text: Chapter 5
  Linear
  5-163. In a linear ambush, the attack element is deployed generally parallel to the insurgent force’s route
  of movement (road, trail, and stream). This positions the attack element parallel to the long axis of the kill
  zone and subjects the insurgent force to heavy flanking fire (Figure 5-9). An advantage of the linear
  formation is its relative ease of control under all conditions of visibility. The size of the force that can be
  trapped in the kill zone is limited by the area the attack element can effectively cover with highly
  concentrated fire. The force is trapped in the kill zone by natural obstacles, mines, booby traps,
  or expedient devices, and direct and indirect fires.
  Figure 5-9. Linear formation ambush.
  5-164. A disadvantage of the linear formation is the chance that lateral dispersion of the force may be too
  great for effective coverage. The linear formation is appropriate in close terrain that restricts insurgent
  maneuver, and in open terrain where one flank is restricted by natural obstacles, mines, booby traps,
  special-purpose munitions, or expedient devices. Similar obstacles and casualty producing systems can be
  placed between the attack element and the kill zone to provide protection from insurgent counter ambush
  measures. When a destruction ambush is deployed in this manner, access lanes are left so the force in the
  kill zone can be assaulted. The line formation can be effectively used in a “rise from the ground” ambush
  in terrain seemingly unsuitable for ambush.
  L-Shaped
  5-165. The L-shaped formation (Figure 5-10) is a variation of the linear formation. The long side of the
  attack element is parallel to the kill zone and delivers flanking fire. The short side of the attack element
  is at the end of, and at right angles to, the kill zone and delivers enfilading fire that interlocks with fire
  from the other leg.