Captain Crunch Drill: A Warm-Up Shooting Drill for Accuracy & Reload Practice
Whether you’re a concealed carry holder, security guard, or just sharpening your skills at the range, the Captain Crunch Drill is a simple but effective way to warm up. This close-range pistol drill focuses on shot placement, reload proficiency, and mental discipline—all without a shot timer.
Let’s break down how it works, why it’s valuable, and how you can use it to elevate your training routine.
🔧 Setup & Equipment
This drill is designed to work at 7 feet, using a custom 5-circle target labeled 5 through 1. Each circle corresponds to how many rounds you’ll fire at it.
What you’ll need:
- Semi-auto pistol or revolver
- 2 magazines or speed loaders
- 15 rounds total (Mag 1: 10 rounds / Mag 2: 5 rounds)
- A Captain Crunch target (download below)
- Eye and ear protection
🎯 Captain Crunch Drill Instructions
The drill is not timed—your goal is deliberate accuracy, not speed. Follow this sequence:
| Circle | Rounds | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | Fire 5 rounds into the “5” circle |
| 4 | 4 | Fire 4 rounds into the “4” circle |
| 3 | 3 | Fire 3 rounds into the “3” circle |
| Reload | – | Reload with your second magazine |
| 2 | 2 | Fire 2 rounds into the “2” circle |
| 1 | 1 | Fire 1 round into the “1” circle |
Pro Tip: Focus on smooth trigger press, sight alignment, and solid fundamentals. This is a perfect warm-up for a more intensive session or qualification test.
✅ Optional Scoring System
Use the optional scoring system to measure improvement:
- 15/15 hits: Excellent
- 13–14 hits: Good
- 11–12 hits: Needs Improvement
- 10 or fewer: Slow down and try again
💪 Why This Drill Matters
- Builds accuracy under discipline – Smaller circles mean smaller margins for error
- Simulates a realistic reload – Forces a mid-drill reload that keeps your fundamentals sharp
- Calms the mind – It’s a great transition into “training mode” without burning a lot of ammo
📚 Related Training Resources
- 🔫 Colorado CCW Classes
- 🛡️ Self-Defense Insurance Comparison
- 📜 Colorado Self-Defense Laws Guide
- 🎯 Full Library of Shooting Drills
🧠 Final Thoughts
The Captain Crunch Drill is one of the easiest ways to train effectively with minimal time and ammo. It’s also ideal for CCW holders, new shooters, and instructors looking to teach fundamentals without overwhelming students.
Add it to the start of your range sessions and you’ll quickly see improvements in precision, reload transitions, and overall control.
