February’s intake for the 2010’s ARD comprised of 18 Instructors ranging in rank fron SI to Lieutenant and from a number of counties within 49 Brigade.
The course was held over two days at Beckingham Training Camp on the border of Nottingham and Lincolnshire and was run 3CTT who are based in Colchester.
The course provides instructors with a knowledge of how a Range is run as well as hands on experience of running an outdoor range, It also allows us an opportunity to fire the L98 A2
As safety is paramount the students are taught the key fundamental points of working the butts/backstop, communications and working the control panels timings from the fire control room.
A number written and practical tests as well as weapons handling test were taken throughout the course ensuring that the instructors are capable in the all aspects of running and instructing a range day.
On day two the instructors gave lessons on weapon safety and immeidaye action drills to the local CCF who had not had the opportunity of handling the L98 A2.The cadets were then given the opportunity to fire the weapon over 300, 200 and 100 metres.
Each cadet was assigned an instructor who overlooked and assisted them throughout the shoot.
It was then the turn of the instructors to show the principles of marksmanship from the 200m firing pit.
Whilst picking up the brass I had the chance to get some feedback from a number of cadets. It was apparent that the differences between the A1 Cadet GP and the A2 were going to be beneficial not just on the range but also on exercise
These courses don't come along very oftern so, if you haven't yet attended one, my advice would be to keep an eye out for the next one and get your bid in as soon as possible.
