The Way Forward Training Target Drill Breakdown

The Way Forward Training Target Drill Breakdown

Author: Matt McGuire - Founder of "The Way Forward Training"

Zero tools are used for a 10 zero on the one-inch dot and a 25-yard confirmation. It is typically shot free-hand but can be benched depending on ability.

Dot #1/Credit Card #6/Half A zone

This target group introduces pace and rhythm using the 5x5 drill as a base. Rather than shooting to a full-size USPSA or IDPA scoring zone, the smaller targets require a reduction in shooting speed to balance accuracy and pace (this does not mean shooting slow!). The drill requires 5 shots at 5 yards to Dot 1, Box 6, and then the half-A zone around Box 6. Each string is shot at an increasing pace relative to the target size.

Time Standards 

Dot 1: 3.5 seconds

Box 6: 2.75 Seconds

Half A: 2.25 seconds

Boxes 2, 3, 4 and 7

This target group was intended to simulate multiple distances with small transitions to push visual and shooting pace. The primary drill function is a modified MXAD drill. 5 shots to Box 3 and 2 to box 4, then 5 shots to box 2, and then 2 shots to box 7.  Scored with Hit Factor, which is time divided by hits, each hit being 5 points, misses worth zero. 40 points possible, each of the 2 strings should be timed and scored separately. 

Bullseye Targets

These bullseye targets are designed to be used as a pure mechanical accuracy drill by keeping only the X ring blue as the acceptable scoring zone but still providing scoring rings to track progression. Do not accept less than the required accuracy in terms of the drill but be aware that the target is a benchmark to maintain small visual indexes and expose poor technique. 

Boxes 5, 8, 9

This target group is designed to force careful visual processes and offer flexibility in terms of student skill levels. The drill shot to these boxes can also include the top half of the center A zone, the full A zone, or either of boxes 2 or 3. The drill is shot, 2 rounds each, beginning with dot number 8, then box 9, head T box 5 or the entire 4x4 head box, then the half or full A zone. Drill can be shot in any order, but each target zone has zero forgiveness for inappropriate techniques applied (hits in the scoring zone). The point of the drill is to see the appropriate sight confirmation for each target size and begin to help the student gauge what is required in terms of visual confirmation and trigger control. 

Half A zones (Center)

Each of the 2 half-A zones was designed as multi-function but in terms of class curriculum, they will be used for 5x5 workups, retreating bill drills, as well as “Tracking the A-Zone” drills in the class movement portion. 

Movement/Accuracy Assessment

Introduced as part of this curriculum is a cumulative exercise that encompasses almost all techniques and skills covered in the class.

Beginning at 25 yards, fully loaded, gun holstered. On the beep, draw and begin moving to 20yds, firing 5 rounds while moving from 25-20. Repeat at 5yd increments, 20-15, 15-10, 10-5. Total of 20 rounds. Scoring is 5 points per A zone hit, 2 points per C zone hit. 0 points outside of the C zone, minus 5 points for misses. Each string is scored and timed individually. Rounds must be fired on the move, meaning you cannot run to the next yard line marker and shoot. The shooter must end at the next yard line marker. 

100 points possible. 

Time standards: 

25-20 yds- 4.5 seconds

20-15 yds- 4 seconds

15-10 yds- 3.5 seconds

10-5 yds- 2.5 seconds

14.5 seconds maximum

If you make time, divide points by the total time for the hit factor score

Many more combinations of drills can be applied to these targets. You can also make up your own drills. The point of the target is to provide a nearly endless possible combination of drills that can be shot on 1 target but provide specific focus points to promote the class curriculum.