(vii) =Results of Firing.=--The percentage of hits to rounds fired is an index to the steadiness of the firing only if the fire direction has been proved to be satisfactory. If the fire direction fails, the more accurate the shooting the fewer will be the hits recorded. In considering the results of fire, the percentage of loss inflicted on the enemy within a limited period of time is the best means of judging the value of the fire. For general comparison of the collective fire results of units, the average number of hits per man per minute should be calculated if fire was concentrated, or the average number of figures hit per man per minute if it was distributed, but due regard must be paid to the justification of the rate of fire as indicated by the scheme. CHAPTER VIII CONDUCT OF RANGE AND FIELD PRACTICES Section =55=.--Thirty Yards Ranges. =1.= When no classification range is available, elementary practices with service ammunition may be carried out on a 30 yards range. Such practice will render recruits familiar with the discharge of the rifle, and improve their trigger release under easy conditions. No practice will take place unless an officer or experienced serjeant is present. =2. Precautions for Safety.=--All precautions for safety will be taken. Loading, in all positions except lying, will be carried out with the rifle held just above the waist, and the muzzle directed towards the target. _Charging or uncharging magazines is not to be carried out with the muzzle pointing upwards._ =3. Practices.=--Practice at vanishing, moving, and landscape targets can be carried out as on miniature ranges, but with service ammunition. Long-range sighting-targets should be provided as a means of ascertaining the error of the rifle, and practice may be carried out with long-range sights. Section =56=.--Grouping Practices. =1.= One firer will be detailed to each target, and fire five shots, maintaining the regulation point of aim throughout. Targets will be changed, and a second detail of men will fire similarly. Both details will then proceed to the targets, see their groups measured, and note the positions of the points of mean impact with reference to the points aimed at. If it is impracticable to proceed to the targets, the group may be marked by means of small spotting-discs (see also Appendix, VI, para. 2, note 3). =2. Rules for Measuring Groups.=--(i) The groups will be measured with wire rings, 4, 8, and 12 inches in diameter, counting 25, 20, and 15 points respectively; 10 points will be allowed for a 12-inch group with one wide shot. (ii) The ring which will contain all the shots will be recorded as the measure of the group. A shot-mark is included within a ring when it cuts the circumference of the largest circle which can be described within that ring by means of a pencil held at right angles to the target.