What term describes the trajectory of machine gun fire that includes both height and direction?

The term that accurately describes the trajectory of machine gun fire, incorporating both height and direction, is known as the "Cone of Fire." This term refers to the dispersion pattern of bullets as they exit the weapon. When fired, the bullets do not travel in a perfectly straight line but rather spread out due to various factors such as variations in ammunition, weapon alignment, and environmental conditions.

The cone resembles an inverted pyramid, where the narrowest point is at the gun muzzle and broadens as the bullets travel away from the gun. This concept is crucial for understanding how machine gun fire can effectively cover an area, providing the necessary suppressive fire while accounting for the expected dispersion of rounds to achieve maximum effectiveness in combat situations.

Other terms such as "Beaten Zone" relate to the area on the ground where the bullets from a machine gun are expected to impact, shaped by the cone of fire. "Dead Space" refers to areas where fire cannot reach due to various obstructions. "Danger Space" is the region where the path of a bullet varies in altitude but encompasses the area of effective fire. Understanding the cone of fire is essential for accurate targeting and effective tactical engagement with machine guns.