Concept Of Zeroingtargeting

The concept of zero is very simple; it is no more than the best way to adjust the sights of the weapon so the point of aim of the sights and the point of impact of the rounds are the same at any given range. A properly zeroed M2 gives the gunner the highest probability of hit for most combat targets with the least adjustment to the point of aim. There are three methods of zeroing/targeting used with the .50 caliber MG.

a. Ten-meter zero is the basic and the most common method of zeroing the M2 MG. Once zeroed on a 10-meter range using the standard machine gun target, the weapon is ready for field fire. As other weapons, the sight on the M2 must also be set at an initial start point (Figure 5-30). The initial sight setting for field zero is basically the same; except the range setting during field zero will depend on the range to the target, and it is always 1,000 yards for 10 meters.

(1) Set elevation. Raise the rear sight by lifting straight up until it snaps into the upright position. Adjust the range scale to 1,000 yards by rotating the elevation screw knob in the necessary direction. (Clockwise moves the scale up; counterclockwise moves the scale down.)

(2) Set windage. Rotate the windage knob until the zero index mark on the base rear sight is aligned with the index mark on the top of the receiver. (Clockwise moves the windage scale to the left; counterclockwise moves it to the right.)

Browning Sight Assembly
Figure 5-30. Rear sight setting.

(3) Obtain proper sight picture. Obtain the proper sight picture by looking through the zero aperture and centering the front sight blade in it. Once the sight alignment is obtained, place this combination on the center base of the selected target (Figure 5-31).

Zero Target

Figure 5-31. Proper sight picture.

b. Field zeroing/targeting is an expedient method of obtaining a zero when a 10-meter zero cannot be conducted. When preparing to field zero, make sure the M2 is mounted securely on the M3 tripod, make sure the T&E is working properly, and finally, know the distance to your zero target. The only difference in initial sight setting for field zero is range setting on the scale. The gunner must also remember that the range scale on the M2 is indicated in yards. Therefore, in order to get as close to the target as possible, you may have to convert the meters to the target into yards so you can set the range on the rear sight. Conversion of meters to yards is accomplished by multiplying the number of meters by 1.094. For example, 600 meters x 1.094 = 656.4 yards; the gunner would set his range scale at 650.

c. The AN/TVS 5 is an effective night fire aid. By using this device, the gunner can observe the area and detect and engage any suitable target. But, as usual, the device is only as good as its zero; the zeroing procedure requires practice to become proficient.

(1) Mount the mounting bracket. To mount the bracket, the gunner must ensure that the rear sight is in the down position. He then releases the catch on the left side of the top cover assembly and raises the cover to the upright position. He pushes the mounting bracket over the breech of the machine gun and slides the bracket rearward until it stops (Figure 5-32).

Figure 5-32. Mounting the bracket.

He pushes the three locking cams to secure the bracket (Figure 5-33) and closes the top cover assembly.


Figure 5-33. Securing the bracket.

(2) Install the sight on the mount. To install the sight, the gunner must align the scribe lines on the sight with the scribe lines on the bracket. He places the sight in the groove at the top of the bracket and tightens the lever screw to secure the sight to the bracket (Figure 5-34).

Figure 5-34. Securing the sight.

(3) Zero the AN/TVS-5. A gunner must zero the MG with its NVD on it before he can effectively engage targets with the AN/TVS-5. The zeroing of this device to the MG must be done at 50 meters. An M16A1, A2, or Canadian bull zero target may be used. The point of impact for either target must be 9.8 centimeters below the target aiming point. To accomplish this task, place the reticle aiming point on the target aiming point (Figure 5-35).

Zero Target


Figure 5-35. Desired impact point for the AN/TVS-5.

(a) Fire enough single-shot rounds to obtain a good shot group. Locate the center of the shot group. Adjust the AN/TVS-5 azimuth and elevation knobs until the shot group impacts 9.8 centimeters below the target aiming point. Move the weapon so that the reticle aiming point is again on the target aiming point. Repeat this process until the desired point of impact is obtained.

(b) When adjusting, move the azimuth or elevation adjustment actuator one click to move the strike of the round .5 inch at 50 meters. One click of adjustment will move the reticle about one square on the Canadian bull-type target.

NOTE: The lens cover with the peephole may be required to prevent scope washout from the muzzle flash.

(4) Dismount the sight. The gunner dismounts the sight from the bracket first by loosening the lever screws. Then he lifts the sight from the bracket. He must then dismount the bracket in the reverse mounting procedure.

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