pursuit. In reconnaissance, or other detached duties, the machine guns should be retained by the commander of the unit as a reserve, ready to move to any point where their presence may be required. They may be utilised for such purposes as to induce the enemy to expose his position; to drive in hostile patrols; to check the pursuit of victorious cavalry; to delay the enemy's infantry, etc. When their fire has achieved its object they should be withdrawn temporarily. In other circumstances their action should be guided by the principles set forth in the case of infantry.
From "Field Service Regulations," Part I.,
Operations, 1909
The machine gun possesses the power of delivering a volume of concentrated rifle fire which can be rapidly directed against any desired object. Rapid fire cannot be long sustained, owing to the expenditure of ammunition involved, and it is therefore necessary that the movements and fire action of the weapons should be regulated so as to enable them to open fire immediately a favourable opportunity arises. Surprise is an important factor in the employment of machine guns, which should be concealed, and whenever possible provided with cover from fire. The massing of machine guns is likely to attract hostile artillery fire. For this reason it is usually better to
