In the Direct Lay method, what does the gunner do with the gunsight?

In the Direct Lay method, the gunner aligns the gunsight directly on the target. This technique involves aiming the mortar directly at the target rather than using indirect fire methods, which require adjustments based on range or height differences. By aligning the gunsight accurately with the target, the gunner can effectively engage the target with greater precision. This method is valuable in situations where the target is clearly visible and within a reasonable distance, enabling efficient engagement based on visual confirmation. Proper alignment fosters accurate fire and reduces the potential for adjustments that might be needed if the sight were misaligned.

Other approaches, such as maintaining the gunsight parallel to the ground or using it for distance measurement, do not align with the Direct Lay method’s primary goal of direct targeting. Aiming away from the target contradicts the core objective of the technique.