Kit Badger's Cold Start Tests

Published on May 18, 2020
Duration: 10:42

This video explains and demonstrates the 'cold start' concept in firearms training, emphasizing the importance of assessing performance without prior warm-up. Two specific drills are detailed: the Rune Nation drill (1 low-prob, 3 high-prob targets, repeated with a reload, 12-second par time) and the Bear Solutions drill (5 rounds, 5 rounds, reload, 3 rounds, 9-second par time). The drills highlight the reality of defensive shooting scenarios, which often occur unexpectedly, and the need for honesty in self-assessment of skills.

Quick Summary

Firearms 'cold start' drills are crucial for assessing performance without warm-up, simulating unexpected defensive encounters. They measure baseline accuracy and speed, revealing your true capabilities under pressure. Two examples are the Rune Nation drill (12-sec par, 1 low-prob/3 high-prob targets) and the Bear Solutions drill (9-sec par, no make-ups).

Chapters

  1. 00:02Introduction to Cold Starts
  2. 00:32What is a Cold Start Drill?
  3. 01:14Rune Nation Cold Start Target Setup
  4. 01:20Rune Nation Drill Course of Fire
  5. 02:06Rune Nation Par Time
  6. 02:12Bear Solutions Cold Start Drill
  7. 02:25Bear Solutions Target Setup
  8. 02:34Bear Solutions Course of Fire
  9. 02:54Bear Solutions Par Time Difficulty
  10. 03:08Why Cold Starts Matter for Defense
  11. 03:54Participant Firearm Selection
  12. 04:32Rune Nation Drill Execution & Feedback
  13. 06:16Bear Solutions Drill Execution & Feedback
  14. 07:13Understanding Your Speed Limit
  15. 07:27Reviewer's Perspective on Cold Starts
  16. 08:05The Importance of 'Cold' Performance
  17. 08:16Cold Starts for New Firearm Reviews
  18. 08:43Metrics for Self-Assessment
  19. 08:53Cold Starts for Consumer & Reviewer Learning
  20. 09:17Introducing Manipulations Cold
  21. 09:41Balancing Time and Accuracy
  22. 10:13Conclusion: Appreciating Cold Starts

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a firearms 'cold start' drill?

A firearms 'cold start' drill is a training exercise performed without any prior warm-up shots. Its purpose is to simulate real-world defensive shooting scenarios, where encounters are unexpected and you must perform immediately with your current skill level.

What are the key differences between the Rune Nation and Bear Solutions cold start drills?

The Rune Nation drill uses specific target zones (low/high probability) with a 12-second par time and allows for missed shot make-ups. The Bear Solutions drill has a tighter 9-second par time, a different round distribution, and no make-up shots for misses, making it more unforgiving.

Why is it important to practice cold starts for defensive shooting?

Defensive shootings rarely happen after a range day. Cold starts assess your performance when caught off guard, revealing your true capabilities in accuracy and speed without the benefit of warming up, which is critical for self-defense readiness.

How can cold starts benefit firearm reviewers?

For reviewers, cold starts immediately highlight a firearm's ergonomics, handling characteristics, and any potential issues without the bias of warm-up rounds. This forces a rapid understanding of the product's performance and user experience from a consumer's perspective.

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