The Drill:
The primary focus of The Bill Drill is to break the habit of firing the same number of rounds downrange when you train. People often shoot a single round, then look where it hits the target, then shoot another single round, then look … and so on. This drill attempts to break this habit by forcing you to fire a different number of rounds each time you draw your firearm from the holster. Additionally, since you are drawing each time you fire, you are building this fundamental skill as well.
The Setup:
You will need a target that has an 8-inch target zone, such as the USCCA target we used or a standard IDPA target or equivalent. Some people choose to use a paper plate, and that is OK too. You simply need a target area of approximately the size described. You will need your firearm, holster and 15 rounds of ammo for each time you run the drill. You can increase the level of difficulty by adding the use of a shot timer.
The Skills:
Three skills that are built as an added benefit are speed, accuracy and drawing your firearm. The speed aspect involves target acquisition (getting your front sight post on target). Accuracy is built as each of the 15 rounds you fire should land within the 8-inch circle. And drawing requires you to safely clear your firearm from the holster and transition to target acquisition.
The Details:
Begin by facing the targets from approximately 15 to 21 feet away. Start with your firearm in the holster and your hands raised above your head. You will draw to the target for each of the 5 strings of fire, and place the required number of rounds on target as quickly as possible. If using a shot timer, you will add up the time from holster to last shot fired for each of the 5 strings of fire.
String 1: Draw and fire 1 round
String 2: Draw and fire 2 rounds
String 3: Draw and fire 3 rounds
String 4: Draw and fire 4 rounds
String 5: Draw and fire 5 rounds
The goal is to have a total time under 10 seconds for all 15 rounds fired.
Safety Considerations:
The Bill Drill is not an entry-level drill and should not be attempted by new or inexperienced shooters since it does involve drawing from the holster. When drawing and holstering, be very aware of trigger-finger positioning. Your finger must be off the trigger and outside of the trigger guard until you are on target and ready fire. Make sure that your cover garment and any clothing stays free of the holster. Not following these rules may result in a negligent discharge, property damage or injury. Always follow the four universal safety rules. As with any drill, be aware of your own ability level. Add distance and the use of a timer to increase difficulty. If you find that rounds are landing outside of the 8-inch target area, move a little closer to the target. Be sure to follow all range rules and, if shooting on private property, be aware of your surroundings and what is downrange at all times.
Closing Thoughts:
This drill takes several fundamental components of shooting and brings them together into one exercise. It will help you to assess your individual skills and determine where more work may be needed. Ultimately, The Bill Drill will help to break your negative training habits, and allow you to comfortably be able to fire varying numbers of rounds downrange more quickly and accurately from a holstered position.
Vary your training. Keep it fun. Keep it safe. And keep practicing.
