Para. 261.—Also for protecting batteries in position, machine guns can be profitably employed, if infantry are not forthcoming for this duty. Extract from "Field Service Regulations, 1908"
"The fire effect of machine guns is influenced primarily by correct sighting, possibility of observation, size and density of target, and methods of fire."
"It is further affected by the suddenness with which fire is opened, by the number of machine guns firing at the same target, and by the enemy's fire. The high rate of fire concentration of the bullet-sheaf, and the possibility of bringing several machine guns into action on a narrow front, enable great effect to be produced in a short time even at long ranges. When the front of the target is broken and irregular, the effect is reduced. A wrong sighting elevation or an imperfect observation of fire may render the fire completely ineffective."
"Dense lines of skirmishers standing suffer heavy losses at ranges of 1,650 yards and under. At lines of skirmishers lying, good effect is to be expected at 1,100 yards and under, provided that the observation of fire is good. Against artillery in action the fire is similar to that of infantry. Owing to the mobility of machine-gun batteries they are especially adapted for securing the increased fire effect due to oblique fire."
