Equipment Considerations

Ammo

We understand the cost of ammo is high. That being said, low quality ammo can make or break your training experience. Although it can provide realistic training opportunities, it usually makes for a bad day. Ensure your rifle can function on the ammo you’re feeding it (.223 vs. 5.56).

Weapons

Bring a working pistol/carbine and appropriate number of serviceable magazines for each weapon system. A spare bolt carrier group may come in handy. We see guns go down for various reasons in every class. Spare guns are nice if you have them.

Magazine loaders are recommended due to large volume of ammo shot during courses.

Lubrication

Lubricate your weapons generously for the course, particularly the bolt carrier group. You may want to wipe down and reapply lubrication at mid-day and every night for multiple day courses. We use a variety of gun lubes to include Militec, Machine Gunners Grease, FP10, etc.

Sights/Optics

Iron sights are a given. If you are running optics, please put in fresh batteries prior to the course. It is always a good idea to carry spare batteries as well. Take some time before class and research the function of your optics. Know the click adjustments for zeroing. If at all possible, show up with a verified 50 yard zero and know your holds. If you prefer a different BZO, know your adjustments at 50, 25, 15, 7, 5 for POA/POI. We will make every attempt to confirm zero at the beginning of each training day.

Lights

Bring reliable lights with sufficient lighting power to ID threats at appropriate ranges within your area of operation. We recommend Surefire products.

Slings

You will need a tactical sling (single point, 2 point). Each of these has its advantages and disadvantages, but you will need a way to sling your carbine. We will do this for pistol transitions and to safely operate in a dynamic environment. If running a single point sling, we highly recommend that your also have a weapons catch.

Gear Set Up

In general, each shooter should have a sturdy gun belt, holster, and double mag pouch for the pistol. Each shooter will also need a way to carry at least four rifle magazines on their person at all times. Our range rotations are based on these numbers. Anything less will reduce the students training time. There are many options available to include a sub-load (drop leg), belt rigs, chest rigs, plate carriers, etc. All of these are acceptable. As you will soon find out, the quest for the perfect kit is never ending.

We recommend a dump pouch as well. This will greatly enhance the students training experience. They provide a place for depleted magazines, gun lube, etc.

Eye / Ear Protection

Quality wrap around eye protection is a must. Optical glasses are not a safe alternative. Electronic hearing protection is preferred but not required. A ball cap will also provide protection for your eyes as well as sun protection for your head.

Other Gear

• knee/elbow pads (highly recommended)
• wet/cold weather gear
• hydration kit
• sunscreen
• small first aid kit
• allergies (notify staff / Epi-Pen / location)
• bug spray

Lead exposure

Bring a means to clean your hands prior to lunch and at the end of the day. Not all training locations have an onsite facility.