Defenisve Handgun Online Student Guide and Drillsheets

Defensive
Handgun Level 1 - Online
Warning:

Firearms are potentially dangerous and must be handled responsibly. The
information contained in this training program is not meant to be used by a novice,
or by someone who has not received proper instruction. The information in this
handout is intended for academic study only unless the reader complies and ensures
that they use all recommended safety procedures required for firearm use. The
author, Shooting-Performance, and any party associated with either assume no
liability if injury, death, or unintended damage occurs during the use of this program
or from information contained in this handout. If you do not wish to comply with safe
firearm practices, please do not read any further!

About the program: This online program is an exact copy of my Defensive Handgun
2-day range program with the difference being that it is all done online. Of course,
you will actually visit your range and practice the drills on your own during the live
fire phase but the coaching will all be done online. The program consists of the
following:
Initial Safety and Introductions

Lecture taught on Interactive Video
Conference Resources
Distance Lecture - Getting to the gun
Defensive Handgun Gear Selection
Defensive Handgun Selection and Set up
Dry Fire Stance, Grip

DRY DRILL - EPP
Basic Manipulations
DRY DRILL - TAP/RACK/FIRE
The Reload Process

DRY DRILL - Slide Lock Reload
The Draw Process

DRY DRILL - 3 - Position Draw
After Action Scan

DRY DRILL - After Action Scan

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Copyright 2020 Shooting-Performance By: Mike Seeklander

Then you will begin your live fire phase.

LIVE DRILL - Five Shot Group Weeks One through Six Assignments
Note: Normally 3 drills per assignment
LIVE DRILL - One Shot EPP
LIVE DRILL - Five Shot Pace (body)
LIVE DRILL - Five Shot Pace (head)
LIVE DRIL - 3/2 Body/Head
LIVE DRILL - Draw @ 7 yards, progression of 4
LIVE DRILL - Draw @ 10 yards, progression of 4
LIVE DRILL - Head Shot Challenge
LIVE DRILL - Pivot and Draw
LIVE DRILL - Stepping and Draw
LIVE DRILL - Shooting around cover
LIVE DRILL - Failure to Stop
LIVE DRILL - Clear and Draw
LIVE DRILL - Clear and Draw Part 2
LIVE TEST - 5 x 5 Shooting Test and Online Quiz

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Equipment needed for the program-
Ø Timer- You will need a PACT or similar timer to perform the dry fire and live
fire module. This is not optional. A timer is such a valuable training tool that
you will not be able to execute this program without one. Even if you have to
skip a couple practice sessions in order to buy one, please do so. Get a timer
that has a loud beep and an easy PAR time function. PAR time is the ability to
enter a time and have your timer deliver two beeps - a start beep and a stop
beep at the end of the time entered. Having this function allows you to train
your skills and begin to lower the time incrementally.
Ø 1/3 scale targets- In my competitive dry fire sessions I use IPSC targets that
are about 1/3 the size of a regular IPSC target to simulate aiming at the target
area I might see if I had a full size target at the correct distance. I recommend
training on targets that mimic human shape, but if you cannot find them in a
reduced size, try to find the targets I use. They are shaped like human
silhouettes and are invaluable for dry firing in reduced distance settings.
Ø Dummy Rounds- Having dummy rounds for emergency reloads and
malfunction clearing drills is important. I strongly recommend that you
purchase the dummy rounds that have nickel cases and orange bullets, which
will allow you to easily distinguish a dummy round from a live round.
Ø Cover (a simulated piece of cover) – This will allow you to practice using cover
during some of your dry fire drills. I use a portable target stand with
cardboard stapled to it to simulate the edge of something that could be used
as cover.
Ø Your Gear - Practice with the exact same gear and clothing that you carry with.
Don’t forget to conceal your handgun if you carry concealed.
For the Live Fire Sessions Specifically:

Ø Targets or something similar that replicates the human torso and has combat
effective areas marked. I strongly recommend using IDPA targets.
Ø Pasters (find tape or pasters that are the same color as the targets you are
practicing on)
Ø Five (5) Target stands (I have used the folding ones made by GT and they work
fine, but any design will work)
Ø Target sticks (lath) to staple targets to
Ø Stapler and staples

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Conducting Dry Fire Sessions and attending the initial lecture:

Dry Fire Safety: This is number one on the list because it is the most important.
Follow these rules, or don’t dry fire!
Ø Separate yourself from live firearms and ammunition (use a separate room if
possible).
Ø Set up small dry fire targets with, if at all possible, a backstop that is
bulletproof (an extra layer of safety).
Ø Go through a process of thoroughly inspecting all firearms and magazines, as
well as your pockets, for any live ammunition before beginning.
Ø If you use dummy (non-live) training cartridges to simulate the weight in your
magazines, make sure they are drilled with holes or painted bright orange or
another color that will allow you to identify them as dummy rounds. I
recommend having one separate magazine (or two) just for dry fire purposes,
so you can keep your dummy ammunition in it.
Ø When you are dry firing, and you have to leave the area for whatever reason,
re-inspect yourself for live ammunition when you return.
Ø When you are done dry firing, and return to an area where you may have live
ammunition and firearms, do not even think about doing one more
repetition… that is how accidents happen.
Ø Follow all standard safety rules when dry firing:
Ø All guns are treated as loaded.
Ø Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot.
Ø Never let your muzzle cover anything you are not willing to destroy.
Ø Be sure of your target, backstop, and beyond.
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Extend Prep and Press/Two-Handed

Purpose: To work on building the grip properly, seeing the sights, and managing
the trigger on the second half of the draw process.

Start position: High Ready [HR] (where hands meet after draw).

Target type and setup: One 1/3 size small target (humanoid shape) set directly in
front of the shooter at room distance (5-7 yards).

Prop setup: N/A

Action(s): On the sound of the timer, extend the gun from the HR while managing
the sights and trigger (visual shift and verification), and dry fire one shot, aiming at
the center of the appropriate target. Go through a scan process before
administratively working the slide to prepare for the next training repetition.
Goal Time: 1.0 second

Critical points: Sight and trigger management, building a proper grip for recoil
control, and mimicking the pressure you will use during live fire.

Visual cues: For each repetition start focused on the center of the target. Shift the
focus from target center to front sight Focus on being visually aware of the
alignment of the gun via the angle of the slide.

Mental cues: Actively visualize the entire drill.

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Tap-Rack Manipulation Drill
Purpose: To build the manipulation skill of a simulated tap of the magazine,

and racking of the slide followed by rebuilding a proper grip.
Start position: Unloaded gun with no magazine, aimed in at the target with the
finger on the trigger.
Target type and setup: One 1/3 size small target (humanoid shape) set directly
in front of the shooter at room distance (5-7 yards).
Prop setup: N/A
Action(s): On the signal of the timer, perform a tap, rack and then fire again..
The simulated “tap” will be to a magazine that is not in the gun. This speeds up
the training repetitions while still working the same skill. If you try this with a
magazine in the gun, you will need to have the magazine loaded with non-firing
dummy rounds.
Goal Time: 1.0 second
Critical points: The reason you start with your finger on the trigger is because is
it a critical learned skill to practice taking it off the trigger while manipulating the
gun. This repetitive drill will allow you to focus on manipulating the gun and
rebuilding the shooting grip. Ensure that the finger is off the trigger while
manipulating the gun!! Pay attention to rebuilding the grip on the handgun for
each repetition of the clearance.
Visual cues: Maintain focus on the threat and sights, versus getting fixated on
the gun.
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Emergency (Slide Lock) Reload
Purpose: To build the manipulation skill of reloading an empty gun.
Start position: Aimed in at the target with an empty gun, with an empty
magazine inserted into the magazine well and the slide locked to the rear.
Prop setup: N/A
Action(s): Ensure that you have a magazine with 10+ dummy (double check!)
rounds loaded into the magazine in the same location where you carry your
spare ammunition. On the signal of the timer, attempt to press the trigger to no
avail, and then perform an emergency reload and fire dry fire one shot aiming at
administratively setting up for the next training repetition. To set up for the next
repetition, grab the empty grounded (empty) magazine and perform a “tactical
reload” placing the full magazine back into your magazine pouch. Pull the slide
to the rear (locking it), and you will now be set up for the next repetition.
Goal Time: 2.0-3.0 seconds
Critical points: Deliberately sweep the garment with the four-finger hooking
method to access the magazine properly in the palm of the hand (if concealed).
Visual cues: Keep the head and eyes on the threat during this reload and
ensure you do not get task fixated on the gun and magazine.
Mental cues: Actively visualize the entire drill. Ensure you visualize the
technique components (active visualization), as well as elements of a real
scenario (that the target is real).
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3 – Position Stationary Draw
Purpose: To build the manipulation skill of drawing (see page 129) the gun
from the holster.
Start position: Empty gun with hammer/striker cocked, snapped or secured in

the holster and concealed if appropriate. If you carry concealed, practice that
way.
Prop setup: N/A
Action(s): On the signal of the timer, draw and fire dry fire one shot, aiming at
Goal Time: 1.3 seconds
Critical points: Make sure to deliberately sweep the concealing garment and/or
deactivate the snaps or locking devices on the holster. Strive to make the draw
consistent by finding the proper index points during the draw process during each
repetition.
Visual cues: Visual shift from the target aiming area back to the front sight.
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Pivoting Draw
Purpose: To build the manipulation skill of drawing the gun from the holster
while pivoting toward the threat.

way.
Target type and setup: One small target (human shape) set at room distance,
directly in front of the shooter.
Prop setup: N/A
Action(s): Imagine yourself in the center of a clock, with your threat target at the
12 o’clock position. You will perform a left, right, rear turning right, and rear
turning left pivot. Pivot and draw and fire one shot.
Critical points: Head moves toward (turns) first! Make sure to deliberately
sweep the concealing garment and/or deactivate the snaps or locking devices on
the holster while pivoting. Strive to make the draw consistent by finding the
proper index points during the draw process during each repetition. Ensure that
you are paying attention to the proper use of cover.
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Stepping Draw (offline)
while moving offline or to cover.

way.
Target type and setup: One small target (human shape) set at room distance,
directly in front of the shooter.
Prop setup: A simple barricade, or corner of a wall or something similar can be

used during this drill to simulate cover.
Action(s): On the signal of the timer, draw while moving offline (large
aggressive step) left or right and fire dry fire one shot aiming at the center of the
appropriate target. Go through a scan process before administratively working
the slide to prepare for the next training repetition.
Critical points: Make sure to deliberately sweep the concealing garment and/or
deactivate the snaps or locking devices on the holster. Strive to make the draw
consistent by finding the proper index points during the draw process during each
repetition. Ensure that you are paying attention to the proper use of cover.
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Clearing Draw
while clearing a person out of the way.

way.
Prop setup: N/A
Action(s): On the signal of the timer, clear, draw and fire dry fire one shot,
aiming at the center of the appropriate target. Go through a scan process before
Critical points: Clear properly and move your body around the obstacle/dummy
and build a proper grip using key drawing principles.
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Live Fire Drills - This section contains the live fire drills you will use in this system.
Remember, live fire is specifically designed to allow you to work through the firing
cycle and improve your ability to manage three things: 1) sights (gun direction); 2)
trigger, and 3) recoil control. Specifically covered:
1. Skills trained in the live fire program

2. Execution of live fire training sessions (pre, during and post session)
3. Live fire training drills
4. Live fire training schedule
5. Live fire training phases
6. Procedures for performing the drills
Skills Trained - The live fire training module will improve your ability to shoot better
and integrate smart procedures, such as performing an after-action scan process.
Remember, the firing cycle is the trigger, sight, and grip management that you must
master in order to shoot fast and hit your target. You will have primarily developed
your manipulation skills in dry fire, so the focus will be on improving elements of the
firing cycle during your live fire sessions, integrating the mental visualization
techniques presented in the mental section, and performing correct tactics. Don’t
misunderstand the word “tactics” and think this program is designed to teach you
tactics. It will allow you to work on the small tactical concepts that are important
during your live fire drills, but generally speaking, your live fire training time is better
spent if you are focusing on the concepts of improving your ability to hit the target
faster and more accurately. Remember, you will work on your manipulation skills
primarily in dry fire sessions.

Testing – To measure your skills regularly, I am going to provide a handgun skills test
in this handout. It is a simple, yet effective way to measure your progress on a regular
basis. If you run this test alone, certain portions of it require the correct use of
tactical procedures such as scanning. Score yourself honestly when you shoot
the test.

Live Fire Training Drills - The majority of the training drills in this program are
simple and allow you to focus on a small area of skill. These are in addition to the
correct tactics that might be used in a fight. Additionally, you should be integrating
the mental side of the game through visualization. When you reflect upon your notes
from training, the mistakes you find will usually be small things that you must focus
all of your mental attention on to correct. Most of the drills assigned will be very
similar in nature to the drills I assign in my competition training programs, and are
designed to increase your skill with the handgun dramatically. They don’t all directly
simulate a defensive situation, but instead focus on just one or two skill areas that
could be applied in that situation. That’s okay as long as you realize that during these
drills you are developing skill only, and not tactics or applications other than shooting
skills that will be used in the fight. Good tactics are a separate subject and I suggest
you seek out training from a qualified instructor.
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That said, some training sessions will include progression drills that will require you
to vary the round count and apply tactical considerations like scanning. In order to
refine technique to the mastery level, you will have to look at every detail of every
skill and constantly train those areas, moving toward perfection of your technique.
Stay mentally connected and try to envision that you are engaging a threatening
person that is intent on doing you harm, rather than a paper target.

Note: One last thing - each live fire training session should begin with the five shot
warm up drill. This will ensure that your gun is zeroed and the ammunition that you
are shooting is performing as expected. Shooting these groups tests both your
fundamentals and removes any excuses for shooting errors during the drill. Perform
this warm up drill with both your practice ammunition and your carry ammunition,
if they are different. This will give you the confidence in your weapon and
ammunition should the need for pinpoint accuracy arise at any time in the future.

The next section contains the Training Drills as well as general instructions that will
help you use them properly. Remember, these drills are all designed to work certain
key skills and they have a specific design so follow them exactly as they are written.
If you start to modify the drills, then the next time you train you will have NOTHING
to compare because the drill was done differently each time you trained. Before I list
the drills, I will cover what you will need for most of your training sessions.

The training drills are designed to be very simple in nature, and require very little to
actually perform them. I designed them so the average shooter, with little range gear
could use them without having to buy expensive steel targets, or specialized
equipment.

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Starting Distance - Each drill has a starting distance in the main body. I recommend
that all shooters start using this distance, and work on “advanced skills” by trying to
perform the drill faster and more accurately. Having said this, the distance in the
drill is for shooters that are beginners. Those who begin the program at a more
advanced level may use the alternate “advanced distances” that are in the bottom
section of the drill if desired. Remember, if you vary the distance used in the drill,
document that for later reference in your logbook.

Alternating Target Area - Several of the drills require the shooter to alternate
between target areas (head and body hit zones). This is to work the skill at two
different paces. When doing the drills, shooters MUST accept that there will be a
significant difference in the pace they can hit the head and the body. Understand that
this concept does not imply that you are shooting the head target due to a failure to
stop (although that concept is addressed in the technique section), but simply allows
you to train two distinctly different target sizes with the use of one target at one
distance.

Technique – Watch the videos to learn the proper technique. Please reference back
to that technique if you do not remember how to perform it correctly.

Varying Round Count and Progression Sequence - During most of the Drills I
assign you to shoot either a specific round count, or a progression sequence instead
of XX number of shots during repetitions of the drills. This sequence will allow you
to work the drill without always firing XX number of shots and developing a habit of
just firing that number. On some drills it will also cause you to run out of ammunition
at unknown times, allowing you to work your emergency reload and tactical reload
during the scan process. Revolver shooters will have to modify the sequence a bit just
because you are limited on ammunition. In the drill, I will give you the number of
shots you will progress to. The sequence is as follows for a progression of four (4).

Repetition Directions
1st Fire one shot (*)
2nd Fire two shots
3rd Fire three shots
4th Fire four shots
5th Fire three shots
6th Fire two shots
7th Fire one shot
For
Total Rounds: 16
example:

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Hand Position - Hand position is important to think about and train when doing any
type of drill. This is because you may have to execute your draw process with the
hands in a position that is less than perfect. You may also have to execute the draw
process while you are doing something that separates the hands, thus forcing you to
perform the “meet and greet” step of the draw less than perfectly. For these reasons,
when you execute the drills that require a draw, the start position is labeled as
“variable.” I would like you to start from the following positions (these can and
should be varied as you will always be doing something different in life):

Ø Hands relaxed at your sides.
Ø Hands in a defensive “fence” position in front of your body extended toward
the target with both hands somewhere between your waist and yet not fully
extended.
Ø Hands in the cheater position (starting the garment sweep).

Sections - Each drill is broken down into different sections. These sections will give
you all of the information you will need to successfully execute the drills.

Targets - Unless otherwise noted, all targets for drills are 5’ high at the shoulder or
set so they mimic a real human in height.

Equipment - Use the exact gear you carry your firearm with, in the manner that you
carry it so that your training reflects real life skill.

Consistency - It is incredibly important that you keep things consistent when doing
these drills. Failures to do so will result in times and hits that are not trackable or
measurable. The goal is to measure your performance during the drills as you evolve
and watch your progress, always driving your skill to the next level.

Scoring/Tracking -Shooting to an effective target area is something that will make a
big difference in stopping a potential threat. In his great book “Combat Shooting,”
Massad Ayoob confirms, “placement of the shot is more important than any other
factor in stopping the threat posed by the homicidal human.” Your training drills will
be flawed if you do not train yourself to hit areas on the target that will stop the threat.
I call these areas “combat effective” hits (C.E.).

Ø Hits should primarily be in the combat effective zones, defined as the two zones
of the body (head and torso) that are the most likely to incapacitate the threat
quickly. These areas are:
o A six-eight inch circle in the high center chest, directly in the center of the body
with the heart directly in the center.
o A three-inch circle in the head area with the nose high in the circle. This will
keep the bullet from hitting too high, which in some cases can cause a
spasmodic reflex of the muscles, possibly causing the person to pull the trigger
if they are armed. A perfect head shot would be one where with the head erect,
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the bullet travels through the soft tissue of the nasal area into the brain. Ayoob
notes that if the person is facing another direction, “picture a headband pulled
down over the ears, and now wrapped around those ears, and the nose, and in
the back, the occipital protuberance, that bump you can reach up now and feel
in the back at the base of your skull.”1 A shot anywhere in that “headband”
will have the proper affect on the threat.
o Note: You can consider where these areas are if the body was turned sideways
by envisioning the person in 3-D.

During the repetitions, document some of your times during the drill repetitions, and
anything noteworthy.

Ø After the prescribed number of repetitions has taken place, count total hits on
the target, and well as hits in the combat effective zone.
Ø Your goal should be to have the majority (90% +) of the hits in the combat
effective area, as well as no misses off the target.
Ø Paste hits outside the combat effective area on the target and get set up for the
next drill. The reason I just paste non-combat effective hits and leave the holes
in the center of the target is to save time. You can do this if you like, and are at
the level where you know if you are missing the target. A side benefit is that
having holes in the target forces you to call bad shots from the sight picture
you see (sight alignment), versus looking for hits on the target as you are
shooting.

Pay attention to your overall shot grouping on the target when you are done training.
The pasters and holes can be viewed from several steps back and assessed for
technique mistakes. Try to assess where the majority of non-combat effective hits are,
and do your best to figure out why you are hitting that area. Here are some common
mistakes I see on student targets (these are for a right-handed shooter, simply
reverse the pattern for a left-handed shooter):

Ø Shots low and left - this is often caused by a timing and anticipation error
where the gun gets moved before the bullet actually leaves the barrel.
Remember the importance of watching the sight picture as the gun actually
goes off, versus seeing a good sight picture and trying to make the gun to off.
Correction of this mistake is to be visual on the sights and watch for movement
of the gun prior to the shot going off. Strive to keep everything motionless
except the trigger.
Ø Shots left – this is often caused by gripping the gun as the trigger is being
pulled. The correct trigger manipulation is to move the trigger and only the
trigger while pulling it, but as humans we are designed so that our fingers
move together. We call this mistake “pulling the trigger with all four fingers.”

1 Masaad Ayoob, Combat Shooting, Vol. 1 (Iola: Gun Digest Books, of F+W Media,
2011).
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Correction of this mistake is to focus on isolating the trigger finger as much as
possible, as well as using the support hand to minimize any movement the
strong hand may cause in the gun.
Ø Shots high – this mistake is caused by allowing the front sight to ride too high
in the rear sight notch. Often times it is caused by looking over the top of the
gun, rather than through the rear sight window. To test if you are doing this,
have someone place his or her finger on top of the rear sight, leaving only a
small hole to look through. You should be able to see your front sight through
that hole, and the top edge of the front sight should just touch the finger. When
you allow your head to come off the gun and look over it, this mistake becomes
common because the gun normally gets canted high when doing so. Correction
of this mistake can be done by ensuring that you are looking through the front
rear sight window and that the front sight is equal in height to the rear when
the gun goes off.
Ø Shots high and left – this mistake is caused by a combination of the previous
two mistakes, and/or “palming” the gun. Palming happens when you press the
palm of the right hand into the backstrap of the gun as the trigger is pressed,
while unlocking the wrist and allowing the gun to move high and left.
Correction of this mistake is to be aware of this unlocking of the wrist and
movement and to keep the grip and wrist locked like a vise when manipulating
the trigger.
Ø Shots right – this mistake is often caused by thumbing the gun with the
support hand thumb, which pushes the gun to the right as it goes off. The
support hand thumb should simply float and be pointed to the front (see page
161) and if it is placed on the frame of the gun ensure that there is no increase
of pressure on it while shooting. Correction of this mistake is awareness of
this and attention placed on the pressure the thumb is putting on the gun.
Ø Shots low – This is commonly caused by the unlocking of the wrist tendons as
the shot is fired, and the gun is allowed to be pulled slightly down. More
support hand pressure under the trigger guard between the index finger and
trigger guard will help solve some of this movement, but the wrist tendon lock
must be maintained through the entire shot.

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Before you do any of the live fire drills, a reminder: Safety Rules - without
safety, my goal in writing this handout will never be met! Here is your warning:
Firearms training is risky business even for an experienced person! We must always
be very aware of the fact that we are using extremely dangerous tools that could harm
others or us at any time. For these reasons, I require that you follow these safety rules
anytime you are around firearms. If you do not understand, or if you may be new to
shooting, then I HIGHLY recommend that you find a competent instructor or training
academy to assist you in your initial training. Please read each of the following rules
in detail:

• Always treat every firearm as if it were loaded all the time.
• Always keep the firearm pointed in a safe direction – a direction where a
negligent discharge would cause minimal property damage and zero physical
injury.
• Always keep your trigger finger off the trigger and outside of the trigger guard
until you have made a conscious decision to shoot.
• Always be sure of your target, backstop, and beyond, as well as items in the
foreground that may deflect bullets causing injury.
• Always have an emergency plan, communication device, and first aid kit
available in case of a range accident.

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Five Shot Group

ROUNDS PER REPETITION: 5 TOTAL REPETITIONS: 10+ TOTAL ROUNDS: 50+

ACCURACY AND TIME GOALS: Group

Purpose: To verify gun and ammunition combination is shooting point-of-aim
(POA) to point-of-impact (POI), by shooting a group on a specific spot. To verify
basic mechanics on the process of sight and trigger management. Once you verify
the gun is zeroed with the ammunition you are training with, analysis of other
training factors is easier (i.e. you don’t blame the gun for a bad shot). This five shot
group should also be shot with your defensive ammunition on a regular basis.


Target type and setup: Threat target at 7 yards, centered on the shooter with a 2” x
2” piece of black tape or a black paster.

Prop setup: N/A

Action(s): With no time limitations, shoot five shot groups, using the following
guidelines:
Ø Fire as slowly and accurately as possible. Assess group for size, and position.
Repeat if necessary. Fliers should be noted and called when shot.

Critical points: Fundamental sight and trigger management.

Visual cues: Use a perfect sight picture and alignment for this drill.

Mental cues: N/A

Advanced distance: Increase distance to 15 yards if desired.

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One Shot Extend Prep and Press


ACCURACY AND TIME GOALS: 90% combat effective hits, no misses.

Purpose: To work on managing the sights, trigger, and grip (recoil control) and
improving each of these areas on the second half of the draw process.


Target type and setup: Threat Target at 7 yards, centered on the shooter.

Prop setup: N/A

Action(s): On the sound of the timer, extend the gun from the HR while managing
the sights and trigger (visual shift and verification), and fire one (1) shots to the
body. Reset and prep the trigger quickly to practice good habits. Remove the finger
from the trigger guard and begin the next repetition.

Critical points: Sight and trigger management, building a proper grip for recoil
control, and a fast reset.

Visual cues: For each repetition start focused on the center of the target. Shift the
focus from target center to front sight for the shots where a hard sight focus is
necessary. Focus on being visually aware of the alignment of the gun via the angle of
the slide and general visual awareness for shots not needing a softer sight focus.


Advanced distance: Increase distance to 10+ yards.

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Five Shot Pace (Body)



improving each of these areas while shooting a large target.


Target type and setup: Threat target at 7 yards, centered on the shooter.

Prop setup: N/A

Action(s): From HR on the sound of the timer, extend the gun while managing the
sights and trigger (visual shift and verification), and fire five (5) shots to the body as
quickly as possible and still getting your hits. Remember, you have to get your hits
first, then attempt to go faster on the next repetition.

Critical points: Sight and trigger management, building a proper grip and recoil
control, follow through and reset.

Visual cues: Each repetition start focused on the center of the target. Focus on
being visually aware of the alignment of the gun via the angle of the slide and
general visual awareness for shots not needing a softer sight focus (likely the body
shots).


Advanced distance: Increase distance to 10 yards

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Five Shot Pace (Head)



improving each of these areas while shooting a small target.



Prop setup: N/A

sights and trigger (visual shift and verification), and fire five (5) shots to the head as
quickly as possible and still getting your hits. Remember, you have to get your hits
first, then attempt to go faster on the next repetition.

control, follow through and reset.

Visual cues: Each repetition start focused on the center of the target. Shift the
necessary (likely the head shots). Focus on being visually aware of the alignment of
the gun via the angle of the slide and general visual awareness for shots not needing
a softer sight focus (likely the body shots).



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3/2 (Body/Head)



improving each of these areas while shooting at two different target sizes (the body
and head).



Prop setup: N/A

sights and trigger (visual shift and verification), and fire three (3) shots to the body
and then two (2) shots to the head. Repeat but start in the opposite target area (3 to
head, 2 to body).

control, follow through and reset. Slowing down to get the hits on the head shots.

Visual cues: Each repetition start focused on the center of the target. Shift the
necessary (likely the head shots). Focus on being visually aware of the alignment of
the gun via the angle of the slide and general visual awareness for shots not needing
a softer sight focus (likely the body shots).



24


Stationary Draw @ 7 and 10

ROUNDS PER REPETITION: 1-4
TOTAL REPETITIONS: 25+
TOTAL ROUNDS: 150-200 +


Purpose: To work on the static draw from three different hand positions.

Start position: Variable (see start position instructions).

Target type and setup: One (1) Threat target target at 7 yards

Prop setup: N/A

Action(s): Prepare your magazines with live ammunition. On the timer, draw and
fire to the body, go through your scan process, and re-holster. Repeat. Work
through a progression of four in this drill.

Critical points: Acquire index points while gripping the gun in the holster. Manage
the sights and trigger during the shots. Ensure proper follow through and scan
process.

Visual cues: Focal point should be exactly where you want to hit, and the focus
should shift from that point to the front sight as the front sight comes into view
during extension.

Mental cues: Visualize the mechanics of the drill, as well as the reality of the target.
Imagine that the target is a real person rather that a range prop.

Advanced distance: Increase distance to 10+ yards

25


Head Shot Challenge

ROUNDS PER REPETITION: 1
TOTAL ROUNDS: 15+


Purpose: To see how far you can effectively engage a small target (the head).


Target type and setup: One (1) Threat target at 5 yards.

Prop setup: N/A

Action(s): On the timer beep, draw one shot on the head. Move back one pace and
repeat. Continue to move farther from the target until you miss the head shot. Paste
and check the target as necessary.

Note your distance (how far you can hit a headshot). Have fun with this drill!

Critical points: Grip the gun hard, fight for sight alignment, and manage the trigger
properly.

Visual cues: Front sight focus through the rear sight window.


Advanced distance: N/A

26


Pivoting Draw

TOTAL ROUNDS: 75+


Purpose: To work on the pivoting draw and firing cycle components.


Target type and setup: One (1) Threat target at 7 yards

Prop setup: N/A

Action(s): Start by facing an imaginary 3, 6, or 9’oclock if you were standing in the
middle of the clock (your head and eyes should face whatever clock position each
time). On the timer, pivot, draw and fire three shots to the combat effective area,
scan and re-holster. Continue to work your way around the clock, pivoting from 3, 6
turning left, and 6 turning right and 9’oclock.

Critical points: Head and eye movement to the target when the timer goes off (the
body will follow). Remember that getting your eyes on the threat faster will allow
you to make a lethal force decision faster, as well as increase the speed of your pivot.
Sweep the cover garment and begin to index a good grip on the gun while turning.

Visual cues: Focal point should be exactly where you want to hit, and the focus
should shift from that point to the front sight as the front sight comes into view
during extension.

Mental cues: React quickly to the timer beep.


27


Stepping Draw

ROUNDS PER REPETITION: 1-4
TOTAL ROUNDS: 150+


Purpose: To work on drawing the gun and applying proper firing cycle components
while moving offline. This may be to cover or in the open if none is available.



Prop setup: N/A.

Action(s): On the timer, draw while moving offline and fire three shots while in a
good position (build a good fighting stance). Alternate moving offline left and right
and at slight angles as appropriate.

Critical points: Explode offline aggressively while accessing the gun. Movement is
the key. Try to stabilize and build a good shooting position as soon as possible once
in the position. Enter low and stay low and aggressive, don’t stand up while
shooting. Remember to try not to cross the feet to keep from tripping.

Visual cues: Patiently wait for the sights to settle.



28


Shooting Around Cover

TOTAL ROUNDS: 100+


Purpose: To work on shooting around cover.



Prop setup: N/A.

Action(s): On the timer, roll the body into a good shooting position around cover
(see video) and fire four shots. Repeat on the opposite side.

Critical points: Make sure your foot position is proper, so you are still balanced
and stable. Roll the upper body instead of leaning. Build a consistent grip on the
handgun.




29


Failure to Stop

TOTAL ROUNDS: 120+


Purpose: To work on drawing the gun and applying proper firing cycle components
to the body and head during a failure to stop.



Prop setup: N/A.

Action(s): On the timer, draw while and fire four shots to the body and two shots to
the head while in a good position (build a good fighting stance). Get your hits and
repeat while trying to go faster if you did.

Critical points: Slow as necessary on the head shots.




30


Clearing Draw Part 1 and 2

TOTAL ROUNDS: 120+

while clearing a person out of the way.

Start position: Loaded gun with hammer/striker cocked, snapped or secured in the
holster and concealed if appropriate. If you carry concealed, practice that way.


Prop setup: Training partner set up as described in video.

Action(s):
Part 1 - On the signal of the timer, clear, draw and fire, aiming at the center of the
appropriate target. Go through a scan process and communications desired before
safely holstering.
Part 2 – Add the second person pivot as taught in the video. Make sure the second
person knows which direction to pivot.

Critical points: Clear properly and move your body around the person/dummy and
build a proper grip using key drawing principles. Make sure you get your body into
a position where the person you are clearing can NOT get in front of your muzzle!


Mental cues: Actively visualize the entire drill. Ensure you visualize the technique
components (active visualization), as well as elements of a real scenario (that the
target is real).

31


5x5 Handgun Skill Test

Designer: Bill Wilson

Purpose: Create a measurable quick to run and low round count skill drill that tests
basic handgun proficiency and rapid fire pistol control.

Equipment: Service pistol of 9mm caliber or larger, concealed carry suitable holster
and ammunition with a power factor (bullet weight x velocity) of 125,000 or more.
**Note, if you shoot this from concealment or in a specific gear, keep track of
that for future reference and consistency.

Target: One standard IDPA, 10 yards downrange

Scoring: IDPA Limited Vickers, 25 shots total
1. Count 25 shots on target (24 in the body and 1 in the head).
2. Add .50 seconds for each hit in the “-1” area.
3. Add 1.5 seconds for each hit in the “-3” area.
4. Add 2.5 seconds for each hit off target (and SLAP yourself).

Start Position: Hands at your sides facing target. No concealment garment
necessary. **Start the drill with a 10 round
Skill ranking (Bill Wilson’s
magazine.
opinion)
Procedure: Grand Master: 15 seconds or less
Master: 20 seconds or less
String 1: Draw and fire 5 shots freestyle (two Expert: 25 seconds or less
hands) Sharpshooter: 32 seconds or less

Marksman: 41 seconds or less
String 2: Draw and fire 5 shots freestyle (two
hands), reload from slidelock and fire 5 more Novice: 50 seconds or less
shots freestyle Not proficient enough to carry a
handgun: Over 50 seconds
String 3 Draw and fire 5 shots strong hand
only

String 4: Draw and fire 4 shots to the body and
1 shot to the head freestyle

32


Suggested Maintenance Practice Routine

ROUNDS PER REPETITION: 1-5 TOTAL ROUNDS: 208+ TOTAL
REPETITIONS: N/A


Purpose: To maintain and continue to hone self defense shooting skills.

Start position: Reference each drill.

Target type and setup: Two (2) threat targets set, two yard apart, 5 feet high at the
shoulder.

Prop setup: One barricade or simulated position of cover.

Gun setup: Prepare three magazines to full capacity. Don’t forget to move offline
while clearing out the malfunction!

Actions: Perform the following drills, reloading and clearing malfunctions as
necessary. Simulate and utilize any tactical procedures that you would normally use
in a high stress situation such as accessing a phone to dial 911 during post actions,
communicating to dispatch on a radio, etc.

Drill/Actions Rounds
Prepare 3 magazines to full capacity with one dummy round in each. N/A
Five-shot Warm Up (2x) 30
One -Shot Extend, Prep and Press / Alternate target area (select one- or 30
two-handed drill)
3/2 Body/Head Alternating Drill 30
Stationary Draw 30
Pivoting Draw 30
Stepping Draw 30
Use of Cover 60
Failure to Stop 60
Total Round Count 200+
Additional Drills: Pick one or two drills to work on weak areas Varies

33


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Defenisve Handgun Online Student Guide and Drillsheets

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Defensive

Handgun Level 1 - Online

Initial Safety and Introductions

Distance Lecture - Getting to the gun

Defensive Handgun Gear Selection

Defensive Handgun Selection and Set up

Dry Fire Stance, Grip

The Reload Process

The Draw Process

After Action Scan

LIVE DRILL - Five Shot Pace (body)

LIVE DRILL - Five Shot Pace (head)

LIVE DRIL - 3/2 Body/Head

LIVE DRILL - Draw @ 7 yards, progression of 4

LIVE DRILL - Draw @ 10 yards, progression of 4

LIVE DRILL - Head Shot Challenge

LIVE DRILL - Pivot and Draw

LIVE DRILL - Stepping and Draw

LIVE DRILL - Shooting around cover

LIVE DRILL - Failure to Stop

LIVE DRILL - Clear and Draw

LIVE DRILL - Clear and Draw Part 2

LIVE TEST - 5 x 5 Shooting Test and Online Quiz

For the Live Fire Sessions Specifically:

Goal Time: 1.0 second

Purpose: To build the manipulation skill of a simulated tap of the magazine,

Prop setup: N/A

Goal Time: 1.0 second

Mental cues: Actively visualize the entire drill.

Purpose: To build the manipulation skill of reloading an empty gun.

Prop setup: N/A

Goal Time: 2.0-3.0 seconds

Start position: Empty gun with hammer/striker cocked, snapped or secured in

Prop setup: N/A

Goal Time: 1.3 seconds

Start position: Empty gun with hammer/striker cocked, snapped or secured in

Prop setup: N/A

Goal Time: 1.5 seconds

Start position: Empty gun with hammer/striker cocked, snapped or secured in

Prop setup: A simple barricade, or corner of a wall or something similar can be

Goal Time: 1.5 seconds

Start position: Empty gun with hammer/striker cocked, snapped or secured in

Prop setup: N/A

Goal Time: 1.5 seconds

1. Skills trained in the live fire program

ROUNDS PER REPETITION: 6

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