first, finding the range (i.e. elevation required), and secondly,
correcting the standard length of fuze for that range in accordance with
the circumstances of each case. To find the elevation required, it is
necessary to observe the bursts of shells "on graze" with reference to
the target. The battery commander orders two elevations differing by 300
yds., e.g. "2500, 2800," and tells off a "ranging section" of two guns.
These proceed to fire percussion shrapnel at the two different
elevations, in order to obtain bursts "over" (+) and "short" (-). When
it is certain that this "long bracket" is obtained, the "100 yds.
bracket" is found, the elevations in the given case being, perhaps, 2600
and 2700 yds. "Verifying" rounds are then fired, to make certain of the
100 yds. bracket. The old "short bracket" (50 yds.) is not now required
except at standing targets. Circumstances may, of course, shorten the
process; for instance, a hit upon the target itself could be "verified"
at once. The determination of the fuze (by time shrapnel) follows. The
fuze has a standard length for the ascertained range, but the proper
correction of this standard length to suit the atmospheric conditions
has to be made. The commander has therefore already given out a series
of corrector[5] lengths, his object being to secure bursts both in air
and on graze. When he is finally satisfied he opens fire "for effect."