DA Form 3524-R: Small Arms Ammunition Trace Test Record

DA Form 3524-R: Small Arms Ammunition Trace Test Record – U.S. Army personnel responsible for ammunition surveillance and quality assurance rely on standardized forms to maintain safety, reliability, and traceability of munitions. DA Form 3524-R serves as a critical record for testing tracer performance in small arms ammunition.

Download the Official DA Form 3524-R
Download DA Form 3524-R PDF

What Is DA Form 3524-R?

DA Form 3524-R, titled Small Arms Ammunition Trace Test Record (LRA), is a Department of the Army form used to document the results of trace tests on small arms ammunition containing tracers.

  • Date: July 1989 (DA FORM 3524-R, JUL 89; previous AUG 69 version is obsolete).
  • Proponent: U.S. Army Materiel Command (AMC).
  • Reference: Prescribed for use under SB 742-1305-94-20.

This locally reproducible administrative (LRA) form captures detailed test data, including environmental conditions, weapon information, and tracer performance observations. It supports the broader Ammunition Surveillance Program outlined in DA PAM 742-1.

Purpose of the Small Arms Ammunition Trace Test Record

The primary purpose of DA Form 3524-R is to record and report the results of trace tests for small arms ammunition (typically up to .50 caliber). These tests verify that tracer elements function correctly—providing visible trace during flight for aiming, adjustment, and tactical effectiveness—while meeting safety and performance standards.

Key objectives include:

  • Documenting tracer lot performance.
  • Ensuring ammunition reliability for training and operational use.
  • Supporting lot acceptance/rejection decisions in the Ammunition Stockpile Reliability Program (ASRP).
  • Maintaining detailed records for quality assurance, investigations, or audits.

Trace testing is part of functional and surveillance testing to detect issues like poor visibility, short trace, blind traces, or excessive muzzle flash.

When and Why to Use DA Form 3524-R?

Army ammunition surveillance organizations use this form during:

  • Periodic surveillance inspections.
  • Functional testing of tracer ammunition lots.
  • Stockpile reliability evaluations.
  • Pre-issue or special testing requirements.

It applies to small arms ammunition (SAA) with tracer components. Proper documentation helps maintain condition codes (CC) and prevents issuance of substandard munitions.

Key Sections of DA Form 3524-R

The form is divided into clear sections for comprehensive data capture.

Part I – Shipper Information

  • Shipper and recipient details (From/To, codes).
  • NSN/DODIC, nomenclature, functional lot number.
  • Manufacturer year (for tracer lot).
  • Sample size and test cycle (year and type of test).
  • Environmental data: Temperature (°F), wind velocity, visibility.
  • Weapon details: WPN, model, receiver number, barrel number, headspace measurements (before/after).

Part II – Test Installation and Results

  • Component type and lot numbers.
  • Rounds fired and date tested.
  • Detailed observations per weapon (typically Weapon 1 and 2).
  • Trace performance metrics: Satisfactory Trace (SAT), Unsatisfactory Trace Performance (UTP), muzzle flash (MF), bullet burst (BB), blind trace (BT), and other observations.
  • Summary statistics and percentage of satisfactory trace for the entire sample.
  • Remarks section for additional notes or continuation sheets.
  • Signatures, titles, and dates for accountability.

How to Fill Out DA Form 3524-R?

  1. Complete header and Part I with shipment and lot identification data.
  2. Record environmental conditions accurately at the time of testing.
  3. Detail weapon information and pre/post-test measurements (e.g., headspace).
  4. Conduct the test by firing the required sample rounds and observing tracer performance.
  5. Log observations for each weapon, noting SAT/UTP, anomalies, and totals.
  6. Calculate summary percentages and add remarks.
  7. Obtain required signatures for official record.

Always refer to the specific SB or technical publication for the ammunition type for exact sample sizes, test procedures, and acceptance criteria. Use continuation sheets if needed.

Pro Tip: Maintain legibility and accuracy, as these records support munitions history programs and potential lot disposition decisions.

  • DA PAM 742-1: Ammunition Surveillance Procedures (primary guidance).
  • SB 742-1 (superseded elements incorporated into DA PAM).
  • Other forms: DA Form 984 (Munitions Surveillance Report), DA Form 3022, etc.
  • Technical manuals for specific small arms ammunition (e.g., TM 43-0001-27 series).

These documents ensure standardized processes across U.S. Army installations.

Importance in U.S. Army Ammunition Management

Accurate use of DA Form 3524-R contributes to:

  • Soldier safety by identifying defective tracer lots.
  • Operational readiness through reliable ammunition.
  • Cost efficiency by supporting data-driven lot management.
  • Compliance with Army regulations on munitions surveillance.

For U.S.-based units, depots, and training commands, this form is a foundational tool in maintaining the integrity of the small arms ammunition supply chain.

Download and Access DA Form 3524-R

Official Download:
DA Form 3524-R PDF (from Army Publishing Directorate).

Fillable versions and examples may be available through unit supply or official Army portals. Always use the latest official version from armypubs.army.mil.

Conclusion

DA Form 3524-R is an essential document for documenting small arms tracer ammunition performance in the U.S. Army. Proper completion ensures compliance, enhances safety, and supports mission effectiveness. Army personnel involved in ammunition handling, surveillance, or quality control should be thoroughly familiar with this form and associated procedures in DA PAM 742-1.

For the most current guidance, consult your local ammunition surveillance office or the latest Army publications.