How far do the men on the left and right of the stack men step in the Oblique to place the rifles?

In the context of the USMC Battle Skills Test, when the men on the left and right of the stack men step in the oblique to place the rifles, they step a distance of 18 inches. This distance is critical for proper spacing to ensure that the rifles are positioned correctly and that the formation remains orderly during drills. The consistency of the stepping distance contributes to the overall effectiveness of the maneuver, allowing for coordinated movement without disrupting the alignment of the stack or other formations. Setting a specific distance like 18 inches helps maintain a sense of uniformity among the Marines, which is essential during training and operational scenarios. This practice is aligned with standard military procedures, ensuring that all personnel can execute movements with precision.