The Drill:
The X Drill helps you to focus on firing pairs of rounds while transitioning between multiple targets and multiple target zones. This drill is comprised of four courses of fire that engage four target zones (two large body and two smaller head zones) on two separate silhouette targets. Transitions made between zones are made diagonally, or in the shape of an X. Each target zone will receive a pair of rounds, either a hammer pair or a controlled pair, and the rate of fire will be dictated by the target zone size, distance and your ability level.
The Setup:
You will need two silhouette targets with designated head and body zones. For this drill, we used the FBI-QIT99 target. Your targets should be approximately 6 to 8 feet apart from each other. The course of fire is made up of four firing strings of eight rounds for a total of 32 rounds. The first target should be designated as target A and the other as target B. The drill begins from the holster or ready position, so if your individual skill level dictates, and your range allows, you will also need a holster. And, of course, you will need eye and ear protection.
The Skills:
The X Drill helps you focus on target transition, accuracy and putting multiple rounds on target. We all know that bad guys work in groups, and this drill will help condition you to be accurate while engaging multiple targets.
The Details:
Begin by facing the two silhouette targets from approximately 15 to 20 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 four strings of fire and place two rounds into each of the four target zones in the specific order laid out below:
String 1: A-head, B-body, A-body, B-head
String 2: B-head, A-body, B-body, A-head
String 3: B-body, A-head, B-head, A-body
String 4: A-body, B-head, A-head, B-body
The size of the target zone will dictate your rate of fire. The larger the target zone, the faster you should place the two rounds accurately on target. Inversely, the smaller the target zone, the slower your rate of fire will be. As we demonstrated in the video, try to place hammer pairs into the large zones and controlled pairs into the small zones.
Safety Considerations:
Be sure to always follow the four universal safety rules. As with any drill, be aware of your own ability level and start out slowly. Increase speed and distance only when you can consistently and accurately place rounds on target while transitioning between targets and target zones. Follow all range rules and, if shooting on private property, be aware of your surroundings and what is downrange at all times.
Closing Thoughts:
The X Drill is fun and challenging. This drill combines multiple skills that Steve and I have shared with you in previous Tactical Tuesday episodes. Continue to try new drills and incorporate them into your regular training routine.
Vary your training. Keep it fun. Keep it safe. And keep practicing.
