What effect do tracer rounds have on a machine gunner's aiming process?

Tracer rounds are designed to leave a visible trail of light as they travel, which serves a critical function in aiding a machine gunner's aiming process. The primary advantage of using tracer rounds is that they provide immediate visual feedback about the projectile's trajectory and impact point. As the gunner fires, they can observe where the tracer rounds land in relation to their target.

This visual reference allows the gunner to quickly adjust their aim based on the observed path of the rounds. If the tracer rounds are consistently hitting high or low, the gunner can make corrections in real-time, ensuring greater effectiveness in hitting the target. The rapid feedback loop between firing and observing the tracer's trajectory helps in making necessary adjustments to improve overall accuracy during sustained or rapid fire scenarios.

In contrast, while tracer rounds can enhance aiming by providing visual feedback, they do not significantly improve the inherent accuracy of the weapon or slow the firing rate. Instead, they facilitate a dynamic and responsive aiming process, allowing for real-time corrections based on observable impacts.