This module addresses the fundamental pillars for the effective employment of weapon systems in reduced or zero-visibility conditions. The program analyzes equipment selection criteria with a focus on handheld flashlights and Weapon Mounted Lights (WML) providing the technical foundation for the correct management of shadows, contrasts, and reflections. Students will acquire advanced methodologies for tactical navigation, searching, and Positive Identification (PID) of threats, optimizing the capacity for disciplined intervention in degraded photonic environments.
Experience Requirements & Prerequisites
This is classified as an Advanced Level module. The student must possess proven proficiency in firearms handling within dynamic environments.
- Mandatory Prerequisite: Successful completion of the “Advanced Handgun” course or a verified equivalent professional certification.
- Licensing: Possession of a valid Personal Firearms License.
- Safety Standards: Due to the high operational complexity of shooting in total darkness, students who fail to maintain safety requirements or demonstrate minimum technical competencies during the initial phases may be dismissed from the course at the sole discretion of the technical staff.
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of the training, the operator will have acquired the skills necessary for:
- Equipment Analysis: Critically evaluating specifications such as Lumens (total output) and Candela (beam intensity) for selecting lighting devices.
- Doctrine of Light: Understanding and applying the 8 Principles of Low Light to dominate the photonic environment.
- Handheld Sighting Techniques: Mastering various handgun-flashlight coordination methods (e.g., Harries, FBI, Neck Index, and Modified Graham techniques).
- Manipulations in Darkness: Executing reloads and malfunction drills based exclusively on muscle memory.
- Identification & Engagement: Executing rapid transitions using light for searching and accurate PID of the target.
- Photonic Mobility: Coordinating dynamic movement while managing the transition between light and darkness to avoid compromising one’s position.
- Gear Logistics: Optimizing the placement of light sources on load-bearing equipment to ensure immediate and ambidextrous access.
Technical Specifications & Equipment
- Authorized Weapon Systems
- Type: Centerfire semi-automatic pistols (Permitted calibers: .380 ACP, 9mm, .357 SIG, .40 S&W, .45 ACP).
- Configuration: Full-size or Compact frames. (Prohibited: Micro/Pocket pistols, revolvers, or .22 caliber platforms).
- Capacity: Minimum 15 rounds with flush-fit magazines.
- Carry & Lighting Systems
- Holster: Rigid Outside-the-Waistband (OWB) holster only. (Prohibited: IWB, collapsible holsters, or Serpa-style retention systems).
- Lighting: A tactical handheld flashlight is mandatory. The use of a WML (Weapon Mounted Light) is optional but recommended; in such cases, the holster must be specifically compatible with the light model.
- Load Bearing Gear: Belt-mounted magazine pouches and a 1.5″ (3.8 cm) rigid tactical belt.
- PPE & Apparel
- Clothing: Durable tactical pants, closed-toe non-slip footwear, and crew-neck shirts.
- Protection: Certified ballistic eyewear and hearing protection (active electronic earmuffs are highly recommended).
- Armor: Body armor is optional unless required by your agency.
Ammunition Specifications
- Estimated Round Count: 300 rounds for handgun.
- Mandatory Type: Only FRANGIBLE, non-toxic, non-coated ammunition is required.
- Steel Target Engagement: Lead-core ammunition is mandatory for steel targets.
- Prohibitions: Green Tip, Brown Tip, Armor Piercing (AP), or surrogate rounds are strictly prohibited.
- Absolutely no reloaded or remanufactured ammunition
- Procurement: To ensure compliance with ballistic safety standards, ammunition must be purchased exclusively from OS ACADEMY.
Course Details
- Student Limit: 8 participants
- Price: € 350.00.
