Phase 1 — Fundamentals

Zero, group shooting, and the basic marksmanship test at 25 yards.

Build the zero and the fundamentals before adding a clock. Everything here is at 25 yards, no time limit.

StageTargetStandardAdvance when…
Basic Zero & Group ShootingBlank≤5.25″ dia. (L-9)2 consecutive 10-rd L-9 groups
Slow Fire Group ShootingSmall training target (black = 9-ring size)All shots in black2 consecutive 10-rd series, all in black
Basic Marksmanship TestStandard scoring target10-ring2 consecutive targets, first 10 shots all in the 10-ring
Mental ProgramWritten checklistPersonalized mental checklist written and posted at the shooting box

Groups must stay round — an elongated group usually means you’re looking down range trying to pick an aiming point instead of watching the sights. The black center on the training target is a deliberate distraction: total concentration on trigger control and sight alignment should keep the group round and centered regardless.