How to Track a Human | Tactical Tracking

Published on March 10, 2023
Duration: 61:24

This video, featuring Peter Kerr of Tactical Tracking Operations School, details advanced tactical tracking techniques for military and law enforcement. It expands on basic footprint recognition by covering methods for identifying tracks, documenting them with photography and sketches, and analyzing gait characteristics to infer speed, weight, and intent. The instruction emphasizes closing time and distance with the target rapidly, utilizing both micro and macro tracking approaches, and understanding the psychological aspects of the individual being tracked.

Quick Summary

Tactical tracking involves identifying and following human footprints by analyzing the primary impact point, foot roll, and toe push-off to determine direction. Techniques like the time/shadow effect, macro tracking for long-range scanning, and gait analysis provide crucial information about the target's speed, condition, and proximity.

Chapters

  1. 00:00:48Sponsor: GunSpot Auction Site
  2. 00:01:26Introduction to Tactical Tracking
  3. 00:02:25Aggressive vs. Basic Tracking Methods
  4. 00:03:00Peter Kerr's Tracking Background
  5. 00:04:14Print Recognition: Sorting Tracks
  6. 00:05:07Laying Down Tracks for Practice
  7. 00:06:12Documenting Footprints: Photography
  8. 00:06:28Utilizing the Time/Shadow Effect
  9. 00:08:47Using Markers for Identification
  10. 00:09:07Measuring Track Depth with a Scale
  11. 00:10:15Sketching Footprints for Documentation
  12. 00:11:00Micro vs. Macro Tracking
  13. 00:12:05Tactical Team Formations for Tracking
  14. 00:13:41Three Types of Tracking Methods
  15. 00:15:36Using Weapon as a Tracking Tool
  16. 00:17:04Macro Tracking: Scanning Ahead
  17. 00:19:51Indicators of Proximity
  18. 00:21:00The Psychology of Tracking
  19. 00:24:04Determining Rate of Movement
  20. 00:25:41Using Multiple Teams for Tracking
  21. 00:29:05Reading Footprints: What They Tell You
  22. 00:31:47Footprint Analysis: Primary Impact Point
  23. 00:33:39Deception Techniques in Tracking
  24. 00:34:57Height Calculations from Footprints
  25. 00:37:01Establishing Speed of Movement
  26. 00:39:49Stride, Pitch, Straddle, Pressure, Dwell Time
  27. 00:42:09Male vs. Female Gait Differences
  28. 00:44:04Identifying Gear Impressions
  29. 00:49:22Practical Tracking Exercise: Carl's Track
  30. 00:52:46Wedge Technique for Open Environments
  31. 00:57:41Tracking to a Road: Closing Time/Distance
  32. 00:58:45Tracking into Brush Line
  33. 00:59:18Locating the Target
  34. 01:00:05Importance of Practice
  35. 01:00:39Video Wrap-up and Next Steps

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key principles of tactical tracking?

Tactical tracking focuses on rapidly closing time and distance with a target. Key principles include accurate footprint identification, documentation using photography and sketches, utilizing natural light for shadow effects, and employing both micro (detailed) and macro (long-range scanning) tracking methods.

How can you determine the direction of travel from a footprint?

Direction of travel is determined by observing the primary impact point (usually the heel for forward motion), the natural articulation of the foot roll, and the terminal point or toe push-off. The direction of soil displacement also indicates the path of movement.

What is the 'time/shadow effect' in tracking?

The time/shadow effect is a technique where the tracker positions themselves so that the light source (like the sun) casts a shadow over the tracks. This enhances the visibility of the track's depth and details, making them easier to discern.

How does gait analysis help in tracking?

Gait analysis examines characteristics like stride length, pitch, straddle, pressure, and dwell time within footprints. This can reveal information about the individual's speed, weight, physical condition, and even potential injuries or unique characteristics, aiding in identification and pursuit.

What are indicators that a target is nearby?

Indicators of proximity include fresh urine spatter, recently disturbed ant hives (which take 15-20 minutes to resettle), and reactive vegetation that remains flattened for several minutes after being stepped on. These signs suggest the target is close.

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