Basic Indirect Fire and Gunnery Course
The Ordnance Development Division’s Basic Indirect Fire Course is a two-day program designed for the NFA and Destructive Device community. This course provides students with a foundational understanding of mortar operations through a combination of classroom instruction, hands on learning, and supervised live-fire training.
Led by instructors with extensive military mortar and artillery experience, students will learn the fundamentals of safe mortar handling, crew operations, and indirect fire procedures in a structured training environment.
Course topics include:
- Identification and function of mortar components
- Mortar emplacement and displacement procedures
- Ammunition types and handling procedures
- Direct and indirect fire techniques
- Sight alignment and aiming procedures
- Loading and firing procedures
- Misfire and safety procedures
- Conducting fire missions and making adjustments
- Basic crew communication and command procedures
Training begins in the classroom with instruction covering mortar theory, safety, and operational fundamentals. Students then move on to hands on practical skills, and finally to the live-fire range where they will participate in and conduct live-fire missions under instructor supervision.
This course is designed for individuals seeking a structured introduction to mortar systems, indirect fire concepts, and crew-served weapon operations in a safe and controlled environment.
Course Enrollment Requirements:
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Valid government-issued photo ID or driver’s license
- Must not be prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition
- Must be physically capable of lifting and carrying objects weighing up to 50 pounds over uneven terrain
Required Items:
- Signed Release of Liability
- Note-taking materials
- Hearing protection
- Eye protection
- Work gloves
- Appropriate protective clothing
- Sturdy protective footwear
Students Should Have:
- Basic math skills
- Basic familiarity with the metric system
Who This Course Is For:
This course is intended for lawful NFA and Destructive Device owners, collectors, historical firearms enthusiasts, and individuals seeking a structured introduction to mortar operations and indirect fire fundamentals. No prior mortar experience is required.
This is not a special operations or advanced tactical course. The focus is on safe handling, crew procedures, practical gunnery fundamentals, and understanding how mortar systems are actually employed and operated in a controlled training environment.
Students should expect a professional, safety-oriented course built around real-world doctrine, practical application, and hands-on instruction.
Contact the Ordnance Development Division for price and scheduling.