The FBI’s revised pistol qualification course, updated in 2019, is designed to evaluate an agent’s proficiency with their firearm across various scenarios, distances, and techniques. ThA Benchmark for Concealed Carriers and Armed Professionals
The FBI’s revised pistol qualification course, updated in 2019, is one of the most respected handgun qualification drills in the U.S. While designed for federal agents, this course is also an excellent benchmark for CCW holders, armed guards, and anyone who takes defensive shooting seriously.
The course consists of 50 rounds fired at a QIT-99 silhouette target. Hits inside the bottle-shaped outline score 2 points each, with a maximum score of 100. A passing score is 90 points (45 hits).
What You’ll Need to Know:
Before we get into the course, here are two important shooting terms used in the FBI qualification:
- From the Holster: This means the drill starts with your firearm holstered. On the timer, you must safely draw your firearm before firing. This simulates a real-life defensive draw under pressure.
- Low Ready Position: This is a ready position where your firearm is pointed downward at about a 45-degree angle, with your arms extended and your sights off target. It’s used to stay ready without aiming directly at someone until justified.
Breakdown of the FBI Pistol Qualification Drill
3 Yards
- From the holster, strong hand only: Draw and fire 3 rounds – 6 seconds
- Support hand only: Switch hands and fire 3 rounds – 6 seconds
5 Yards
- From the holster: Draw and fire 3 rounds – 3 seconds
- From low ready: Fire 3 rounds – 2 seconds
- From low ready: Fire 6 rounds – 4 seconds
7 Yards
- From the holster: Draw and fire 5 rounds – 5 seconds
- From low ready: Fire 4 rounds, reload, then fire 4 more rounds – 8 seconds
- From low ready: Fire 5 rounds – 4 seconds
15 Yards
- From the holster: Draw and fire 3 rounds – 6 seconds
- From low ready: Fire 3 rounds – 5 seconds
25 Yards
- From the holster: Draw and fire 4 rounds from standing, drop to kneeling, then fire 4 more rounds – 20 seconds
What This Course Tests
This is more than a paper-punching drill. It’s built to pressure test your defensive skills:
- Speed Under Pressure
You must draw and shoot fast—and still make your hits. - One-Handed Mastery
Shooting strong hand and support hand only helps you prepare for injury or restricted movement in a fight. - Reloading Under Stress
You’ll need to reload and re-engage under a tight clock, just like you would in an extended encounter. - Adaptability and Movement
Going from standing to kneeling while maintaining accuracy reinforces dynamic shooting fundamentals.
Final Thoughts
Most people—yes, even experienced shooters—fail this test the first time. And that’s okay. It’s meant to challenge you. The FBI qual is a great way to measure your real readiness for a defensive shooting situation. Whether you’re a CCW holder, security guard, or law enforcement officer, it’s worth trying.
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