle flat on the ground.

24. On the command, TAKE UP — ARMS, the two movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

Slope Arms from the Order

25. The SLOPE ARMS is the primarily position used when marching with the rifle. Care is to be given to ensure that all members keep the left forearm parallel to the ground and that the weapon is kept as still as possible while marching.

26. On the command, SLOPE ARMS BY NUMBERS, SQUAD — ONE, squad members shall:

  1. throw the rifle upwards with the right hand, catching it with both hands at the same time, the left hand with a full round grasp around the forestock and the right hand with a Y-grip around the small of the butt;
  2. ensure that the left forearm is parallel to the ground, close to the body;
  3. keep the right arm slightly bent, elbow to the rear and close to the body; and
  4. keep the rifle close to the body with the muzzle close to the right shoulder.

27. On the command, SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall:

  1. carry the rifle across and close to the body, placing it flat on the left shoulder, the underside out and away from the body;
  2. change the grip of the right hand to a full round grasp at the small of the butt;
  3. seize the butt of the rifle with the left hand, the thumb one inch above the toe of the butt, and the fingers together and wrapped around the butt plate; and
  4. keep the left elbow close to the body, forearm parallel to the ground, and left hand in front of and in line with the centre of the left shoulder.

28. On the command, SQUAD — THREE, squad members shall cut the right arm to the side as in the position of attention.

29. On the command, SLOPE — ARMS, the three movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

Back to top

Order Arms from the Slope

30. On the command, ORDER ARMS BY NUMBERS, SQUAD — ONE, squad members shall:

  1. bring the rifle down to a vertical position and to the full extent of the left arm, keeping the rifle close to the left side of the body; and
  2. simultaneously, bring the right arm across and close to the body and grasp the rifle at the forestock with a full round grasp.

31. On the command, SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall:

  1. use the right arm to force the rifle down and to the right side of the body as in the position of the order, rotating the weapon so that the underside faces to the front;
  2. simultaneously, change the position of the left hand so that it cuts across the body and holds the rifle at the muzzle with a full round grasp, back of the hand facing to the front; and
  3. allow the right hand to slide upwards on the forestock so that it meets the left hand at the point below the front sight with a full round grasp.

32. On the command, SQUAD — THREE, squad members shall cut the left hand to the side as in the position of the order.

33. On the command, ORDER — ARMS, the three movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

Present Arms from the Slope

34. On the command, PRESENT ARMS BY NUMBERS, SQUAD — ONE, squad members shall cut the right hand across the body and seize the weapon at the small of the butt with a full round grasp, back of the hand facing the front.

35. On the command, SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall:

  1. raise the rifle with the right hand perpendicular in front of the centre of the body, sling to the left;
  2. simultaneously, place the left hand smartly on the sling, wrist on the magazine, fingers together and pointing upwards, thumb against the forefinger, with the point of the thumb in line with the mouth; and
  3. ensure that the left elbow is close to the butt, the right elbow and butt close to the body.

36. On the command, SQUAD — THREE, squad members shall:

  1. raise the right foot 15 cm (6 inches) and place it behind the left so that the instep of the right foot is against the heel of the left, toes pointing at a 30 degree angle to the right, both legs straight;
  2. as the right foot is placed on the ground, bring the rifle down perpendicularly close in front of the centre of the body, sling to the front, holding it at the full extent of the right arm, fingers extended and slanting 45 degrees downward in a Y-grip;
  3. as the right foot is placed on the ground, grasp the forestock with the left hand in a full round grasp, thumb along the left side of the rifle pointing towards the muzzle, left forearm parallel to the ground; and
  4. support the weight of the rifle with the right hand, left forearm parallel to the ground.

37. On the command, PRESENT — ARMS, the three movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

Back to top

Slope Arms from the Present

38. On the command, SLOPE ARMS BY NUMBERS, SQUAD — ONE, squad members shall:

  1. transfer the grip of the right hand so that it holds the small of the butt with a full round grasp;
  2. transfer the left hand so that it grasps the rifle as for the second movement of the slope arms from the order; and
  3. simultaneously, place the rifle on the left shoulder in the same position as in the second movement of slope arms from the order.

39. On the command, SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall:

  1. raise the right foot 15 cm (6 inches) and place it beside the left as in the position of attention; and
  2. as the right foot is placed on the ground, cut the right arm to the right side of the body, as in the position of the order.

40. On the command, SLOPE — ARMS, the two movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

Inspection of Arms from the Order

41. The primary purpose of port arms is to inspect the weapon for cleanliness, however, it is also the desired position when doubling with a rifle.

42. On the command, FOR INSPECTION, PORT ARMS BY NUMBERS, SQUAD — ONE, squad members shall:

  1. throw the weapon across the body with the muzzle leading, the magazine down and the barrel crossing opposite the point of the left shoulder;
  2. simultaneously, grab the weapon with the left hand in a full round grasp at a point just below the front sling swivel, back of the hand facing the ground;
  3. at the time the left hand meets the rifle, the right hand shall grab the rifle at the small of the butt with a full round grasp, back of the hand facing up, and the thumb in line with belt buckle; and
  4. ensure that the weapon is on a 45 degree angle pointing up and to the left, right and left elbows to the sides of the body in and arms held still in a natural position.

43. On the command, SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall bring the right hand to the safety catch and turn it forward with the thumb and index finger so that the catch points to the left.

44. On the command, SQUAD — THREE, squad members shall grasp the bolt handle with the thumb and index finger of the right hand, turn it sharply upwards, and draw back the bolt to its full extent.

45. On the command, SQUAD — FOUR, squad members shall raise the back sight with the thumb and forefinger of the right hand.

46. On the command, SQUAD — FIVE, squad members shall grasp the small of the butt with the right hand in a full round grasp, thumb towards the body and pointing towards the muzzle on the left side of the rifle.

47. On the command, FOR INSPECTION, PORT — ARMS, the five movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

48. On the command, EASE — SPRINGS, squad members shall work the bolt rapidly backwards and forwards until all cartridges are removed from the magazine and chamber. On their own time and once all cartridges are released from the rifle, squad members shall close the bolt, press the trigger, turn the safety catch to the rear, lower the back sight, and return the right hand to the small in a full round grasp, thumb towards the body.

49. If ordered to port arms for the purpose of doubling, the command is given as PORT — ARMS, and only paragraph 46 is executed.

Back to top

Order Arms from the inspection

50. On the command, SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall:

  1. cut the rifle to the right hand side of the body as in the position of the order; and
  2. allow the rifle to slip through the grasp on the left hand so that the left hand meets the right on the forestock.

51. On the command, SQUAD — THREE, squad members shall cut the left arm to the left side of the body as in the position of the order.

52. On the command, ORDER — ARMS, the three movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

53. If the butt plate is not in contact with the ground at the completion of the movement, squad members shall observe a standard pause before slowly lowering the rifle until it is in place beside the right foot.

Inspection of Arms from the Slope

54. On the command, FOR INSPECTION, PORT ARMS BY NUMBERS, SQUAD — ONE, squad members shall cut the right hand across the body and seize the weapon at the small of the butt with a full round grasp, back of the hand facing the front.

55. On the command, SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall force the weapon down and in front of the body and grasp the forestock with the left hand as in the port arms from the order.

56. On the command, SQUAD — THREE, squad members shall bring the right hand to the safety catch and turn it forward with the thumb and index finger so that the catch points to the left.

57. On the command, SQUAD — FOUR, squad members shall grasp the bolt handle with the thumb and index finger of the right hand, turn it sharply upwards, and draw back the bolt to its full extent.

58. On the command, SQUAD — FIVE, squad members shall raise the back sight with the thumb and forefinger of the right hand

59. On the command, SQUAD — SIX, squad members shall grasp the small of the butt with the right hand in a full round grasp, thumb towards the body and pointing towards the muzzle on the left side of the rifle.

60. On the command, FOR INSPECTION, PORT — ARMS, the six movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

61. On the command, EASE — SPRINGS, squad members shall work the bolt rapidly backwards and forwards until all cartridges are removed from the magazine and chamber. On their own time and once all cartridges are released from the rifle, squad members shall close the bolt, press the trigger, turn the safety catch to the rear, lower the back sight, and return the right hand to the small in a full round grasp, thumb towards the body.

62. If ordered to port arms for the purpose of doubling, the command is given as PORT — ARMS, and only paragraphs 1 and 2 are executed.

Back to top

Slope Arms from the Inspection

63. On the command, SLOPE ARMS BY NUMBERS, SQUAD — ONE, squad members shall:

  1. carry the rifle close to the body, placing it flat on the left shoulder, the underside out and away from the body;
  2. change the grip of the right hand to a full round grasp at the small of the butt;
  3. seize the butt of the rifle with the left hand, the thumb one inch above the toe of the butt, and the fingers together and wrapped around the butt plate; and
  4. keep the left elbow close to the body, forearm parallel to the ground, and left hand in front and towards the centre of the body, in line with the centre of the left thigh.

64. On the command, SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall cut the right arm to the right side of the body, fist clenched, thumb touching the seam of the right pant leg, knuckles touching the pant leg.

65. On the command, SLOPE — ARMS, the two movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

Change Arms at the Slope

66. The change arms movement is to be used when members under arms are carrying the rifle for long periods of time.

67. On the command, CHANGE ARMS BY NUMBERS, SQUAD — ONE, squad members shall:

  1. cut the right arm across the front of the body and seize the rifle at the butt with the right hand, fingers together and wrapped around the butt plate, thumb around the underside of the butt and 3 cm (one inch) above the toe of the butt, back of the hand facing up; and
  2. simultaneously, change the position of the left hand so that it grabs the small of the butt with a full round grasp, back of the hand facing to the left.

68. On the command, SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall:

  1. transfer the rifle across the front of the body to the right shoulder by letting it rotate clockwise with the right hand until the magazine is facing to the right, maintaining the grip on the butt plate, and the back of the right hand facing down;
  2. loosening the grip on the small of the butt with the left hand, allowing the rifle to rotate, while maintaining the full round grasp, back of the left hand facing to the front, left elbow in front of and close to the body; and
  3. ensure that the right arm is parallel to the ground, elbow close to the body, and butt of the rifle is in front of the right side of the body, in line with the centre of the right thigh.

69. On the command, SQUAD — THREE, squad members shall cut the left arm to the left side of the body as if assuming the position of attention.

70. On the command, CHANGE ARMS, the three movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

71. When the order is given and the right hand is carrying the rifle, follow the above movements using the opposite directions for left and right, and rotate the rifle counter – clockwise.

Back to top

Short Sling Arms

72. This movement is to be given from the position of the Order arms.

73. On the command, OPEN OUT SLINGS BY NUMBERS, SQUAD — ONE, squad members shall:

  1. with the right hand, raise the butt off the ground and force the heel of the butt to land approximately 30 cm forward;
  2. lean forward and rest the barrel against the right shoulder; and
  3. grasp the rifle at the lower band with the left hand.

74. On the command, SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall grasp the front keeper with both hands and open the sling to the full extent.

75. On the command, SQUAD — THREE, squad members shall return to the Order.

76. On the command, OPEN OUT — SLINGS, the three movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

77. On the command, SHORT SLING ARMS BY NUMBERS, SQUAD — ONE, squad members shall:

  1. cant the rifle up the right side and grasp the sling with the left hand; and
  2. shift the grasp of the right hand from the rifle to the sling

78. On the command, SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall:

  1. cut the left arm to the side;
  2. pass the right arm and shoulder between the sling and the rifle; and
  3. the rifle is to be vertical and the sling grasped just below the shoulder.

79. On the command, SHORT SLING — ARMS, the two movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

Dressing a squad

80. When dressing a squad on parade with rifles, the squad may be at the order or slope position.

81. On the command, RIGHT (LEFT) — DRESS, the movement is executed in the same fashion as without arms except that the left arm is raised at the order position as the head is turned in the required direction. This requires the right marker to raise their left arm, and the left marker to keep the left arm to the side.

82. Dressing a squad while at the slope position is carried out as for the right dress without arms. The right arm shall be raised for a left dress under this condition.

83. A well-trained group is not required to raise their arms.

Back to top

Ordering a squad on parade with weapons

84. When ordered to fall in, the squad shall assemble in three ranks at the edge of the parade ground and stand at ease. The marker detailed by the instructor shall take up position as the right-hand person of the front rank and stand at ease.

85. On the command, MARKER, the marker shall:

  1. come to attention and observe the standard pause;
  2. slope arms and observe the standard pause;
  3. march to a position 3 paces in front of and facing the instructor and halt; and
  4. remain at the slope.

86. After the marker has halted, the instructor shall turn right and move to a position three paces front and centre of where the squad will be fallen in.

87. On the command, FALL — IN, the squad shall:

  1. come to attention and observe the standard pause;
  2. slope arms and observe the standard pause;
  3. march onto the parade ground by advancing in squad formation and halt on the left of and covering off the marker; and
  4. remain at the slope.

88. The instructor shall then proceed as required (e.g. right dress, eyes front, order arms, stand at ease).

89. This movement may be executed at the short trail position if the instructor so orders.

Back to top

Saluting at slope arms

90. On the command, TO THE FRONT SALUTE BY NUMBERS, SQUAD — ONE, squad members shall bring the right arm across the body and striking the small of the butt smartly with the right hand, forearm horizontal, back of the hand uppermost, fingers and thumb together and straight. All other movements such as turning the head are executed as if saluting without arms.

91. On the command, SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall cut the right hand to the right side of the body as in the position of attention.

92. On the command, TO THE FRONT — SALUTE, the two movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

Saluting at shoulder arms

93. On the command, TO THE FRONT SALUTE BY NUMBER, SQUAD — ONE, squad members shall bring the left hand across the front of the body and meet the rifle in line with the right elbow, wrist straight, thumb and fingers straight and pointing to the right, left elbow close to the body.

94. On the command, SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall cut the left hand to the left side of the body as in the position of attention.

95. On the command, TO THE FRONT — SALUTE, the two movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

Funeral Drill - resting on arms reversed from the order

96. On the command REST ON YOUR ARMS REVERSED BY NUMBERS, SQUAD — ONE, squad members shall rotate the rifle with the butt coming towards the body and up until the rifle is vertical to the ground, muzzle pointing down, sling inwards.

97. On the command, SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall place the right hand on the butt plate with the thumb around the toe of the butt and the fingers together.

98. On the command, SQUAD — THREE, squad members shall place the left hand over the right, drop the elbows to the sides and lower the head until the chin touches the chest.

99. On the command, REST ON YOUR ARMS — REVERSED, the three movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

Present Arms from resting on arms reversed

100. On the command, PRESENT ARMS BY NUMBERS, SQUAD — ONE, squad members shall:

  1. raise the rifle with the right hand until the right forearm is parallel to the ground; and
  2. simultaneously, seize the rifle at the handguard with the left hand in a Y-grip, back of the hand to the body, thumb to the left, elbow close to the body.

101. On the command, SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall shift the grasp of the right hand to the small of the butt in a full round grasp, back of the hand towards the ground, thumb to the front.

102. On the command, SQUAD — THREE, squad members shall:

  1. rotate the rifle with the butt coming towards the body and down until the rifle is vertical to the ground, muzzle pointing up, sling outwards;
  2. change the grasp on the right hand to a Y-grip at the small of the butt, thumb to the left; and
  3. change the grasp on the left hand so that the thumb points directly up along the left side of the forestock.

103. On the command, PRESENT – ARMS, the three movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

Back to top

General

1. This order provides direction and establishes uniformity for Lee Enfield Rifle Drill specific to Air Cadets. It is to be used as a supplement to the Canadian Forces Manual of Drill and Ceremonial (A-PD-201-000/PT-000).

Terminology

2. In this CATO, “shall”, “will”, “is” and “are” are to be construed as imperative, and “may” as permissive.

References

3. Each kind of weapon has, by its form and dimensions, its proper drill. It is very important that those are used for an easy use of the rifle. Rifle drill described in the CF Manual of Drill and Ceremonial for C1 and C7 rifles is not be used.

Rifle Movements

4. Cadets carrying out rifle exercises are to have impressed on them the following important points:

  1. the body and head are to be kept perfectly still while the rifle is moving;
  2. the eyes are not to follow the movement of the rifle, but are to be kept looking to their front at their own level unless otherwise detailed in the movement;
  3. the rifle during its movements is to be kept as close to the body as possible;
  4. the rifle is always to be moved as quickly as possible unless otherwise detailed in the movement, and in those exercises which consist of several movements, a standard pause shall be observed between them;
  5. the fingers, except where stated otherwise, are to be kept close together; and
  6. the disengaged hand is brought to the rifle by the shortest route and as quickly as possible; and the same principle applies when returning the disengaged hand to the position of attention.

5. There are two methods of grasping the rifle for the movements outlined in this chapter:

  1. Full Round Grasp. The specified part of the rifle is held with a tight grip, thumb on one side, fingers together and grasping as much of the weapon as possible around the opposite side; and
  2. Y-Grip. The specified part is held with the thumb on one side, fingers together and straight on the opposite side. If fingers are to be pointed in a certain direction, it shall be stated in the movement.

Attention

6. To assume the position of attention (order arms), squad members shall:

  1. grasp the rifle with the right hand in the Y-grip, just below the lower band, fingers extended straight down the right side of the rifle with the thumb on the left side touching the seam of the trousers. The position of the right hand will not vary with the height of the individual, but the position of the right elbow will be either bent or straight. If the elbow is bent it will be held close to the body and to the rear;
  2. place the butt flat on the ground with the rifle touching the boot, toe of the butt in line with the small toe of the right foot; and
  3. keep the magazine to the front.

Back to top

Stand at Ease from Attention

7. On the command, STAND AT — EASE, squad members shall:

  1. raise the left foot 15 cm (6 inches) and place it smartly on the ground 25 cm (10 inches) to the left; and
  2. as the left foot is placed on the ground, force the rifle directly to the front and to the full extent of the right arm, keeping the toe of the butt in contact with the ground and in line with the small toe of the right foot.

Stand Easy from Stand at Ease

8. On the command, STAND — EASY, squad members shall shift the grasp of the right hand smartly to the end of the stock, take a standard pause, and relax.

9. On the next cautionary order, squad members will immediately assume the position of STAND AT EASE.

Stand at Ease from Stand Easy

10. On the command, SQUAD, the squad shall assume the position of stand at ease.

Attention from Stand at Ease

11. On the command, ATTEN — TION, squad members shall:

  1. raise the left foot 15 cm (6 inches) and place it beside the right as in the position of attention; and
  2. as the left foot is placed on the ground, return the muzzle of the rifle to the right side of the body.

Short Trail from the Order

12. The short trail is used when marching the squad short distances or during dressing when squad members are required to move.

13. Although the short trail arms shall be given before marching with arms at the order, if members are directed to close to the right or left, or to take any number of paces forward or back, or to form two ranks, they are to assume the short trail arms on the first movement and resume order arms on the last.

14. On the command, SHORT TRAIL — ARMS, given only when the squad is in the position of attention, squad members shall:

  1. bend the right arm and raise the butt of the rifle 2.5 cm (1 inch) from the ground; and
  2. keep the rifle vertical and close to the body.

15. On the command, AT THE SHORT TRAIL, QUICK — MARCH, simultaneously with the detail in paragraph 14 above, step off with the left foot.

16. On the command, SQUAD — HALT, the squad shall halt as ordered and, as the right knee is straightened, lower the rifle to the attention position.

17. When a squad is at the order arms position and the command, QUICK — MARCH, is given, the squad shall automatically adopt the short trail position as they step off with the left foot.

Back to top

Ground Arms

18. The GROUND ARMS is used when it is necessary to move the squad without arms. GROUND ARMS is only ordered when a squad is at the open order. Care must be given not to kick or step on arms when they are grounded.

19. On the command, GROUND ARMS BY NUMBERS, SQUAD — ONE, squad members shall:

  1. take a half pace forward with the left foot and by bending the knees, adopt a squatting position;
  2. keeping the right arm straight, with the right hand in line with the right knee, simultaneously rotate the rifle to the right, lay it on the ground with the trigger to the right and the muzzle pointing straight to the front;
  3. keep the shoulders square to the front and look down at the muzzle; and
  4. keep the left arm straight against the body and hip.

20. On the command, SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall:

  1. release the rifle; and
  2. assume the position of attention.

21. On the command, GROUND — ARMS, the two movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

Take up Arms

22. On the command, TAKE UP ARMS BY NUMBERS, SQUAD — ONE, squad members shall:

  1. take a half pace forward with the left foot and squat with the weight of the body on the right foot;
  2. look down at the muzzle and grasp the rifle at the point below the foresight with the right hand; and
  3. keep the left arm straight against the body and hip.

23. On the command SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall assume the position of attention by:

  1. standing erect, bending the left knee and bringing the left foot smartly back to the right; and
  2. simultaneously, rotating the rifle to the left, bringing the underside to the front and placing the heel of the butt of the rifle flat on the ground.

24. On the command, TAKE UP — ARMS, the two movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

Slope Arms from the Order

25. The SLOPE ARMS is the primarily position used when marching with the rifle. Care is to be given to ensure that all members keep the left forearm parallel to the ground and that the weapon is kept as still as possible while marching.

26. On the command, SLOPE ARMS BY NUMBERS, SQUAD — ONE, squad members shall:

  1. throw the rifle upwards with the right hand, catching it with both hands at the same time, the left hand with a full round grasp around the forestock and the right hand with a Y-grip around the small of the butt;
  2. ensure that the left forearm is parallel to the ground, close to the body;
  3. keep the right arm slightly bent, elbow to the rear and close to the body; and
  4. keep the rifle close to the body with the muzzle close to the right shoulder.

27. On the command, SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall:

  1. carry the rifle across and close to the body, placing it flat on the left shoulder, the underside out and away from the body;
  2. change the grip of the right hand to a full round grasp at the small of the butt;
  3. seize the butt of the rifle with the left hand, the thumb one inch above the toe of the butt, and the fingers together and wrapped around the butt plate; and
  4. keep the left elbow close to the body, forearm parallel to the ground, and left hand in front of and in line with the centre of the left shoulder.

28. On the command, SQUAD — THREE, squad members shall cut the right arm to the side as in the position of attention.

29. On the command, SLOPE — ARMS, the three movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

Back to top

Order Arms from the Slope

30. On the command, ORDER ARMS BY NUMBERS, SQUAD — ONE, squad members shall:

  1. bring the rifle down to a vertical position and to the full extent of the left arm, keeping the rifle close to the left side of the body; and
  2. simultaneously, bring the right arm across and close to the body and grasp the rifle at the forestock with a full round grasp.

31. On the command, SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall:

  1. use the right arm to force the rifle down and to the right side of the body as in the position of the order, rotating the weapon so that the underside faces to the front;
  2. simultaneously, change the position of the left hand so that it cuts across the body and holds the rifle at the muzzle with a full round grasp, back of the hand facing to the front; and
  3. allow the right hand to slide upwards on the forestock so that it meets the left hand at the point below the front sight with a full round grasp.

32. On the command, SQUAD — THREE, squad members shall cut the left hand to the side as in the position of the order.

33. On the command, ORDER — ARMS, the three movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

Present Arms from the Slope

34. On the command, PRESENT ARMS BY NUMBERS, SQUAD — ONE, squad members shall cut the right hand across the body and seize the weapon at the small of the butt with a full round grasp, back of the hand facing the front.

35. On the command, SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall:

  1. raise the rifle with the right hand perpendicular in front of the centre of the body, sling to the left;
  2. simultaneously, place the left hand smartly on the sling, wrist on the magazine, fingers together and pointing upwards, thumb against the forefinger, with the point of the thumb in line with the mouth; and
  3. ensure that the left elbow is close to the butt, the right elbow and butt close to the body.

36. On the command, SQUAD — THREE, squad members shall:

  1. raise the right foot 15 cm (6 inches) and place it behind the left so that the instep of the right foot is against the heel of the left, toes pointing at a 30 degree angle to the right, both legs straight;
  2. as the right foot is placed on the ground, bring the rifle down perpendicularly close in front of the centre of the body, sling to the front, holding it at the full extent of the right arm, fingers extended and slanting 45 degrees downward in a Y-grip;
  3. as the right foot is placed on the ground, grasp the forestock with the left hand in a full round grasp, thumb along the left side of the rifle pointing towards the muzzle, left forearm parallel to the ground; and
  4. support the weight of the rifle with the right hand, left forearm parallel to the ground.

37. On the command, PRESENT — ARMS, the three movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

Back to top

Slope Arms from the Present

38. On the command, SLOPE ARMS BY NUMBERS, SQUAD — ONE, squad members shall:

  1. transfer the grip of the right hand so that it holds the small of the butt with a full round grasp;
  2. transfer the left hand so that it grasps the rifle as for the second movement of the slope arms from the order; and
  3. simultaneously, place the rifle on the left shoulder in the same position as in the second movement of slope arms from the order.

39. On the command, SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall:

  1. raise the right foot 15 cm (6 inches) and place it beside the left as in the position of attention; and
  2. as the right foot is placed on the ground, cut the right arm to the right side of the body, as in the position of the order.

40. On the command, SLOPE — ARMS, the two movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

Inspection of Arms from the Order

41. The primary purpose of port arms is to inspect the weapon for cleanliness, however, it is also the desired position when doubling with a rifle.

42. On the command, FOR INSPECTION, PORT ARMS BY NUMBERS, SQUAD — ONE, squad members shall:

  1. throw the weapon across the body with the muzzle leading, the magazine down and the barrel crossing opposite the point of the left shoulder;
  2. simultaneously, grab the weapon with the left hand in a full round grasp at a point just below the front sling swivel, back of the hand facing the ground;
  3. at the time the left hand meets the rifle, the right hand shall grab the rifle at the small of the butt with a full round grasp, back of the hand facing up, and the thumb in line with belt buckle; and
  4. ensure that the weapon is on a 45 degree angle pointing up and to the left, right and left elbows to the sides of the body in and arms held still in a natural position.

43. On the command, SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall bring the right hand to the safety catch and turn it forward with the thumb and index finger so that the catch points to the left.

44. On the command, SQUAD — THREE, squad members shall grasp the bolt handle with the thumb and index finger of the right hand, turn it sharply upwards, and draw back the bolt to its full extent.

45. On the command, SQUAD — FOUR, squad members shall raise the back sight with the thumb and forefinger of the right hand.

46. On the command, SQUAD — FIVE, squad members shall grasp the small of the butt with the right hand in a full round grasp, thumb towards the body and pointing towards the muzzle on the left side of the rifle.

47. On the command, FOR INSPECTION, PORT — ARMS, the five movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

48. On the command, EASE — SPRINGS, squad members shall work the bolt rapidly backwards and forwards until all cartridges are removed from the magazine and chamber. On their own time and once all cartridges are released from the rifle, squad members shall close the bolt, press the trigger, turn the safety catch to the rear, lower the back sight, and return the right hand to the small in a full round grasp, thumb towards the body.

49. If ordered to port arms for the purpose of doubling, the command is given as PORT — ARMS, and only paragraph 46 is executed.

Back to top

Order Arms from the inspection

50. On the command, SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall:

  1. cut the rifle to the right hand side of the body as in the position of the order; and
  2. allow the rifle to slip through the grasp on the left hand so that the left hand meets the right on the forestock.

51. On the command, SQUAD — THREE, squad members shall cut the left arm to the left side of the body as in the position of the order.

52. On the command, ORDER — ARMS, the three movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

53. If the butt plate is not in contact with the ground at the completion of the movement, squad members shall observe a standard pause before slowly lowering the rifle until it is in place beside the right foot.

Inspection of Arms from the Slope

54. On the command, FOR INSPECTION, PORT ARMS BY NUMBERS, SQUAD — ONE, squad members shall cut the right hand across the body and seize the weapon at the small of the butt with a full round grasp, back of the hand facing the front.

55. On the command, SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall force the weapon down and in front of the body and grasp the forestock with the left hand as in the port arms from the order.

56. On the command, SQUAD — THREE, squad members shall bring the right hand to the safety catch and turn it forward with the thumb and index finger so that the catch points to the left.

57. On the command, SQUAD — FOUR, squad members shall grasp the bolt handle with the thumb and index finger of the right hand, turn it sharply upwards, and draw back the bolt to its full extent.

58. On the command, SQUAD — FIVE, squad members shall raise the back sight with the thumb and forefinger of the right hand

59. On the command, SQUAD — SIX, squad members shall grasp the small of the butt with the right hand in a full round grasp, thumb towards the body and pointing towards the muzzle on the left side of the rifle.

60. On the command, FOR INSPECTION, PORT — ARMS, the six movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

61. On the command, EASE — SPRINGS, squad members shall work the bolt rapidly backwards and forwards until all cartridges are removed from the magazine and chamber. On their own time and once all cartridges are released from the rifle, squad members shall close the bolt, press the trigger, turn the safety catch to the rear, lower the back sight, and return the right hand to the small in a full round grasp, thumb towards the body.

62. If ordered to port arms for the purpose of doubling, the command is given as PORT — ARMS, and only paragraphs 1 and 2 are executed.

Back to top

Slope Arms from the Inspection

63. On the command, SLOPE ARMS BY NUMBERS, SQUAD — ONE, squad members shall:

  1. carry the rifle close to the body, placing it flat on the left shoulder, the underside out and away from the body;
  2. change the grip of the right hand to a full round grasp at the small of the butt;
  3. seize the butt of the rifle with the left hand, the thumb one inch above the toe of the butt, and the fingers together and wrapped around the butt plate; and
  4. keep the left elbow close to the body, forearm parallel to the ground, and left hand in front and towards the centre of the body, in line with the centre of the left thigh.

64. On the command, SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall cut the right arm to the right side of the body, fist clenched, thumb touching the seam of the right pant leg, knuckles touching the pant leg.

65. On the command, SLOPE — ARMS, the two movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

Change Arms at the Slope

66. The change arms movement is to be used when members under arms are carrying the rifle for long periods of time.

67. On the command, CHANGE ARMS BY NUMBERS, SQUAD — ONE, squad members shall:

  1. cut the right arm across the front of the body and seize the rifle at the butt with the right hand, fingers together and wrapped around the butt plate, thumb around the underside of the butt and 3 cm (one inch) above the toe of the butt, back of the hand facing up; and
  2. simultaneously, change the position of the left hand so that it grabs the small of the butt with a full round grasp, back of the hand facing to the left.

68. On the command, SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall:

  1. transfer the rifle across the front of the body to the right shoulder by letting it rotate clockwise with the right hand until the magazine is facing to the right, maintaining the grip on the butt plate, and the back of the right hand facing down;
  2. loosening the grip on the small of the butt with the left hand, allowing the rifle to rotate, while maintaining the full round grasp, back of the left hand facing to the front, left elbow in front of and close to the body; and
  3. ensure that the right arm is parallel to the ground, elbow close to the body, and butt of the rifle is in front of the right side of the body, in line with the centre of the right thigh.

69. On the command, SQUAD — THREE, squad members shall cut the left arm to the left side of the body as if assuming the position of attention.

70. On the command, CHANGE ARMS, the three movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

71. When the order is given and the right hand is carrying the rifle, follow the above movements using the opposite directions for left and right, and rotate the rifle counter – clockwise.

Back to top

Short Sling Arms

72. This movement is to be given from the position of the Order arms.

73. On the command, OPEN OUT SLINGS BY NUMBERS, SQUAD — ONE, squad members shall:

  1. with the right hand, raise the butt off the ground and force the heel of the butt to land approximately 30 cm forward;
  2. lean forward and rest the barrel against the right shoulder; and
  3. grasp the rifle at the lower band with the left hand.

74. On the command, SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall grasp the front keeper with both hands and open the sling to the full extent.

75. On the command, SQUAD — THREE, squad members shall return to the Order.

76. On the command, OPEN OUT — SLINGS, the three movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

77. On the command, SHORT SLING ARMS BY NUMBERS, SQUAD — ONE, squad members shall:

  1. cant the rifle up the right side and grasp the sling with the left hand; and
  2. shift the grasp of the right hand from the rifle to the sling

78. On the command, SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall:

  1. cut the left arm to the side;
  2. pass the right arm and shoulder between the sling and the rifle; and
  3. the rifle is to be vertical and the sling grasped just below the shoulder.

79. On the command, SHORT SLING — ARMS, the two movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

Dressing a squad

80. When dressing a squad on parade with rifles, the squad may be at the order or slope position.

81. On the command, RIGHT (LEFT) — DRESS, the movement is executed in the same fashion as without arms except that the left arm is raised at the order position as the head is turned in the required direction. This requires the right marker to raise their left arm, and the left marker to keep the left arm to the side.

82. Dressing a squad while at the slope position is carried out as for the right dress without arms. The right arm shall be raised for a left dress under this condition.

83. A well-trained group is not required to raise their arms.

Back to top

Ordering a squad on parade with weapons

84. When ordered to fall in, the squad shall assemble in three ranks at the edge of the parade ground and stand at ease. The marker detailed by the instructor shall take up position as the right-hand person of the front rank and stand at ease.

85. On the command, MARKER, the marker shall:

  1. come to attention and observe the standard pause;
  2. slope arms and observe the standard pause;
  3. march to a position 3 paces in front of and facing the instructor and halt; and
  4. remain at the slope.

86. After the marker has halted, the instructor shall turn right and move to a position three paces front and centre of where the squad will be fallen in.

87. On the command, FALL — IN, the squad shall:

  1. come to attention and observe the standard pause;
  2. slope arms and observe the standard pause;
  3. march onto the parade ground by advancing in squad formation and halt on the left of and covering off the marker; and
  4. remain at the slope.

88. The instructor shall then proceed as required (e.g. right dress, eyes front, order arms, stand at ease).

89. This movement may be executed at the short trail position if the instructor so orders.

Back to top

Saluting at slope arms

90. On the command, TO THE FRONT SALUTE BY NUMBERS, SQUAD — ONE, squad members shall bring the right arm across the body and striking the small of the butt smartly with the right hand, forearm horizontal, back of the hand uppermost, fingers and thumb together and straight. All other movements such as turning the head are executed as if saluting without arms.

91. On the command, SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall cut the right hand to the right side of the body as in the position of attention.

92. On the command, TO THE FRONT — SALUTE, the two movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

Saluting at shoulder arms

93. On the command, TO THE FRONT SALUTE BY NUMBER, SQUAD — ONE, squad members shall bring the left hand across the front of the body and meet the rifle in line with the right elbow, wrist straight, thumb and fingers straight and pointing to the right, left elbow close to the body.

94. On the command, SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall cut the left hand to the left side of the body as in the position of attention.

95. On the command, TO THE FRONT — SALUTE, the two movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

Funeral Drill - resting on arms reversed from the order

96. On the command REST ON YOUR ARMS REVERSED BY NUMBERS, SQUAD — ONE, squad members shall rotate the rifle with the butt coming towards the body and up until the rifle is vertical to the ground, muzzle pointing down, sling inwards.

97. On the command, SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall place the right hand on the butt plate with the thumb around the toe of the butt and the fingers together.

98. On the command, SQUAD — THREE, squad members shall place the left hand over the right, drop the elbows to the sides and lower the head until the chin touches the chest.

99. On the command, REST ON YOUR ARMS — REVERSED, the three movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

Present Arms from resting on arms reversed

100. On the command, PRESENT ARMS BY NUMBERS, SQUAD — ONE, squad members shall:

  1. raise the rifle with the right hand until the right forearm is parallel to the ground; and
  2. simultaneously, seize the rifle at the handguard with the left hand in a Y-grip, back of the hand to the body, thumb to the left, elbow close to the body.

101. On the command, SQUAD — TWO, squad members shall shift the grasp of the right hand to the small of the butt in a full round grasp, back of the hand towards the ground, thumb to the front.

102. On the command, SQUAD — THREE, squad members shall:

  1. rotate the rifle with the butt coming towards the body and down until the rifle is vertical to the ground, muzzle pointing up, sling outwards;
  2. change the grasp on the right hand to a Y-grip at the small of the butt, thumb to the left; and
  3. change the grasp on the left hand so that the thumb points directly up along the left side of the forestock.

103. On the command, PRESENT – ARMS, the three movements are combined. A standard pause shall be observed between the movements.

Back to top

OPI: D Cdts 4

Date: Mar 03

Amendment: Original

Page details

Date modified: