The El Presidente Drill

Published on April 16, 2026
Duration: 10:38

This video details the El Presidente drill, a timed shooting exercise focused on engaging multiple targets twice, performing a magazine change, and then engaging them twice again. Instructor Pat Mac emphasizes starting at a manageable pace (around 10 seconds) and gradually building speed, focusing on fundamentals like grip and muzzle control to improve accuracy. He also discusses common malfunctions like stovepipes and the importance of consistent practice.

Quick Summary

The El Presidente drill is a timed shooting exercise involving engaging two targets twice, performing a magazine change, and re-engaging both targets. Instructor Pat Mac emphasizes starting at a manageable pace (around 10 seconds) and focusing on fundamentals like grip and muzzle control to build speed and accuracy.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the El Presidente Drill
  2. 00:09Drill Execution: Engage, Reload, Engage
  3. 00:17Magazine Retention Philosophy
  4. 00:26Practicing Speed Reloads
  5. 00:40Target Time: 10 Secondsish
  6. 01:15Initial Drill Time: 9.86 Seconds
  7. 01:50Malfunction: Stovepipe
  8. 02:57Critique of Magazine Change
  9. 03:20Analyzing Misses and Flubs
  10. 03:40Self-Critique: Grip and Muzzle Whip
  11. 04:05Firearm Identification: OA Defense 2311
  12. 05:24The 'Impossible to Miss' Pace
  13. 06:06Importance of Press Checks
  14. 06:26Improved Time: 7.43 Seconds
  15. 06:30Analyzing Splits and Mag Change Time
  16. 07:00Consistency Over Single Fast Times
  17. 07:51Focusing on Accuracy Over Speed
  18. 08:35Addressing Gen 1 OA Defense Issues
  19. 09:06Slide Lock and Final Time: 7.42 Seconds
  20. 09:21Consistent El Presidente Times
  21. 09:41The Psychology of Performance
  22. 10:04Staying in Your 'Impossible to Miss' Space

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the El Presidente drill?

The El Presidente drill is a timed shooting exercise where a shooter engages two targets twice, performs a magazine change, and then engages both targets twice again. It's designed to test speed, accuracy, and reloading proficiency under pressure.

What are common mistakes during the El Presidente drill?

Common mistakes include sloppy magazine changes, poor grip leading to muzzle whip, and failing to properly clear malfunctions like stovepipes. Rushing transitions and focusing too much on the timer can also lead to errors.

How should a shooter approach practicing the El Presidente drill?

Beginners should start at a manageable pace, around 10 seconds, and focus on fundamental accuracy. Gradually increase speed while maintaining control. It's also recommended to practice at an 'impossible to miss' pace to build solid fundamentals.

What firearm was used in the El Presidente drill demonstration?

The firearm demonstrated in the El Presidente drill was an OA Defense 2311 Compact Pro. The instructor noted it was new to him and discussed some initial impressions and potential issues with earlier generations.

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