ean and still damp after washing
(about half dry), because it penetrates more uniformly when applied
from the flesh side, and when the leather is damp. If the leather is
dry it will absorb the oil like blotting paper, preventing proper
distribution.

(b) The oil should be applied with an oiled rag or cotton waste by
long, light, quick strokes--light strokes, so that the pressure
applied may not squeeze out an excess of oil; quick strokes, so that
the leather may not absorb an undue amount of oil. The endeavor should
be to obtain a light, even distribution.

(c) After applying the oil the leather equipment should be allowed to
stand for 24 hours, if practicable, in a warm dry place. It should
then be rubbed with a dry cloth to remove any unabsorbed oil.

Points to Be Remembered

=1320.= Therefore, from what has been said, the following points must
be remembered:

(a) Keep leather clean.

(b) Keep leather pliable by frequent applications of oil.

(c) Use only materials furnished by the Ordnance Department. _Shoe
polishes_, etc., are almost invariably injurious.

(d) _Dry all leather wet from whatever cause, in the shade_; never in
the sun or close to a steam radiator, furnace, or boiler.

(e) Leather should habitually be stored in a cool, dry place, _without
artificial heat_.

FOOTNOTES:

[15] "Viscol" is the best oil for softening all kinds of leather that
the author knows of. It is made by The Viscol Co, East Cambridge,
Mass., and can be obtained from the post exchange.

[16] Propert's Harness Soap is excellent. However, since the European
War its issue has been discontinued by the Ordnance Department.
"Viscol," obtainable from the post exchange, is the best oil for
softening all kinds of leather that the author knows of.

CHAPTER XVIII

CARE AND DESCRIPTION OF THE RIFLE

Care

=1321. Importance.= The care of his rifle should be the soldier's
first thought; for, if he would have it take care of him in time of
danger, he must take care of it at all times.

_It is a generally recognized fact that more rifles become inaccurate
and unserviceable by the lack of care than by firing._

The instructions for taking care of the rifle are few and simple.
Learn them well and _apply them constantly_--it only requires a little
care and patience. You will be well repaid for it. It may some day
save your life.

=1322. Care of bore requires work.= The bore of the rifle is
manufactured with the grea