3591.1G.pdf

OPNAVINST 3591.1G

1 Jun 2021

SMALL ARMS TRAINING

AND QUALIFICATION

DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY

OFFICE OF THE CHIEF OF NAVAL OPERATIONS

2000 NAVY PENTAGON

WASHINGTON DC 20350-2000

N4

OPNAV INSTRUCTION 3591.1G

From: Chief of Naval Operations

Subj: SMALL ARMS TRAINING AND QUALIFICATION

Ref: See Appendix A

1. Purpose.

a. To establish Navy policy and prescribe minimum qualification and sustainment requirements for individual small arms training and qualification per references (a) through (y).

Proficiency with small arms is a core competency that supports the Navy’s culture of readiness and requires properly trained and qualified individuals. This instruction serves as the foundation of marksmanship skill for each Sailor, but by no means limits the unit's ability to provide additional training and instruction.

b. This instruction is a complete revision and must be reviewed in its entirety. Policy update includes generalization of service issued pistol and rifle; alignment with updated higher headquarters policy, procedures and activity names; removal of Military Sealift Command from policy applicability; and, update to small arms marksmanship instructor training and qualification requirements.

2. Cancellation. OPNAVINST 3591.1F.

3. Applicability. This instruction applies to all active and Reserve Navy personnel; all Navy law enforcement and security personnel (military, civilian and contract personnel) per references

(a) and (b); Naval Special Warfare Command support personnel; and to all personnel whose duties require them to be armed. It does not apply to Naval Criminal Investigative Service personnel, Military Sealift Command civil service mariners and contract mariners or to Navy special warfare SEAL operators or special boat operators.

4. Records Management.

a. Records created as a result of this instruction, regardless of format or media, must be maintained and dispositioned per the records disposition schedules located on the Department of the Navy (DON) Assistant for Administration, Directives and Records Management Division portal page at https://portal.secnav.navy.mil/orgs/DUSNM/DONAA/DRM/Records-and-

Information-Management/Approved%20Record%20Schedules/Forms/AllItems.aspx.

https://portal.secnav.navy.mil/orgs/DUSNM/DONAA/DRM/Records-and-Information-Management/Approved%20Record%20Schedules/Forms/AllItems.aspx https://portal.secnav.navy.mil/orgs/DUSNM/DONAA/DRM/Records-and-Information-Management/Approved%20Record%20Schedules/Forms/AllItems.aspx

b. For questions concerning the management of records related to this instruction or the records disposition schedules, please contact the local records manager or the OPNAV Records

Management Program (DNS-16).

5. Review and Effective Date. Per OPNAVINST 5215.17A, Office of the Chief of Naval

Operations, Director, Services and Support (OPNAV N462) will review this instruction annually around the anniversary of its issuance date to ensure applicability, currency and consistency with

Federal, Department of Defense (DoD), Secretary of the Navy and Navy policy and statutory authority using OPNAV 5215/40 Review of Instruction. This instruction will be in effect for 10 years, unless revised or cancelled in the interim and will be reissued by the 10-year anniversary date if it is still required, unless it meets one of the exceptions in OPNAVINST 5215.17A, paragraph 9. Otherwise, if the instruction is no longer required, it will be processed for cancellation as soon as the need for cancellation is known following the guidance in OPNAV

Manual 5215.1 of May 2016.

6. Forms.

a. DD Form 2760 Qualification to Possess Firearms or Ammunition may be obtained from the DoD Forms Program Management Web site: https://www.esd.whs.mil/Directives/forms/.

b. The forms in subparagraphs 6b(1) through 6b(3) may be obtained from Naval Forms

Online: https://forms.documentservices.dla.mil/order/.

(1) OPNAV 3591/1 Small Arms Qualifications Record

(2) OPNAV 3591/2 Machine Gun Performance Record

(3) OPNAV 5512/2 Authorization to Carry Firearms

R. L. WILLIAMSON

Deputy Chief of Naval Operations

(Fleet Readiness and Logistics)

Releasability and distribution:

This instruction is cleared for public release and is available electronically only via DON

Issuances Web site, https://www.secnav.navy.mil/doni/default.aspx.

https://www.esd.whs.mil/Directives/forms/ https://forms.documentservices.dla.mil/order/ https://www.secnav.navy.mil/doni/default.aspx i

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chapter 1: INTRODUCTION

1. Policy 1-1

2. Categories 1-1

3. Responsibilities 1-5

Chapter 2: MARKSMANSHIP, SAFETY AND WEAPONS TRAINING

1. General 2-1

2. Policy 2-1

3. Marksmanship Training 2-2

4. Computer Based Training 2-2

5. Protective Clothing 2-3

Chapter 3: SMALL ARMS TRAINING AND QUALIFICATION PERSONNEL DUTIES

AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. General 3-1

2. Policy 3-1

3. Range Safety Officers (RSOs) 3-3

4. Line Coach 3-4

Chapter 4: RANGE REGULATIONS

1. General 4-1

2. Policy 4-1

3. Universal Safety Rules 4-1

4. Weapons Commands 4-1

5. Range Orientation Brief 4-2

6. Range Safety Rules 4-2

7. Range Operations 4-11

Chapter 5: SMALL ARMS DRY FIRE TRAINING PROCEDURES AND GUIDELINES

1. General 5-1

2. Policy 5-1

3. Rules for the Conduct of Dry Fire Training 5-2

4. Dry Fire Training Solutions 5-4

5. Clearing Stoppages 5-6

6. Safety During Dry Fire Training 5-6

7. Additional Training Aids and Dry Fire Drills 5-6

Chapter 6: QUALIFICATION

1. General 6-1

2. Policy 6-1

3. Qualification Criteria for Pistols 6-1 ii

4. Qualification Criteria for Rifles 6-13

5. Qualification Criteria for Shotguns 6-18

6. Qualification Criteria for Light, Medium and Heavy Machine Gun and Grenade 6-21

7. Weapons Conditions for MK19 MOD 3 40mm Grenade Machine Gun 6-36

Exhibit 6-1. Weapons Conditions for Pistols 6-2

Exhibit 6-2. Summary Table – Navy Handgun Qualification Course 6-4

Exhibit 6-3. Summary Table – Handgun Lowlight Course 6-7

Exhibit 6-4. Summary Table – Handgun Practical Weapons Course 6-10

Exhibit 6-5. Summary Table – Handgun Practical Weapons Course –

Mobile Ranges 6-12

Exhibit 6-6. Weapons Conditions for M14 and M16 (series) Rifles 6-14

Exhibit 6-7. Summary Table – Rifle Qualification Course 6-16

Exhibit 6-8. Summary Table – Rifle Lowlight Course 6-18

Exhibit 6-9. Weapons Conditions for the 12-Gauge Shotgun 6-19

Exhibit 6-10. Summary Table – Shotgun Practical Weapons Course 6-21

Exhibit 6-11. Light Machine Gun and Grenade Launcher Drill Sets 6-24

Exhibit 6-12. Heavy Machine Gun and Grenade Launcher Drill Sets 6-24

Exhibit 6-13. Automatic Grenade Launcher Drill Sets 6-24

Exhibit 6-14. Weapons Conditions for MK 46 (Series), M240, MK 43 and MK 48 6-25

Exhibit 6-15. Light and Medium Machine Gun Course of Fire 6-28

Exhibit 6-16. Summary Table - Category 2 Light and Medium Machine Gun

Performance Evaluation 6-28

Exhibit 6-17. Weapons Conditions for M2 .50 Caliber Heavy Machine Gun 6-29

Exhibit 6-18. Phases of Performance for M2 .50 Caliber Heavy Machine Gun 6-32

Exhibit 6-19. Summary Table – Category 2 Heavy Machine Gun Performance

Evaluation 6-33

Exhibit 6-20. Machine Gun Course of Fire 6-35

Exhibit 6-21. Summary Table – Machine Gun Performance Evaluation –

Tripod and T&E 6-36

Exhibit 6-22. Weapons Conditions for MK19 MOD 3 40mm Grenade Machine Gun 6-37

Exhibit 6-23. Course of Fire for Mk19 Mod 3 40mm Grenade Machine Gun 6-37

Exhibit 6-24. Summary Table – Category 2 Grenade Machine Gun Performance

Evaluation 6-38

Exhibit 6-25. Weapons Conditions for M203 Grenade Launcher 6-38

Exhibit 6-26. Course of Fire for M203 Grenade Launcher 6-39

Exhibit 6-27. Summary Table - Category 2 M203 Grenade Launcher Performance

Evaluation 6-41

Chapter 7: TARGETS

1. General 7-1

2. Policy 7-1

3. Target Sources 7-2 iii

Exhibit 7-1. Target Sources 7-2

Exhibit 7-2. Transtar I and Transtar II Target Sources 7-3

Exhibit 7-3. Rifle “A” Target Reduced 25 Yards 7-3

Exhibit 7-4. Rifle “A” Target Reduced 15 Yards 7-4

Exhibit 7-5. Rifle Sustainment 25 Yards 7-4

Exhibit 7-6. Rifle Sustainment 15 Yards 7-5

Exhibit 7-7. Reduced Silhouette 50 Yards 7-5

Exhibit 7-8. Reduced Silhouette 100 Yards 7-6

Chapter 8: MARKSMANSHIP AWARDS

1. General 8-1

2. Policy 8-1

1-1

CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

1. Policy.

a. Per OPNAV M-5215-1, Navy Directives Management Program Manual, mandatory guidance is directive in nature and provides standards, measures or actions that are required and subject to inspection by higher Military Department or DoD headquarters. An inability to meet these requirements necessitates a request for a waiver or exception.

b. Recommendations, while not mandatory in natures, provide a framework that better support the mandatory guidance, but are not within the purview of this instruction to mandate.

c. Enabling procedures permit actions or measures within described parameters. These are not requirements, but are offered as possible actions or measures to take at the discretion of the responsible party.

2. Categories. Security of DoD ships, aircraft, facilities, material and safety of personnel depends, in part, upon small arms proficiency of Navy personnel.

a. Personnel Categories and Training Requirements.

(1) For purposes of this instruction, armed Navy personnel are divided into four categories, as per subparagraphs 2a(1)(a) through 2a(1)(d).

(a) Category 1. Personnel issued pistols primarily for personal protection. This category includes most officers, chief petty officers, disbursing officers, couriers and aircrews as designated by type commanders (TYCOM) who are armed while performing their duties.

Personnel and units in this category are non-security personnel and units whose mission exposes them to potential hostile fire requiring them to be armed for self-defense. Category 1 personnel must qualify on the Navy Handgun Qualification Course.

(b) Category 2. Armed watch standers responsible for maintaining security of DoD assets. This category includes law enforcement, non-expeditionary security forces (to include contract security forces, rover watches, security reaction force personnel) and others as designated by TYCOMs. Category 2 personnel must qualify on all courses of fire (COF) required by this instruction as specified for the weapon(s) they are issued.

(c) Category 3. Personnel issued weapons for combat support and expeditionary operations. These personnel are attached to or in direct support of, ground combat elements.

This category includes, but is not limited to, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command and Naval

Special Warfare Command.

1-2

(d) Category 4. Personnel issued weapons for special missions. This category includes, but is not limited to: explosive ordnance disposal teams in support of special operations forces; convoy support personnel; F-18 aircraft squadrons attached to a Marine wing;

designated marksmen; visit, board, search and seizure personnel; and nuclear weapons security for shore facilities.

(2) TYCOMs will designate personnel as one of the four categories listed in subparagraphs 2a(1)(a) through 2a(1)(d).

(3) TYCOMs will develop specific qualification and sustainment training requirements for personnel designated as category 3 or 4. However, all personnel designated as category 3 or

4 must complete an initial category 2 qualification on all applicable weapons prior to performing advanced weapons techniques. Upon successful completion of category 2 qualifications, category 3 and 4 personnel will only be required to maintain qualifications and sustainment training for TYCOM designated categories 3 and 4 courses of fire.

b. Abilities. Shooters will be required to demonstrate their ability to present the weapon, engage the target and perform remedial actions before live fire qualification. Chapter 2 provides specific marksmanship, safety and weapons familiarization training requirements.

c. Qualification Criteria.

(1) All personnel must qualify with live fire annually (every 12 months). Qualifications expire on the last day of the month in which the individual qualified. For afloat commands deployed for 90 days or longer, qualification may be extended until 3 months after returning to homeport when a range is not available.

(2) Weapons qualification criteria are contained in chapter 6. Before each qualification shoot, all personnel will receive training per chapter 2.

(3) Personnel performing annual qualifications will perform the complete live fire qualification requirement.

(4) Prior to qualification fire, it is recommended that shooters complete and successfully pass each course of fire for each weapon, using an approved simulator, where available.

d. Sustainment Training.

(1) All personnel must conduct semi-annual sustainment training to include marksmanship, safety and weapon familiarization training per chapter 2 and any additional specific weapons sustainment criteria per chapter 6. The training will not occur earlier than 120 days (4 months) and no later than 240 days (8 months) from date of last qualification.

1-3

(2) Failure to complete sustainment training disqualifies personnel from carrying the weapon until a complete requalification is conducted.

(3) Personnel may use simulators in place of live fire sustainment training.

(4) Sustainment training will be documented on OPNAV 3591/1 Small Arms

Qualifications Record.

e. Clearing Barrel Procedures. Per reference (c), clearing barrel procedures are mandatory.

f. Armed Watch Standers. All armed watch standers must complete Navy Security Force

Weapons (Navy Education and Training (NAVEDTRA) 43466-D) personal qualification standards (PQS) and Antiterrorism Common Core (NAVEDTRA 43387-2F) PQS to stand their assigned watch. The commanding officer (CO) determines those items that must be completed in the PQS for each qualification. The PQS is available on the My Navy Portal Web site

(https://my.navy.mil/).

g. Weapons and Ammunition. Only government owned weapons and ammunition will be issued and used by Navy organizations conducting qualifications. Range safety officers (RSO) will ensure weapons and ammunition used in live fire is approved for use. Contractor-provided equipment and ammunition is acceptable when government-funded contracts for qualifications are executed. Contracts may include rental of ranges and weapons along with purchase of ammunition when a command does not hold weapons or have an ordnance inventory system account; and Navy Personnel Conventional Ammunition and Explosives Handling Qualification and Certification Program, per OPNAVINST 8023.24C.

h. Personnel Transfers. For personnel transfers, weapons qualifications are transferable to gaining commands. COs will accept incoming personnel’s qualification status provided it is current and properly documented on an OPNAV 3591/1.

i. Student to Line Coach Ratio.

(1) During small arms training on the range, the ratio of shooters to line coaches must not be greater than 6 to 1 for shooters who have previously qualified on the same COF and with the same type weapon.

(2) For training programs involving new shooters, the ratio must not be greater than 4 to

1 for regular qualification courses.

(3) The ratio for handgun and rifle lowlight courses must not be greater than 2 to 1.

(4) The ratio for the handgun and shotgun practical weapons courses will be 1 to 1.

https://my.navy.mil/

1-4

(5) The ratio for crew served weapons and M203 grenade launcher courses will be 1 to 1.

j. Mobile Ranges. Ranges of 25 yards or greater are not always available. Mobile ranges can be used for qualifications and sustainment when the range has been approved as safe for use by Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFACENGCOM). Appropriately scaled silhouette targets are to be used, per chapter 7.

k. Other Non-Navy Ranges. Non-Navy ranges may be used to train and qualify Navy personnel. All applicable Navy policies and regulations must be adhered to, as well as the host range policies, if more stringent.

l. Disqualifications. Neither weapons nor ammunition will be issued to any individual meeting one or more of the criteria in subparagraphs 2l(1) through (3).

(1) Personnel Screening. Any individual failing the command personnel screening, per reference (d), should not be issued firearms for watch standing and security purposes. The CO has ultimate and final authority to arm personnel under his or her command. Determination of which traits and actions are disqualifying is at the discretion of the CO.

(2) Mental Disorders and Carrying of Firearms.

(a) Mental Health Concerns. References (e), (f) and (g) provide guidance on mental health concerns which require healthcare providers’ notification to commanders or prohibit deployment. Determination of whether an individual should have his or her authorization to carry a firearm temporarily or permanently revoked will be per references (e), (f) and (g).

(b) Waivers. Requests for a waiver for the removal of authorization to carry a firearm due to mental disorder must be submitted to the individual’s CO using the process described in reference (f). The waiver request will be submitted to the individual’s CO through the servicing military medical unit in the case of a Service member or through the individual's personnel office in the case of a civilian employee, with medical input provided by the individual's medical provider. If a Service member is found qualified for retention with no limitations on assignments or deployments following evaluation of a medical condition by competent medical and personnel authority of his or her respective Service and if the condition remains stable, a waiver for that same condition is not required.

1. Requests for waivers due to permanent or long term (36 months or longer) inability to meet a specific security requirement due to a mental disorder must be forwarded, via the chain of command, to the Navy Personnel Command Enlisted Distribution Division (PERS-

40) to determine if the individual meets the requirements for a re-designation of rate.

1-5

2. In the event a waiver or exception due to mental disorder is not authorized, PERS-40 will determine whether processing for administrative discharge is appropriate, per reference (h).

(3) Convictions for Domestic Violence. Qualifying domestic violence convictions are described in DD Form 2760 Qualification to Possess Firearms or Ammunition. Screenings must be conducted annually (every 12 months) utilizing DD Form 2760 and maintained in the member’s service or training record. Navy personnel have an obligation to inform their command if they have a qualifying domestic violence conviction at any other time throughout the year. If any individual has a question as to whether or not he or she has a qualifying conviction, he or she should consult with personal legal counsel.

m. Civilian Marksmanship Training. Congress has recognized and encouraged small arms training by United States citizens through the Civilian Marksmanship Program as described in reference (i). Accordingly, COs are authorized and encouraged to extend privileges of using ranges under their cognizance to recognized schools, colleges, police organizations, as well as rifle, pistol, skeet and trap clubs. Civilian use must not interfere with Navy small arms training.

(1) When such use is authorized, the installation commander responsible for the range is required to have a statement of “No Liability” or “Hold Harmless” prepared by the local legal office or staff judge advocate and executed with a responsible person of the organization requesting the range.

(2) Navy weapons or the expenditure of Navy ammunition in support of the civilian marksmanship training is not authorized. RSOs will ensure civilian guests do not introduce unauthorized weapons or ammunition to the range.

(3) Support for civilian marksmanship training extends to the military family and support for their range use is encouraged for recreational fires. Accordingly, COs are authorized and encouraged to extend privileges of using ranges under their cognizance to DoD dependents and retirees on a not to interfere scheduling basis.

n. Marksmanship Award Policy. Marksmanship award policy is delineated in chapter 8.

3. Responsibilities.

a. Chief of Naval Operations.

(1) Provide policy, procedural guidance and coordinating action for planning and implementing the Navy's small arms training and qualification program via OPNAV Director, Shore Readiness (OPNAV (N46)).

1-6

(2) Define small arms training and qualification requirements and establish corresponding proficiency standards based on current tactics, techniques and procedures via

OPNAV (N46).

(3) Adjudicate waivers and exceptions to this policy via OPNAV (N46).

(4) Procure ammunition and weapons to support the Navy-wide small arms training and qualification program via OPNAV Surface Warfare Division (OPNAV (N96)).

(5) Ensure that reference (j) includes criteria for awarding marksmanship medals and ribbons and ensure availability (OPNAV Awards Branch (DNS-35)).

b. Commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command.

(1) Review and endorse simulators for fleet use as coordinated and assessed by Naval

Warfare Center, Crane Division, Crane, IN. Laser-type simulators must be approved and certified by the Navy Laser Review Board, per reference (k).

(2) Review and endorse new fleet training initiatives as identified by TYCOMs.

c. Commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command, Fleet Commanders and Echelon 2 Commands.

(1) Review existing programs and issue implementing instructions as necessary.

(2) Per reference (l), determine and submit annual noncombat expenditure allocation

(NCEA) requirements for small arms ammunition to support small arms training and competitive match programs under their cognizance.

(3) Encourage and support participation in competitive matches and exercises.

(4) Provide small arms instructors training guidance with regard to current training requirements.

d. Naval Supply Systems Command, Global Logistics Support Ammunition (NAVSUP

GLS AMMO). Per reference (l), manage distribution of ammunition to appropriate users.

Ammunition will be requisitioned through NAVSUP GLS AMMO once an NCEA is established.

e. Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC).

(1) Provide adequate small arms ranges maintenance and small arms ranges management personnel. Each small arms ranges standard operating procedure will address maintenance and manning requirements, to include the requirements in subparagraphs 4e(1)(a) though 4e(1)(c).

1-7

(a) Individual commands are responsible to provide their own small arms marksmanship instruction, RSOs and line coaches.

(b) Individual commands provide their own consumables, such as targets, target backings, personal protective equipment, flashlights, bullhorns, batteries and weapons cleaning equipment.

(c) CNIC provides very limited small arms range capacity to support the firing of crew served weapons and has no ranges capable of firing the .50 caliber heavy machine gun.

(2) Establish and maintain CNIC funded and operated small arms ranges within the

Range Facility Management Support System. Installations will assist units in scheduling all requests to maximize utilization of CNIC ranges. Installations will collect and maintain usage and capabilities data on each CNIC operated range.

f. Naval Education and Training Command (NETC) and Center for Security Forces

(CENSECFOR).

(1) Provide subject matter expertise in all small arms training curricula development efforts. Act as the principal Navy point of contact on all small arms training.

(2) Develop and approve all computer based training and other E-Learning products in support of small arms training to include shooting fundamentals, line coaching techniques, dry fire procedures guidelines, use of force and hostile intent determination decision making scenarios.

g. NAVFACENGCOM.

(1) Provide planning and design criteria and requirements for small arms ranges.

(2) Provide NAVFACENGCOM record of compliance (certification) for new ranges and recertification for significant upgrades and modifications to existing ranges that alter ventilation or down range ballistic components such as trap, baffles, overhead containment and impact berm. Navy ranges used for qualification and sustainment must have a current

NAVFACENGCOM record of compliance.

(3) The record of compliance (certification) will address the need to recertify the range within a given time frame if recertification has not occurred as a result of significant upgrades and modifications.

1-8

(4) Existing ranges with NAVFACENGCOM record of compliance (certification) older than 7 years will be recertified. Ranges that are in immediate need of re-certification and ranges that are within 12 months of such need at the time this instruction is published may continue to operate as long as efforts to re-certify the range are being actively pursued through

NAVFACENGCOM.

h. Commanders or COs.

(1) Implement a training program to ensure that all personnel whose primary or collateral duties require them to be armed will maintain proficiency to safely handle and effectively use the weapons assigned.

(2) Ensure that all personnel required to be armed are trained in the safe and effective use of small arms per this instruction and TYCOM training manuals.

(3) Appoint RSOs, small arms instructors and line coaches, in writing, after reviewing their qualifications per chapter 3. Line coach designation can be delegated to the command

RSO.

(4) Ensure arms, ammunition and explosives screening is conducted annually, per reference (d).

(5) Determine and submit annual NCEA requirements for small arms ammunition.

(6) Issue marksmanship awards as appropriate.

(7) Approve civilian contractors qualified under this instruction to train and qualify command personnel.

(8) Commanders are encouraged to support the competitive marksmanship program, per reference (j).

(9) Per reference (m), small arms training is considered high-risk. Ensure that the operational risk management process in reference (n) is applied to small arms live fire training evolutions, to include having effective risk mitigation controls in place for the safe and effective conduct of training.

i. Personnel Duties. Small arms training and qualification personnel duties and responsibilities are delineated in chapter 3.

2-1

CHAPTER 2

MARKSMANSHIP, SAFETY AND WEAPONS TRAINING

1. General. Marksmanship fundamentals include the safe, accurate and proficient handling of small arms weapons. The basic fundamentals exercised through proper instruction, by instructors and students, help foster a more efficient and safe training environment.

2. Policy. The marksmanship, safety and weapon familiarization training must cover the requirements in the subparagraphs 2a through 2e topics.

a. Range Safety and Orientation. Instructors must ensure all students understand the range regulations, particular safety requirements associated with each weapon, emergency action plan and specific information regarding the range facilities.

b. Knowledge of the Four Universal Safety Rules, Weapons Commands and Weapon

Condition Codes for Each Weapon. See chapter 3.

c. Ability to Perform Remedial Actions. See chapter 4.

d. Drawing and Holstering the Pistol (as applicable). See reference (c).

e. Transporting and Presenting the Rifle (as applicable) (see reference (c)). Training must cover presenting the rifle from the listed transports in subparagraphs 2e(1) through 2e(4).

(1) Strong side sling arms (muzzle up).

(2) Weak side sling arms (muzzle down).

(3) Cross body sling arms (muzzle down).

(4) Tactical sling.

f. Transporting and Presenting the Shotgun (as applicable) (see reference (c)). Training must cover presenting the shotgun from the listed transports in subparagraphs 2f(1) through

2e(4).

(1) Strong side sling arms (muzzle up).

(2) Weak side sling arms (muzzle down).

(3) Cross body sling arms (muzzle down).

2-2

(4) Tactical sling (for personnel armed with shotguns with foldable stocks and tactical slings).

g. Clearing Barrel Procedures. See reference (c).

h. Marksmanship Fundamentals.

(1) For pistol qualifications:

(a) both the Weaver and Isosceles stances are permitted for all COFs (see reference

(m)); and

(b) shooters will practice drawing from the holster and must demonstrate the ability to safely handle and present the weapon to the instructor before live firing.

(2) For rifle qualification, shooters will practice presenting the rifle from the various transports listed in subparagraphs 2e and 2f and demonstrate the ability to safely handle and present the weapon to the instructor before live firing.

i. Characteristics, Nomenclature and Cycle of Operation. See reference (c).

j. Assembly and Disassembly. For guidance on the assembly and disassembly, refer to the applicable maintenance requirement cards or technical or operator manual.

k. The Operation Portion of the Training. This covers function checks, filling and emptying the magazine, loading and unloading the weapon and firing the weapon (see reference (c)).

l. Malfunctions, Stoppages, Immediate, Remedial Actions. See chapter 4 and reference (c).

m. RSO or Primary Small Arms Instructor. Will ensure all personnel have emptied their pockets and they are in a sterile environment free of live fire ammunition. Personnel will practice all of the skills necessary to safely and properly operate the weapon as specified in chapter 3. Chapter 4 provides specific dry fire procedures and guidelines.

n. Use of Deadly Force. References (o) and (p) govern the use of deadly force and carrying of firearms by Navy personnel.

3. Marksmanship Training. Where available, simulator training must include marksmanship training drills to assist instructors in identifying and correcting personnel shooter fundamental errors. Courses of fire should be programmed into the simulator to provide personnel the opportunity to simulate firing the courses of fire prior to live fire operations.

2-3

4. Computer Based Training. Completion of Navy e-Learning computer based training is recommended in conjunction with annual live fire qualification.

5. Protective Clothing. When chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear protective clothing is available (e.g., masks and gloves), students should practice remedial actions and dry fire of the weapon. If simulators are available, commands are encouraged to have personnel practice simulated firing of weapons while wearing chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear clothing.

6. Live Fire Qualification Time Period. The period of time between the marksmanship, safety and weapons familiarization training and live fire qualification must not exceed 14 days. This period can be extended to 30 days for Reserve units.

7. Targets. The targets used for the various courses of fire are delineated in chapter 7.

3-1

CHAPTER 3

SMALL ARMS TRAINING AND QUALIFICATION PERSONNEL DUTIES AND

RESPONSIBILITIES

1. General. Small arms training and qualification encompasses duties and responsibilities of personnel including, but not limited to, personnel who are trained and qualified as small arms instructors, RSOs and line coaches.

2. Policy. Small arms instructors must meet the requirements listed in subparagraphs 2a through 2j.

a. Be designated in writing by their CO.

b. Be personnel who are military rank E-5, Federal employee in the General Schedule (GS)-

5 or Wage Grade (WG)-5 or above or contract instructors who have completed any of the courses listed in this chapter.

c. Ensure a current copy of this instruction in its entirety and the emergency action plan are available on site while conducting weapons qualifications.

d. Supervise line coaches and ensure the range training operation complies with established range safety rules.

e. Be familiar with and follow the mishap investigation and reporting procedures detailed in references (q) and (r).

f. Train line coaches utilizing the line coach PQS contained in Navy Security Force

Weapons PQS, NAVEDTRA 43466-D.

g. In addition to completing one of the courses listed in subparagraph 2j, personnel must complete the associated Navy Security Force Weapons PQS, NAVEDTRA 43466-D, for small arms marksmanship instructor and the weapons they instruct and be currently qualified in each weapon.

h. Equivalency for Navy Instructor Training Course training will be governed by NETC directives. Prior to assuming any weapons instructor duties, small arms instructors assigned to a formal Navy schoolhouse (e.g., Recruit Training Command) or CENSECFOR must attend and successfully complete the courses listed in subparagraphs 2h(1) through 2h(3).

(1) Small Arms Marksmanship Instructor Course (A-041-0148).

(2) Crew-Served Weapons Instructor (CSWI) (A-830-2215) Course (as applicable).

3-2

(3) Navy Instructor Training Course or equivalent.

i. Submit "OPNAV 3591/1, Small Arms Qualification Record" and "OPNAV 3591/2, Machine Gun Performance Record" to their command's administrative division for input to

Service member's service record.

j. The courses listed in subparagraphs 2j(1) through 2j(9) provide training for small arms and CSWI.

(1) Small Arms Marksmanship Instructor (SAMI) Course (A-041-0148). Trains personnel to instruct pistols, rifles and shotguns; trains personnel to be RSOs; and awards Navy enlisted classification (NEC) 0812.

(2) CSWI Course (A-830-2215). Trains personnel to instruct light, medium and heavy machine guns and M203 grenade launchers; trains personnel to be RSOs for crew-served weapons; and awards NEC 0814.

(3) Seahawk Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course (S-050-0836). Trains personnel to instruct helicopter aerial gunners; trains personnel to be RSOs for crew-served weapons; and awards NEC 8210.

(4) Submarine Forces CSWI Course (A-041-0012). Trains personnel to instruct Mark

(MK)-48 crew-served weapons and trains personnel to be RSOs for MK-48 crew-served weapons.

(5) Expeditionary Small Arms Marksmanship Instructor Course (A-060-0005). Provides

Navy Expeditionary Combat Command personnel with the knowledge and skills to serve as RSO and weapons instructors for categories 2, 3 and 4 weapons qualifications, sustainment and unit level training at any DON authorized weapons range.

(6) The Marine Corps Marksmanship Instructor (Military Occupational Specialty 0931)

Course.

(7) DoD-Equivalent Small Arms and CSWI Courses.

(8) The Federal Law Enforcement Training Center Small Arms Instructor Course.

(9) Non-DoD. Any other small arms or CSWI course equivalencies approved by

OPNAV Ashore Readiness Division (OPNAV N46) after CENSECFOR review of the course of instruction.

3-3

k. Once an approved instructor course is completed, there is no refresher instructor training requirement. Courses listed in previous versions of this instruction will remain valid if training was completed prior to issuance of this instruction.

l. Small arms instructors and CSWIs must qualify semi-annually on the courses of fire and with the type of weapons they instruct. For deployed commands with SAMIs and CSWIs whose qualifications will expire during a deployment, qualified status will remain in effect until 3 months after returning to homeport. Instructors who have not conducted small arms training within the past year must become familiar with the most current information from available resources (e.g., schools, current small arms instructors, professional resources via My Navy

Portal) before conducting classroom or range training. Instructors that have not delivered weapons training within the past 12 months must complete the Navy Security Force Weapons

PQS they instruct.

3. RSOs.

a. Are qualified small arms instructors who have completed one of the courses in subparagraph 1j.

b. Must complete the associated Navy Security Force Weapons PQS, NAVEDTRA 43466-

D.

c. Are appointed in writing by the CO.

d. Ensure compliance with established range safety rules.

e. Must not act in the capacity of a line coach while performing the duties of the RSO, but may call out the course of fire.

f. Will ensure a current copy of this instruction and the emergency action plan in its entirety are available on site while conducting weapons qualification.

g. Must be familiar with and ensure that the mishap investigation and reporting procedures are conducted per references (q) and (r).

h. Will ensure that the range regulations, training procedures and guidelines are enforced during small arms training.

i. Will ensure OPNAV 5512/2 Authorization to Carry Firearms is completed and submitted to their CO or their designated representative for endorsement. Following endorsement, the RSO will ensure OPNAV 5512/2 is issued to the Service member. Armories or other weapons issuing sites, may use a master qualification list to verify the qualification status of assigned personnel.

A separate list, updated weekly, will list those personnel who have had their weapons carry

3-4 authorization removed. Commands can either issue OPNAV 5512/2 forms or use a master qualification list to track the qualification status of assigned personnel and make this list available to Navy security force forces they are augmenting.

4. Line Coach.

a. Personnel chosen from the command who have demonstrated proper weapon(s) knowledge and proficiency; have completed the line coach PQS contained in the Navy Security

Force Weapons PQS; and are qualified in the weapon(s) they coach. Line coach designation can be delegated by the CO to the RSO of the applicable command.

b. Will ensure compliance with all safety procedures and assist small arms instructors during pre-fire training and coach individual shooters on the firing line. Coaches are trained to identify shooter errors and provide the shooter with appropriate corrective actions(s).

c. Line coaches assigned to a formal Navy schoolhouse (e.g., Recruit Training Command, CENSECFOR) must attend and successfully complete SAMI (A-041-0148) and CSWI (A-830-

2215) (as applicable) and Navy Instructor Training Course or equivalent, before assuming any weapons instructor duties. Equivalency for Navy Instructor Training Course training will be governed by NETC directives.

4-1

CHAPTER 4

RANGE REGULATIONS

1. General. Range regulations are developed to ensure the safety of Navy personnel during the execution of all range operations and to maximize the life-cycle of the range and range equipment.

2. Policy. The firing range regulations of this chapter must be enforced during all small arms training. Ensure that the classroom-training environment contains no live ammunition. Never mix different types of ammunition when conducting qualifications in this instruction (i.e., live, dummy, blank or marking cartridges).

3. Universal Safety Rules. The four safety rules in subparagraphs 3a through 3d are the foundation for responsible weapons handling. These rules must be observed at all times, whether in training or in combat.

a. Rule 1: Treat every weapon as if it were loaded. This rule is intended to prevent unintentional injury to personnel or damage to property from careless handling or transferring possession of a weapon.

b. Rule 2: Never point a weapon at anything you do not intend to shoot. This rule reinforces the importance of muzzle awareness and positive identification of the target.

c. Rule 3: Keep your finger straight and off the trigger until ready to fire. This rule is intended to minimize the risk of firing the weapon negligently or prematurely. The rule also reinforces positive identification of the target.

d. Rule 4: Keep weapon on “safe” until you intend to fire. This rule reinforces the use of the weapon’s safety feature (where applicable), as well as positive identification of the target.

4. Weapons Commands. Weapons commands direct personnel to safely load, unload and employ small arms. The six commands listed in subparagraphs 4a through 4g will be used in weapons handling and on the firing range.

a. “Load”. This command is used to take a weapon from condition 4 to condition 3 (see chapter 6 for the weapon condition codes for each weapon).

b. “Make Ready”. This command is used to take a weapon from condition 3 to condition 1.

c. “Load and Make Ready”. This command is used to take a weapon from condition 4 to condition 1.

d. “Fire”. This command is used to engage targets.

4-2

e. “Cease Fire”. This command is used to cease target engagement.

f. “Unload”. This command is used to take a weapon from condition 1 or condition 3, to condition 4.

g. “Show Clear”. This command is used to require a second individual to check the weapon to verify that no ammunition is present before the weapon is put into condition 4.

5. Range Orientation Brief. Prior to live firing the RSO will give an orientation brief on the range and discuss the items listed in subparagraphs 5a through 5i.

a. Range safety rules (see paragraph 6).

b. Berms (to include a visual of the right and left lateral limits).

c. Downrange.

d. Surface danger zone.

e. Ready line.

f. Firing line.

g. Firing points.

h. Tower or point from which the RSO will call the range.

i. Any other pertinent topic.

6. Range Safety Rules.

a. RSO Authority. The RSO has final authority to decide, based on safety criteria, if a shooter will participate in live fire qualification.

b. General Range Safety Rules.

(1) Upon receipt of the weapon, the chamber will be checked to ensure it is not loaded.

Before loading, check weapon for cracked or worn parts. Inspect barrel for any damage, foreign debris or other obstructions. Check for dirt, excess oil, grease or other problems. Check the magazine spring for tension and the magazine in general for defects.

(2) Weapons must be clear before any personnel go downrange. Weapons or ammunition must not be handled or manipulated in any way if there is anyone downrange.

4-3

(3) Never leave a firearm unattended, even for a brief period of time.

Note: Benching a cleared weapon while personnel move downrange is not considered leaving a firearm unattended.

(4) Never discharge a firearm when running. Always stop to shoot and only when certain of the target and path of the projectile. Always be aware of what is behind the target and the potential impact zone. Category 3 and category 4 courses of fire may require shooting while on the move.

(5) Never load the firearm with dented magazines, magazines with loose bullets or otherwise damaged rounds. Only approved ammunition acceptable for use on the range will be introduced.

(6) If any unsafe condition is observed, immediately call “cease fire” or repeat the “cease fire” command if initiated by another shooter. Anyone may call a cease-fire on the range.

(7) Hearing protection is required at all times when firearms are being discharged during training and qualification. All personnel exposed to gunfire in a training situation or to noise from large caliber gun or missile firing, under any circumstances, must wear sufficient hearing protective devices (single protection up to and between 140 decibel (dB) sound pressure level

(SPL) peak and double protection at 165 dB SPL peak and above) to reduce the individual’s effective exposure level to below 84 dBA or 140 dB SPL. References (s) and (t) pertain.

(8) American National Standards Institute approved glasses are required. The National

Stock Number (NSN) 8415-01-408-2293 meets American National Standards Institute standards.

(9) For ranges and other facilities utilizing marking cartridges or equivalent type cartridges for force on force training, never fire marking cartridges at another person unless they are wearing the proper personal protective equipment approved for Navy use.

(10) After completion of live fire training or whenever handling ammunition, shooters must wash their hands prior to eating, tobacco use or drinking in order to avoid ingestion of lead or other toxic contaminants.

c. Pistol Safety Rules.

(1) Pistols must be clear when not in use. The chamber must be empty, the safety must be engaged (if applicable) and the magazine must be removed. Additionally, benched pistols must be pointed downrange with the slide locked to the rear and holstered pistols must have the slide closed with the hammer or striker de-cocked. The weapon must be verified to ensure it is clear before benching or holstering.

4-4

(2) Do not remove pistols from the holsters until at the firing point facing the target and only when instructed to do so.

(3) Retention devices, i.e., thumb breaks and locking systems, will be used at all times during pistol courses of fire.

(4) Pistols are to be carried on and off the range in condition 4 and must be either holstered or carried via administrative transport.

d. Rifle Safety Rules.

(1) Rifles must be clear when not in use. The clear condition of a rifle is safety on, unloaded, bolt open and magazine removed. When carrying the weapon on the range, when benching it or receiving it from or handing it to another person, ensure the rifle is in a clear condition.

(2) Rifles will be carried on and off the range in a vertical or port arms position and in a clear condition.

(3) When loading a rifle, keep the weapon horizontal and pointed downrange.

(4) After unloading a rifle, while keeping the muzzle pointed downrange, visually examine the chamber and the magazine to verify the weapon is clear.

e. Shotgun Safety Rules.

(1) The clear condition of a shotgun is unloaded, action open, weapon on safe. When carrying the weapon on the range, when benching it or receiving it from or handing it to another person, make certain the shotgun is in a clear condition.

(2) When loading a shotgun, keep the weapon horizontal and pointed downrange.

(3) Shotguns will be carried on and off the range in the vertical position or port arms position, unloaded with the breach open.

(4) After unloading a shotgun, while keeping the muzzle pointed downrange, visually examine the chamber and the magazine to verify the weapon is clear.

f. Machine Gun Safety Rules.

(1) Always check barrel bore and chamber before firing.

4-5

(2) Check ammunition for oil or grease. Oil or grease on cartridges will produce excessive chamber pressure and can cause personal injury or death.

(3) Before firing, make sure barrel is locked tightly to the receiver. If the barrel is not locked, threads in receiver could be damaged or cause personal injury. For the heavy barrel machine gun (M2HB), complete head space and timing.

(4) For the machine gun tripod (M122), when extending and locking tripod legs, be sure to slide sleeve down to lowest position and latched.

(5) Always cock machine guns with palms up, with the exception of the MK-19 and MK-

48 which must be cocked with palms down.

(6) Ensure that assigned and spare barrels have been head spaced and tagged to their specific receiver. Rotate usage of barrels on their assigned weapon, typically after 200 rounds have been fired.

(7) Never interchange barrel assembly or bolt assembly from one machine gun to another. Doing so may result in injury or death of personnel.

(8) If a runaway gun occurs, always keep machine gun pointed downrange. Never reload a runaway machine gun until it is repaired. Reference (u) provides specific guidance.

(9) Always use heat resistant mittens on a hot barrel. A hot barrel can cause serious burns.

(10) When removing a stuck unfired cartridge, always stay clear of the muzzle. Do not allow the round to hit any hard surface or it may discharge. Dispose of live rounds per local command policy and procedures.

(11) If a hot gun situation is encountered, refer to reference (s) for hot gun misfire procedures. Look up the specific procedures for the machine gun experiencing the problem.

This publication is required to be present on the range during training.

(12) Always unload the weapon before removing from tripod, disassembling, cleaning, inspecting, transporting or storing. Always check the chambers and bores after unloading to be sure the weapon is clear.

g. Prescreening Questions. Positive response to the questions listed in subparagraphs 6g(1) through 6g(5) will result in the member being disqualified from participating in live fire.

(1) “Have you experienced any injury or incapacitating mental effects that could hamper your ability to safely operate the weapon?”

4-6

(2) “Is there any physical or other reason that could hamper your ability to safely operate the weapon?”

(3) “Have you consumed drugs, prescription or otherwise, within the last 24 hours that may impair your ability to safely operate the weapon?”

(4) “Have you consumed alcohol within the last 12 hours?”

(5) “Are you pregnant?”

h. Ready Line.

(1) The ready line is behind and parallel to the firing line. The ready line may or may not be marked on the firing range. If there is no ready line marked, the RSO will establish a ready line approximately 10 feet behind the firing line, depending on available space.

(2) Shooters and line coaches will initially be positioned behind the ready line. Shooters and line coaches will not move forward of the ready line until instructed to do so by the RSO.

(3) All spectators must remain behind the ready line during live fire sequences.

(4) In order for all safety instructions to be clearly heard and understood by all personnel, shooters will not talk while on the ready line or the firing line.

i. Firing Line.

(1) All live fire will take place at the firing line as designated in the COF.

(2) Weapons will not be handled at the firing line until specific instructions are given by the RSO to do so.

(3) No one will move downrange (forward of the firing line) unless instructed to do so by the RSO.

(a) Before any personnel move downrange, all shooters will bench or holster a clear and safe weapon and all personnel must move to the rear of the ready line. After all personnel have moved behind the ready line and the RSO has verified the firing line is safe, the RSO may allow personnel to move downrange.

(b) All personnel returning from downrange will return to the rear of the ready line.

Once all personnel have returned to the ready line, the RSO will declare the firing line hot and may direct line coaches and shooters to return to their firing positions.

4-7

j. Remedial Actions.

(1) Stoppage. A stoppage is an unintentional interruption in the cycle of operation. A stoppage is normally discovered when the weapon does not fire. Proper operation, care, cleaning and lubrication of the weapon can prevent most stoppages.

(2) Immediate Action. Prompt action taken by the shooter to clear a stoppage.

Procedures are detailed in reference (c).

(3) Remedial Action. Remedial action is the process of investigating the cause of the stoppage, clearing the…