Cold start W/EDC why cold starts matter!!

Published on October 5, 2025
Duration: 24:40

This video demonstrates the importance of 'cold starts' in firearm training, emphasizing that initial shots under stress are critical for self-defense. The hosts perform various drills, including A-zone engagements and bill drills, highlighting common errors like poor grip and trigger yanking. They stress that consistent practice of cold starts simulates real-world scenarios where adrenaline and stress are high, leading to potentially worse performance without dedicated practice.

Quick Summary

Cold starts are vital for EDC and self-defense training because real-world encounters involve high stress and adrenaline, degrading performance. Practicing cold starts helps you maintain effectiveness under these conditions. Focus on consistent grip, trigger control, and sight acquisition to improve your initial shots when it matters most.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Cold Start EDC Challenge
  2. 01:19Starting the Cold Start Drill
  3. 02:04First Shooter's Performance and Analysis
  4. 02:28Second Shooter's Performance (Gravy Train)
  5. 03:44Why Cold Starts Are Crucial for Self-Defense
  6. 04:30Second Round of Cold Start Drills
  7. 05:05Analyzing Shot Placement and Errors
  8. 06:28Continuing Cold Start Practice
  9. 07:22Dealing with Ammunition Malfunction
  10. 08:06Self-Assessment of Cold Start Proficiency
  11. 09:39Target Review and Grip Discussion
  12. 10:07Another Round of EDC Drills
  13. 10:50Transitioning to A-Zone and Head Zone Drills
  14. 11:38Target Review and Grip Issues
  15. 11:49Gravy Train's Head Shot Attempt
  16. 13:04Grip Slippage and Shot Consistency
  17. 13:45Improving Draw Time and Accuracy
  18. 14:56Final Cold Start Practice Run
  19. 15:03Bill Drill Introduction
  20. 16:00Bill Drill Performance and Target Review
  21. 16:52Final Round for Gravy Train
  22. 17:15Head Shot Misses and Performance Analysis
  23. 17:52Bill Drill from Low Ready
  24. 19:15Discussion on Reloading and 'Dead Man's Gun'
  25. 20:11Glock Reloading Technique Demonstration
  26. 21:04Low Ready Bill Drill Execution
  27. 21:35Bill Drill Time and Hit Analysis
  28. 22:08Showing Bill Drill Targets
  29. 23:18Conclusion and Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are 'cold starts' important for everyday carry (EDC) firearms training?

Cold starts are crucial because in a real-life defensive situation, you won't be warmed up. You'll likely be experiencing high stress, adrenaline, and fear, which significantly impacts your performance. Practicing cold starts helps you understand and improve your capabilities under these exact conditions, ensuring you can effectively use your firearm when it matters most.

What are common shooting errors identified during cold start drills?

Common errors include 'yanking' or jerking the trigger, often caused by an inconsistent grip or improper finger placement, leading to shots going low and left. Another mistake is shooting before acquiring a stable sight picture (finding the dot), resulting in missed shots or shots outside the critical A-zone. Poor grip consistency is a recurring theme.

How can I improve my cold start performance with my EDC firearm?

To improve, consistently practice cold starts by performing your first shots on a clean target without any warm-up. Focus on maintaining a master grip, proper trigger control to avoid yanking, and acquiring your sights quickly and accurately. Practice drills like A-zone transitions and bill drills under timed conditions to build proficiency under stress.

What is the correct reloading procedure for a Glock to avoid a 'dead man's gun'?

For Glocks, it's recommended to always rack the slide after a reload, rather than solely relying on the slide release. This ensures a round is properly chambered, preventing a 'dead man's gun' scenario where you might encounter a click instead of a bang when you need to fire.

Related News

All News →

More Training & Techniques Videos You Might Like

More from Appalachian Smokewagon

View all →