by Zero Theory staff
In law enforcement, designated marksmen can play a crucial role in providing precise fire support during high-stakes operations. Whether responding to active shooter situations or providing overwatch for tactical teams, a Patrol Designated Marksman (PDM) must be able to perform under pressure. The PDM Qualification Course is designed to assess a marksman’s precision, adaptability, and decision-making skills in real-world law enforcement scenarios. Unlike traditional static shooting tests, this course simulates the dynamic and unpredictable nature of the job.
Course Overview:
The PDM Qualification Course challenges officers to engage targets from different positions, under varying time constraints, and in realistic conditions. The course is structured to test both accuracy and speed from varied positions using a combination of precision shots and close-quarters engagements. The target distance starts at 100 yards. The target itself is a simple, printable 8.5×11 sheet with one large circle (about 6 inches) for general target engagement and one small circle (about 2.75 inches) for more precise shots. The qualification consists of 10 total shots, with a passing score of nine hits. A single miss in Phase I results in automatic failure.
Phase I: Hasty Precision Shot (25 seconds)
The first phase of the course tests the officer’s ability to make a quick, precise shot under pressure. From the standing position, the officer begins with the rifle in the “cruiser ready” configuration (empty chamber, loaded magazine inserted in the rifle). On the buzzer, the officer must transition to the prone position, chamber a round, adjust scope magnification, deploy the bipod if available, and fire a single shot at the small circle. With only 25 seconds to complete the shot, this phase is designed to simulate the need for no-fail accuracy in a high-pressure situation. Failure to successfully engage the small circle target on this phase results in an automatic course failure.
Phase II: 3-Round Precision Group (35 seconds)
In this phase, the officer is tasked with firing a 3-round group at the small circle. The goal is to demonstrate consistent fundamentals and precision under more controlled conditions. Starting from the prone position, the officer has 35 seconds to fire a group of three rounds. This phase tests the officer’s ability to maintain steady control, manage breathing, and execute a deliberate shot sequence—all essential skills for a law enforcement marksman.
Phase III: Kneeling Barricade (45 seconds)
The third phase simulates a real-world scenario where a marksman must adapt to unconventional shooting positions. From the standing position with gear in hand, the officer must move quickly to assume a kneeling position and support his rifle on a barricade. Once in position, the officer must fire a single shot at the small circle. The 45-second time limit adds an element of urgency, requiring the officer to balance speed with precision.
Phase IV: Sprint Positions (40 seconds)
Phase IV tests the officer’s ability to close distance on a threat while employing necessary weapon handling skills and maintaining accuracy. Starting at the 100-yard line, the officer must sprint to the 75-yard line, drop into a kneeling position, and fire a single shot at the large circle. The rifle will lock back after the first shot, signaling the need to reload. The officer must then conduct an emergency reload while sprinting to the 50-yard line, then fire a second shot at the large circle. This phase is designed to simulate a situation where a marksman must cover ground quickly while engaging targets in rapid succession.
Phase V: CQB Engagement (7 seconds)
The final phase of the course simulates a close-quarters combat scenario. Starting at the 15-yard line, the officer must move to the 7-yard line while adjusting the rifle’s magnification and engage the large circle with three rounds. Time limit is 7 seconds. This phase simulates the urgency and accuracy required during dynamic encounters.
Scoring and Passing Requirements
A minimum of nine out of ten shots must be on target to pass. A miss on Phase I results in immediate failure. This course is designed to be challenging but not impossible. A combination of speed, precision, and adaptability are required to complete it successfully. Law enforcement agencies rely on precision marksmen to make critical decisions in high-risk situations, and this course of fire reflects that responsibility.
Conclusion
The PDM Qualification Course is a comprehensive assessment designed to test law enforcement officers’ skills and abilities for necessary job functions. By simulating real-world situations, this course ensures officers can perform under pressure, transitioning seamlessly between different shooting positions while maintaining accuracy. It is a critical tool in evaluating the effectiveness of qualified Patrol Designated Marksmen, helping ensure they are ready for any scenario they may encounter on the street.
CLICK HERE to download the free printable PDF target
CLICK HERE to download the free printable course of fire
Note – This course of fire may be updated in the future. Any changes will be documented herein and the version number will be incremented accordingly.