A significant number of defensive shootings occur in low-light or no-light environments, requiring law enforcement professionals to adapt their skills to these challenging conditions. These scenarios often arise during nighttime operations or in interiors with minimal ambient light. To better prepare for such encounters, this course focuses on low-light and no-light shooting tactics.

Participants will develop proficiency in the use of handheld and weapon-mounted flashlights, leveraging ambient light to achieve an acceptable sight picture, and emphasizing the critical importance of target discrimination in defensive shootings. The course includes practical exercises conducted in an indoor range to simulate real-world low-light scenarios.

Topics Covered:

1. Shooting Fundamentals & Safety

   • Reinforcing foundational shooting skills while emphasizing safety in low-light conditions.

2. Weapons Conditions & Environmental Considerations

   • Understanding weapon readiness and adapting tactics to various low-light environments.

3. Lumens & Illumination Considerations

   • Evaluating flashlight brightness and beam patterns for optimal performance.

4. Weapon-Mounted Lights & Mounting Considerations

   • Best practices for selecting and attaching weapon-mounted lights.

5. Light Discipline

   • Techniques for controlling light use to maintain tactical advantage.

6. Types of Lights

   • Comparing weapon-mounted and handheld lights, with a focus on operational versatility.

7. Support Hand Light Techniques

   • Mastering effective methods for using handheld lights in conjunction with firearms.

8. Low-Light & No-Light Shooting Conditions

   • Adapting shooting techniques to environments with limited or no illumination.

9. Shooting Positions & Alternative Shooting Positions

   • Exploring and practicing effective shooting stances in challenging lighting and spatial conditions.

10. Information Processing & Positive Identification (PID)

    • Enhancing decision-making and target identification under stress.

11. Efficient Movement & Body Mechanics

    • Moving tactically and efficiently in low-light environments to maintain stability and accuracy.

12. Gear Considerations

    • Evaluating and optimizing equipment for low-light operations.

13. Malfunctions & Reloading

    • Managing weapon malfunctions and reloading procedures under limited visibility.

Minimum Gear Requirements