1. Basic Marksmanship Drill
Overview: This drill focuses on fundamental shooting skills, including sight alignment, trigger control, and breath control. How to Do It: Set up a target at a fixed distance (e.g., 25 yards). Fire a series of shots, aiming for the center of the target. After each shot, assess your grouping and make adjustments as needed. Focus On: Proper stance, sight picture, and smooth trigger pull.
2. Timed Reload Drill
Overview: This drill helps you practice quick and efficient magazine changes under time pressure. How to Do It: Start with a partially loaded magazine. Fire a few rounds, then drop the magazine and reload as quickly as possible. Time yourself and try to improve your speed with each repetition. Focus On: Smooth and controlled movements, ensuring the new magazine is seated properly.
3. Transition Drill
Overview: This drill teaches you to quickly and accurately switch between multiple targets. How to Do It: Set up two or more targets at varying distances. Start by engaging one target, then quickly transition to the next, ensuring each shot is accurate. Focus On: Smooth and precise movement of the rifle, maintaining a consistent sight picture.
4. Malfunction Clearing Drill
Overview: This drill prepares you to handle common malfunctions, such as stovepipes and double feeds. How to Do It: Intentionally induce a malfunction (e.g., by inserting a dummy round) and practice clearing it using the appropriate techniques (tap, rack, bang). Focus On: Quick recognition of the malfunction and smooth execution of the clearing procedure.
5. Moving Target Drill
Overview: This drill enhances your ability to hit moving targets. How to Do It: Use a moving target system or have a partner move a target back and forth. Practice tracking the target and firing accurately while it is in motion. Focus On: Anticipating the target’s movement and maintaining a steady aim.
6. Low-Light Shooting Drill
Overview: This drill prepares you for shooting in low-light conditions. How to Do It: Set up a target in a dimly lit area. Use a flashlight or night vision device to illuminate the target and practice shooting accurately. Focus On: Proper use of your lighting equipment and maintaining a steady aim in low light.
7. Close-Quarters Combat (CQC) Drill
Overview: This drill simulates close-quarters engagements, focusing on quick, accurate shots at close range. How to Do It: Set up targets at close distances (e.g., 5-10 yards). Practice rapid engagement of each target, ensuring each shot is on target. Focus On: Quick target acquisition and controlled shooting.
8. Long-Range Accuracy Drill
Overview: This drill focuses on precision shooting at longer distances. How to Do It: Set up a target at a longer distance (e.g., 100-300 yards). Use a spotting scope to assess your shots and make adjustments to your aim. Focus On: Proper use of your rifle’s sights or optics, and windage and elevation adjustments.
9. Situational Awareness Drill
Overview: This drill enhances your ability to maintain situational awareness while engaging targets. How to Do It: Set up multiple targets in a dynamic environment. Engage the targets while being aware of your surroundings and potential threats. Focus On: Scanning your environment and maintaining awareness of your position and the position of others.
10. Stress Shooting Drill
Overview: This drill simulates high-stress situations to improve your performance under pressure. How to Do It: Incorporate physical activities (e.g., running, push-ups) before shooting to elevate your heart rate. Engage targets as quickly and accurately as possible. Focus On: Maintaining composure and accuracy under stress, and managing your breathing and heart rate.
These drills are designed to improve various aspects of your AR-15 handling and shooting skills. Regular practice will help you become more proficient and confident in a wide range of shooting scenarios.
