LPVO Instructor
The 4-Day Designated Marksman Instructor Course is designed to help law enforcement agencies build effective patrol-based designated marksman programs for everyday deployment operations. Students will learn how to develop and sustain a department designated marksman program, establish training and qualification standards, and integrate precision rifle capabilities into routine patrol operations.
Description
Modern patrol officers are increasingly confronted with active killer incidents that demand rapid, precise, and intelligent engagement strategies. This instructor-level course equips law enforcement personnel with the tools, tactics, and mindset necessary to engage threats effectively from extended distances while minimizing the need for high-risk close-quarters tactics.
A major focus of the course is the effective use and instruction of Low Power Variable Optics (LPVOs), which are gaining widespread adoption across patrol operations. Drawing on best practices, this program delivers proven techniques in LPVO application, precision rifle employment, target discrimination, overwatch, and information gathering beyond the capability of traditional optics.
Officers will leave this course proficient in the use of LPVO-equipped patrol rifles and prepared to develop and lead designated marksman programs within their agencies. Whether assessing armed threats from a distance or delivering accurate fire in dynamic environments, graduates will be equipped to train others with competence, confidence, and professional standards.
What’s Included
- Define the Designated Marksman’s mission, roles, and operational responsibilities, including the evolution of the patrol DM concept in modern law enforcement
- Establish clear selection criteria and performance standards for identifying and developing qualified DM candidates
- Design and implement a comprehensive agency DM program, including qualification standards, tactical application drills, and sustainment training plans
- Develop strategies to secure command-level endorsement and institutional support for a successful and defensible DM initiative
- Build proficiency with LPVO and precision optic systems, including zero confirmation, accuracy validation, and dynamic optic manipulation under operational tempo
- Enhance shooter/observer communication protocols, observation skills, and real-time information flow to support precision engagement decisions
- Master non-traditional firing positions, barricade utilization, and precision engagements under stress, including multiple-threat problem sets
- Conduct precision engagements in low-light environments, emphasizing positive target identification, white light discipline, and shot accountability under reduced visibility conditions
- Strengthen shooter accuracy from 50 to 400 yards
- Integrate DM capabilities into team-based operations, emphasizing sound judgment, scenario-based decision-making, and lawful use-of-force application
Additional Information
What to Bring
- Rifle equipped with an LPVO with adjustable turrets, capable of 2 MOA or less
- Bipod
- Adjustable sling
- 200 rounds of duty ammunition and 800 rounds of practice ammunition
- Rear bag (Armageddon Gear Pint Size Game Changer recommended)
- Backpack
- Binoculars or spotting scope (if available)
- Note-taking materials
- Clothing appropriate for the range and weather conditions
- Hearing protection
- Laptop for student presentations
Prerequisites
Law Enforcement only, otherwise approved by instructor.