Red Dot

Course Overview

This course builds upon solid handgun fundamentals while introducing students to the performance advantages of a pistol-mounted optic (PMO). Designed for shooters looking to modernize their skill set, the class covers optic selection, setup, zeroing, and practical application in defensive and performance shooting contexts.

Students will learn how a properly configured optic enhances target focus, improves efficiency for aging eyes, simplifies sight alignment through single-plane sighting, and serves as a powerful diagnostic tool for grip, trigger control, and presentation errors. Training progresses from foundational work to dynamic drills that demand speed, accuracy, and adaptability.

Course Objectives

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

Identify common PMO types and understand their advantages and limitations
Properly mount and zero an optic, with a working understanding of parallax
Rapidly acquire, confirm, and track the dot through recoil
Apply core marksmanship principles with optic-equipped pistols
Perform efficient reloads and clear common malfunctions
Use dot movement for performance diagnostics and self-correction
Engage multiple targets with varied sight pictures
Continue operating effectively with occluded or damaged optics
Shoot accurately while moving
Transition between targets with speed and control
Execute single-hand shooting with both dominant and support hands

Required Equipment

Quality semi-automatic pistol (optic-equipped recommended)
Minimum of 3 magazines with magazine pouches
Strong-side belt or hip holster (no inside-the-waistband holsters)
Sturdy 1.5" belt
Long pants with belt loops
Closed-toe shoes
Crew-neck or button-up shirt
Wraparound eye protection (polycarbonate or prescription)
Hearing protection (electronic recommended)
Hydration and weather-appropriate gear
Optional: Body armor

Ammunition Requirements

600 rounds of pistol ammunition
No green tip, brown tip, armor-piercing, or surrogate rounds permitted on steel