Paladin Training, Inc.

I think some of the LE guys were surprised at the dedication (and skill level) of the private citizens who were there.  These classes, where we have a mix of PC and LEO, always leave me encouraged because of the almost always positive interaction between the two groups.  People, we’re in what’s coming together.  I say to both of you:  Please don’t see the other as the enemy until they’ve earned that title.

We started with static trigger control drills and quickly got into exercises that combined movement; first zigs & zags to both sides, then turns to both sides, ending with turns to the rear.  All of that on the ‘small dots’ to slow students down and force them to concentrate on technique.  Then we did it all again on the ‘large dots’ to introduce students to the concept of ‘good enough’.
Somewhere in there scans were added, we went from emergency reloads to tactical reloads, we added movement to cover, consolidating gear (bumping mags forward), natural point of aim was constantly harped upon, etc., etc.

Students eventually learned to ‘play the song of my people’ (also known as The Seven Steps to Success):

1. Shoot the Threat to the ground
2. Make certain the Threat is gone
3. Search for other people that need to be shot
4. Move to cover
5. Perform a Tactical Reload
6. Do a self assessment
7. Get your head and your equipment ready to go shoot more people

As always, the MGM Attack Target added a lot, especially to the night exercise.  Students were expected to turn 180 degrees to the rear, from the ready use a weapon mounted light to identify a charging target approximately 20 feet away as either Shoot / No-shoot, hit him if necessary at least once, and get off his line of power… all within a 1.5 second standard.  Easier than it sounds.

During the night exercise students also engaged the ‘Diamond Formation’ to reinforce movement and Rule 4 issues.

Day 2 began with a review of Day 1.  Transition to sidearm drills were added.  I’m sure I’ve forgotten some things and I don’t have the LP in front of me.  We ended shooting an abbreviated CSAT Standards (25 yards and in) and the Viking Tactics Half and Half drill.

We shot each drill and each of the standards this way against the timer:
First, I shot the drill;
Next, the assistant instructors shot the drill;
Finally, the students shot the drill.

It’s always gratifying to see the students go from ‘No way I can do that’ to ‘I just did that!’  Most everyone successfully performed the most difficult drill:  10 shots into the A zone from 5 yards in 2.5 seconds.

You can see some comments on the class on our FaceBook page:  Paladin Training, Inc.  While you’re there, I’d appreciate a ‘Like’ if you’re so inclined.

For more details: Defensive Carbine 1