If there’s one thing that has taken the online firearms community by storm in the past few days, it’s the Dicken Drill. Named in honor of 22 year old Elisjsha Dicken, who successfully engaged an active shooter with 10 rounds, getting 8 hits, starting at a distance of 40+ yards.

Shooting the Dicken Drill

Alright, so this one is simple. You need a humanoid target, USPSA or IDPA style works well. However, you could use pretty much any of the common human-shaped targets including a B-27 if that’s all you’ve got. Per the internet rules, the Dicken Drill is straightforward. From concealment, engage the target at 40 yards with 10 rounds in 15 seconds. You have to get 8/10 hits anywhere on the target to pass the drill.

The Dicken Drill as it’s being called likely isn’t exactly representative of Elisjsha Dicken’s heroic actions on that day. There are conflicting reports that he took cover, or that he closed the distance to the shooter. Regardless, we do know that Eli began the engagement at what many would consider significant range for a pistol. Ultimately, the point of this drill is to encourage armed citizens to practice at longer ranges.

The Era of 3 Shots at 3 Yards in 3 Seconds is Over

3-3-3 used to be a common standard for people to try and hit. And it’s still relevant. You should be able to get three center-mass hits at 3 yards in under 3 seconds. But if a rifle-armed psychopath shows up across the mall food court from you, 3-3-3 isn’t going to get it done. Try the Dicken Drill for yourself. Get out of your 7 yard comfort zone and shoot at 25, 30, 40, 50 yards. Plus, if you’re prepared to make a complex shot at 40 yards, making a 3 yard shot will be a piece of cake, right?