What ensures maximum effectiveness when employing grazing fire?

When employing grazing fire, the close proximity to the target is crucial for achieving maximum effectiveness. Grazing fire is designed to engage targets that are relatively flat to the ground, allowing the bullets to travel in a horizontal plane, striking the target before they have a chance to rise above the line of fire. This is particularly effective against enemy personnel or unprotected vehicles in the open.

By maintaining a close distance to the target, the likelihood of hitting them increases because the rounds are less influenced by gravity and other external factors. This proximity also allows for greater control over the area being targeted, enabling the operator to manage the cone of fire effectively. In contrast, when the firing position is higher or the targets are moving quickly, the effectiveness of grazing fire diminishes, as the angle at which the rounds would strike becomes less favorable, potentially leading to misses.

Utilizing a wider cone of fire or engaging higher elevation targets can complicate the situation further, as these elements can lead to less predictability in hitting the intended target. Thus, the strategy of staying close ensures that the fire remains effective and concentrated, achieving the intended combat objectives more efficiently.