<P> Known also as "battle zero", maximum point - blank range is crucial in the military . Soldiers are instructed to fire at any target within this range by simply placing their weapon's sights on the center of mass of the enemy target . Any errors in range estimation are tactically irrelevant, as a well - aimed shot will hit the torso of the enemy soldier . Any height correction is not needed at the "battle zero" or less distance, however, if given, it can result either a headshot, or even a complete miss . The belt buckle is used as battle zero point of aim in Russian and former Soviet military doctrine . </P> <P> The first mass produced assault rifle the World War II StG 44 and its preceding prototypes had iron sight lines elevated over the bore axis to extend point - blank range . The current trend for elevated sights and flatter shooting higher - velocity cartridges in assault rifles is in part due to a desire to further extend the maximum point - blank range, which makes the rifle easier to use . Raising the sight line 48.5 to 63.5 mm (1.9 to 2.5 in) over the bore axis, introduces an inherent parallax problem . At closer ranges (typically inside 15 to 20 m (16 to 22 yd)), the shooter must aim high in order to place shots where desired . </P>

Where did the phrase point blank come from