The whole field will by this means be thoroughly searched for game, and
each man can fire clear of the other, commanding his own ground and the
whole field within the range of the respective guns.

When about to commence practice with the rifle or revolver the firing
party should be placed well to the front, and should never load, or be
allowed to load, until all preliminaries are arranged, and the words,
'Ready! go on!' are given.

This command or caution will, of necessity, place every one upon his
guard.

When the piece is loaded, the finger with which the trigger is drawn
should on no account be placed within the trigger-guard till the weapon
is raised and the aim about to be taken; and with the rifle until the
weapon is presented, after being put upon full-cock.

In firing with a pistol, or revolver, the proper finger with which to
draw the trigger is the second finger, not the index finger, as
generally used. The index finger should be placed horizontally along the
barrel, on the side of the weapon, which is most important--which, as a
means of securing steadiness and leverage, tends not only to reduce the
difficulty of the pull, but also tends to prevent depression of the
muzzle, which is sure to take place if the forefinger is used,
particularly when the trigger has the minimum five-pounds' pull.

When a gun, rifle, pistol, or revolver, is at full-cock, and it is
desired to place it upon half-cock, as is often done, it should be so
altered, with great care, as follows:--

The hammer should be lowered gently to the full extent of the spring,
and should then be carefully drawn back till the distinct _click_ of the
half-cock is heard; then the weapon is as safe as an arm can be when
loaded, and cannot be accidentally discharged.

To place a weapon from full to half-cock, by not lowering the hammer to
the full extent of the spring, and then drawing it back to half-cock as
before described, is a most dangerous practice, as the hammer may not be
properly inserted in the clip, and an accident might be the result. A
man once having taken up his position at the firing-point, and having
loaded his piece, should never return into the company of his comrades
till his piece (particularly if a pistol or revolver) is discharged, or
till all its chambers have been expended. If it is necessary for him to
rejoin his comrades after his piece is loaded, or after any of the
chambers have been expended, he should leave the w