We have received several questions about our upcoming Close Quarters Confrontations (CQC) course so this week’s blog will cover a few aspects and considerations for CQC training.

A common mis-quote is “most gun fights happen at a distance of 0-10 feet.” The correct quote is that most LOSING gunfights, specifically addressing law enforcement incidents, happen between 0-10 feet. Breaking it down further, 49-51% are lost in the 0-5 foot range and 19-21% more lose in the 6-10 foot range. These numbers suggest that CQC incidents truly are “worst case scenarios” in contrast to gun fights that happen at a greater distance. Thus, absent of the ability to avoid the conflict altogether, if we must engage we would prefer it to be at a distance of at least 4-5 yards… however, the bad guy probably didn’t get the memo and will likely end up inside that bubble.

We train specifically for close quarters confrontations because reduced distance from the threat can be a serious game-changer.

When engaged by a bad guy in civilian/off-duty life, commonly it will be in a close proximity simply because their intention is to either force you to do something, or to get something from you… both of which require proximity. Due to the proximity the scenario will likely become a highly-dynamic event which may involve grappling, striking, shooting, lots of movement, and the need for weapon retention. It’s really an exercise where you’ll need to open your entire toolbox of mindset, tactics, skill, and equipment.

Remember, you don’t win gunfights by shooting the other guy… you win by not getting shot (though shooting the other guy may be part of not getting shot). How to fight and win, specifically in the “worst case scenario” of a Close Quarters Confrontation, is what our CQC curriculum covers.

Stay safe!

Content by John Holschen
Written by Doug Marcoux