Posted on Jun 26, 2018
CPT Intelligence Analyst
16.6K
12
14
5
5
0
For you infantry types, or those of you who can help out, who have a lot more experience in this realm of things than me, I'm looking for some guidance. I was given the task of running a dual MK19 and M2 range in several months, and I have no idea where to begin. Prior to being told that I was running one, I had no idea they existed. I took a TRADOC course on the M2 several months back, so reading up on that weapon system should be sufficient in getting me back into the mindset of operational procedure. I am completely at a loss for the MK19, or even where to look in terms of running a two completely different system range. Does anyone have any suggestions, or places on where to begin? Looking to do this right, and to standard so the soldiers get good training out of it.
Avatar feed
Responses: 7
Votes
  • Newest
  • Oldest
  • Votes
SFC(P) Drill Sergeant
2
2
0
So I have tons and tons of experience running both weapon systems on ranges. I ran crew served ran for 2 straight years. I'm not to sure what exactly are you asking sir?

If it is a dual range you should have one side firing the .50 cals and the other side firing the MK19. Depending on the ammo shack if there is multiple of them to house the ammo separate. Is this a qual course or just a Fam Fire course? Your NCOIC should be familiar with this range and be able to get most of it set up to where you are just worried about the logistics and range control part of the range.
(2)
Comment
(0)
CPT Intelligence Analyst
CPT (Join to see)
7 y
Hey there SFC(P) (Join to see)! It is just a fam fire, so my intent is just get the soldiers familiar with the system and how it operates, not even looking to score how well they shoot or even if they hit the targets. Its just hull targets based on the range we were given. Where could I find a script for either system for the tower? That is the only thing I'm missing.
(0)
Reply
(0)
SFC(P) Drill Sergeant
SFC(P) (Join to see)
7 y
Surprised there is no range book, but if there isn't a script is basically something you make yourself or if you get lucky they have one in the tower you can work off of.

So tower commands is basically the tower telling the soldiers what to do. I have never seen a manual specifically telling you what to say but Range control should have something if not the tower.

Since this is just Fam fire and not qual it will be a lot easier since during qual since you would have to give different commands. If you truly need it I can always write something up for you and you could add subtract what you need but I've always done it from the top of my head I just ran one for the best warrior competition but we didn't use the tower since it was just a fam fire.
(0)
Reply
(0)
Avatar small
CW5 Jack Cardwell
2
2
0
Get your hands on TC 3-22-19 used to be FM 23-27
(2)
Comment
(0)
CPT Intelligence Analyst
(0)
Reply
(0)
SPC Casey Ashfield
SPC Casey Ashfield
>1 y
Used to be? As of 3 years ago when I discharged, we still used the FM 23-27. But then again a few of the die hard salty guys still used FM 7-8...
(0)
Reply
(0)
Avatar small
1px xxx
Suspended Profile
A lot of great comments already - all that I can add is to ensure your ammo order is correct - MK19 needs high velocity rounds, not the low velocity rounds of the M320.
Avatar feed
Does anyone have any suggestions, or places to begin, on running familiarization and qualification ranges for the MK19 and Browning M2?
SSG Environmental Specialist
1
1
0
First Sir, where is this training taking place, does this facility have the ranges to support these weapon systems. Second who are your NCO's, you will be running the range, that is coordinating but they will be on the range as your NCOIC, Range Safety etc. Does this range provide tower control or do you have to provide someone, have you talked to range control?
(1)
Comment
(0)
CPT Intelligence Analyst
CPT (Join to see)
>1 y
Hey SSG (Join to see), thanks for getting back so quick! The post I am at does have the ability to host both weapons systems, yes. I currently have one NCO as both RSO and NCOIC (although everyone on the range is a safety). This is not the first range I have lead either, but the first time I am working with these weapons systems in a range environment. A tower is provided, yes. I should have specified clearer. I'm looking for doctrine on running a dual weapon system range, or to find someone who has either done one before or can point me in the right direction! I have not gone to range control yet, but that is indeed a due out of mine.
(0)
Reply
(0)
SSG Environmental Specialist
SSG (Join to see)
>1 y
I would get with my NCO's and Range control, see what if any thing range control might require, and then talk to my NCOIC and RSO and together plan everything out. Ranges are not that big a deal, if you have to provide your own tower control then range control should tell you everything you need to call in for going "hot" and going "cold" or just a short stand down. Your NCO's should handle the actual range but if you are not that familiar with them get with those NCO's who have experience in that system.
(0)
Reply
(0)
SSG Environmental Specialist
SSG (Join to see)
>1 y
I would also note, it seems this is just for familiarization not qualifications, by tower I mean does the range provide personnel or do you have to provide a person in the tower. I range a weapons qualification range for 2 years and we always provide tower support, part of that was because Basic would come out as well and they were not allowed to run the tower, (that way they could not cheat on their scores)
(0)
Reply
(0)
Avatar small
SPC Casey Ashfield
0
0
0
Several of your combat NCOs (if you have them) will know how to properly setup both weapons for firing. Specifically setting the headspace and timing on the M2 .50. Knowing how to setup these weapons is far more important than qualification in my opinion. Get your hands on as many timing keys as you can.
(0)
Comment
(0)
Avatar small
SGT Joseph Gunderson
0
0
0
First, I would definitely gather up some of your more experienced NCOs to be coaches on your lanes. You can bounce ideas of of them for the best way to set it up. I would also get some of you armorer qualified guys together to double check on the equipment, make sure they are functional, and that there are materials readily available if something breaks. Both of those weapons have a few pieces that like to break at stupid moments. Go put a request in for all the ammunition, lubricants, and the range that you are going to want to use. Maybe set up for a block of time before shooting or the day prior to run all of your guys through clearing, disassembly, reassembly, and functions check. Even for the guys that have experience it is always good to brush up on the basics. Find out who your NCOs are that can function as safeties as well. If this is gna be an all day deal, see about getting some MREs or food taken out to the range. Plan for training that can be conducted before and after the SMs go to shoot. There is nothing worse than a bored soldier on a range, stupid shit tends to go down.
I'm sure I'm missing some stuff.
Kudos for reaching out for advice. Says a lot about a LT that knows when to ask for help. Good luck.
(0)
Comment
(0)
Avatar small
CPO Steelworker
0
0
0
Can I make a simple suggestion contact a School house that does this on the Norm. Look at some of the Boot camp places that do this. I know your Army, but Marines may be able to help. Same contact a school house. The training area where your at should have a list of units Operational and training that have done this course of training. We have MTT's that do this and a training regiment that certifies the course of shooting and training. Army should have same.
(0)
Comment
(0)
Avatar small

Join nearly 2 million former and current members of the US military, just like you.

How are you connected to the military?
  • Active Duty
  • Active Reserve / National Guard
  • Pre-Commission
  • Veteran / Retired
  • Civilian Supporter