Quality Weapons Training - When Your Life Depends on Your Gun (From Law Enforcement Bible, Number 2, P 14-21, 1982, Robert A Scanlon, ed. See NCJ-95077)

• NCJ Number: 95078
• Author(s): J S Farnam
• Date Published: 1982
• Length: 8 pages
• Sale Source: Stoeger Publishing Co
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Criteria for evaluating police weapons training are presented and discussed.

Abstract

Because police are increasingly finding themselves in threatening situations, job-related weapons training is needed. There are 10 criteria which typify the best programs. The training must be scheduled regularly, at least four times a year, and the schedule followed. Training must be compulsory for everyone below the rank of lieutenant. It must be job related: every habit learned on the range will be applied automatically on the street. The training must be realistic. What the officer does with the weapon should involve only general movements of the hands and arms; more complicated techniques should be eliminated, as they increase the probability of error under stress. The training must emphasize the basics of shooting, reloading, and using cover, amd it should be varied and enjoyable. A complete program must include training in handgun and shotgun use, reloading, tactics, and legal and psychological implications. Since carefully-maintained training records look impressive in court and convey the impression of professionalism, it is important that training be documented. Finally, the training must be cost-effective. Illustrative photographs are provided.