Anyone serious about firearm ownership is usually a regular in training classes. Ninety-nine percent of these classes take place on what we call square ranges. These are standard ranges where static and controlled shoot-and-move drills can be practiced. Last week, I was quickly reminded that there is a step beyond the square range. I passed through the gates of the prestigious Gunsite Academy. Within the next 48 hours, I would be in the fight of my life as they ran us through force-on-force training.

Force on Force Training

The class was Shotgun Team Tactics for two, and part of the class focused on scenario training. For this section, we will use simunition pistols and gear. Simunition training is a highly effective, reality-based method to enhance readiness and effectiveness. It is primarily used by law enforcement officers, military personnel, and other professionals in high-stakes environments. Short for “simulated ammunition,” simunition refers to specially designed non-lethal projectiles used in realistic training scenarios. This method bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world application. It offers invaluable benefits that improve decision-making, tactical proficiency, and confidence under pressure.

Simunition

Simunition training employs non-lethal ammunition, often in the form of paint-filled cartridges, to replicate live-fire scenarios. These rounds are fired from modified service weapons, ensuring that participants experience realistic firearm handling and recoil without the danger of live ammunition. The paint rounds mark their targets upon impact, providing immediate feedback for assessing accuracy and tactical effectiveness. While obviously not lethal, they can be painful and quickly remind you that mistakes can cost you.

Gunsite Training

Gunsite conducts this training in their shoot houses or on nearby controlled trails. Participants are equipped with protective gear, including masks, gloves, and padding, to safeguard against injuries while maintaining the realism of the exercise. Even with this padding, you know if you have been “shot” because the rounds leave a clear colored mark.

The benefits of this training are profound. Even though you know it isn’t “real,” it replicates real-world scenarios very well. Whether simulating an active shooter situation, close-quarters combat, or tactical entry operations, participants are immersed in environments that mirror the complexities of actual scenarios. This realism is crucial for honing situational awareness and preparing participants for high-stress situations they may encounter in the real world.

Stress Inoculation

Another benefit is stress inoculation. Stress can significantly impact decision-making and performance in critical situations. Simunition training introduces controlled stressors, such as surprise attacks or dynamic environments, to acclimate participants to perform under pressure. This stress inoculation helps individuals develop the composure needed to remain focused and make sound decisions in real-life, high-pressure scenarios. Even though this class is focused on civilian skills, Gunsite is still adamant about two things. Good tactics and communication. They teach fundamental tactics like how to move through doorways and clear rooms. Communication-wise, they are all about simplicity. This is not a SWAT operation; simple phrases are easier to use and understand.

Fantastic Instructors

Gunsite Instructors Mario Marchman and Il Ling New ran the class for us. The class also had a special guest instructor, Sheriff Jim Wilson. Together, they took the class from the fundamental concepts of team tactics all the way to experiencing multiple scenarios using ammunition guns. The lessons were profound and a quick reminder that you may be a badass on the square range, but things change when people start shooting at you. As intense as it sounds, it was honestly one of the most enjoyable classes I have taken with Gunsite.

Few things are as profoundly life-changing as well-executed force-on-force training. It reminds us that the world is a dangerous place and that vigilance is more than a phrase—it must be a way of life. If you want to take your training to the next level, the Gunsite Team Tactics class must be on your list.

For more information, visit:https://www.gunsite.com/