The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) uses a 30-round pistol qualification to test officer shooting skills. It’s a fast-paced, realistic course that includes different distances, shooting positions, and time limits. This guide breaks it down in a way anyone can understand—perfect for CCW holders, security guards, or instructors who want to train like a pro.
What Is the LAPD 30-Round Qualification?
- Total Shots: 30 rounds
- Phases: 4 stages of fire
- Distances: 21 ft to 51 ft
- Shooting Positions: Standing, using cover, and close-contact
- Focus: Speed, accuracy, movement, and realistic shooting
- Scoring: See breakdown below
Scoring System
The LAPD uses a points-based combat scoring system:
- 10 points for each round that hits the body or head area
- 5 points for shots that hit the arms
- Headshot limit: Only two headshots count for full points. Any extra headshots score 5 points each
- Max Score: 300 points total
- Passing Score: 70% (210 out of 300 points)
Shooters fire on two targets, each worth 150 points.
Phase-by-Phase Breakdown
Phase 1: Close Shooting (21 feet)
- Fire 12 rounds in 25 seconds from the holster.
- Focus on drawing your firearm and shooting controlled pairs quickly.
Phase 2: Mid-Range Movement (30 feet)
- Fire 2 rounds in 2 seconds, then:
- Move and shoot 2 shots left, 2 right, then 2 left again.
- Teaches fast transitions and movement under time.
Phase 3: Shooting from Cover (36 feet)
- Fire 6 rounds total:
- 2 from right side of cover, 2 from left, then 2 more from right.
- Practice shooting around barriers, like walls or vehicles.
Phase 4: Long-Range Accuracy (51 feet)
- Fire 6 slow, accurate rounds to the body from behind cover.
- Focus on precision at distance.
Additional Training Elements
- Snap Cap Drills: Mix dummy rounds with live ammo to test trigger control and catch flinches.
- Reverse Order Runs: Officers shoot the phases backward (starting from Phase 4) to stay sharp.
- Close Contact Drills: Fire at 9 feet using body retention shooting with a headshot follow-up.
Why You Should Try This Drill
This LAPD qual is excellent practice for:
- CCW holders who want real-world training
- Security officers preparing for patrol work
- Firearms instructors looking for advanced testing drills
It builds speed, confidence, and tactical awareness under pressure.
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