A rifle cannot possibly be sighted under such
conditions, inasmuch as it demands that the rifleman shall lean
back so as to obtain control of his weapon and to bring it to
bear upon his objective. Even if a long range Mauser or other
automatic pistol of the latest type be employed, two hands are
necessary for firing purposes, more particularly as, under such
conditions, the machine, if not kept under control, is apt to
lurch and pitch disconcertingly.
Even a colleague carried for the express purpose of aggression is
handicapped. If he has a machinegun, such as a Maxim or a
mitrailleuse, it is almost out of the question to train it
vertically. Its useful vertical training arc is probably limited
to about 80 degrees, and at this elevation the gunner has to
assume an extremely uncomfortable position, especiauy upon an
aeroplane, where, under the best of circumstances, he is somewhat
cramped.
On the other hand the man in the aeroplane above holds the
dominating position. He is immediately above his adversary and
firing may be carried out with facility. The conditions are
wholly in his favour.
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