The TTPOA Podcast: TTPOA Train-Up's Series - "CQB Marksmanship"
Release Date: March 25, 2025
Hosts: Derek and Brandon
In this episode of The TTPOA Podcast, hosts Derek and Brandon delve deep into the nuanced world of Close Quarters Battle (CQB) Marksmanship. Joined by experienced professionals Dan Brokos and Gabe Rivera, the discussion centers around the integration of marksmanship into CQB training, the importance of weapon handling under stress, effective training methodologies, common pitfalls in shooting practices, and the paramount significance of mastering fundamentals for first responders operating on the front lines.
1. The Integration of Marksmanship into CQB Training
Brandon introduces the topic by discussing the incorporation of marksmanship into their CQB classes. He explains that last year marked the beginning of a dedicated focus on marksmanship within their training framework.
"We did a two days of CQB marksmanship in three days of CQB. So there's a weak package down in Houston, and I've run that a couple times this year."
(Brandon, [01:30])
This integration aims to enhance the precision and effectiveness of first responders during high-stress operations, ensuring they can accurately neutralize threats while maintaining control over their weapon systems.
2. Importance of Accurate Shooting in CQB
The conversation underscores that marksmanship isn't just about hitting targets but also about managing and fighting effectively with available tools under pressure.
"If you're not a master of your weapons, you shouldn't be in the house. That's really what our stress test is."
(Brandon, [03:13])
Brandon emphasizes that mastering marksmanship ensures that responders can swiftly and accurately respond to threats without compromising their position or safety.
3. Managing Weapon Systems Under Stress
A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the necessity of seamless weapon transitions during CQB scenarios. Brandon shares insights into common errors, such as unnecessary transitions between firearms, which can lead to loss of angles and increased vulnerability.
"You just gave up an angle. So it has that aspect of going on of like, you know, where I grew up, it was, you know, I won't say it's unrealistic, but if the only time you transition… you're not thinking enough to do attack reload."
(Brandon, [02:29])
The hosts highlight that effective weapon management is crucial for maintaining tactical advantage and ensuring mission success.
4. Training Drills and Methodologies
Brandon discusses various drills designed to enhance both speed and accuracy, emphasizing the balance between maintaining a fast pace and ensuring precise shots.
"If I'm not going, oh, I hope I get my PR on this. I'm going to go at a pace where I know I'm getting solid hits and that that has to be fast, but it has to also be accurate."
(Brandon, [05:03])
He elaborates on how these drills simulate real-life scenarios, enabling responders to develop reflexive shooting responses that are both quick and accurate.
5. Common Mistakes and Bad Habits in Training
The episode addresses several prevalent mistakes in shooting practices, particularly those influenced by social media trends. Matt raises concerns about techniques like "coming off safe", where the safety mechanism is bypassed prematurely, increasing the risk of accidental discharges.
"I've never come across anybody in all, in all of my time and travels that I would think that I would trust this person to support me… it's money."
(Matt, [28:57])
Brandon adds that such practices are not only unsafe but also counterproductive in real-world operations, where precision and control are paramount.
"If I can manage the recall of minimum of 10, it may not be 10, but there's no way with your buttstock disconnected your rifle… you’re not going to manage 10 round string on somebody."
(Brandon, [22:37])
6. Real-world Application and Stories
Matt shares a compelling story from his military experience, illustrating the importance of accurate marksmanship and the dangers of poor technique.
"I shot the middle of what he gave me, which was his butt cheek. I hit him in the hip, knocked him down. Guy rolled over, I stood up, I put one on the back of his neck and killed him."
(Matt, [17:37])
This narrative underscores the critical need for responders to understand their weapon's offset and maintain accuracy under pressure.
7. Emphasis on Fundamentals and Continuous Improvement
Gabe Rivera discusses the significance of mastering the basics to allow for advanced tactical maneuvers. He highlights how competitions and rigorous training push individuals to their limits, making their shooting responses almost automatic.
"It's no longer me thinking about the shooting, it's just happening in the background. So I'm freeing up my mind to think about problem-solving and getting my mission accomplished."
(Gabe, [09:26])
This approach ensures that responders can perform effectively without being overwhelmed by the mechanics of shooting during critical moments.
8. Team Training and First Responder Focus
Brandon shares a poignant lesson from his training days, emphasizing team cohesion and the importance of individual proficiency for the team's overall effectiveness.
"You're doing it for the team. Everybody wants to win, but you can't be the weakest link. The team depends on you to get better."
(Brandon, [36:22])
He reinforces that CQB is inherently a team sport, where each member's skills contribute to the collective success and safety of the unit.
9. Conclusion and Final Takeaways
The episode wraps up with a strong emphasis on continually honing foundational skills, understanding weapon dynamics, and prioritizing team efficacy over individual prowess.
"All we have is advanced swat. We're just showing you building on the foundation of what you already have… The principles are still the same."
(Derek, [34:19])
The hosts reiterate the importance of solid fundamentals, accurate shooting, and effective weapon management as the cornerstones of successful CQB operations.
Notable Quotes
-
Brandon on Marksmanship Importance:
"If you're not a master of your weapons, you shouldn't be in the house."
(Brandon, [03:13]) -
Matt on Weapon Offset:
"They put all five of them in the same damn hole because they're putting their red dot IN the middle of that thing."
(Matt, [15:11]) -
Gabe on Automated Shooting Responses:
"The shooting part is already pre-programmed in me."
(Gabe, [09:26]) -
Brandon on Team Cohesion:
"You can't be the weakest link. The team depends on you to get better."
(Brandon, [36:22])
Key Takeaways
- Integration of Marksmanship into CQB: Essential for enhancing responder accuracy and effectiveness during operations.
- Weapon Management Under Stress: Mastery over weapon transitions and handling prevents loss of tactical advantage.
- Balanced Training Drills: Combining speed with accuracy ensures responders can perform under pressure without sacrificing precision.
- Avoiding Bad Habits: Techniques like "coming off safe" are dangerous and counterproductive, often propagated by misinformation.
- Mastering Fundamentals: Solid foundational skills enable responders to execute complex maneuvers seamlessly.
- Team Over Individual: Personal proficiency contributes to the overall strength and success of the team during missions.
This episode serves as a critical resource for SWAT officers, military personnel, and first responders, providing actionable insights into improving CQB marksmanship through disciplined training, adherence to safety protocols, and unwavering commitment to team excellence.