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Old January 25, 1999, 09:07 PM   #1
Leo Daher
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Join Date: January 24, 1999
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Hi, Harry

In the thread "Mounting the Long Gun in CQC", you mentioned advancing walk methods that provide a steady shooting platform. Could you please elaborate on those? I believe I've been exposed to the Groucho and the Fencing Step, but I'm afraid I'm not familiar with the SAS way of doing it. Any information would be greatly appreciated.

Regards,

Leo Daher
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Old January 26, 1999, 02:40 PM   #2
Harry Humphries
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Be glad to Leo,

Any fire and movement style that allows for a steady shooting platform is fine if one intends to hit a general area of target mass during tactical movement - call it what you wish (seems that every shooting school has one).

The three methods most commonly taught today are the "Fencing Step", The Groucho (Marks that is) step and the SAS or HK, etc..

Lets explore each:

• Fencing (sometimes called "Blading") step puts the shooter in a bladed position similar to the true Weaver stance or how one would normally mount a shoulder fired weapon. The strong foot remains behind or under the strong shoulder at all times while the weak foot always remains in front of or under the weak shoulder. It is important that the two feet remain separated in the movement plane as well as lateral at least shoulder distance thereby maintaining a wide 3600, balanced base. By shifting the body weight to either foot while advancing or backing with the other, the shooter is able to accomplish a step without rocking off of one foot to the other thus the platform or body torso can remain parallel to the ground during movement while weapon swing is eliminated.. One of the distinguishing advantages of the Fencing step is the inherent advantage created by shifting balance over the stationary foot while moving or committing the other to a direction. This goes a long way in avoiding tripping over the unknown in low light or no light - or when totally focused on the front sight. This is the step of choice for room entry or danger close movement because of the ability to feel with the lead foot before committing to the direction of movement. This step is the only step that should be employed while backing.

• The Gaucho or spread crouch step is more of an open walking movement where both feet advance in a flat footed duck walk manner. The legs are semi crouched and spread slightly wider than shoulder width providing for wide foundation or base during movement. Vertical oscillation of the shooting platform is reduced because of the flat foot placement, i.e. no rolling off the toes and the damping effect created by a slightly crouched stance whereby the shooter is able to absorb any vertical movement by bending the knees. This step is a bit awkward but does allow for rapid movement in open areas where trip obstacles are either not a problem or can be visually acquired and avoided during movement. It is also very stable for large room entries as it places the legs in a natural position to shift immediately into side step or lateral movement down long walls while facing the room.

• The SAS step is basically an open (slightly crouched) advancing step with the torso slightly bent forwards and feet close together. It is the walking version of the open, in tight mount that H&K espouses. It is fast, does not differ from the shooting stance and is comfortable over extended periods of tactical movement. The major disadvantage with this step is the narrow base that is inherent while walking. It is particularly useful in open areas where distance needs to be covered rapidly and, again the trip hazard is not a factor, i.e. hallways warehouses, fields etc. It is not a good system in low light room entries.

[This message has been edited by Harry Humphries (edited 01-26-99).]
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Old January 26, 1999, 10:49 PM   #3
Leo Daher
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Harry,

As always, a very thorough post. Thanks a bunch !

Leo Daher
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