Shooting From Cover or Concealment

Published on September 11, 2016
Duration: 6:55

This video explains the critical distinction between cover and concealment in firearms training. It details how to effectively utilize each, emphasizing that cover should stop projectiles while concealment only hides the shooter. The instructor provides practical advice on positioning relative to cover in different environments (urban vs. flat terrain) and highlights the dangers of exposing oneself unnecessarily, particularly the head.

Quick Summary

Cover provides ballistic protection, while concealment only hides you. In urban settings, stay close to cover to break line of sight; in flat terrain, standing back offers more maneuverability. Never expose your head above cover to shoot; always shoot from the sides. For camouflage, get inside the concealing object.

Chapters

  1. 00:14Introduction: Cover vs. Concealment
  2. 00:30Defining Cover
  3. 01:05Examples of Cover (Truck Engine)
  4. 01:24Defining Concealment
  5. 01:55Shooting Positions Relative to Cover
  6. 02:16Standing Close to Cover (Urban)
  7. 03:19Standing Back from Cover (Flat Terrain)
  8. 04:20Avoiding Exposure: Don't Pop Your Head
  9. 04:36Shooting from a Vehicle
  10. 04:51Tactics for Concealment
  11. 05:15Concealment as Camouflage
  12. 05:51General Rules and Application
  13. 06:04Scenario-Based Application

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary difference between cover and concealment in firearms tactics?

Cover is an object that can reasonably stop incoming projectiles, offering ballistic protection. Concealment, on the other hand, merely hides you from view and does not stop bullets. Examples of cover include vehicle engine blocks, while bushes are examples of concealment.

When should you stand close to cover versus standing further away?

In urban environments, staying close to cover is recommended to break line of sight from elevated threats. In flat terrain, standing further back can offer more room to maneuver, as the line of sight is typically flat and predictable.

What is the biggest mistake to avoid when shooting from cover?

The most critical mistake is exposing your head above your cover or concealment to take a shot. Your head is a vital organ, and this action makes you highly vulnerable to being hit. Always shoot from the sides of your cover.

How should you use concealment for camouflage?

If using concealment for camouflage, you should get inside the concealing object as much as possible. This maximizes your hidden profile and makes it harder for observers to spot you, especially from the sides and back.

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