DA Form 5517: 2026 Guide to Army Standard Range Card

DA Form 5517 – If you’re a US Army soldier, squad leader, platoon sergeant, or ROTC cadet preparing defensive positions, the DA Form 5517 (Standard Range Card) is one of the most essential tools for direct fire planning. This form helps record precise firing data for machine guns, Javelins, TOW missiles, and other direct-fire weapons, ensuring rapid target engagement even in limited visibility.

In this comprehensive guide tailored for US Army personnel, you’ll learn exactly what DA Form 5517 is, why it matters, how to fill it out step by step, and where to get the official/current version. Whether you’re training at Fort Moore, serving with an Infantry unit, or studying for the Expert Infantryman Badge, this article covers everything you need.

What Is DA Form 5517?

DA Form 5517, officially titled the Standard Range Card, is a Department of the Army form used to document a direct-fire weapon’s sector of fire. It replaced the older DA Form 5517-R (February 1986 version), with the current edition dated February 2016. Previous editions are obsolete.

The form is referenced in current doctrine, including ATP 3-21.8, Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad (11 January 2024, superseding the 2016 version), with the US Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) as the proponent agency.

It is designed for all types of direct-fire weapons and is prepared at the individual weapon or fighting position level. Soldiers typically prepare two copies—one for the gunner and one for the leader.

Why the Army Uses the DA Form 5517 (Purpose & Benefits)?

A range card is far more than just paperwork. According to Army field manuals and ATP 3-21.8, the Standard Range Card:

  • Records firing data for a specific weapon system in its assigned sector of fire.
  • Speeds up target acquisition and engagement, especially at night or in limited visibility.
  • Helps plan and control direct fires across the platoon or squad.
  • Orients replacement gunners or units quickly during relief-in-place operations.
  • Supports defensive fire planning, including Final Protective Lines (FPLs), Principal Directions of Fire (PDFs), Target Reference Points (TRPs), and dead space identification.

In short, it turns terrain analysis into actionable firing data—critical for Infantry, Armor, and combined arms units across the Active Army, Army National Guard, and US Army Reserve.

Key Sections of the DA Form 5517 Explained

The one-page form is divided into three main areas:

  1. Marginal Information (Top Section)
    • SQD / PLT / CO (Squad, Platoon, Company designation)
    • Magnetic North arrow (draw or indicate direction)
    • Position Identification (Primary, Alternate, or Supplementary)
    • Date prepared
    • Weapon (e.g., M240B, M249, Javelin, M2 .50 cal)
    • “EACH CIRCLE EQUALS __ METERS” (you set the scale based on the weapon’s maximum effective range)
  2. Sector Sketch Section (Center)
    • Concentric circles for range representation.
    • Sketch of terrain features, left and right limits of fire (labeled #1 and #2), TRPs, dead space, FPL or PDF, and the weapon position (usually at the center).
    • Must always include left/right limits. Use either an FPL or PDF (never both on the same card).
  3. Data Section (Bottom Table)
    Columns typically include:

    • NO. (Reference number)
    • DIRECTION / DEFLECTION
    • ELEVATION
    • RANGE (to target)
    • AMMO DESCRIPTION
    • REMARKS (e.g., “TRP 1,” “Dead space,” adjustments)

Footer: “DA FORM 5517, FEB 2016 • PREVIOUS EDITIONS ARE OBSOLETE” with APD LC v1.00.

Step-by-Step: How to Fill Out DA Form 5517 (Current Best Practices)

Follow these steps per ATP 3-21.8 and supporting training materials:

  1. Receive your briefing — Squad/platoon leader provides sector of fire, left/right limits, TRPs, FPL/PDF, and any priority targets.
  2. Complete marginal information — Fill unit, date, weapon, and position type.
  3. Determine range scale — Decide “each circle equals X meters” (e.g., 100m or 200m increments) based on the weapon and terrain.
  4. Sketch the sector — Draw the weapon position in the center. Sketch terrain features, roads, buildings, wood lines, etc. Mark left/right limits (#1 and #2), TRPs, and dead space. Indicate the FPL or PDF as a solid line.
  5. Record data in the table — For each numbered point (limits, TRPs, etc.):
    • Measure direction/deflection with compass or weapon sights.
    • Record elevation.
    • Note exact range.
    • List ammunition type.
    • Add remarks for quick reference.
  6. Duplicate the card — Prepare a second copy for your leader or alternate gunner.
  7. Update as needed — Revise if the position or sector changes.

Pro Tip: Use a compass, range finder (if available), and terrain analysis. In the field, soldiers often create expedient versions on whatever paper is available before transferring to the official DA Form 5517.

Where to Download the Official DA Form 5517 PDF?

  • Official source: Check the Army Publishing Directorate (APD) at armypubs.army.mil or through your unit’s electronic forms system.
  • Training versions and fillable PDFs are widely used in ROTC programs, Basic Combat Training, and unit ranges. Search your installation’s digital library or ask your supply sergeant.
  • Always use the FEB 2016 version (DA FORM 5517). Older 5517-R forms should not be used for official records.

Download DA Form 5517 PDF: https://armypubs.army.mil/pub/eforms/DR_a/pdf/DA%20FORM%205517.pdf

Note: Third-party sites offer fillable templates for training only—verify with your chain of command for operational use.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Forgetting to label left and right limits (#1 and #2).
  • Using both FPL and PDF on one card.
  • Incorrect magnetic north orientation.
  • Failing to mark dead space.
  • Not preparing duplicate copies.

DA Form 5517 in Modern Army Training (2024–2026)

The form remains a core skill in ATP 3-21.8 and Warrior Tasks (e.g., 071-000-0005 Prepare a Range Card). It supports everything from squad defensive positions to platoon sector sketches and is exchanged during relief-in-place operations.

Mastering the Standard Range Card directly contributes to mission success and soldier safety—key priorities for every US Army leader.

Ready to prepare your next range card? Print the latest DA Form 5517, grab your compass, and get to work. Your position’s defensive effectiveness starts with accurate documentation.

Last updated: April 2026. Always refer to the most current ATP 3-21.8 and your unit SOP for the latest guidance.

For more US Army forms and training resources, explore official APD publications or your installation’s training aids. Questions about filling out DA Form 5517? Drop them in the comments—soldiers and leaders help each other stay mission-ready.