FAQ

What is “Force on Force” (FoF) training?

Force on force training involves training against live opponents using some sort of system firing lasers or training projectiles.  It is quite common in military and law enforcement circles and a critical component of preparing trainees for actual combat.

Why is FoF training important?

It is important because it places the trainee under a high level of stress similar to an actual gunfight.  This “stress inoculation” allows the participant to get used to operating in a high-stress environment so if they get into a gunfight it won’t be the first time they have experienced similar stress and their performance will be a lot better.

Studies of law enforcement have shown that officers typically hit the suspect (anywhere on the body) only 20%-30% of the time in actual shootings.  Yet, these same officers all hit much smaller targets 80%-100% of the time in qualifications at much further distances!  The missing link is not more marksmanship training; it is more training under the higher stress conditions typical of a gunfight.  This can only be achieved through some sort of realistic FoF training or simulation.

What is “Simunition”?

Simunition is the brand name of the company which pioneered the first FoF training system.  It was quickly adopted by our nation’s top counter-terrorism units and law enforcement agencies.  The most common Simunition product is the “FX” marking cartridge which has a small plastic projectile filled with a colored non-toxic soap. This allows converted firearms to be safely used in FoF training with proper safety gear.

Does it hurt?

A bit, it is similar to paintball.  It will create a bruise or welt, making sure your skin is covered with long sleeves and thin gloves is recommended.  A thick sweatshirt helps a lot as well.  With the high-quality safety gear we provide, you will not be injured (other companies offering this training often ask you to being your own “paintball” mask! These are not designed to be safe with these smaller projectiles.)

The “pain penalty” of getting hit is what adds to the training stress and makes it so effective as discussed above.  Besides, like in a real situation due to adrenaline and excitement, you may not even notice any pain in the moment.

Another note on safety; conducting safe and effective Force on Force training is completely different than typical live-fire range training.  It requires a special background and specific procedures to be followed.  When these procedures are followed, it is perfectly safe with almost no chance of someone being hurt. My background as an infantry officer required me to safely plan and execute many force on force training events.  I am also a Simunition certified scenario instructor. Tragically, this is not the case with many instructors and agencies who do not know, or follow, the proper procedures.  I recommend you not attend a FoF course if the instructor does not have a FoF specific training background and certification.

How often do you run courses?

We are hoping to run the Close Quarter Gunfighting course approximately 1x per month and add others.  Stay tuned!

Can I get my money back?

Yes!  If you aren’t satisfied for any reason, I’ll refund your money (even at the end of the course).  All I ask is for honest feedback so I can make it better.

What’s a Doru?

“Doru” or “Dory” is the Greek word for spear.  This was the primary weapon of the Greek Hoplites who were citizen-soldiers that stood up to the Persian army at the battles of Marathon, Thermopylae, and Plataea. These citizen-soldiers likely saved the world from a threat that would have ended any hope of western style democracy being allowed to develop into what we know it as today.

Where was the header photo taken?

Rush hour traffic in Baghdad, 2005.  Can you say “head on a swivel?” ; )