Training

Where Do You Fit In?

Generally, this categorizes the different skill levels as follows:

• New Shooter: Does not know how to safely manipulate a firearm; does not know the basics behind how firearms work; has never fired a gun or has for fun but has never been formally taught anything about safe firearms handling or marksmanship. Seeks to attend a firearm safety course.
• Beginner Shooter or sometimes identified as a Level 1: Has had at least one formal session of instruction (lecture or live fire); knows how to safely manipulate the basics of their firearm but seeks further experience; can land single shots and controlled pairs on target safely and with confidence from the ready position. Seeks how to, or practices presenting their pistol from their holster.
• Intermediate Shooter or sometimes identified as a Level 2: Can do everything a beginner shooter can do but knows how to draw safely from a holster (concealed and/or overt) and shoot. Can safely and confidently sidestep or turn while drawing and engaging targets; and knows how to shoot from different common positions and around barricades. Seeks to balance accuracy with quicker timing of shots.
• Advanced Shooter or sometimes identified as a Level 3: Can do everything an intermediate shooter can do but at a higher level. Can dynamically move and shoot while maintaining accurate speed. Can combine skill sets safely, confidently, and without major overwhelm or confusion. Seeks to add physical readiness and active shooter drills to training.

The key here is that before one can say they are, let’s say an intermediate shooter, they must have spent enough time to build a high level of proficiency and confidence with the techniques and tactics taught at the beginner level.

For example, if a shooter cannot land single or controlled pairs on a target, having covered the topic in a previous class does not make them an intermediate shooter, i.e., they must be able to execute.

We have a set of marksmanship standards for each level. There is a pre-requisite to attend classes. (By marksmanship standards, we’re referring to one’s actual ability to shoot and meet certain requirements.)