=1.= In connection with the tactical application of rifle fire, it must be remembered that the essence of infantry tactics in the attack consists in breaking down the enemy’s resistance by the weight and direction of its fire, and then completing his overthrow by assault--that is, by _bayonet charge_. Although the enemy may not await the assault, _infantry must always be animated with the desire to close with him as quickly as possible_. Troops under cover, unless enfiladed, can seldom be forced to retire by fire alone, and a decision by fire, even if possible, takes long to obtain. _To drive an enemy from the field, assault, or the immediate threat of it, is almost always necessary._ =2. Superiority of Fire.=--The object of fire action is to attain superiority of fire over the enemy’s fire. Fire is said to attain superiority when by its superior effect it beats down or silences the enemy’s fire. Superiority of fire in the different stages of attack enables the advance to be pushed up by degrees to ground from which the assault can be delivered on the enemy’s position. Superiority of fire enables the defence to check the enemy’s advance, and in active defence to create opportunities for a general assumption of the offensive or for local counter-attacks. _Superiority of fire is produced by superior efficiency in_ (_a_) _fire direction and control_, (_b_) _fire discipline_, (_c_) _use of the rifle, and_ (_d_) _ammunition supply._ =3. Opening Fire.=--When from his position it is possible to do so, the company commander decides as to the time for opening fire, subject to such orders as the battalion commander may issue, and regulates the supply of ammunition. In the defence he also normally arranges for the distribution or concentration of fire, and indicates the targets generally to his subordinates; but in the attack these duties will usually devolve upon the subordinate commanders with the firing-line. =4. Decision as to Opening Fire.=--In forming a decision as to when fire should be opened, regard must be had to the necessities of the tactical situation. The following conditions must also be taken into account: (i) =Surprise.=--The early opening of fire discounts surprise, and, whether in attack or defence, often indicates the position of troops which would otherwise be unnoticed by the enemy. In attack it may delay the advance unnecessarily. (ii) =Effect of Fire at Different Ranges.=--The effect of fire at various ranges must be taken carefully into account. This subject is dealt with in Sec. 43, para. 1.