Three Lectures. On The Practice Of Rifle Firing At Various Distances - Softcover

Thomas James Thackeray

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0461842386 ISBN 13: 9780461842388

Publisher: HardPress, 1852

Synopsis

"Three Lectures. On The Practice Of Rifle Firing At Various Distances" by Thomas James Thackeray. This 1853 manual, presented as a series of lectures in Bath, traces the arc of portable firearms from early slings and arquebuses to the modern rifle, and then teaches the science and practice of accurate shooting. The work blends history, theory, and tactical instruction, emphasizing practical proficiency over abstract science. In Lecture I, Thackeray outlines the aims, line of projection, trajectory, and line of vision, and explains how sights are used to adjust elevation from 200 to 1000 yards. He details drill procedures to teach beginners to take correct aim, hold the rifle steady, and pull the trigger with a smooth motion, while controlling breathing. He also describes progressive target practice, from simple rests to shoulder-fired shots, and discusses how to teach estimation of distance and the calculation of elevation. Lecture II surveys advances in rifles and the importance of judging distance, including methods such as pacing, stadia, and telescopic devices. Lecture III argues for measured, economical firing, outlines common causes of error, and offers broad directions for soldiers to become expert marksmen, maintain equipment, and apply discipline in combat.

Edition details

• Publisher: HardPress
• Publication date: 1852
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0461842386
• ISBN 13: 9780461842388
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 52