Since the Ml8A1 can only be fired once, FIRE DISCIPLINE is of major importance. The mine should not be used against single personnel targets; rather, it should be used for its intended purpose-massed personnel. When lead elements of an enemy formation approach within approximately 20 to 30 meters of the mine, it should be detonated.

EFFECTIVE COVERAGE of the entire front of a position by the mines can be accomplished by placing them in a line no closer together than 5 meters and no farther apart than 45 meters. A preferred lateral and rearward separation distance is approximately 25 meters.

METHODS OF FIRING the Ml8A1 mine can be in either the controlled or uncontrolled role. An uncontrolled mine is essentially a booby trap, and its use by Seabees is not authorized. In a controlled role, the operator detonates the mine as the enemy approaches within the killing zone. The operator can, by use of either an electrical or a nonelectrical firing system, control detonation. In almost all cases, mines used by the Seabees are fired electrically with the M57 firing device.