Critical Thinking Drill | Tactical Rifleman

Published on July 22, 2022
Duration: 11:04

This video introduces the 'Critical Thinking Drill,' designed to move marksmanship skills into the subconscious, freeing the conscious mind for threat assessment. The drill involves engaging steel targets in a randomized, instructed sequence, forcing shooters to process cognitive commands while executing fundamental shooting tasks. It emphasizes the difference between a marksman and a combat shooter by adding complexity beyond basic target acquisition and engagement.

Quick Summary

The Critical Thinking Drill is a tactical training exercise designed to elevate shooters beyond basic marksmanship. By introducing cognitive challenges like randomized target sequences and specific engagement orders, it forces the subconscious execution of shooting fundamentals, freeing the conscious mind for vital threat assessment and decision-making in combat scenarios.

Chapters

  1. 00:03Introduction
  2. 00:30Sponsor: Bullet Safe Body Armor
  3. 01:26Introducing the Critical Thinking Drill
  4. 02:16Example: Instructor Z's Combat Mindset
  5. 03:22Drill Setup: Steel Targets
  6. 04:13How the Drill Works: Instructions
  7. 05:27Emery's Turn: Shooting 9-1
  8. 06:47Sue's Turn: Shooting Evens then Odds
  9. 07:58Instructor's Turn: Evens, Blues, Odds
  10. 09:00Emery's Second Turn: Black, Blue, Red
  11. 09:50Drill Recap and Variations
  12. 10:15Viewer Engagement and Thanks

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the Critical Thinking Drill?

The Critical Thinking Drill aims to develop combat shooters by pushing fundamental marksmanship skills into the subconscious. This frees up the shooter's conscious mind to focus on critical threat assessment, decision-making, and situational awareness rather than the mechanics of operating their firearm.

How is the Critical Thinking Drill set up and executed?

The drill involves setting up numbered or colored steel targets. The shooter begins with their back to the targets, which are then randomly rearranged. The drill runner provides specific instructions (e.g., 'shoot evens,' 'shoot blues') before the shooter turns and engages the targets in the prescribed order, often incorporating reloads and malfunctions.

What are the key differences between a marksman and a combat shooter?

A marksman masters the fundamentals of shooting. A combat shooter, however, has internalized these fundamentals to the subconscious level, allowing their conscious mind to focus on higher-level tasks like threat identification, threat prioritization, and tactical decision-making in dynamic environments.

What safety considerations are important for the Critical Thinking Drill?

Always adhere to firearm safety rules. When shooting steel targets, maintain a safe distance, at least 7 meters is recommended, to prevent injury from spall. Ensure a safe direction of fire at all times.

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