For small arms, what is the required minimum safe distance between the firing line and personnel?

The required minimum safe distance between the firing line and personnel is established primarily to ensure safety during live-fire exercises. The correct answer indicates that a minimum of 15 meters helps to mitigate the risk of injury from stray rounds or ricochets that could occur during shooting activities.

This distance takes into account typical ballistic behavior and the potential for bullets, especially when fired at various angles, to travel beyond the immediate target area. Additionally, this distance allows for adequate space for range control, safety observation, and emergency response without the risk of being within the danger zone.

While other distances might seem suitable, they may not provide the necessary margin of safety established by guidelines and best practices for small arms shooting ranges. Thus, adherence to the 15-meter rule helps ensure a controlled and safe environment for all personnel involved in training and operations on the range.