2. UFC 4-179-02-2020.pdf

UFC 4-179-02

5 March 2020

UNIFIED FACILITIES CRITERIA (UFC)

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE; DISTRIBUTION UNLIMITED

SMALL ARMS RANGES

SMALL ARMS RANGES

Any copyrighted material included in this UFC is identified at its point of use.

Use of the copyrighted material apart from this UFC must have the permission of the copyright holder.

Indicate the preparing activity beside the Service responsible for preparing the document.

U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS

NAVAL FACILITIES ENGINEERING COMMAND (Preparing Activity)

AIR FORCE CIVIL ENGINEER CENTER

Record of Changes (changes are indicated by \1\ ... /1/)

Change No. Date Location

This UFC supersedes MIL-HDBK 1027/3B, dated November 1992 and ETL 11-18 dated November 2018.

FOREWORD

The Unified Facilities Criteria (UFC) system is prescribed by MIL-STD 3007 and provides planning, design, construction, sustainment, restoration, and modernization criteria, and applies to the Military Departments, the Defense Agencies, and the DoD Field Activities in accordance with USD (AT&L) Memorandum dated 29 May 2002. UFC will be used for all DoD projects and work for other customers where appropriate. All construction outside of the United States is also governed by Status of Forces Agreements (SOFA), Host Nation Funded Construction Agreements (HNFA), and in some instances, Bilateral Infrastructure Agreements (BIA).

Therefore, the acquisition team must ensure compliance with the most stringent of the UFC, the SOFA, the HNFA, and the BIA, as applicable.

UFC are living documents and will be periodically reviewed, updated, and made available to users as part of the Services’ responsibility for providing technical criteria for military construction. Headquarters, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (HQUSACE), Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC), and Air Force Civil Engineer Center (AFCEC) are responsible for administration of the UFC system. Defense agencies should contact the preparing service for document interpretation and improvements. Technical content of UFC is the responsibility of the cognizant DoD working group. Recommended changes with supporting rationale should be sent to the respective service proponent office by the following electronic form: Criteria Change Request. The form is also accessible from the Internet sites listed below.

UFC are effective upon issuance and are distributed only in electronic media from the following source:

• Whole Building Design Guide website http://dod.wbdg.org/.

Refer to UFC 1-200-01, DoD Building Code, for implementation of new issuances on projects.

AUTHORIZED BY:

CHRISTINE T. ALTENDORF, PhD, P.E., SES

R. DAVID CURFMAN, P.E.

Chief Engineer

Chief, Engineering and Construction Naval Facilities Engineering Command U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

NANCY J. BALKUS, P.E., SES

Deputy Director of Civil Engineers DCS/Logistics, Engineering & Force Protection (HAF/A4C) HQ United States Air Force

MICHAEL McANDREW Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense (Facilities Management) Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Sustainment)

NEW SUMMARY SHEET

Document: UFC 4-179-02, Small Arms Range Criteria.

Superseding: Navy MIL HNDBK 1027/3B and Air Force ETL 11-18.

Description: This UFC-4-179-021 replaces the superseded documents above and provides Tri Service criteria applicable all new DoD indoor, outdoor, and steel close quarter combat small arms range facilities. This UFC establishes existing Army and USMC Surface Danger Zone criteria as Tri Service criteria and references other Department of Defense (DoD) range criteria where appropriate.

Reasons for Document:

• The new UFC updates and consolidates various service range guidance into one

Tri Service document and addresses many areas not covered in existing DoD range criteria.

• The superseded documents included requirements that were inconsistent between each other and other service practices.

Impact:

This unification effort will result in more consistent requirements across DoD and will increase DoD range safety, improve training, and reduce costs in the following ways:

• Provides new and updated criteria that is consistent throughout DoD and a centralized source to share and apply lessons learned.

• Improves indoor range ventilation designs which in turn reduces the chance of overexposure to airborne contaminants.

• Improves indoor range noise attenuation designs which in turn reduces the impacts of harmful noise to personnel at the range.

• Highlights exterior noise concerns and thus reduces noise to neighboring areas.

• Increases awareness of indoor range options and capabilities. This allows for facilities that improve training to warfighters.

• Provides criteria on steel CQC facilities which is currently absent in DoD.

• Provides suppliers with consistent standards thus simplifying procurement of range equipment for both DoD and contractors.

Unification Issues:

General:

Several service specific planning and layout requirements are included since:

• The Army has extensive planning criteria for outdoor ranges. The Air Force has detailed planning requirements for the indirect support area of indoor ranges. The Navy has no separate range planning criteria.

• Training requirements vary between the services, and this dictates different range requirements and layouts.

Outdoor ranges:

The Army, Navy, and USMC use DA PAM 385-63 and MCO 3570 for SDZ criteria. The Air Force uses horizontal distances listed in these criteria but different distances for the vertical component of the Surface Danger Zone. A separate table with vertical components is included for Air Force use.

Services have different access, signage, and marking requirements. A statement is made to use service installation guidance.

The Army, USMC, and Air Force allow machine gun training on tube ranges. These tube ranges do not support traverse firing that is required for maritime machine gun training. A statement is made not to use tube ranges for Navy machine gun qualifications.

Indoor Ranges:

The Navy and Air Force do not use rubber traps on new ranges due to fire and maintenance issues experienced with rubber traps on several existing ranges. The Army and USMC use rubber traps as an option. Service specific guidance is provided.

The Air Force requires a raised floor in the range control booth. The other services do not. A note is included to use raised floors on Air Force projects.

CQC Facilities and Shoothouses:

The Army allows an option to glue splatter protection directly to the ballistic panels in steel shoothouses. The Navy requires an air gap between steel panels and the splatter protection to facilitate inspections and to increase the life of the splatter protection.

Service specific guidance is provided.

The Army uses Shock Absorbing Concrete (SACON) as an option for ballistic walls, and does not require a ballistic roof when an SDZ waiver is obtained. The Navy only uses steel shoothouses with steel ballistic panels and overhead ballistic containment. This criteria only covers steel shoothouses with a ballistic roof and refers to Army when designing SACON shoothouses.

This Page Intentionally Left Blank i

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION

1-1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE

1-2 APPLICABILITY

1-3 OTHER CRITERIA

General Building Requirements

Antiterrorism and Security

Sustainability

Service Specific DoD Range Criteria

Army Ranges

Non-Standard Ranges

1-4 CYBERSECURITY

1-5 BEST PRACTICES

1-6 WEAPONS AND AMMUNITION

1-7 GLOSSARY

1-8 REFERENCES

CHAPTER 2 GENERAL

2-1 PLANNING

2-2 BASIS OF DESIGN

2-3 MATERIAL

Concrete

Ballistic and AR500 Steel Plate

Splatter Protection for Overhead Baffles and Safety Ceiling

Splatter Protection for Steel CQC Facilities

2-4 AIR FORCE RANGES

Firing Line Positions and Platforms

Position Numbering

Position Barricades

Firing Line

Light Anti-Tank Weapons (LAW) and 40 mm Grenades

2-5 ARMY AND USMC RANGES

CHAPTER 3 OUTDOOR RANGES

3-1 PLANNING AND DESIGN

ii

3-2 SURFACE DANGER ZONES

Air Force Ranges

Access Restrictions, Warning Signs, Markers, and Flags

Surface Danger Zones Over Navigable Water

Baffled Ranges

3-3 TYPES OF OUTDOOR RANGES

Single Fixed Firing Line

Multiple Firing Lines

Maneuver Areas

Skeet and Trap Ranges

3-4 SITING

Mandatory Requirements and Issues to Address

Considerations

3-5 SUPPORT FACILITIES

Roads and Parking

Utilities

3-6 GEOMETRY FOR NAVY AND AIR FORCE RANGES

Measurement Control

Target Centers

Lanes

Range Length

3-7 GEOMETRY FOR ARMY RANGES

3-8 RANGE COMPONENTS

Drainage

Floor Surface

Benches

Bleachers

Obstacles

Range Safety Officer Position

Towers

Overhead Cover

Lateral Limit Markers

3-9 IMPACT BERMS

iii

Geometry

Berm Material

Berm Construction

3-10 TARGET SYSTEMS

Target Systems for Army Ranges

Target Line Grading and Protection

Target Supports and Berms

Butt Target System

3-11 PARALLEL RANGES

3-12 MACHINE GUN TUBE RANGE

Surface Danger Zone

Machine Gun Tubes

Drainage

Firing Platform

Berm Backstops

Noise

CHAPTER 4 INDOOR RANGES

4-1 GENERAL

Coverage

Range Areas

4-2 TRAINING AREA

4-3 DIRECT SUPPORT AREA

Range Control Booth

Airlock Vestibules

Vacuum Storage

Brass Storage

4-4 TRAINING AND DIRECT SUPPORT AREA LAYOUT

4-5 INDIRECT SUPPORT AREAS

Required Indirect Support Area

Other Indirect Support Areas

4-6 FIRE PROTECTION

4-7 COLLECTION, TEMPORARY STORAGE, AND DISPOSAL

4-8 STANDARD INDOOR RANGE FEATURES

iv

4-9 MULTIPLE BAYS

4-10 CEILING, WALLS, AND DOORS

Uprange Ceiling and Wall Behind Firing Line

Ballistic Side and Downrange Walls

Wall Joints

Downrange Doors

Maintenance and Vehicle Entrance

4-11 FLOORS

4-12 RANGE MARKINGS

4-13 TARGET SYSTEMS

Static Target Stands

Overhead Target Rail System

Running Man Targets

Fixed Turning Targets System

4-14 SHOOTING STALLS

4-15 BARRIERS AND BARRICADES

4-16 OVERHEAD BAFFLES AND SAFETY CEILING

4-17 BULLET TRAPS

Cantilevered Upper Ramp Support

Dust Collection System

Spent Round Collection System

Granular Rubber Trap Option

4-18 COMMUNICATIONS

4-19 LIGHTING

Range In Use Lights

Security Training Lights

Emergency Lighting

4-20 NOISE

Noise to Adjacent Land

Noise Inside the Training Area

Acoustical Treatment Locations

Acoustic Panels

Acceptance Testing v

4-21 RANGE VENTILATION

General Ventilation Requirements

Climate Control

Supply Distribution System

Exhaust System

Controls

Acceptance Testing

4-22 RANGE OPTIONS

Relocatable Ranges

Combination Fixed and Tactical Range

Steel Reactive Range

Wide Angle Shooting

CHAPTER 5 STEEL CLOSE QUARTER FACILITIES

5-1 GENERAL

Applicability

Items Not Addressed

Design

5-2 RANGE AREAS

Live Fire Area

Direct Support Areas

5-3 EQUIPMENT AND SPECIAL EFFECTS

5-4 TARGET SYSTEMS

5-5 ALARMS

5-6 FIRE PROTECTION

5-7 LIGHTING AND ILLUMINATION

5-8 NOISE

5-9 LASERS

5-10 BALLISTIC PROTECTON

Ballistic Walls

Ballistic Roofs and Decking

Exterior Openings

Army Shoothouses

5-11 CATWALKS

vi

5-12 VENTILATION

Air Flow Requirements

Design Documents

HEPA Filters

Contractor Experience

Acceptance Tests

5-13 ENCLOSED CQC FACILITIES

Top to Bottom Ventilation System

Across-the-Top Ventilation System

5-14 CQC FACILITIES WITH OPEN EAVES

Minimum Distances

Ventilation

APPENDIX A BEST PRACTICES

A-1 INDOOR RANGE VENTILATION CONTRACTING STRATEGY

A-1.1 Phase 1 – Requirement Development

A-1.2 Phase 2 - Ventilation Contractor Requirements

APPENDIX B DOD WEAPONS AND AMMUNITION

B-1 WEAPONS

B-2 CATEGORIES OF SMALL ARMS AMMUNITION

APPENDIX C GLOSSARY

C-1 ACRONYMS

C-2 DEFINITION OF TERMS

APPENDIX D REFERENCES

FIGURES

Impact Berm

Butt Target System

Machine Gun 10-Meter Tube Range Layout

Machine Gun 10-Meter Tube Range Section

Standard Range Layout

Standard Range Section

Figure 4-3 Overhead Baffles

Range Ventilation Schematic vii

Range with Ballistic Divider Walls

Steel Reactive Range

Top to Bottom Ventilation System Schematic

Across-The-Top Ventilation System Schematics

Ventilation System Supplemented with Natural Airflow

TABLES

Table 3-1 Air Force Minimum VDZ Height Requirements

Table 4-1 Range Heights and Get Ready Area Distances

Table 4-2 Lighting Requirements

Table 4-3 Maximum Noise Levels viii

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CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION

1-1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE.

This Unified Facility Criteria (UFC) provides requirements for DoD small arms range facilities.

1-2 APPLICABILITY.

This UFC applies to the planning, design, and construction of DoD indoor, outdoor, and steel Close Quarter Combat (CQC) small arms range facilities worldwide. CQC facilities are also known as shoothouses.

1-3 OTHER CRITERIA.

General Building Requirements.

Comply with UFC 1-200-01, DoD Building Code. UFC 1-200-01 provides applicability of model building codes and government unique criteria for typical design disciplines and building systems, as well as for accessibility, antiterrorism, security, high performance and sustainability requirements, and safety. Use this UFC in addition to UFC 1-200-01 and government criteria referenced therein.

Antiterrorism and Security.

UFC 4-020-01 supports the planning of DoD facilities that include requirements for security and antiterrorism. Use UFC 4-020-01 in conjunction with UFC 4-010-01 to establish the security and antiterrorism design criteria that will be the basis for DoD facility designs. All DoD facilities must also comply with Geographic Combatant Commander antiterrorism construction standards for antiterrorism requirements.

Sustainability.

For indoor ranges, the indirect support areas must meet UFC 1-200-02. The design of the training and direct support areas is driven by containment and ventilation criteria and must meet UFC 1-200-02 to the extent practical.

Service Specific DoD Range Criteria.

• AR 350-19.

• AR 350-52.

• DA PAM 385-63.

• TC-25-8.

• MCO 3570.1.

• FC 4-179-03F.

• AF 36-2654.

Army Ranges.

Range layouts, target distances, lane widths, target systems, and baffle effects are standard and defined by the Training Circular TC 25-8. Specific range design requirements are as defined in the Range Design Guide (RDG).

Non-Standard Ranges.

For non-standard ranges that do not have applicable criteria in this UFC, consult with the specific service range subject matter expert.

1-4 CYBERSECURITY.

All control systems (including systems separate from an energy management control system) must be planned, designed, acquired, executed, and maintained in accordance with UFC 4-010-06, and as required by individual Service Implementation Policy.

1-5 BEST PRACTICES.

Appendix A contains best practices.

1-6 WEAPONS AND AMMUNITION.

Appendix B contains a general description of common weapons and ammunition used by DoD.

1-7 GLOSSARY.

Appendix C contains acronyms, abbreviations, and terms.

1-8 REFERENCES.

Appendix D contains a list of references used in this document. The publication date of the code or standard is not included in this document. In general, the latest available issuance of the reference is used.

CHAPTER 2 GENERAL

2-1 PLANNING.

Design ranges to meet the need of the intended training. Consider the number of shooters and firing lanes, anticipated weapons and ammunition, target systems, target distances, scoring accuracy required, shooting directions and angles, and components necessary to maintain and support the range. Establish a team to review range requirements and develop the project. The team composition will depend on the service but in general should include service range experts, weapons and range safety officers, organizational range safety personnel, trainers, industrial hygienists, activity planners, project managers, fire protection and environmental personnel, and others that will be involved in operations and maintenance of the facility. For outdoor ranges plot the proposed Surface Danger Zone (SDZ) and check for conflicts early in the planning phase. Check aircraft operations and contact the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) if there is a vertical weapon component that could endanger aircraft.

2-2 BASIS OF DESIGN.

For the initial design submittal include a separate document outlining the parameters and assumptions on which the range design is based. All range design parameters should be provided or verified by the service’s range safety program. This information will help ensure the range is operated and maintained with appropriate restrictions and should include:

All Ranges:

• The most powerful rounds in terms of energy and maximum distance.

• A sketch for indoor ranges and a Geographic Information System (GIS) map for outdoor ranges showing location of all firing lines, target lines, direction of fire, and left and right limits.

• Maximum target distance provided.

• Target systems.

• Assumptions used for sizing range support areas including the number of targets, weapons, and students.

Outdoor Ranges:

• A Surface Danger Zone (SDZ) map provided by the government annotated to show the location of SDZ enforcement features including topography, range fencing, base limits, signage, and road barriers.

• A list of recommended best management practices.

Indoor Ranges and CQC Facilities:

• A sketch showing the location and maintenance access to all range equipment and controls including targeting systems, ventilation equipment, filters, trap equipment, dust collection system, bullet collection components, and lighting controls.

• A floor plan showing live fire areas with direction of fire and any limitations imposed such as areas or walls not designed for live fire.

• A floor plan showing range support functions such as classrooms armories, offices, simulators etc.

• Bullet trap and ventilation operation and maintenance manuals provided at end of project.

2-3 MATERIAL.

Concrete.

All concrete that may receive bullet strikes must be minimum 3500 psi (24 MPa).

Structural design may require higher strengths.

Ballistic and AR500 Steel Plate.

Ballistic steel plate and AR500 Steel Plate must be tested in accordance with ASTM E10-08, meet MIL-A-46100, and certified as having the following Brinell Hardness

(HBW):

• AR500: HBW between 470 and 544.

• AR525: HBW between 500 and 544.

In addition, require:

• Certifications for all ballistic steel plates.

• Connection made in such a manner as to maintain ballistic properties.

• All cuts made in a manner that does not alter or reduce hardness.

• Ballistic integrity maintained across all joints.

Splatter Protection for Overhead Baffles and Safety Ceiling.

Splatter protection must have spacers providing minimum 1-1/2” (38 mm) air gap between splatter protection and the underlying material with the exception that Army ranges may have splatter protection glued directly to the underlying material. Splatter protection material must be fire resistant and must not contain any metal or metal fibers, excluding fasteners. Design splatter protection to allow for removal and replacement without damage to the splatter protection, spacers, or underlying material. Choose from among the following:

• 0.375 in. (9.5 mm) two-ply rubber conveyor belt material. Must not contain any metal.

• 2 in. (50 mm) thick vulcanized rubber.

• 2 in. (50 mm) cold-pressed ballistic rubber.

• Minimum 0.75 in. (19 mm) fire-retardant plywood.

• Other material may be used when approved.

• Acoustic material with tests results showing material can stop splatter from rifle rounds after striking underlying steel plates.

• Spacer material may be wood, light-gauge steel channels, or recycled plastic lumber.

Splatter Protection for Steel CQC Facilities.

Choose splatter protection options that provide:

• Containment of splatter within wall.

• Capability to easily remove and replace to allow inspection of ballistic steel.

• Ease of maintenance.

• Fire resistance.

For Navy projects, use spacers that provide a 1.5-in. (37 mm) air gap between steel and splatter protection to reduce damage to backside of splatter protection and simplify removal for routine inspection of ballistic steel panels. Army facilities may have splatter protection glued directly to the ballistic panels.

2-4 AIR FORCE RANGES.

The Air Force allows only outdoor non-contained, machine gun tube, or fully enclosed indoor ranges for new construction. The following applies to Air Force indoor and outdoor small arms ranges.

Firing Line Positions and Platforms.

All small arms ranges should have a minimum of seven positions at the firing line.

Additional positions may be added in increments of seven. The width of the firing position must be at least 5 ft. (1.5 m) center-to-center. The firing line must be located on a stable horizontal surface with a clear distance that is at least 14 ft. (4.3 m) in depth for the length of the firing line. For most ranges, the firing platform is a concrete slab on grade. For ranges that have fighting positions dug in the ground, sandbags, or other definite structures to identify the firing line, the firing platform can be an earth surface.

For special weapons, Combat Arms (CA) personnel will specify the number of firing positions and the widths of each position based on training requirements.

Position Numbering.

Number each firing position beginning from the left when facing the target line. The numbers must be at least 8 in. (200 mm) tall and displayed on rectangular backgrounds attached to the position barricade or other location that is clearly visible to all shooters and range officials. Mark odd-numbered positions with white numbers on a black background. Mark even-numbered positions with black numbers on a white background.

Position Barricades.

Install a wooden barricade, or equivalent, in the form of a cross at the left edge of each firing position with the following requirements:

• The nominal dimensions of the wood horizontal member must be the 2 in.

(50 mm) by 6 in. (150 mm).

• The top surface of the horizontal member must be 48 in. (1220 mm) above the floor with a 12 in. (300 mm) resting surface on each side of the post.

• Post member may be nominal 2 in. (50 mm) by 6 in. (150 mm) or 4 in.

(100 mm) by 4 in. (100 mm) wood.

Firing Line.

Paint a red line a minimum of 4 in. (100 mm) wide on the leading edge of the firing line on the target side. For ranges without firing line platforms or concrete floor, a firing line may be marked in red on the downrange side of the firing positions with treated timber embedded along the firing line. If not painted in red, this can also be a line of safety cones or other method that clearly marks the location. This is the stationary firing line and must be continuous for the full length of all firing positions. For move and shoot courses, the firing line is relocated downrange as appropriate for the training scenarios.

Light Anti-Tank Weapons (LAW) and 40 mm Grenades.

See Chapter 3 paragraphs on “Surface Danger Zones”.

2-5 ARMY AND USMC RANGES.

For planning Army ranges follow AR 350-19. Army ranges must be approved and included on the installations Range Complex Master Plan (RCMP).

• Use US Army TC 25-8 and DA PAM 385-63 for range layout.

• Use the RDG for range design details, standard features, and target system interface.

CHAPTER 3 OUTDOOR RANGES

3-1 PLANNING AND DESIGN.

Safety is the primary concern when selecting a site for an outdoor small arms range.

Other critical concerns include training capability, compatible use, travel distance, location of utilities, and unexploded ordinance (UXO) risk assessment.

3-2 SURFACE DANGER ZONES.

Surface Danger Zones (SDZs) include both horizontal and vertical components and will be developed by the Government during the planning phase in accordance with DA PAM 385-63/MCO 3570. The designer should familiarize themselves with the SDZ as it impacts the location and layout of the firing lines, target lines, berms, supporting features, and downrange features. Orient the SDZ horizontal and vertical components to minimize the effect of range operations on populated areas, watercraft operations, public waterways, aircraft ground and air operations, and land uses within the maximum range of the ammunition. Available land for the SDZ controls the type and size of the range. Consider future expansion when choosing the site and developing SDZs. As weapons and ammunition improve, they are often more powerful than their replacements and therefore require larger SDZs. All mapping must be done using a geographic information system (GIS).

Air Force Ranges.

The Vertical Danger Zone (VDZ) component of the SDZ will be developed using Table 3-1. For VDZ in excess of 200 ft. (61 m) in height, coordinate with the local airfield manager. In some cases, Light Anti-Tank Weapons (LAW) and 40 mm grenade launchers are employed adjacent to, or overlapping, the small arms range footprint. For specialized weapons such as the LAW and 40 mm grenades on outdoor non-contained small arms ranges, DA PAM 385-63 will be used to develop surface danger zone and range design criteria.

Table 3-1 Air Force Minimum VDZ Height Requirements

Weapon/Caliber

DOD

Identification

Code

(DODIC)

Ammunition Nomenclature

Minimum

VDZ

Height5 Feet

(Meters)

Pistol, 9 mm (M9, M11, GLOCK 19) and Submachine Gun, 9 mm (MP5 and UZI)

A363, A360 Cartridge (Ctg), 9 mm Ball NATO and Cartridge 9 mm Ball Parabellum (M882, M1)

(675)

Pistol, 9 mm (M9, M11, GLOCK 19) AA16 9 mm Ctg Frangible (MK254-0) 2215

(675)1 Pistol, 9 mm (M9, M11, GLOCK 19) AB13, AB14 9 mm Blue (Red) Marking Ctg (M1041)

(100)4

Handgun, .44 magnum Commercial Local Purchase 2965 (904)2

Shotgun, 12 Gauge A011, AA51, AA82

Ctg 12 Gauge (GA) Shotgun 00 Buckshot, Frangible, Non-Lethal Fin Stabilized (M19/M162, M1012)

(330)

Shotgun, 12 Gauge A023 Ctg 12 GA 1 OZ Slug 2706 (825)2

Shotgun, 12 Gauge AA52 Ctg 12 GA Non-Lethal Crowd Control (M1013)

(100)

Rifle/Carbine, 5.56 mm (M4, M4A1 and all M16 series weapons)

A071, A068 Ctg 5.56 mm Ball, Ctg 5.56 mm Tracer (M193, M196)

(1020)

Rifle/Carbine/Automatic Rifle, 5.56 mm (M4, M4A1, all M16 series weapons and M249)

A059, A063/Linked A062, A064, AA01

Ctg 5.56 mm Ball, Ctg 5.56 mm Tracer (includes ball, tracer, armor piercing [AP] and AP tracer linked) (M855, M856, M995)

(1120)

Rifle/Carbine, 5.56 mm (M4, M4A1 and all M16 series weapons)

AA68 5.56 mm Plastic (M862) 328 (100)4

Rifle/Carbine/Automatic Rifle, 5.56 mm (M4, M4A1, all M16 series weapons and M249)

AA40/Linked

AA85

Ctg 5.56 mm Frangible Ball and Ctg 5.56 mm Frangible Linked

(1020)1

Rifle/Carbine/Automatic Rifle, 5.56 mm (M4, M4A1, all M16 series weapons and M249)

AB09,

AB10/Linked

AA85

5.56 mm Blue (Red) Marking Ctg/Blue (Red) Linked Marking Ctg (M1042)

(100)4

Rifle/Carbine/Automatic Rifle, 5.56 mm (M4, M4A1, all M16 series weapons and M249)

AB67, AB66

5.56 mm, XM1037 Short Range Training Ammunition (SRTA) (Includes Single Round and Linked) (M1037)

(200)4

DOD

Identification

Code

(DODIC)

Ammunition Nomenclature

Minimum

VDZ

Height5 Feet

(Meters)

Rifle/Machine Gun, 7.62 mm (M110, M14, MK14 EBR, M21, M24 and M240)

A122, A130, A140, A146, AB50/ Linked A168, A127, A128, A131, A143, A151, A164, A165, A168, A257

Ctg 7.62 mm Ball (M80) and Ctg 7.62 mm Tracer (M62) (Includes Linked and Ball/Tracer Linked) (M80, M62, M276, MK319-0)

(1365)

Rifle/Machine Gun, 7.62 mm (M110, M14, MK14 EBR, M21, M24 and M240)

AA11 Ctg 7.62 mm NATO M118 Special Ball (M118)

(1480)

Machine Gun, 7.62 mm

(M240) AA37, AB60

7.62 mm, M973/M974 Short Range Training Ammunition (SRTA) 4/1 and (Includes Ball Linked) (M973 and M974)

(200)4

Rifle, .50 caliber (M107) A525, A552, A571, AA50, A606, A605

Ctg Cal .50 Ball, Tracer, Armor Piercing (AP), AP Incendiary (I) and API Tracer (Mark 211 Mod O, M2, M1, M10, M33, M17, M8, M20)

(1940)

Machine Gun/Rifle, .50 caliber (M2)

A530, A532, A533, A543, A545, A546, A555, A557, A564, A575, A576, A584, A602, A606, A641, AA06

Ctg Cal .50 Ball, Tracer, AP, Incendiary (I), API and API Tracer Linked (M8 API, M2 AP, M20, M1, M33 Ball, M2 Ball, M17, M10, M17, Spotter Tracer)

(1940)

Grenade Launcher, 40mm (M203, M320)

B470, B472, B506, B508, B509, B519, B535, B536, B537, B538, B542, B546, B568, B576, B584

40mm Ctg, HE, HEDP, TP, Practice, Smoke, Illumination (M381, M384, M385, M386, M406, M407A1, M430, M433, M441, M661, M662, M583A1, M992, M713, M715, M716, M781, M918)

(216)3

Grenade Launcher, 40mm (M203, M320) BA06 40mm Ctg Non-Lethal Sponge (M1006)

(100)

Grenade Launcher, 40mm (M203, M320) B534 40mm Ctg, Multi Projectile (M576) 246

(75) Machine Gun, 40mm Linked

(MK19)

BA30, B542,

B576, B584, BA32, BA21,

BA12

Ctg 40mm Linked HEDP, TP, Practice, Mixed (M430/M918/M385/M385A1/M918

& M385/ MK281)

(477)3

Light Anti-armor Weapon (LAW), 35mm Sub-Caliber (M72-Series LAW)

H708 Rocket, 35mm, Practice (M73) 666 (203)3

DOD

Identification

Code

(DODIC)

Ammunition Nomenclature

Minimum

VDZ

Height5 Feet

(Meters)

LAW, 66mm RKT HEAT (M72-Series LAW) HX01 Launcher, Rocket, 66mm (M72 Series) 3116

(950)3 LAW, 84mm RKT HEAT (M136 [AT-4]) C995 Rocket, HE 84mm M136 AT-4 (M136) 3116

(950)3 1 same as ball 2 calculated plus 1.25 safety factor 3 From DA PAM 385-63 4 From SRTA ballistic graph - General Dynamics Ordinance 5 Historical data based on 30o projectile trajectory plus safety factor

Access Restrictions, Warning Signs, Markers, and Flags.

Use service specific installation criteria.

Surface Danger Zones Over Navigable Water.

Use DA PAM 385-63/MCO 3570.1 when shooting over navigable water. A U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permit and citation in 33 CFR Part 334 are required.

Baffled Ranges.

When approved, overhead baffles can reduce the size of the SDZ but require special consideration that are not addressed in this UFC:

• Containment: Baffles designed to completely block line of sight out of the range may be used to eliminate direct fire from leaving the range but may not necessarily contain ricochets, ground skips, and splatter from leaving the range.

• Surface Danger Zone: The size and shape of the SDZ will need to be established on a case by case basis by the Government.

• Air movement: Baffles can significantly block natural air flow and increase potential for exposure to lead and other airborne contaminants. Unlike indoor ranges where negative pressure can be achieved, any ventilation system on baffled ranges will be influenced by outdoor air movement.

3-3 TYPES OF OUTDOOR RANGES.

Outdoor ranges may be configured in various ways to accomplish training goals.

Single Fixed Firing Line.

These ranges have one fixed firing line with targets placed along one or more target lines downrange. A moving target system may also be provided to vary target distance.

Multiple Firing Lines.

These ranges vary target distances using multiple firing lines used for shooting at one target line at the end of the range.

Maneuver Areas.

Maneuver ranges allow fire and movement in multiple directions. These ranges may or may not have permanent firing positions or firing trails. They may have single or multiple targets or target arrays. The complexity of maneuver ranges varies significantly. Simple maneuver ranges train movement and firing while moving techniques to individuals and teams. Complex maneuver ranges train movement, engagement, and support techniques to larger, or multiple, maneuver elements using a variety of weapons and weapon systems. Maneuver ranges often use Short Range Training Ammunition (SRTA), Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) or Observer/Controllers to limit the firing locations and target engagement in order to limit SDZs.

Skeet and Trap Ranges.

Skeet and trap ranges are a type of outdoor recreational range that are typically limited to shot size Number 7.5 and smaller. Follow the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Centers of Standardization (CoS) Outdoor Sports Facility Standard.

3-4 SITING.

Mandatory Requirements and Issues to Address.

• The range must be accessible by road. Vehicle access is required to the range area for maintenance, grass mowing, emergencies, and delivery of weapons and ammunition.

• Travel distance to the range.

• Storm water management.

• Protection of wetlands, ground water, and surface water.

• Suitability of terrain.

• Historical and archaeological features.

• Previously contaminated sites, including unexploded ordnance contamination.

• Endangered species habitat.

Considerations.

When siting and orienting the range consider:

• Allowing for future expansion.

• Orienting north to south to minimize glare for the shooters.

• Orienting the firing away from sensitive and inhabited areas.

• Taking advantage of existing impact areas and natural backstops.

• Eliminating drainage structures on the range surface whenever possible.

• Using natural drainage with no flowing water courses near the range floor or impact berm.

• Avoiding areas that are subject to flooding.

• Minimizing noise to surrounding areas both on and off the installation.

Noise models such as those provided in the Army’s Range Management Toolkit (RMTK) may be used to develop potential noise contours.

• Taking advantage of any natural barriers and base restricted areas to prevent access by personnel and animals to the SDZ.

• Taking advantage of any natural topography such as hills and mountains to help contain rounds.

• Selecting site to minimize grading of range surface to produce a smooth surface of homogeneous material. A rocky surface will increase ricochets.

• For areas where wind predominantly blows in one direction, orienting with wind blowing downrange.

• Taking advantage of local topography to assist with runoff removal.

• In cold climates minimizing snow drifts and ice buildup and facilitating snow removal on range.

3-5 SUPPORT FACILITIES.

Supporting facilities include roads, drainage structures, and utilities. Design and locate these features to protect them from direct fire.

Roads and Parking.

Design for access by all vehicles that will use the range. Provide surfaced all-weather connector roads from the installation road network to the range complex. Provide range access roads that approach the range complex from behind the firing line and outside the SDZ.

Utilities.

Electricity.

Size service to accommodate power requirements for target systems, lighting, support facilities, and range maintenance.

Telephone and Radio Communication.

Include two forms of communication between the Range Control Facility, Range Safety Officer (RSO), instructors, beach guards, and any others involved in the operations of the range and security of the SDZ. For Army, follow DA PAM 385-63 and installation’s SOPs.

Water.

Coordinate with the local utility and Designated Fire Protection Engineer (DFPE), as defined in UFC 3-600-01 to determine requirements. Consider fire protection, drinking, hand washing, and sanitary uses. If a water system is not feasible, consider a well and tank system. If this is not feasible, consider portable fire protection such as fire extinguishers or tanker trucks as required by the DFPE in collaboration with the installation fire department.

Restroom Facilities.

Restroom facilities are required adjacent to or within a reasonable distance from the range. Where sewage and running water are not feasible, other options such as composting or commercial portable latrines may be used.

3-6 GEOMETRY FOR NAVY AND AIR FORCE RANGES.

Typical geometry for a flat rectangular outdoor range may be adjusted when necessary to accommodate different types of training.

Measurement Control.

For vertical control define the firing line floor surface (FLFS) elevation as 0.00 and set other features based on this. Base horizontal control on measurements taken from the rearmost firing line (FL).

Target Centers.

Locate the center of the target at an elevation between the upper limit of fire (ULF) equal to 6 ft. (1.8 m) above FLFS for standing shooting and lower limit of fire (LLF) equal to 6 in. (152 mm) above FLFS for prone shooting.

Lanes.

Lane widths vary depending on weapons and training requirements. Establish lane width as necessary to safely support intended training.

Range Length.

Locate target lines as necessary to accommodate intended weapons and training.

3-7 GEOMETRY FOR ARMY RANGES.

Refer to TC 25-8 and the RDG for standard Army range layouts.

3-8 RANGE COMPONENTS.

Locate and design components to avoid direct fire and the creation of potential ricochet hazards.

Drainage.

Design positive grading to direct runoff away from the firing lines and prevent flooding at the target line(s) and access roads. Avoid using drainage structures on the range surface when possible. When the length of the slope or natural terrain require using drains between target lines and firing lines, trench drains or subsurface gravel drains should be located on the forward edge of the impact berm or bullet trap. Design inlets so that no hard-flat surface will be exposed to shooters and provide enough protection to account for heavy bullet impacts and erosion.

Floor Surface.

Design the surface to be smooth and graded to drain away from targets. Side to side grading should be minimal except on ranges where defilade or obstructions are desired for training. Transverse firing line grading should match target line transverse grading.

Allow enough fore and aft distance to support the type of training conducted. Clearly mark firing lanes on the surface to match the targets. Depending on the number of personnel to be supported, the following surfaces may be considered at the firing line:

• Ground firmly compacted with mown grasses.

• Sand or fine gravel, with shooting mats for prone shooting.

• Wood decking of enough thickness and supporting members to avoid deck movement.

• Concrete pad topped with cushioning material.

Benches.

Continuous benches or individual trays may be provided to hold ammunition and weapons. Place trays to allow safe weapons handling.

Bleachers.

Bleachers and covered shelters may be provided outside the SDZ behind the firing line for training and briefings.

Obstacles.

Mock-up roofs, windows, doors, and other training structures may be provided at the firing line to meet training requirements.

Range Safety Officer Position.

Where possible, provide the Range Safety Officer (RSO) position an unrestricted view of all firing lines and target lines from their control position.

Towers.

Tower requirements are service and training dependent. Elevated range towers may be necessary to provide proper visibility for the RSO.

Overhead Cover.

Overhead cover may be provided but is not required nor recommended in most cases.

While it can provide some protection from direct sun and the elements, covering the firing line can also increase noise levels below and interfere with air movement needed to remove airborne contaminants away from shooters. When provided, design to reduce noise reflected down to the firing line and to minimize interruption of natural air movement.

Lateral Limit Markers.

Lateral limit markers indicate direction of fire limitations from the outmost firing and target positions. The right lateral limit is found by taking the line of sight from the right firing position at the most uprange firing line to the right most target downrange, and similarly for the left. For Army ranges, TC 25-8 and the RDG along with installation SOPs define the type, size and location of limit markers.

3-9 IMPACT BERMS.

Impact berms are required for Navy and Air Force ranges that are generally flat, fire in one direction, and have target distances of 200 yds. (182 m) or less. Impact berms:

• Capture projectiles where they can be collected and removed more efficiently compared to ranges without impact berms.

• Significantly reduce the number of projectiles spreading out and landing downrange in the SDZ.

• Will not capture all projectiles because ground skips and ricochets will continue downrange.

• Will not reduce the length of the SDZ since the controlling round is at such an angle that its trajectory is well above the impact berm.

Geometry.

When required, design in accordance with Figure 3-1 and as follows:

• Slope: A slope of 2H:1V is recommended. A steeper slope of 1.5:1V may be used if a stable berm can be constructed that also allows future sifting of the soil.

• Width: Provide a total berm width equal to the firing line width plus the additional width necessary to cover a 5-degree dispersion angle from all firing positions.

• Top of Berm: Minimum 10 ft. (3 m) horizontal top on the berm.

• Toe of Berm: A minimum of 8 ft. (2.4 m) past the last target line.

• Minimum Height: 16 ft. (5 m) above the highest grade at the last downrange target line for ranges with target distances of 50 yd. (46 m) or less and 26 ft. (8 m) for ranges with target distances of 100 yd. (91 m) and greater. For ranges with target distances between 50 yd. (46 m) and 100

yd. (91 m), use a height that is prorated between the 50-yd. (46m) and 100-yd. (91 m) berm heights.

• Wall Option: A vertical wall may be provided on the top of the berm to reduce the berm height and footprint. The earth portion must be a minimum of 16 ft. (5 m). As a minimum, the wall should be solid 8 in. (203

mm) thick concrete. The foundation must have a minimum 4 ft. (1.2 m) of earth cover on shooting side of the berm. The direct line of fire from the prone position through the target point must impact the earth portion of the berm 3 ft. (1 m) below the exposed wall.

• See Butt Target Systems paragraphs for minimum berm height and toe of berm distance from target line when using that system.

Impact Berm

Berm Material.

Specify berm material in the design that will achieve and sustain a proper slope, promote vegetation growth, reduce the chance of ricochets, and allow for sifting to remove projectiles. Require the upper 4 ft. (1.2 m) of facing material on the impact side to be free from rocks and debris no greater than a No. 4 sieve – equivalent to 0.187 in.

(4.76 mm) diameter mesh – that will not clog screens when sifting. A high clay content will help achieve a more stable slope, but too much clay in the upper layer will make it very difficult to sift and remove spent rounds in the future. Therefore, the facing material must not have more than 40% passing the No. 200 sieve.

Berm Construction.

Construct the berm in compacted horizontal lifts. Do not allow compaction up the slope of the berm face. Use benching and keying techniques to enhance slope stability when resurfacing or tying in to an existing berm.

3-10 TARGET SYSTEMS.

The type of target system used will influence significant portions of the design. Choose systems based on the type of training anticipated. See individual service policy for procuring range target system equipment. A variety of target systems are available and new systems are under constant development. Current target systems include, but not limited to:

• Paper Targets on Wooden Frames: Paper targets can be mounted on simple wooden or other non-ricochet producing stands at the target line.

They are typically used for 27.3 yd. (25 m) target distances or less because the time needed to walk downrange and score the targets.

• Butt Target Systems: Butt systems use paper targets secured to cardboard or plywood frames that are raised, lowered, and scored by personnel located downrange behind a protective berm. These systems are simple, reliable, and allow the shooter to remain at the firing line while the targets are scored but are labor intensive because a downrange scorer is required for every shooter.

• LOMAH (Location of Miss And Hit) Targets: A computerized target system with sensors at the target end that detect the path of the projectile though the target and provide feedback to monitors at the firing line.

These are generally very accurate but expensive and require significant maintenance to maintain calibration.

• Pop-Up Targets and Stationary Infantry Targets (SIT): These targets are raised and lowered remotely and can be either electric or pneumatic.

• Steel Targets and Knockdown Targets: Steel targets are typically used when accurate scoring within the target is not needed, only a hit or miss.

Steel targets provide audible feedback and are designed to go down or spin when struck. Knockdown targets fall when struck. Knockdown targets can be steel but other versions are available. Steel targets and knockdown targets can be reset pneumatically, electrically, or by gravity.

Check with service safety requirements when considering steel targets as they will impact target design, placement, and safe target distances.

• Turning Targets: These targets rotate on a vertical axis to present alternating target face and edge to initiate and cease firing. They can be designed with a friend face on one side and a foe on the back for shoot and no-shoot drills. Turning mechanism can be pneumatic or electric.

• Running Man and Moving Infantry Targets (MIT): Targets that move laterally or randomly on a track. Targets can present personnel and vehicle silhouette including armored vehicles and tanks. These targets are typically provided to supplement other target systems.

• Stationary and Moving Armor Targets: Targets that simulate a tank or other vehicle for live fire training and qualification programs.

• Mobile and Robotic Targets: A variety of targets are available that move on remote controlled vehicles.

NOTE: When using moving targets, it is critical to incorporate all shooting positions and angles when developing the SDZ.

Target Systems for Army Ranges.

For Army ranges, AR 350-19, TC 25-8, and the RDG define target types, control systems, interface, emplacements, protection, and procurement processes.

Target Line Grading and Protection.

Match grading at target line bases with firing lines when possible. Protect target support bases from direct fire by:

• Providing a target berm on the firing side.

• Burying below ground.

• Providing a protective wall designed to stop rounds but reduce ricochet potential.

Target Supports and Berms.

Target holders and bases should be designed to prevent ricochets and splatter. Earth berms can be placed in front of targets to protect target base and should be constructed from the same material as the impact berm.

Butt Target System.

Butt target systems allow manual scoring of targets by personnel downrange behind the target line and protected by a berm. Design in accordance with Figure 3.2 and as follows:

• Design butt target berm with a slope that is maintainable, typically 1.5 to 2.0H:1V and 3.0 to 4.0H:1V where erosion is a major issue.

• Provide an impact berm behind the target berm with a minimum height of 26 ft. (8 m) above the carrier base elevation.

• Toe of impact berm a minimum of 82 ft. (25 m) from the butt wall.

• A target storage facility protected from direct fire may be included between the butt system and the impact berm. Top of structure must be below all direct lines of fire and the top elevation of the ballistic protection in the pit.

• For Army Ranges, use the Known Distance (KD) Range section of TC 25- 8 and the RDG for the design and construction details for this type of target system.

• For pit option, see the RDG.

• For USMC, meet the requirements of MCO 3570.1.

Butt Target System

3-11 PARALLEL RANGES.

When parallel ranges have SDZs that cover the firing line of the adjacent range, the ranges may be used concurrently when side containment is provided as follows:

• Earth Berm: Require an inside slope of 1V:1.5H or flatter with a minimum horizontal 6 ft. top width. Provide same material and compaction as required for impact berms.

• Concrete Wall: Require a minimum 8 in. (203 mm) thick concrete wall with a smooth, flat surface free of irregularities, form ties, and protrusions.

• Shock Absorbing Concrete (SACON): Design based on type of weapons and ammunition used.

• Wood and Gravel Walls: Timber and gravel filled wooden walls on new ranges are not recommended because of maintenance and integrity issues.

• Height: Require a minimum height of 10 ft. (3 m) above the highest elevation on either side where personnel could potentially be standing while either range is in use.

• Army ranges may require an SDZ deviation to allow concurrent use.

3-12 MACHINE GUN TUBE RANGE.

Training on machine guns up to 7.62 mm caliber may be provided using a 10-meter tube range. See Figures 3-3 and 3-4. These ranges incorporate range tubes that function as baffles to reduce the size and shape of the SDZ. Army ranges of this type require the same approval as other baffled ranges. Tube ranges are not suitable for:

• Machine guns over 7.62 mm caliber.

• Navy OPNAV 3591 machine gun training since they do not support the training requirements for traverse firing.

Surface Danger Zone.

The machine gun tube SDZ for all ammunition types less than 7.62 mm is 2296 ft (700

m) and the VDZ for all ammunition types less than 7.62 mm is 1640 ft (500 m). The reduction in the SDZ for 7.62 mm and greater ammunition will be determined by the Government. Army ranges require a deviation IAW AR 385-63.

Machine Gun Tubes.

For 10-meter machine gun tube ranges use concrete pipe with a minimum length of 24

ft. (7.3 m) and either round with a minimum 5 ft. (1.52 m) inside diameter or square with a minimum 5 ft. (1.52 m) inside dimension. Provide a reinforced concrete slab the length of the tubes to maintain joint integrity. The tubes may be constructed of sectional pieces if the spigot end of the bell spigot joint is pointed downrange. Tubes may be made of ASTM C75, Class V reinforced concrete pipe (RCP) requirements, or may be steel pipe of suitable thickness fabricated from rolled plates. The interior of the tubes must have a smooth continuous surface. Repair any lifting lugs or holes so the tube interior is smooth and does not produce erratic ricochets.

Drainage.

Slope the tubes approximately 6 in. (150 mm) towards the target line. Firing positions must be at least 12 ft. (3.7 m) apart, measured center-to-center. The end of the tube toward the shooter should touch the firing line.

Firing Platform.

Ensure that the firing tube placement and the firing platform height will place the muzzle of the machine gun at the approximate center of the tube height and at least 6 in. (150

mm) inside the tube. To achieve this, the platform may need to extend inside the tube approximately 3 in. (76 mm) depending on the tripod and weapon dimensions.

Berm Backstops.

For berm backstops, locate the berm no more than 150 ft. (45.7 m) from the firing line to the centerline of the berm. The minimum height of the backstop is established by determining where the highest point that a bullet could exit the target end of the tube and impact the berm. This line must intersect the berm no less than 6.5 ft. (2 m) from the top. Use same material as required for impact berms.

Optional Deflector Plate.

Locate the deflector plate at least 2 ft. (0.6 m) above the highest bullet impact point on the berm. The deflector plate may be either angled or vertical which will influence the reduction in the SDZ.

Optional Steel Traps.

Locate the trap at least 50 ft. (15m) away from the firing line. The line drawn from the firing point to the highest point that a…