BASIC INDIRECT FIRE AND GUNNERY

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 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 to the live-fire range where they will participate in practical exercises 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, Link to liability waver ODD Form Liability Release.pdf
• 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.