How does the length of the beaten zone change at short distances on uniform terrain?

The beaten zone, which is the pattern of fire produced by a machine gun, is influenced by various factors, including the distance to the target and the type of terrain. At short distances, particularly on uniform terrain, the length of the beaten zone tends to increase.

This occurs because the bullets have a flatter trajectory over shorter ranges, which means they remain closer together for a longer distance before beginning to spread out. As the bullets travel, they may also experience less deflection from environmental factors such as wind or uneven ground, contributing to a more consistent spread at shorter distances. This phenomenon leads to an elongated beaten zone, allowing for greater coverage of the target area effectively within that range.

Understanding this concept is crucial for effective machine gun employment, as it helps in determining how to best position the gun and engage targets, especially in dynamic combat scenarios where accurate and effective fire is essential.