(e) Wrap foam rubber around the center of the stick, leaving only the 6 to 8 inches of tapered hand grip exposed. Secure the foam rubber padding with tape. (3) Size of Pugil Stick.—The pugil stick should be approximately the same length and weight as the M-14 rifle with bayonet attached. This enables the bayonet fighter to train with a weapon which closely approximates the weapon he uses in an actual combat situation. c. Safety Equipment and Precautions (1) Whenever engaged in a pugil stick bout, the student should be equipped with the following: (a) A football helmet with full bird cage face mask. (b) Lacrosse gloves. (c) Protective cup athletic supporter. (2) Instructors in charge of pugil stick bouts see that proper bayonet fighting procedures are followed by students engaged in bouts. The proper bayonet fighting grip is employed at all times. The pugil stick is not used as a baseball bat. In no instance do the hands leave the pugil stick. Neither throwing or swinging is allowed. Pugil stick fighters refrain from hitting their opponent with the center portion of the pugil stick. (3) Instructors ensure that protective equipment is properly secured before the bout begins. Bouts will be stopped whenever one participant becomes completely defenseless, after a telling blow has been struck, when equipment becomes loosened or knocked off, or when the pugil stick is being used improperly. Students are instructed to stop all action when the whistle is blown. d. Regulations for Bouts (1) Students are normally paired off so that opponents are of approximately equal height and weight. (2) Each bout is officiated by an instructor with a whistle. (3) Contests continue until one contestant has scored a killing blow. A killing blow is one delivered solidly to the head, neck, groin, or midsection with the blade end of the pugil stick; and to the head, groin, or neck with the butt end of the stick. If a killing blow is struck in the first few seconds of the bout, for training purposes the bout may be continued for a prescribed period of time. The winner will be the individual who struck the most killing blows in the time allotted. Time limits may be set by the instructor, taking into consideration the physical condition of the students and the time available. (4) Instructors periodically remind students that basic attack movements and combinations are most effective. Instructors also continually emphasize aggressiveness. They ensure that all trainees yell and growl while engaged in a bout. (5) Short bouts, with rapid changing of equipment, retains enthusiasm and interest. (6) Bouts begin with both contestants in the guard position and about 5 yards apart. (See figs. 38 and 39.) (7) No score occurs if a student removes either hand from the weapon to throw or swing at his opponent. (See fig. 40.) [Illustration: Figure 38.—On Guard With Pugil Stick.] [Illustration: Figure 39.—Square Off With Pugil Stick.]