How many points to get a patch?

Published on March 10, 2026
Duration: 9:25

Ben Stoeger, an expert firearms instructor, details the components and purpose of standard shooting tests. These tests are designed as tools for individual skill development, emphasizing complex drills like position changes and convoluted engagement orders to build proficiency beyond simple target acquisition. Stoeger highlights that the goal is self-improvement, not just external rewards, and that high scores reflect significant dedication and training.

Quick Summary

Ben Stoeger views standard shooting tests as essential tools for individual skill development and self-improvement. These tests incorporate complex drills like position changes and convoluted engagement orders to build proficiency. While the maximum score is 340, achieving 90% is considered 'very good,' and 95% is a mark of exceptional skill, attainable by few without dedicated training.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Standard Exercises
  2. 00:43Components of a Standard Test
  3. 01:30Purpose of Position Changes
  4. 02:46Convoluted Engagement Orders
  5. 03:55Motivation: Skill Building vs. Rewards
  6. 05:07Scoring and Skill Expectations
  7. 06:33Competition vs. Real-World Shooting
  8. 07:40Student Skill Level for Classes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary purpose of standard shooting tests according to Ben Stoeger?

Ben Stoeger emphasizes that standard shooting tests are primarily tools for individual skill development and self-improvement. They are designed to challenge shooters and build proficiency, rather than just serving as a means to earn external rewards like patches or coins.

How does Ben Stoeger explain the importance of position changes in shooting tests?

Stoeger clarifies that position changes, like moving from standing to kneeling, are crucial for destabilizing shooters and forcing them to actively stabilize the firearm. This practice better prepares them for real-world or competition scenarios where shooting from unstable positions is common.

What are the scoring expectations for standard shooting tests?

The maximum score is 340 points. Achieving 90% is considered 'very good' and challenging, while reaching 95% is a benchmark achieved by very few individuals without specialized training, indicating a high level of proficiency.

What is the main requirement for students attending Ben Stoeger's classes?

The primary requirement for students attending Ben Stoeger's classes is safety, specifically the ability to complete a match without disqualification. The focus is on teaching effective practice methods, not on requiring a pre-existing high skill level.

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