NCJ Number
90186
Journal
Police Chief Volume: 50 Issue: 5 Dated: (May 1983) Pages: 65-75
Date Published
1983
Length
11 pages
Annotation
A series of articles focuses on the efforts of a new firearms instructor association to improve firearms training, the computer assisted target analysis system, shooting and decisionmaking skills, and lead poisoning on outdoor firing ranges.
Abstract
The first article notes advances in firearm training over the years from an emphasis on the basic elements of stance, sight picture, trigger control, and shooting score to the development of practical shooting positions and the use of available cover, as well as the decision about when and when not to shoot. The International Association of Law Enforcement Firearms Instructors and its aims are also briefly described. Another article describes the Computer Assisted Target Analysis (CATA). It is comprised of the following components: (1) a uniquely designed multi-score 'aggressor' target, (2) a miniature CATA score pad used by the shooter, (3) a unique diagnostic scoring system used by the range assistants, (4) a series of computer programs used by the shooter and the firearms instructional staff, and (5) a series of computer printouts providing an individualized profile and record of performance for each shooter. A third article describes the Houston Police Academy firearms course and shooting range. The concluding article discusses the dangers of lead poisoning on outdoor firing ranges and describes effective interventions by the Greater St. Louis Police Academy to reduce the blood lead levels for firearms instructors. Interventions included the use of respiratory masks, the positioning of instructors farther from the firing line, the improvement of personal sanitary conditions, and scheduling to reduce prolonged exposure to lead.