their fire. Later Modifications This method was slightly changed during the Great Northern War. The slow march was replaced by running, to take fewer casualties and begin combat sooner, while optimally still frightening the enemy with a swift, unflinching advance into their fire. The Swedish firing distance was reduced from 50 metres to 15–20 metres for the first volley of the rear ranks who would no longer fall into their previous position behind the front ranks. Instead, they would follow in the gaps within the front ranks. As a result, the battalion attacked in two closely formed ranks, which made the final charge more effective, as the Carolean troops would be closely packed together, making a heavier impact than before. Cavalry Gå–På The Swedish cavalry fought in a similarly aggressive way, also called the "Carolean manner". Whereas in other European armies, cavalry would form up "knee to the knee" (i.e. in a line, usually only one or two ranks deep), the Swedish cavalry would form up in a tightly packed wedge formation several ranks deep, "knee behind knee" (), in order to ensure that their charge struck the enemy with the maximum possible force. They were moreover armed with rapiers, swords specifically designed for stabbing rather than slashing. The cavalry would not normally use their pistols during the charge (again in contrast to practice elsewhere in Europe), and in 1704 a new regulation was enacted explicitly forbidding troopers from using the pistol when charging; pistols were still carried, but were to be used during the melee combat after the charge, or when pursuing routed enemies. In 1705, another regulation decreed that the cavalry were to ride at a trot during the initial phase of the attack and then break into a full gallop just before reaching the enemy. Coordination between units Close coordination between infantry, cavalry, and sometimes artillery was needed to break down enemy defences successfully. Only infantry would normally risk a frontal assault on a well-prepared enemy line, preferably with artillery assistance. Regimental cannons would keep pace with infantry and protect them against enemy attacks as they reloaded. The cavalry would strike the opposing cavalry or charge disorganized infantry, preferably in the flank or rear. Cavalry was also used to cover an army in retreat or to interfere with and chase remaining enemy after a successful infantry attack. If a cavalry attack were repulsed, it would fall back