A manual of arms was an instruction book for handling and using weapons in formation, whether in the field or on parade. Such manuals were especially important in the matchlock and flintlock eras, when loading and firing was a complex and lengthy process typically carried out in close order. When capitalized, the term has reference to one of several important manuals, such as the British Army manual of 1764, the manual of Frederick the Great or Von Steuben's manual, adopted by the Continental Army in 1777. The positions and evolutions contained in such manuals have become the standard for parade drill throughout most of the world.

Typical examples of rules and procedures can be found in the 1764 manual that was used by both sides at the start of the American revolution.

• Stance: stand straight, head right, shoulders square, stomach in, chest out, heels close, toes turned out a little.
• Holding the weapon: on the left shoulder, forefinger and thumb to the side of the stock, the other three holding the butt.
• Timing: each motion to be done on a count of "one, two."

Such manuals contain various evolutions, such as the twelve or so steps needed to load, ready and fire, and steps for fixing bayonets, forming line (for firing), column (for bayonet charges) or square (for repelling cavalry).

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