Objective: This drill is designed to help the shooter assess marksmanship potential when firing at speed. The draw stroke will also be evaluated.Â
Ammunition requirement: 21 roundsÂ
Distance: 5 or 7 yardsÂ
Target: Various types of realistic size targets may be used including the A zone of an IPSC target, 8 inch paper plates, anatomy overplays or reactive steel (must use frangible ammunition). Using too large of a target will give one an inflated idea of their capabilities!Â
Begin Exercise: Set shot timer to a 3 second par. On the signal, draw and fire 1 shot. Next signal fire 2 shots. Repeat for 3, 4, 5 & 6 shots. The par time remains 3 seconds for all six phases.Â
Scoring: This drill should be for self evaluation. Are you able to make all your hits under the 3 second par? If not, at what point did you begin to miss or go over the par time?Â
Variations: Go with the shorter distance of 5 yards with smaller pistols and revolvers used for discreet carry. Service size pistols can utilize either the 5 or 7 yard distance depending on shooter skill. Novice shooters can initially work from the ready position.Â
Mike Boyle is a retired law enforcement officer and has been active in use of force instruction for over 40 years. He has been a police academy assistant director, instructor, Rangemaster and is the author of 2 books, 3 training videos and hundreds of magazine articles on firearms, training and tactics. Mike served 21 years on the Board of Directors of the International Association of Law Enforcement Firearms Instructors. Mr. Boyle can provide instruction on various firearms disciplines including handgun, shotgun and low light threat management. He can be reached at mboyle308@gmail.com.
