A machine gun is a soldier’s main weapon, and its correct position affects reaction speed, shooting accuracy and safety. Depending on the situation—march, battle, rest, or guard duty—there are strict rules on how to hold, carry, and move a machine gun. Violating these rules can result in personal injury, loss of your weapon, or even criminal liability for negligence.
In this article we will look at everything combat and traveling positions of the machine gun, from the classic “belt” to special techniques for urban combat. We will pay attention to the typical mistakes of newbies, which often become the cause of reprimands in the service, and also give practical advice on how to quickly transition between positions. The material will be useful both to cadets of military schools and to conscripts who want to avoid problems with their commander.
1. Basic provisions of the machine: classification and purpose
In the Russian army (and most CIS countries) there are four key positions of the machine, each of which corresponds to a specific task:
- 🔫 Combat position - the weapon is ready for immediate use, the butt is resting on the shoulder, the finger is on the trigger (or next to it). Used in combat, when patrolling dangerous areas or during rapid fire training.
- 🚶 Travel position - the machine gun hangs on a belt at the hip or on the chest, the barrel is pointed upward or forward. Used when marching, moving in a column or during exercises without a direct threat.
- 🛌 Position "behind" — the belt is thrown over the shoulder, the machine gun lies on the back. Convenient for long journeys, but requires quick ability to put the weapon into combat readiness.
- 🛡️ Ready position - intermediate between combat and marching. The machine gun is held with both hands in front of you, the barrel is slightly raised. Used when waiting for a command or in situations of increased vigilance (for example, when combing an area).
It is important to understand that AK-74, AK-12 and other models may have nuances in ergonomics, but the general principles remain the same. For example, at AK-12 The center of gravity is shifted due to the new layout, which affects the comfort of carrying “behind the back”.
In combat conditions, a soldier often has to instantly switch from traveling to combat position - this skill is practiced during exercises until it becomes automatic. A delay of even 2–3 seconds can cost your life.
2. Combat position: how to hold a machine gun correctly
The combat position is not just “holding the machine gun in front of you.” Important here three key elements:
- Grip — the left hand supports the forend from below or from the side (depending on the shooting technique), the right hand clasps the pistol grip. The right thumb should not interfere with the movement of the shutter.
- Butt stop - the butt is pressed tightly to the shoulder joint, and not to the collarbone. This reduces recoil and improves control when firing automatically.
- Body position — feet shoulder-width apart, weight evenly distributed. When shooting prone or from the knee, the technique changes, but the principle of “three points of support” (butt, elbow, body) remains.
A typical mistake for newbies - “protrusion” of the elbow of the right hand to the side. This leads to instability and reduces accuracy. The correct angle between the forearm and shoulder should be about 90°. Also, many people forget about fuse: he must be in a combat position off (unless there is a direct command to the contrary).
☑️ Checking the combat position
In urban environments (for example, when storming buildings), fighters often use "high grip" - when the machine gun is pressed closer to the chest, and the barrel is pointed slightly upward. This reduces the risk of getting caught in corners and allows you to react faster to targets in tight spaces.
⚠️ Attention: When shooting in body armor or with tactical equipment, make sure that the machine belt does not twist. This can block the movement of the bolt and cause a delay in firing.
3. Stowed position: how to carry a machine gun on a belt
The traveling position is used when moving outside of direct contact with the enemy. The main thing here is safety and readiness for combat. The machine gun hangs on the belt, but must always be under control.
There are two main options:
- 🔺 "On the chest" — the belt is short, the machine gun lies horizontally at waist level. The barrel is directed forward and slightly upward. Convenient for quickly getting into combat readiness.
- 🔻 "On the hip" — the belt is extended, the machine gun hangs vertically at the right (or left) hip. The trunk points down. Used during long marches, but requires more time to prepare for battle.
When carrying a machine gun AK-12 or AK-74M with an underbarrel grenade launcher GP-25/30 It is important to ensure that the grenade does not cling to the equipment. The belt should be adjusted so that the weapon does not dangle, but does not restrict movement.
| Parameter | On the chest | On the thigh |
|---|---|---|
| Speed of transition to combat readiness | 1–2 seconds | 3–4 seconds |
| Convenience during long marches | Medium (may chafe the neck) | High |
| Risk of getting caught on obstacles | Low | Medium (trunk may cling to branches) |
| Suitable for equipment | Tactical vest, unloading | Backpack, straps |
In mountainous areas or forests it is preferable to carry a machine gun "on the chest"to avoid snags. In open areas (steppe, desert) a more convenient option "on the hip", as it places less strain on the neck.
If the machine belt rubs your neck, place a piece of foam rubber or rolled fabric under it. In field conditions, you can use a magazine pouch.
4. “Behind the back” position: when and how to use
Carrying a machine gun on your back is convenient when long transitions, overcoming obstacles (for example, climbing rocks) or when free hands are required (for example, carrying a wounded person). However, this provision has a number of limitations:
- ⚠️ Slow transition to combat readiness — it takes 5–7 seconds to remove the machine and make it ready.
- ⚠️ Risk of losing weapons — if the belt is loosely tightened, the machine may slip during sudden movements.
- ⚠️ Inconvenience in battles in urban environments — in tight spaces it is difficult to quickly get a weapon.
To properly put the machine gun on your back:
- Check that
fuse is on. - Throw the belt over your head so that the machine gun rests on your shoulder blades.
- Adjust the length of the belt - the weapon should fit snugly against your back, but not press.
- Make sure the barrel is pointed up, and not sideways (this will prevent snagging).
In some units (for example, in mountain riflemen) soldiers use additional fastenings - for example, a belt with a carabiner that secures the machine gun to a backpack. This reduces stress on the shoulders and prevents loss of the weapon.
What to do if the machine gun falls while being worn on your back?
Report to your commander immediately, even if there is no external damage. Check the integrity of the sight, barrel and bolt. If the machine gun fell on a hard surface (stone, concrete), test firing is required to check accuracy.
5. Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Even experienced soldiers sometimes make mistakes when handling a machine gun. Here are the most common:
- 🎯 The barrel is pointed at people — even in the stowed position, the barrel should be pointed in a safe direction (up or into the ground). Violating this rule may result in an accident.
- 🔄 Belt is twisted - this interferes with the quick removal of the weapon and can block the bolt. Always check your belt before marching.
- 🔫 Finger on the trigger without a command — in the stowed position, the finger should lie along the trigger guard. This prevents accidental shooting.
- 🛡️ Carrying a machine gun on one shoulder - leads to misalignment and back pain. The belt should distribute the load evenly.
Another common problem is incorrect belt adjustment. If it is too long, the machine dangles and interferes with movement. If it's too short, it rubs your neck. The optimal length of the belt in the stowed position “on the chest” is when the machine gun lies at waist level and the arms move freely.
⚠️ Attention: When wearing a machine gun with an under-barrel grenade launcher GP-25 Never put grenades in the unloading pocket on the side of the barrel. If you fall or make a sudden movement, a spontaneous shot is possible.
In winter conditions, check that the belt or bolt carrier is not iced up. Ice can block the movement of parts of the machine gun and make it unusable for combat.
6. Features for different models of machines
Although the principles of carrying a machine gun are universal, each model has its own nuances:
| Model | Wearing Features | Typical problems |
|---|---|---|
| AK-74 | Lightweight, comfortable to wear on the hip. The center of gravity is shifted to the butt. | When worn for a long time on the back, it may chafe due to the plastic butt. |
| AK-12 | Improved ergonomics, quick adjustment strap. Suitable for "high grip". | Heavier AK-74 by 0.5 kg, which affects long marches. |
| AKM | Sturdy construction, but heavier. The belt often requires padding. | There is no folding stock, which is inconvenient in tight spaces. |
| AEK-971 | Balanced center of gravity, convenient for hand-held shooting. | Rare model, spare parts are difficult to find in the field. |
For AK-12 and AK-15 recommended to use tactical belts with shock-absorbing inserts, since these models are heavier than the classic ones. When wearing AKM in winter conditions, you should check whether the bolt frame is freezing - this model has a less reliable coating than its modern counterparts.
If you are given a machine with underbarrel grenade launcher, be sure to practice taking it off and putting it on in different positions. There's no time for that in battle!
For machines with plastic parts (for example, AK-74) in frost below -20°C, use special lubricant. Regular gun lube is thick and can cause delays.
7. Training and skill development
To bring the change of machine positions to automaticity, use the following exercises:
- "Quick Jump" - from traveling to combat position in 1.5 seconds. Practice with a stopwatch.
- "Forced March" - run 100 meters with a machine gun in the “behind your back” position, then go into combat readiness and shoot at a target.
- "Overcoming Obstacles" — climbing the horizontal bar, crawling under the net with a machine gun in different positions.
- "Blind assembly" — with your eyes closed, move the machine gun from the traveling position to the firing position and back.
It is often practiced in the army "control reviews"when the commander unexpectedly gives the command “For battle!” Soldiers must bring the machine gun into combat readiness within a fixed time (usually 5–10 seconds). Those who fail to keep up receive penalties.
For training at home (if you have permission to store weapons) you can use educational mock-ups of machines. They weigh the same as combat ones and help improve ergonomics.
When training with a real machine gun, always make sure the weapon is unloaded. Even training cartridges can cause tragedy if handled carelessly.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about machine positions
Is it possible to carry a machine gun on one shoulder, like in the movies?
No, this violates safety and ergonomic rules. Carrying a machine gun on one shoulder leads to body distortion, back pain and slows down the transition to combat readiness. In real combat conditions this method is not used.
How to quickly transfer a machine gun from the “behind your back” position to the combat position?
Algorithm: 1) With a sharp movement, throw the machine gun forward from your shoulder. 2) With your left hand, grab the forend, with your right hand, the pistol grip. 3) Press the butt against your shoulder and remove the safety. When practicing this exercise, it should take no more than 5 seconds.
What to do if the machine belt breaks during a march?
Report to your commander immediately. A temporary solution may be to use a rope or belt against unloading, but this does not guarantee reliability. In combat, hold the machine gun in your hands until the belt is replaced.
Is it possible to adjust the length of the belt while on the march?
Yes, but only if it does not interfere with the movement of the squad. It is better to adjust the belt in advance. In modern machines (for example, AK-12) there are quick adjustment systems that allow you to change the length in 1–2 seconds.
What is the safest position of the machine gun for night patrols?
Optimally - ready position (the machine gun is held with both hands in front of you, the barrel is slightly raised). This allows you to quickly respond to threats and avoid accidental shots when you stumble.