Start Shooting Better Episode 6: El Presidente

Published on February 16, 2018
Duration: 7:04

This guide details the El Presidente drill, a classic marksmanship test developed by Col. Jeff Cooper. It focuses on evaluating and improving fundamental shooting skills like target transitions, reloading under pressure, and sight acquisition. The drill requires 12 rounds fired at three targets from 10 yards, with specific par times and scoring methods to assess performance. Expert instruction from Lucky Gunner and Citizens Defense Research highlights the importance of honest self-assessment and consistent practice for improvement.

Quick Summary

The El Presidente drill is a 12-round test from 10 yards at three targets, requiring a turn, two shots per target, an emergency reload, and two more shots. Developed by Col. Jeff Cooper, it evaluates marksmanship and gun-handling. Par times are 10 seconds clean for semi-autos and 12 for revolvers, with scoring often penalizing missed shots.

Chapters

  1. 00:07Introduction to El Presidente Drill
  2. 00:24Drill Overview and Setup
  3. 00:43Skills Developed
  4. 00:50Par Times and Scoring
  5. 01:11Objectives and Authenticity
  6. 01:55Performance Review and Teachable Moments
  7. 02:22John's First Run Analysis
  8. 02:40John's Second Run and Recovery
  9. 03:38Chris's Revolver Runs Analysis
  10. 04:14Importance of Honest Self-Assessment
  11. 05:03Melody's Performance and Learning
  12. 05:42Benefits of Stepping Outside Comfort Zone
  13. 06:17Expert Demo Run by Annette Evans
  14. 06:45Conclusion and Encouragement

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the El Presidente drill?

The El Presidente drill is a classic firearms training exercise developed by Col. Jeff Cooper. It involves shooting 12 rounds at three targets from 10 yards, requiring a turn, two shots per target, an emergency reload, and two more shots per target, testing marksmanship and gun-handling skills under time pressure.

What are the par times for the El Presidente drill?

The standard par time for the El Presidente drill is 10 seconds clean for semi-automatic pistols and 12 seconds clean for revolvers, starting from concealment. Advanced shooters aim for around 7 seconds clean.

How is the El Presidente drill scored?

Scoring can vary. One common method adds 0.5 seconds to the total time for each point down on an IDPA target. Alternatively, only completely clean runs with no misses may be accepted, making any missed shot a failure.

What skills does the El Presidente drill develop?

The El Presidente drill is excellent for developing multiple target transitions, fast sight acquisition, emergency reloading proficiency, drawing from concealment, and overall gun-handling efficiency under time constraints.

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