Bryan V
Newbie
Course Overview
Low Light Instructor is an accelerated instructors' course focused on scotopic environment manipulation. Instructors will push the boundaries of “traditional” low light and no light engagements in true 3D environments. An in-depth look into weapon and equipment manipulations, human anatomy, principles of light employment and movement will occur both on the range and in the classroom. Low light myths and status quos will be challenged as instructors explore the reality of critical engagements through force on force.
Exercise Overview
Low Light Instructor
Instructor: William Petty
Dates: 05/23/17-05/26/17
Time: Varied daily
Location: Corpus Christi, TX, CCPD Facility
About: Instructor William Petty
William Petty began his Law Enforcement career in 2003 in Albuquerque, NM. While there he served as a Firearms Instructor, an Emergency Response Team member and was also a member of the department’s shooting team. In 2011, Petty relocated to Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates where he worked as a Counter Terrorism Instructor with the Critical National Infrastructure Authority.
In 2013 (to present) he returned to the U.S. and resumed law enforcement with his department in Texas. While there he worked patrol and ran the firearms programs for several large regional Police academies. He has and continues to run contract courses establishing various programs and in-service material for major local, state and federal departments in the US and Canada.
Gear/Equipment Overview
Handgun
Primary: Glock 17, Roland Special, Trijicon RMR06, TBRC Micro Comp, Agency Arms Trigger, Surefire X300U
Backup: Glock 19, Blacked out rear w/Red fiber optic front (WOTG Sights, Frank Proctor, Agency Arms Trigger, Surefire X300U
Carbine
Primary: Warsport LVOA, Aimpoint H-1, Streamlight Railmount 2
Backup: Bushmaster, Standard 14.5 setup, Eotech, Inforce WMLX
Holster/Belt: Ronin Tactics Senshi Belt, Veil Solutions Fett Holster, Esstac pistol/rifle mag caddies
Ammo: Stand One Armory, 115gr, 9mm 500 rounds and .223 500 rounds
FOF: Force on force equipment, marking systems and cartridges
Before we begin a few words.
This AAR will be summarized as best as possible as this was a 4 day instructor level course filled with a great deal of information. All tactics will not be included in the AAR for good reasons, with that being said I hope you enjoy and get a good sense of what Centrifuge Training, LLC has to offer.
Day One, 1600-2400
Introduction & Safety Brief
Will started the day with a simple introduction of his background and the reasoning behind the Low Light Instructor program. Why the program was created and how he is trying to change the way departments and officers perceive low light situations and handle an engagement during low light conditions. Will quickly pointed out that this course is not a shooting course, although there is shooting. This is a problem solving course.
Then students did a quick introduction of themselves. Students attending were all LEO ranging from multiple departments locally and statewide. Each student ranged from patrol officer, SWAT officers and training instructors with various years of experience.
Classroom
After introductions Will dived in the low light program and the principles of low light. Then showed numerous videos to better help students understand and see those elements being applied in a real world situation. Petty discussed his principles of low light such as; It’s about the gun, not the light, all the lumens = if you can see it you can solve it, darkness is not cover, you control your speed = you can only go as fast as you can process the info, to quote a couple.
Will then covered basic human anatomy specifically what happens to the eyes during low light conditions and the use of white light to combat the effects of low light.
Rod cells of the retina:
Rhodopsin - Chemical in the eyes that is light sensitive
When rhodopsin is exposed to light, it immediately photobleaches. In humans, it is regenerated fully in about 30 minutes; after which rods are more sensitive.
Cone cells of the retina:
Opsin – The eyes become “bleached” due to exposure of light
Any of a group of light-sensitive proteins in the retina
Will explained the effect of this by illustrating the technique of “light on, light off” the chemicals in our eyes are constantly resetting if were using that technique making our eyes work even double time than they already are during a low light condition; instead of using the light constant to see what we need to
see. (Picture yourself closing your eyes, then re-open your eyes during day light, that's basically what you’re doing at night with light on, light off) Science bruh…
Instructor Point: Will explained the liability of instructing our students to “light on, light off” all the time. That can potentially create problems by not allowing officers to see what they need to see especially when navigating or searching. Not that “light on, light off” doesn't have its places at times, but it should not be something that students should be yelled at for not turning their light off during training. Bad guys don’t play by our rules and will generally shoot anywhere in your direction.
Lighting Conditions and Anatomy of Light
There are three light conditions associated with low light such as:
Photopic – Daylight
Mesopic –Twilight(ambient light)
Scotopic –Complete Darkness
Will explained the anatomy of the light simply by stating the “light needs to be as capable as the weapon system it’s on” when looking for a light here are a few things to be considered:
Ease of use, preferably a tail cap activated switch, constant on/momentary
All the lumens, lumens = information, which = problem solving
Handheld size, not too big, not too small
Flashlight Terminology
· Lumen - Measurement of light at source
· Hotspot – Brightest point of focus from light source
· Throw - The ability of a flashlight to place light onto a distant defined area of surface
· Flood/Spill - Scattered light emitted from a flashlight. Good for indoor use to light up a room or short-range use outdoors to light up an area
· Backsplash – light that is bounced back either from not offsetting the light or refracting off reflective surfaces
Range
Will dived into the safety brief along with the medical plan in case anyone decided not to follow the firearm safety rules. Will covered his version of the four firearm safety rules as the Life Firearm Safety Rules. As we train on the range, but when in reality were training for life.
1. Know the condition of your weapon.
2. Keep the weapon indexed in the safest direction possible. (Up, down, left, etc. this all depends on the situation and context)
3. Consciously work the safety and triggers.
4. Know your target, angle of engagement and offset.
The goal is to create safe shooters, in a non-safe environment. Often the firearm safety rules are glossed over without really getting the students attention. The safety brief serves four purposes:
1. Mentally prepare students for the task ahead
2. What is expected and not allowed
3. Liability as instructors
4. Having a plan (medical)
Nothing in this course is designed for you to shoot yourself or another fellow student. If you do so, you clearly did not adhere to one of the following safety rules. Don’t be that guy…
Handheld Light Techniques
Will explained that when looking at techniques, tactics etc. you have to consider two things:
1. Does it hold its ground when tested (FOF, Live Engagement)
2. Let the data drive the training (so what are we seeing during OIS shootings for instance)
The handheld light techniques that Will preferred were based off the data that has been collected through various OIS incidents, Traffic Stops, FOF training and not just what he likes or dislikes.
Preferred Methods:
1. Modified FBI
2. Temple Index
3. Harries
Non-Preferred Methods:
1. Surefire/Cigar method
2. Neck Index
Modified FBI
Allows the user to move the light freely around, searching, navigating etc and can be turned into temple index or harries with little to no hassle. Often students will have to “walk in” the hotspot of the light to intended area of target as this is the most hand eye coordinated technique of them all.
Temple Index
If you’re familiar with VCQB it’s of the similar principle, but you point the light where you need to see. Instead of traditionally using the neck index technique which can often have the light pointing at the back of your weapon hand instead of broadcasting the full light source down range; temple index allows the full light source to be downrange and easily aligned to where your looking.
Harries
Allows the user to broadcast the light down range when maneuvering around a wall, barricade, cover etc on a person’s strong side. Think right handed shooter working at the edge of a right side barricade; Harries allows the light to be positioned on the outside of whatever item your working around to help send the most light downrange. Modified FBI or Temple Index will usually cause “backsplash” of the light during this incident.
Surefire/Cigar
Not preferred due to the fact that it can take some time to get into this handheld position and students have often depressed the magazine release on the handgun at times. Rarely seen during FOF or live incidents as well.
Neck Index
As explained above neck index can at times cause “backsplash” of the shooters hand thus not maximizing the full light source downrange.
Will demoed each preferred handheld light method and had students fire from the 7yrd line no less than 3 rounds each string of fire. Ensuring students were working the techniques properly, being accurate and a proper follow through process with the handheld light.
Will explained that he believes students necessarily don’t need to spend all day working the handheld techniques, but instead need repetitions around 3-D objects and environments with the techniques.
“Anyone can pull a trigger, not everyone can think behind the trigger”
https://www.dropbox.com/s/b5za0dzr2clm55b/Video May 23, 7 03 31 PM.mov?dl=0 (click link)
Low Light Theory
https://www.dropbox.com/s/k28iet8qg461vvu/Photo May 28, 5 55 52 PM.png?dl=0 (click link)
After Will broke down what he called the Low Light Theory. He explained that this theory is what makes most sense to him and is a collection of information from multiple sources. Let’s take a look at this:
Lumens = Information = Problem Solving
Under Information we have:
1. ID
2. Searching
3. Navigation
4. Control – hotspot of the light in subjects eyes, taking away their visual information
5. Communication
Whenever we need to do any of these 5 things we use the light, when we don’t need the light then light goes off it’s that simple.
Instructor Note: Will explained the importance of having shoot/no-shoot targets during training. If we’re training our guys to shoot every time they turn on their light we are setting them up for failure. Case law dictates and backs up the training we do.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/72dwpvgfjw67764/Photo May 23, 7 16 30 PM.jpg?dl=0 (click link)
Cover / Vehicle Work
After coming back from lunch, a thunderstorm decided to show up out of nowhere, however this did not stop us in anyway shape or form and we proceeded to setup steel targets behind vehicles for the next block of instruction.
Instructor Note: Will asked a different student to explain the four firearm safety rules and the reasons behind doing so at the beginning of class and after lunch every day. This was done for 3 reasons:
1. To help students who maybe do not get enough teaching time, compared to other instructors in the class who have full time training spots
2. To bring students mentally back into the class
3. Instructor level class, so teach backs are expected
Will explained that he likes to use 3-D barricades during low light training compared to 2-D objects as it challenges the student to work the light more due to the fact that 3-D barricades often cause unwanted shadows compared to 2-D barricades.
Will pointed out when working any form of potential cover or vehicles we need to broadcast the most light downrange as possible; hence these are instances where we would want to crowd cover in order to get light down range and see what we need to see.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/baha9smmodknub2/Video May 23, 8 57 29 PM.mov?dl=0 (click link)
Vehicle Work
https://www.dropbox.com/s/vxm9z0oun1kmdts/IMG_2067.JPG?dl=0(click link)
There were 4 vehicles setup in a parallel fashion. Each vehicle was to be worked as a separate drill before moving on to the next vehicle. Will explained that students were to work handheld light only, and then weapon mounted light and lastly partner movement.
Will demoed each particular method before asking students to go live during each iteration; in order for students to see what was expected and what to look for when coaching. The remainder of the drills were conducted on a 1 student/1 coach bases unless it was a partner drill than 2 students/2 coaches.
Instructor Note: Each drill was conducted twice so that students could have enough repetitions as a shooter and a coach. Starting from left to right then back right to left, thus minimizing downtime of students and need for rearrange of targets depending on the drill.
Day 2, 1800-0200
Day 2 started off without a problem, students were ready to go and the weather was back to the normal hot/humid TX weather as usual.
Class
Will mentioned that this being an instructor level class, students should have a firm grasp of teaching skills already, but wants students to learn from his mistakes to make their job easier. He started off the class by posing the question- How do you evaluate techniques?
1. Does it work or is it environment dependent?
2. Is it necessary?
3. Can you duplicate it under stress?
These 3 principles help decide if a particular technique should be used or taught.
Instructor Teach Backs
After will explained the above methods he then asked every student to pick a number from 1-8. Each number represented a particular topic that was covered the day before in class by Will. I choose 7, so I was given the Harries Method as a teach back for the class (phew).
Students were to discuss their topic, demo and setup a drill for students to run. Students were given adequate time to touch up on their topic, ask will any questions and setup a drill if one was needed.
Each student did well on their teach backs and will corrected/gave pointers to students after their lessons.
Carbine w/Light
After teach backs we dived into carbine mounted light options. Will prefers a tail cap switch method compared to a pressure switch setup as the pressure pads are more susceptible to breaking (two stream light pressure pads malfunctioned later that night, go figure).
12 o’clock position
Pros:
· Light is aligned with optic, thus no matter what side you maneuver you’re rifle around a barricade you don’t have to account for light offset.
· Ambidextrous setup
Cons:
· Can take up some of your field of view when looking through the optic
Dominant Side
Pros:
· Good for working strong side of a barricade
· Allows the rifle to sit flush on support side when using junkyard prone (see picture if not familiar with that technique, click link)
https://www.dropbox.com/s/zbvnbs07q70koya/File Jun 09, 11 48 59 AM.png?dl=0 (click link)
Cons:
· Needs a pressure pad to activate light without sacrificing grip of rifle
· Need to offset light when working support side of a barricade
Support Side
Pros:
· Allows support thumb to activate tail cap switch
· Good for working support side of barricade
Cons:
· Strong side thumb may not be able to active light when shoulder transitioning
· Need to offset light on dominant side of barricade
After discussing the mounting options for lights on a rifle Will discussed the admin loading process for rifles during low light conditions.
Admin Load Process
· Know the conditions of your light source (last time batteries were replaced etc)
· Adjust the red dot to where it will not be washed out by the light source (typically full power, then back it off 2 clicks, is good spot on the Aimpoints)
· Insert magazine
o Press check, visually see brass chambered if possible or place index finger inside to feel for brass
o Or insert magazine, load a round and release magazine. A fully loaded mag will initially have the round on the right side of the mag, after chambering a round should sit left on the magazine (See picture, click link)
https://www.dropbox.com/s/3m0173kt0dqbzf8/Load-left-right.jpg?dl=0 (click link)
Handheld Light w/Carbine
Will explained that not every agency issues or allows officers to have WML’S on their carbines so we have to be able to teach others how to run a carbine with a handheld light. He instructed two methods to achieve this.
Harries:
The students forearm is placed infront of the magwell and pressed inwards to the body to help best stabilize the shot
https://www.dropbox.com/s/zf9988koi22u2f2/Photo May 24, 9 16 34 PM.jpg?dl=0 (click link)
Cigar/Syringe:
The back of the tail cap of the hand held light is pressed against the magwell.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/a9r1dwwleqoi2hl/Photo May 24, 9 17 12 PM.jpg?dl=0 (click link)
The consensus of the group was that the Harries method was more fluid and easier compared to the cigar method. I found my light being partially blocked by the hand stop on the rifle whereas the Harries method I did not have that issue.
Vehicle Work w/Carbine
https://www.dropbox.com/s/1brrb6hj6fslxfs/IMG_2076.JPG?dl=0 (click link)
We then picked up where we left off the previous day with vehicle work following the similar setup with 4 vehicles setup in a parallel fashion. Each vehicle was to be worked as a separate drill before moving on to the next vehicle. Will explained that students were to work handheld light only, and then weapon mounted light and lastly partner movement with carbine.
Will demoed each particular method before asking students to go live during each iteration; in order for students to see what was expected and what to look for when coaching. The remainder of the drills were conducted on a 1 student/1 coach basis unless it was a partner drill requiring 2 students/2 coaches.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/1fjlu42g9qvftwc/File Jun 09, 12 16 07 PM.jpeg?dl=0 (photo taken by Hugo M.)
Instructor Note: Each drill was conducted twice so that students could have enough repetitions as a shooter and a coach. Starting from left to right then back right to left, thus minimizing downtime of students and need for rearrange of targets depending on the drill.
Stick of DOOM!
Those who know of Will and his VCQB program are familiar with his infamous stick of doom that he implements into his training to induce full powered malfunctions.
Will quickly covered carbine malfunctions as this was an instructor level class and not a fundamentals class. What was instructed was how to set up a “organic” malfunction compared to a “non-organic” malfunction which you typically see set up on a flat range. This was done by introducing a 1x2 stick or referred to as the “stick of doom”. The 1x2 was pressed against the bolt carrier group as it cycled to induce an organic malfunction.
Petty explained this is done for two reasons. First, so that students get a true sense of a full fledge malfunction compared to the feel of a dummy round. Second, to get students use to problem solving, either by transitioning to their secondary if the situation dictates so, working the problem at hand and then fix their big gun.
We were to work the vehicles again, but this time with both the handgun and carbine while coaches induced malfunctions during the drill. The first run was conducted WML only then another run with handheld lights only.
Low Light Alphabet Soup
https://www.dropbox.com/s/mtndnbe484qwycx/IMG_2090.JPG?dl=0 (click link)
I and a few other classmates are VCQB Instructors so we were familiar with the alphabet soup drill and what it requires out of you as a shooter/coach. Two other vehicles were placed around the 50 yard line and the 4 other vehicles stayed put down range with several steel targets around them, each numbered and lettered differently. The two vehicles at the 50 yard line had several paper targets placed randomly as well.
Myself and a buddy were told to go first along with one of our arms being taped up. Will knew we were VCQB grads so more was expected out of us as it should be. My strong hand was taped up while my fellow class mates whole support arm was taped (my whole arm was taped up to my body last time, I feel his pain).
We started off on one side of the vehicle, upon threat call Will called out various targets for us to engage at all while constantly having us move back and forth from vehicle to vehicle while causing malfunctions on our weapons. As soon as your about to engage a target he would call a different one, as you engage he would cause another malfunction. Pure fun/chaos at the same time, as a shooter you have to be aware of your muzzle at all times, working your safety, trying to get your carbine back up (which I ditched at one point), communicating with your partner and getting your hits. Our drill was 11 minutes long so it was definitely a gut check. It was a great drill to end the final day of live fire before moving to force on force the next two days (I included a minute portion of the drill as 11 minutes was too long to add).
https://www.dropbox.com/s/6i3hz9ke1oyfjl4/Video May 25, 11 58 35 AM.mov?dl=0 (click link)
Day 3, 1800-0200 Force on Force
Day 3 started off with the class meeting at a different location prior from the past two days as we were about to work on force on force techniques along with understanding basic CQB skills/room clearance methods. The Corpus Christi Police Department (CCPD) acquired a few old broken down chemical plants which I’m pretty sure were haunted as well.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/neuug0sgbkmd9j1/Photo May 25, 7 05 31 PM.jpg?dl=0 (click link)
https://www.dropbox.com/s/0i3h6ngx8k7398f/Photo May 25, 7 10 21 PM.jpg?dl=0 (click link)
Will along with the students walked the different buildings to get a feel of what the type of environments they were going to be working in that night. After Will explained the importance of force on force training and how as mentioned before FOF helps to validate or disprove techniques and tactics.
Will explained the importance of introducing students to FOF at a gradual pace and not to simply throw students right into FOF. Most students do not get enough FOF reps thus expecting students to perform well right off the bat can be detrimental.
Instructor Note: When introducing FOF, work techniques dry, then techniques on paper and lastly full FOF. This will allow students enough reps to work out any kinks before jumping into FOF.
DECON Area
https://www.dropbox.com/s/jueu1ksxn0jjy46/File%20Jun%2009%2C%2012%2016%2021%20PM.jpeg?dl=0 (Photo taken by Hugo M.)
This goes without saying, but many unwanted shootings have happened during FOF training due to the simple fact of not having a proper “decontamination” area for live weapons etc. All live weapons were kept in the parking lot area, while the decon area was adjacent to one of the buildings. Students constantly checked each other before dry reps and live reps of FOF.
No one wants to eat out of a tube for the rest of their life so decon was taking very serious for the remainder of the two days. After students deconed and setup their weapon platforms for FOF, Will dived into basic CQB.
CQB
Will explained that in order to get good at CQB you have to practice CQB. He expected there were going to be some mistakes conducted in the following days, due to the simple fact that not everyone gets to practice CQB a lot or is familiar with certain techniques. So in essence we can’t expect our students back at our agency to perform flawlessly. The mistakes we would possibly conduct in the next two following days, gives preview to what we will more than likely see our students make or worse.
Will then broke down CQB, explaining how CQB is considered by some to be “advanced or SWAT guy stuff”, yet we have guys on patrol who clear buildings and residential homes on the daily. When in reality CQB should be taught from the ground up and constantly practiced especially if were asking our guys to clear structures in the performance of their duties. Will then talked about and demoed several entry methods on rooms, how to read rooms as best as possible whether it is a center fed room or corner fed room along with intersections such as a T- intersections.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/tzkm9ft5d3etuca/IMG_2133.JPG?dl=0 (click link)
Students then broke up into groups and worked each different entry method on center fed or corner fed rooms dry first with handheld lights. After students felt comfortable with the techniques it was time to go live against paper.
FOF Paper
Will had students run the remainder of the exercises that day in a partner fashion along with two coaches for each run. Coaches were responsible for critiquing student runs, setting up targets along with no shoot targets. Remember the purpose of the light is to positively id a threat; we would be setting up our guys for failure by training to just shoot at every target.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/1aych9n73auhnwh/IMG_2109.JPG?dl=0 (click link)
The first iteration of the drills were conducted on the first floor only, then after every student had a chance to shoot/coach then the second story of the building was in play and was used for a second iteration.
Will encouraged students during their down time to watch the other guys running the drill to help them see what works and what doesn’t. I took full advantage of that aspect since CQB training is something I don’t get to participate in everyday especially low light.
FOF Live
After paper runs it was time to go full FOF. Students and Opposition Force (OPFOR) were checked again before commencing FOF. Will explained that FOF is only good as its role players and OPFOR. Role players who stuck to their individual roles allowed the best opportunity to track performance results compared to role players who get bored of doing their specific roles and add more into the drill.
FOF Live was conducted in two iterations:
1. Handheld light only
2. Weapon mounted light/handheld
Students were given a certain scenario and proceeded into the building clearing the first level all while working each problem as they came up. Whether it was hearing noise in a room, making contact with a possible homeowner, bringing a suspect out of the building or securing them in a cleared room and engaging any threats.
After shooters ran their FOF drill they would become coaches while the previous coaches either became OPFOR, role players or shooters; thus allowing students to have enough repetitions in each category.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/gl9lia76x6k3kvh/Photo May 27, 1 10 13 PM.jpg?dl=0 (photo by Hugo M.)
Day 4, 1800-2400 FOF
Day 4 was conducted similar to day 2 in the aspect of teach backs. Will called out several numbers again which designated certain teach backs from the day before. I choose 3, so I was given corner fed room clearances as a teach back for the class (my favorite now). Students were to discuss their topic, demo and setup a drill for students to run. Students were given adequate time to touch up on their topic, ask will any questions and setup a drill if one was needed.
Each student did will on their teach backs and Will corrected/gave pointers to students after their lessons. After teach backs it was time to dive back into FOF with carbine/handgun this time.
FOF
Similar to the day before dry iterations of room clearances were conducted with carbine this time; ranging from handheld light w/carbine to WML on carbine. Let me tell you that WML is so much easier… It’s a proven fact that running a Warsport LVOA will grow your biceps by 5” after a CQB run (running joke between me and Will).
CCPD had brought in a few outside role players for FOF later that night who were observing during the dry runs and paper runs. Will mentioned to the class that if at any point an observer took a sim round you could kiss that certificate goodbye…instructor level class, roger that.
FOF Live
It was time to go live after students had enough repetitions running carbine/handgun. This time the class was split into half, ranging from officers to OPFOR. Another two parts of the building were added into play for a total of 4 areas that officers had to work and clear.
Students were staged at a certain area while making their approach would be engaged or challenged by a subject in an open air environment (which was covered in day 3). Students would solve the problem at hand while others found work by providing security on the unknown areas (using light to see dark corners etc). Continue their way into the outside warehouse, clearing that area before moving inside to the 1st floor area and clearing the remainder of the floors.
Lights, communication, muzzle discipline and team movement were of the most importance in the student’s runs. My group flowed well with some minor mistakes, but we also had SWAT Jesus on our side to help…
FOF Officer Involved Shooting/Recovery
After the exhilarating FOF runs in the warehouse/buildings Will had one more drill for us to run before ending the night. Will ran this drill in pairs with one student having only a handgun and another with a rifle/handgun.
Will did not debrief anyone on the drill to come until you were seated in the patrol unit (rental car ha). As you sat there he explained that you just received a call for shots fired, officer possibly down. Immediately after he hauled a$$ to the shots fired call location which was where none of the students could see what was happening.
Upon arrival two subjects were seen standing over the down officer, if subjects were threats they were dealt with or secured. Now the real fun began as the down officer required medical attention by applying a tourniquet all while Will is spraying you with fake blood. Once the down officer was treated it was time to CASEVAC him out of that location. My partner and I loaded him back into the patrol unit which a few seconds later “died” on us and we had to carry the officer several yards away to a secured location ending the drill. This drill is something you definitely have to experience for yourself.
Debrief/Thoughts
After range cleanup, Will thanked all the students for their time and hard work they put in during the four days of class and passed out certificates. Students shared thoughts, concerns and overall satisfaction with the class and instruction provided by Will. Overall I had a great four days of training with Will from Centrifuge Training, LLC along with a great group of shooters as well; also a big thank you to the Texas Tactical Police Officers Association and CCPD for hosting this course. I would highly recommend this course to any instructor along with peace officers who want a better understanding of low light techniques along with structure clearances. This type of training and information is something that every patrol officer should be equipped with. Stay Dangerous.
Bryan
Low Light Instructor is an accelerated instructors' course focused on scotopic environment manipulation. Instructors will push the boundaries of “traditional” low light and no light engagements in true 3D environments. An in-depth look into weapon and equipment manipulations, human anatomy, principles of light employment and movement will occur both on the range and in the classroom. Low light myths and status quos will be challenged as instructors explore the reality of critical engagements through force on force.
Exercise Overview
Low Light Instructor
Instructor: William Petty
Dates: 05/23/17-05/26/17
Time: Varied daily
Location: Corpus Christi, TX, CCPD Facility
About: Instructor William Petty
William Petty began his Law Enforcement career in 2003 in Albuquerque, NM. While there he served as a Firearms Instructor, an Emergency Response Team member and was also a member of the department’s shooting team. In 2011, Petty relocated to Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates where he worked as a Counter Terrorism Instructor with the Critical National Infrastructure Authority.
In 2013 (to present) he returned to the U.S. and resumed law enforcement with his department in Texas. While there he worked patrol and ran the firearms programs for several large regional Police academies. He has and continues to run contract courses establishing various programs and in-service material for major local, state and federal departments in the US and Canada.
Gear/Equipment Overview
Handgun
Primary: Glock 17, Roland Special, Trijicon RMR06, TBRC Micro Comp, Agency Arms Trigger, Surefire X300U
Backup: Glock 19, Blacked out rear w/Red fiber optic front (WOTG Sights, Frank Proctor, Agency Arms Trigger, Surefire X300U
Carbine
Primary: Warsport LVOA, Aimpoint H-1, Streamlight Railmount 2
Backup: Bushmaster, Standard 14.5 setup, Eotech, Inforce WMLX
Holster/Belt: Ronin Tactics Senshi Belt, Veil Solutions Fett Holster, Esstac pistol/rifle mag caddies
Ammo: Stand One Armory, 115gr, 9mm 500 rounds and .223 500 rounds
FOF: Force on force equipment, marking systems and cartridges
Before we begin a few words.
This AAR will be summarized as best as possible as this was a 4 day instructor level course filled with a great deal of information. All tactics will not be included in the AAR for good reasons, with that being said I hope you enjoy and get a good sense of what Centrifuge Training, LLC has to offer.
Day One, 1600-2400
Introduction & Safety Brief
Will started the day with a simple introduction of his background and the reasoning behind the Low Light Instructor program. Why the program was created and how he is trying to change the way departments and officers perceive low light situations and handle an engagement during low light conditions. Will quickly pointed out that this course is not a shooting course, although there is shooting. This is a problem solving course.
Then students did a quick introduction of themselves. Students attending were all LEO ranging from multiple departments locally and statewide. Each student ranged from patrol officer, SWAT officers and training instructors with various years of experience.
Classroom
After introductions Will dived in the low light program and the principles of low light. Then showed numerous videos to better help students understand and see those elements being applied in a real world situation. Petty discussed his principles of low light such as; It’s about the gun, not the light, all the lumens = if you can see it you can solve it, darkness is not cover, you control your speed = you can only go as fast as you can process the info, to quote a couple.
Will then covered basic human anatomy specifically what happens to the eyes during low light conditions and the use of white light to combat the effects of low light.
Rod cells of the retina:
Rhodopsin - Chemical in the eyes that is light sensitive
When rhodopsin is exposed to light, it immediately photobleaches. In humans, it is regenerated fully in about 30 minutes; after which rods are more sensitive.
Cone cells of the retina:
Opsin – The eyes become “bleached” due to exposure of light
Any of a group of light-sensitive proteins in the retina
Will explained the effect of this by illustrating the technique of “light on, light off” the chemicals in our eyes are constantly resetting if were using that technique making our eyes work even double time than they already are during a low light condition; instead of using the light constant to see what we need to
see. (Picture yourself closing your eyes, then re-open your eyes during day light, that's basically what you’re doing at night with light on, light off) Science bruh…
Instructor Point: Will explained the liability of instructing our students to “light on, light off” all the time. That can potentially create problems by not allowing officers to see what they need to see especially when navigating or searching. Not that “light on, light off” doesn't have its places at times, but it should not be something that students should be yelled at for not turning their light off during training. Bad guys don’t play by our rules and will generally shoot anywhere in your direction.
Lighting Conditions and Anatomy of Light
There are three light conditions associated with low light such as:
Photopic – Daylight
Mesopic –Twilight(ambient light)
Scotopic –Complete Darkness
Will explained the anatomy of the light simply by stating the “light needs to be as capable as the weapon system it’s on” when looking for a light here are a few things to be considered:
Ease of use, preferably a tail cap activated switch, constant on/momentary
All the lumens, lumens = information, which = problem solving
Handheld size, not too big, not too small
Flashlight Terminology
· Lumen - Measurement of light at source
· Hotspot – Brightest point of focus from light source
· Throw - The ability of a flashlight to place light onto a distant defined area of surface
· Flood/Spill - Scattered light emitted from a flashlight. Good for indoor use to light up a room or short-range use outdoors to light up an area
· Backsplash – light that is bounced back either from not offsetting the light or refracting off reflective surfaces
Range
Will dived into the safety brief along with the medical plan in case anyone decided not to follow the firearm safety rules. Will covered his version of the four firearm safety rules as the Life Firearm Safety Rules. As we train on the range, but when in reality were training for life.
1. Know the condition of your weapon.
2. Keep the weapon indexed in the safest direction possible. (Up, down, left, etc. this all depends on the situation and context)
3. Consciously work the safety and triggers.
4. Know your target, angle of engagement and offset.
The goal is to create safe shooters, in a non-safe environment. Often the firearm safety rules are glossed over without really getting the students attention. The safety brief serves four purposes:
1. Mentally prepare students for the task ahead
2. What is expected and not allowed
3. Liability as instructors
4. Having a plan (medical)
Nothing in this course is designed for you to shoot yourself or another fellow student. If you do so, you clearly did not adhere to one of the following safety rules. Don’t be that guy…
Handheld Light Techniques
Will explained that when looking at techniques, tactics etc. you have to consider two things:
1. Does it hold its ground when tested (FOF, Live Engagement)
2. Let the data drive the training (so what are we seeing during OIS shootings for instance)
The handheld light techniques that Will preferred were based off the data that has been collected through various OIS incidents, Traffic Stops, FOF training and not just what he likes or dislikes.
Preferred Methods:
1. Modified FBI
2. Temple Index
3. Harries
Non-Preferred Methods:
1. Surefire/Cigar method
2. Neck Index
Modified FBI
Allows the user to move the light freely around, searching, navigating etc and can be turned into temple index or harries with little to no hassle. Often students will have to “walk in” the hotspot of the light to intended area of target as this is the most hand eye coordinated technique of them all.
Temple Index
If you’re familiar with VCQB it’s of the similar principle, but you point the light where you need to see. Instead of traditionally using the neck index technique which can often have the light pointing at the back of your weapon hand instead of broadcasting the full light source down range; temple index allows the full light source to be downrange and easily aligned to where your looking.
Harries
Allows the user to broadcast the light down range when maneuvering around a wall, barricade, cover etc on a person’s strong side. Think right handed shooter working at the edge of a right side barricade; Harries allows the light to be positioned on the outside of whatever item your working around to help send the most light downrange. Modified FBI or Temple Index will usually cause “backsplash” of the light during this incident.
Surefire/Cigar
Not preferred due to the fact that it can take some time to get into this handheld position and students have often depressed the magazine release on the handgun at times. Rarely seen during FOF or live incidents as well.
Neck Index
As explained above neck index can at times cause “backsplash” of the shooters hand thus not maximizing the full light source downrange.
Will demoed each preferred handheld light method and had students fire from the 7yrd line no less than 3 rounds each string of fire. Ensuring students were working the techniques properly, being accurate and a proper follow through process with the handheld light.
Will explained that he believes students necessarily don’t need to spend all day working the handheld techniques, but instead need repetitions around 3-D objects and environments with the techniques.
“Anyone can pull a trigger, not everyone can think behind the trigger”
https://www.dropbox.com/s/b5za0dzr2clm55b/Video May 23, 7 03 31 PM.mov?dl=0 (click link)
Low Light Theory
https://www.dropbox.com/s/k28iet8qg461vvu/Photo May 28, 5 55 52 PM.png?dl=0 (click link)
After Will broke down what he called the Low Light Theory. He explained that this theory is what makes most sense to him and is a collection of information from multiple sources. Let’s take a look at this:
Lumens = Information = Problem Solving
Under Information we have:
1. ID
2. Searching
3. Navigation
4. Control – hotspot of the light in subjects eyes, taking away their visual information
5. Communication
Whenever we need to do any of these 5 things we use the light, when we don’t need the light then light goes off it’s that simple.
Instructor Note: Will explained the importance of having shoot/no-shoot targets during training. If we’re training our guys to shoot every time they turn on their light we are setting them up for failure. Case law dictates and backs up the training we do.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/72dwpvgfjw67764/Photo May 23, 7 16 30 PM.jpg?dl=0 (click link)
Cover / Vehicle Work
After coming back from lunch, a thunderstorm decided to show up out of nowhere, however this did not stop us in anyway shape or form and we proceeded to setup steel targets behind vehicles for the next block of instruction.
Instructor Note: Will asked a different student to explain the four firearm safety rules and the reasons behind doing so at the beginning of class and after lunch every day. This was done for 3 reasons:
1. To help students who maybe do not get enough teaching time, compared to other instructors in the class who have full time training spots
2. To bring students mentally back into the class
3. Instructor level class, so teach backs are expected
Will explained that he likes to use 3-D barricades during low light training compared to 2-D objects as it challenges the student to work the light more due to the fact that 3-D barricades often cause unwanted shadows compared to 2-D barricades.
Will pointed out when working any form of potential cover or vehicles we need to broadcast the most light downrange as possible; hence these are instances where we would want to crowd cover in order to get light down range and see what we need to see.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/baha9smmodknub2/Video May 23, 8 57 29 PM.mov?dl=0 (click link)
Vehicle Work
https://www.dropbox.com/s/vxm9z0oun1kmdts/IMG_2067.JPG?dl=0(click link)
There were 4 vehicles setup in a parallel fashion. Each vehicle was to be worked as a separate drill before moving on to the next vehicle. Will explained that students were to work handheld light only, and then weapon mounted light and lastly partner movement.
Will demoed each particular method before asking students to go live during each iteration; in order for students to see what was expected and what to look for when coaching. The remainder of the drills were conducted on a 1 student/1 coach bases unless it was a partner drill than 2 students/2 coaches.
Instructor Note: Each drill was conducted twice so that students could have enough repetitions as a shooter and a coach. Starting from left to right then back right to left, thus minimizing downtime of students and need for rearrange of targets depending on the drill.
Day 2, 1800-0200
Day 2 started off without a problem, students were ready to go and the weather was back to the normal hot/humid TX weather as usual.
Class
Will mentioned that this being an instructor level class, students should have a firm grasp of teaching skills already, but wants students to learn from his mistakes to make their job easier. He started off the class by posing the question- How do you evaluate techniques?
1. Does it work or is it environment dependent?
2. Is it necessary?
3. Can you duplicate it under stress?
These 3 principles help decide if a particular technique should be used or taught.
Instructor Teach Backs
After will explained the above methods he then asked every student to pick a number from 1-8. Each number represented a particular topic that was covered the day before in class by Will. I choose 7, so I was given the Harries Method as a teach back for the class (phew).
Students were to discuss their topic, demo and setup a drill for students to run. Students were given adequate time to touch up on their topic, ask will any questions and setup a drill if one was needed.
Each student did well on their teach backs and will corrected/gave pointers to students after their lessons.
Carbine w/Light
After teach backs we dived into carbine mounted light options. Will prefers a tail cap switch method compared to a pressure switch setup as the pressure pads are more susceptible to breaking (two stream light pressure pads malfunctioned later that night, go figure).
12 o’clock position
Pros:
· Light is aligned with optic, thus no matter what side you maneuver you’re rifle around a barricade you don’t have to account for light offset.
· Ambidextrous setup
Cons:
· Can take up some of your field of view when looking through the optic
Dominant Side
Pros:
· Good for working strong side of a barricade
· Allows the rifle to sit flush on support side when using junkyard prone (see picture if not familiar with that technique, click link)
https://www.dropbox.com/s/zbvnbs07q70koya/File Jun 09, 11 48 59 AM.png?dl=0 (click link)
Cons:
· Needs a pressure pad to activate light without sacrificing grip of rifle
· Need to offset light when working support side of a barricade
Support Side
Pros:
· Allows support thumb to activate tail cap switch
· Good for working support side of barricade
Cons:
· Strong side thumb may not be able to active light when shoulder transitioning
· Need to offset light on dominant side of barricade
After discussing the mounting options for lights on a rifle Will discussed the admin loading process for rifles during low light conditions.
Admin Load Process
· Know the conditions of your light source (last time batteries were replaced etc)
· Adjust the red dot to where it will not be washed out by the light source (typically full power, then back it off 2 clicks, is good spot on the Aimpoints)
· Insert magazine
o Press check, visually see brass chambered if possible or place index finger inside to feel for brass
o Or insert magazine, load a round and release magazine. A fully loaded mag will initially have the round on the right side of the mag, after chambering a round should sit left on the magazine (See picture, click link)
https://www.dropbox.com/s/3m0173kt0dqbzf8/Load-left-right.jpg?dl=0 (click link)
Handheld Light w/Carbine
Will explained that not every agency issues or allows officers to have WML’S on their carbines so we have to be able to teach others how to run a carbine with a handheld light. He instructed two methods to achieve this.
Harries:
The students forearm is placed infront of the magwell and pressed inwards to the body to help best stabilize the shot
https://www.dropbox.com/s/zf9988koi22u2f2/Photo May 24, 9 16 34 PM.jpg?dl=0 (click link)
Cigar/Syringe:
The back of the tail cap of the hand held light is pressed against the magwell.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/a9r1dwwleqoi2hl/Photo May 24, 9 17 12 PM.jpg?dl=0 (click link)
The consensus of the group was that the Harries method was more fluid and easier compared to the cigar method. I found my light being partially blocked by the hand stop on the rifle whereas the Harries method I did not have that issue.
Vehicle Work w/Carbine
https://www.dropbox.com/s/1brrb6hj6fslxfs/IMG_2076.JPG?dl=0 (click link)
We then picked up where we left off the previous day with vehicle work following the similar setup with 4 vehicles setup in a parallel fashion. Each vehicle was to be worked as a separate drill before moving on to the next vehicle. Will explained that students were to work handheld light only, and then weapon mounted light and lastly partner movement with carbine.
Will demoed each particular method before asking students to go live during each iteration; in order for students to see what was expected and what to look for when coaching. The remainder of the drills were conducted on a 1 student/1 coach basis unless it was a partner drill requiring 2 students/2 coaches.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/1fjlu42g9qvftwc/File Jun 09, 12 16 07 PM.jpeg?dl=0 (photo taken by Hugo M.)
Instructor Note: Each drill was conducted twice so that students could have enough repetitions as a shooter and a coach. Starting from left to right then back right to left, thus minimizing downtime of students and need for rearrange of targets depending on the drill.
Stick of DOOM!
Those who know of Will and his VCQB program are familiar with his infamous stick of doom that he implements into his training to induce full powered malfunctions.
Will quickly covered carbine malfunctions as this was an instructor level class and not a fundamentals class. What was instructed was how to set up a “organic” malfunction compared to a “non-organic” malfunction which you typically see set up on a flat range. This was done by introducing a 1x2 stick or referred to as the “stick of doom”. The 1x2 was pressed against the bolt carrier group as it cycled to induce an organic malfunction.
Petty explained this is done for two reasons. First, so that students get a true sense of a full fledge malfunction compared to the feel of a dummy round. Second, to get students use to problem solving, either by transitioning to their secondary if the situation dictates so, working the problem at hand and then fix their big gun.
We were to work the vehicles again, but this time with both the handgun and carbine while coaches induced malfunctions during the drill. The first run was conducted WML only then another run with handheld lights only.
Low Light Alphabet Soup
https://www.dropbox.com/s/mtndnbe484qwycx/IMG_2090.JPG?dl=0 (click link)
I and a few other classmates are VCQB Instructors so we were familiar with the alphabet soup drill and what it requires out of you as a shooter/coach. Two other vehicles were placed around the 50 yard line and the 4 other vehicles stayed put down range with several steel targets around them, each numbered and lettered differently. The two vehicles at the 50 yard line had several paper targets placed randomly as well.
Myself and a buddy were told to go first along with one of our arms being taped up. Will knew we were VCQB grads so more was expected out of us as it should be. My strong hand was taped up while my fellow class mates whole support arm was taped (my whole arm was taped up to my body last time, I feel his pain).
We started off on one side of the vehicle, upon threat call Will called out various targets for us to engage at all while constantly having us move back and forth from vehicle to vehicle while causing malfunctions on our weapons. As soon as your about to engage a target he would call a different one, as you engage he would cause another malfunction. Pure fun/chaos at the same time, as a shooter you have to be aware of your muzzle at all times, working your safety, trying to get your carbine back up (which I ditched at one point), communicating with your partner and getting your hits. Our drill was 11 minutes long so it was definitely a gut check. It was a great drill to end the final day of live fire before moving to force on force the next two days (I included a minute portion of the drill as 11 minutes was too long to add).
https://www.dropbox.com/s/6i3hz9ke1oyfjl4/Video May 25, 11 58 35 AM.mov?dl=0 (click link)
Day 3, 1800-0200 Force on Force
Day 3 started off with the class meeting at a different location prior from the past two days as we were about to work on force on force techniques along with understanding basic CQB skills/room clearance methods. The Corpus Christi Police Department (CCPD) acquired a few old broken down chemical plants which I’m pretty sure were haunted as well.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/neuug0sgbkmd9j1/Photo May 25, 7 05 31 PM.jpg?dl=0 (click link)
https://www.dropbox.com/s/0i3h6ngx8k7398f/Photo May 25, 7 10 21 PM.jpg?dl=0 (click link)
Will along with the students walked the different buildings to get a feel of what the type of environments they were going to be working in that night. After Will explained the importance of force on force training and how as mentioned before FOF helps to validate or disprove techniques and tactics.
Will explained the importance of introducing students to FOF at a gradual pace and not to simply throw students right into FOF. Most students do not get enough FOF reps thus expecting students to perform well right off the bat can be detrimental.
Instructor Note: When introducing FOF, work techniques dry, then techniques on paper and lastly full FOF. This will allow students enough reps to work out any kinks before jumping into FOF.
DECON Area
https://www.dropbox.com/s/jueu1ksxn0jjy46/File%20Jun%2009%2C%2012%2016%2021%20PM.jpeg?dl=0 (Photo taken by Hugo M.)
This goes without saying, but many unwanted shootings have happened during FOF training due to the simple fact of not having a proper “decontamination” area for live weapons etc. All live weapons were kept in the parking lot area, while the decon area was adjacent to one of the buildings. Students constantly checked each other before dry reps and live reps of FOF.
No one wants to eat out of a tube for the rest of their life so decon was taking very serious for the remainder of the two days. After students deconed and setup their weapon platforms for FOF, Will dived into basic CQB.
CQB
Will explained that in order to get good at CQB you have to practice CQB. He expected there were going to be some mistakes conducted in the following days, due to the simple fact that not everyone gets to practice CQB a lot or is familiar with certain techniques. So in essence we can’t expect our students back at our agency to perform flawlessly. The mistakes we would possibly conduct in the next two following days, gives preview to what we will more than likely see our students make or worse.
Will then broke down CQB, explaining how CQB is considered by some to be “advanced or SWAT guy stuff”, yet we have guys on patrol who clear buildings and residential homes on the daily. When in reality CQB should be taught from the ground up and constantly practiced especially if were asking our guys to clear structures in the performance of their duties. Will then talked about and demoed several entry methods on rooms, how to read rooms as best as possible whether it is a center fed room or corner fed room along with intersections such as a T- intersections.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/tzkm9ft5d3etuca/IMG_2133.JPG?dl=0 (click link)
Students then broke up into groups and worked each different entry method on center fed or corner fed rooms dry first with handheld lights. After students felt comfortable with the techniques it was time to go live against paper.
FOF Paper
Will had students run the remainder of the exercises that day in a partner fashion along with two coaches for each run. Coaches were responsible for critiquing student runs, setting up targets along with no shoot targets. Remember the purpose of the light is to positively id a threat; we would be setting up our guys for failure by training to just shoot at every target.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/1aych9n73auhnwh/IMG_2109.JPG?dl=0 (click link)
The first iteration of the drills were conducted on the first floor only, then after every student had a chance to shoot/coach then the second story of the building was in play and was used for a second iteration.
Will encouraged students during their down time to watch the other guys running the drill to help them see what works and what doesn’t. I took full advantage of that aspect since CQB training is something I don’t get to participate in everyday especially low light.
FOF Live
After paper runs it was time to go full FOF. Students and Opposition Force (OPFOR) were checked again before commencing FOF. Will explained that FOF is only good as its role players and OPFOR. Role players who stuck to their individual roles allowed the best opportunity to track performance results compared to role players who get bored of doing their specific roles and add more into the drill.
FOF Live was conducted in two iterations:
1. Handheld light only
2. Weapon mounted light/handheld
Students were given a certain scenario and proceeded into the building clearing the first level all while working each problem as they came up. Whether it was hearing noise in a room, making contact with a possible homeowner, bringing a suspect out of the building or securing them in a cleared room and engaging any threats.
After shooters ran their FOF drill they would become coaches while the previous coaches either became OPFOR, role players or shooters; thus allowing students to have enough repetitions in each category.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/gl9lia76x6k3kvh/Photo May 27, 1 10 13 PM.jpg?dl=0 (photo by Hugo M.)
Day 4, 1800-2400 FOF
Day 4 was conducted similar to day 2 in the aspect of teach backs. Will called out several numbers again which designated certain teach backs from the day before. I choose 3, so I was given corner fed room clearances as a teach back for the class (my favorite now). Students were to discuss their topic, demo and setup a drill for students to run. Students were given adequate time to touch up on their topic, ask will any questions and setup a drill if one was needed.
Each student did will on their teach backs and Will corrected/gave pointers to students after their lessons. After teach backs it was time to dive back into FOF with carbine/handgun this time.
FOF
Similar to the day before dry iterations of room clearances were conducted with carbine this time; ranging from handheld light w/carbine to WML on carbine. Let me tell you that WML is so much easier… It’s a proven fact that running a Warsport LVOA will grow your biceps by 5” after a CQB run (running joke between me and Will).
CCPD had brought in a few outside role players for FOF later that night who were observing during the dry runs and paper runs. Will mentioned to the class that if at any point an observer took a sim round you could kiss that certificate goodbye…instructor level class, roger that.
FOF Live
It was time to go live after students had enough repetitions running carbine/handgun. This time the class was split into half, ranging from officers to OPFOR. Another two parts of the building were added into play for a total of 4 areas that officers had to work and clear.
Students were staged at a certain area while making their approach would be engaged or challenged by a subject in an open air environment (which was covered in day 3). Students would solve the problem at hand while others found work by providing security on the unknown areas (using light to see dark corners etc). Continue their way into the outside warehouse, clearing that area before moving inside to the 1st floor area and clearing the remainder of the floors.
Lights, communication, muzzle discipline and team movement were of the most importance in the student’s runs. My group flowed well with some minor mistakes, but we also had SWAT Jesus on our side to help…
FOF Officer Involved Shooting/Recovery
After the exhilarating FOF runs in the warehouse/buildings Will had one more drill for us to run before ending the night. Will ran this drill in pairs with one student having only a handgun and another with a rifle/handgun.
Will did not debrief anyone on the drill to come until you were seated in the patrol unit (rental car ha). As you sat there he explained that you just received a call for shots fired, officer possibly down. Immediately after he hauled a$$ to the shots fired call location which was where none of the students could see what was happening.
Upon arrival two subjects were seen standing over the down officer, if subjects were threats they were dealt with or secured. Now the real fun began as the down officer required medical attention by applying a tourniquet all while Will is spraying you with fake blood. Once the down officer was treated it was time to CASEVAC him out of that location. My partner and I loaded him back into the patrol unit which a few seconds later “died” on us and we had to carry the officer several yards away to a secured location ending the drill. This drill is something you definitely have to experience for yourself.
Debrief/Thoughts
After range cleanup, Will thanked all the students for their time and hard work they put in during the four days of class and passed out certificates. Students shared thoughts, concerns and overall satisfaction with the class and instruction provided by Will. Overall I had a great four days of training with Will from Centrifuge Training, LLC along with a great group of shooters as well; also a big thank you to the Texas Tactical Police Officers Association and CCPD for hosting this course. I would highly recommend this course to any instructor along with peace officers who want a better understanding of low light techniques along with structure clearances. This type of training and information is something that every patrol officer should be equipped with. Stay Dangerous.
Bryan