Category: Firearms Training

This category covers a wide range of firearm-related topics, including firearm safety, operation, maintenance, reviews, training, and legal considerations. Whether you’re a new gun owner or an experienced shooter, these resources are designed to promote responsible firearm ownership, enhance your skills, and keep you informed about best practices and industry developments.

Concealed Carry, Firearms Training, Legal & Law, News, Situational Awareness

The Average Gunfight: How Many Rounds, What Distance, and How Fast?

Mark Schneider

When most people imagine a gunfight, they think of something out of a movie—dozens of rounds fired across long distances in a drawn-out exchange. The reality, especially in civilian self-defense scenarios, looks very different. Whether you’re a CCW holder, armed security guard, or just serious about self-defense, understanding the real-world dynamics of an average gunfight is essential to training smart and staying alive.

How Many Rounds Are Typically Fired?

Studies and data consistently show that real-world gunfights involve far fewer rounds than you might expect:

  • Law Enforcement Encounters: According to the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) reports, the average number of rounds fired by officers in shooting incidents varies annually. For instance, in 2017, officers fired an average of 4.1 rounds per incident.
  • Civilian Self-Defense Cases: In a comprehensive five-year analysis of armed citizen encounters, it was found that defenders fired an average of 2 shots per incident. Notably, in situations where more than two shots were fired, it often appeared that the defender continued firing until their firearm was emptied.
  • Training Organization Data: Rangemaster, a prominent civilian defensive firearms training organization, reported that among 70 documented gunfights involving their alumni, the average number of rounds fired was about 4, with a range from 1 to 11 rounds per incident.

These numbers debunk the idea that more ammunition automatically makes you safer. While magazine capacity matters, accuracy and decision-making under pressure matter more.

At What Distance Do Most Gunfights Happen?

This may surprise you:

  • Close-Range Engagements: The widely cited “Rule of Threes” suggests that most gunfights occur at approximately 3 yards, involve 3 shots, and last about 3 seconds. This heuristic is supported by various law enforcement training materials and anecdotal evidence.
  • Law Enforcement Data: According to the FBI, offenders shot approximately 50.9% of officers within a distance of 0 to 5 feet. leb.fbi.gov
  • Variability in Distances: While close-range encounters are most common, there are documented instances of defensive shootings occurring at longer distances. For example, in the 2022 Greenwood Park Mall shooting, a civilian bystander engaged and neutralized an active shooter from a distance of 40 yards. en.wikipedia.org

So while it’s critical to master close-quarters shooting, it’s just as important not to neglect medium-range marksmanship in your training.

How Long Do Gunfights Last?

Almost all defensive shootings are over in seconds. Literally.

  • Average Duration: The “Rule of Threes” encapsulates this, indicating that many such encounters are resolved in approximately 3 seconds.
  • Rapid Resolution: For instance, in the 2019 Dayton shooting, law enforcement officers engaged and neutralized the shooter within 32 seconds of the first shots being fired. en.wikipedia.org

The takeaway? Your training should simulate that pressure: draw, shoot, move, and make life-or-death decisions in just a few seconds.

What This Means for Your Training

If you’re serious about concealed carry or working in armed security, your training should reflect these facts:

  • Train Close-Up: Most encounters happen inside 7 yards. Your first shot needs to be fast and accurate.
  • Train Under Stress: Practice with timers, movement, and decision-making. Create realistic scenarios, not just static range time.
  • Carry Enough Ammo—but Don’t Overthink It: If you have a spare magazine and can run your gun efficiently, you’re ahead of the curve.
  • Prepare Mentally: Learn how to recognize threats early, act decisively, and justify your actions legally and ethically.

Final Thoughts

The average gunfight is fast, close, and violent. There’s no warning bell, no time to fumble with your firearm, and no room for error. The more you align your training with the realities backed by hard data, the more prepared you’ll be to protect yourself and others.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Always consult an attorney and follow local laws when carrying or using a firearm in self-defense.

Concealed Carry, Firearms Training, Guide, Legal & Law, News, Services

Common Questions From CCW Holders in Colorado

Mark Schneider

Your Go-To FAQ for Colorado Concealed Carry Law, CHP Permits, and Responsible Firearm Ownership

Whether you’re a new applicant or a long-time concealed carrier, you probably have questions—especially with Colorado’s laws changing in July 2025. As verified instructors, we’ve put together the most detailed and accurate FAQ available for CCW holders in the state. Let’s break it down:

📝 CHP Application & Renewal

❓ Do I Need to Take a Class to Get My CHP?

Yes. You must complete an 8-hour, in-person training class that includes:

  • Live-fire shooting (minimum 50 rounds)
  • A written exam (must score 70%+)
  • Instruction from a verified Colorado instructor

🔒 After July 1, 2025, online classes are no longer valid.

❓ What’s the Application Process?

StepWhat You Need
Training8-hour in-person class (valid 1 year)
IDValid Colorado photo ID
PhotoPassport-style photo
ApplicationCompleted at your county sheriff’s office
FeeUp to ~$152 depending on county
FingerprintsTaken at your appointment
Background CheckCBI + FBI check required
ProcessingUp to 90 days

❓ What About Renewals?

TopicDetails
Renewal PeriodUp to 120 days before expiration
Grace Period6 months after expiration (late fee may apply)
Expired 6+ MonthsMust reapply as a new applicant
New Requirements (7/1/25)2-hour refresher, live fire, written test
ID RequiredColorado driver’s license or ID
Late Fee~$15 in most counties

⚖ Use of Force Laws

❓ When Can I Use Deadly Force?

Under CRS 18-1-704 & 704.5:

  • Threat must be imminent
  • You cannot be the initial aggressor
  • Force must be proportional to the threat
  • Deadly force is only justified to prevent death or serious bodily harm

Deadly force is justified if stopping:

  • Murder or attempted murder
  • Sexual assault (active, not past or future)
  • Kidnapping
  • Robbery (with threat or weapon)
  • Aggravated assault
  • Burglary involving forced entry
  • First-degree arson posing threat to life

📍 Where Can and Can’t I Carry?

LocationCarry Allowed?
Denver City Buildings❌ No
Boulder Parks❌ No
CU/CSU Buildings❌ No
DIA Airport❌ No
K–12 School Grounds✅ In vehicle ONLY
Private Property Posted “No Guns”❌ No
Public Transit✅ With CHP
National Forests✅ Yes
Federal Buildings❌ No
Military Bases❌ Not without written authorization

🧠 Mental Health & CHP

❓ Will Mental Health Disqualify Me?

You may be denied a CHP if:

  • You were adjudicated mentally incompetent
  • Placed on a mental health hold
  • Committed to a mental institution

You can petition the court for restoration with documentation from a licensed provider.

🔫 Firearm & Permit Details

❓ How Many Guns Can I Carry?

There’s no legal limit on how many firearms you carry, as long as they are concealed and safely handled.

❓ Can I Carry with a Round in the Chamber?

Yes. All modern handguns are designed to be carried with a round chambered, using a proper holster.

❓ Can I Use Medical Marijuana and Still Have a CHP?

No. Marijuana use, even medical, disqualifies you under federal law. Lying on your CHP application may result in perjury charges.

❓ What Happens if I Lose My Permit?

You must report it and request a replacement from your county sheriff. A fee usually applies.

❓ Can I Carry at Work?

That depends on:

  • Employer policy
  • Whether it’s private or public property
  • If you keep it in your vehicle, it’s often allowed unless posted otherwise

❓ What if I Move to Another County or State?

  • New county: Notify sheriff’s office and renew with them
  • Out-of-state move: Your Colorado CHP becomes invalid

🚗 Firearm Transportation

TypeLegal?
Handgun (Loaded, Concealed in Car)✅ Yes
Long Gun (Loaded)❌ No – must be unloaded
Ammo in Same Case?✅ Legal, but not best practice
Gun Left in Car Unattended?✅ If it’s secured and not visible

🚫 Reasons for Denial

ReasonOutcome
Felony ConvictionLifetime ban
Domestic Violence MisdemeanorFederal disqualifier
Active Restraining OrderDisqualified until lifted
Lying on ApplicationConsidered perjury
Recent Alcohol/Drug OffensesDiscretionary denial

🧍 Situational Awareness & De-escalation

  • Avoid confrontations whenever possible
  • Always scan for exits and group behavior
  • Use strong body language and clear verbal direction
  • Don’t let ego override smart choices
  • Drawing your firearm is only for defense, not intimidation

📞 What Should I Say to 911 After a Shooting?

Say:

“There has been a shooting. I was attacked. I defended myself. Please send police and medical. I will cooperate and would like to speak to my attorney.”

Then say nothing else.

🧾 Common Procedural Questions

❓ Do I Have to Carry My Permit With Me?

Yes. You must carry both your CHP and valid ID while carrying.

❓ Can I Carry in a Bar or Restaurant?

Yes, but you may not be intoxicated while carrying. Stay below the legal limit.

❓ Can I Wear a Mask While Carrying?

Yes. Colorado law does not prohibit carrying with a face covering.

❓ Is There Magazine Capacity Limit?

Yes – 15 rounds. Possession of higher-capacity magazines is illegal unless lawfully owned before July 1, 2013. Proving that can be difficult, so we recommend using compliant mags only.

✅ Take the Next Step in Your CCW Journey

Firearms Training, Shooting Techniques

Shooting Drill: NRA Student Pistol Qualification (4-Inch Circle Accuracy Test)

Mark Schneider

The NRA Student Pistol Qualification is a foundational accuracy drill perfect for beginners, concealed carry applicants, or anyone looking to improve their marksmanship in a structured way. It’s slow-paced, fundamentals-focused, and a great way to measure real progress with your handgun skills.

Drill Overview

This qualification requires shooters to place accurate shots into small target zones across increasing distances. The test uses four 4-inch circles, and shooters must get five hits in each circle, for a total of 20 hits.

There is no time limit, and shooters may fire as many rounds as necessary to complete the drill.

Requirements

  • Target: Four (4) 4-inch diameter circles
  • Hits: 5 hits in each circle (20 total)
  • Consecutive hits not required
  • As many rounds as needed
  • No time limit

Distance Levels

LevelDistanceRequirement
Level 110 feet5 hits in each 4-inch circle
Level 215 feet5 hits in each 4-inch circle
Level 320 feet5 hits in each 4-inch circle

✅ To pass the qualification, shooters must complete Level 1 with all 20 hits inside the circles.

Why Run This Drill?

This isn’t just an NRA formality—it’s a solid accuracy exercise. It teaches shot placement, sight discipline, and consistency without the pressure of a clock. That makes it ideal for:

  • New shooters building fundamentals
  • CCW students preparing for more advanced drills
  • Instructors running baseline tests
  • Experienced shooters looking for a back-to-basics warmup

🎯 See Below to Print the Target

We’ve created a printable 8.5×11” sheet with four 4-inch circles, spaced and bold-lined for easy visibility.
Scroll to the bottom of this article to download the target PDF.

Want to Train Like This In-Person?

We run drills like this in our Colorado firearms training programs every week. Whether you’re a brand-new shooter or a concealed carry applicant, we’ll help you build real skills you can count on.

👉 Take a Concealed Carry Class in Denver
👉 Learn Colorado Self-Defense and Gun Laws
👉 Compare the Best Self-Defense Insurance Plans

NRA Student Pistol Qualification-compressedDownload