Infantry Drills

5-51: Contouring



Previous: 5-50: Terrain Feature

5-51. Contouring (remaining at the same height the entire leg) follows the imaginary contour line around a hill or along a ridgeline. Contouring has two advantages. First, it prevents undue climbing or descending. Second, following the contour acts as handrail or catching feature. The disadvantage of contouring is it can be physically taxing.

Next: 5-52: Cross Compartment

Go Back To: U.S. Army FM 3-21.8: The Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad