TC 3-20.40 is a vast improvement over the last rifle qualification. It trains transitions, speed reloads, use of barricades, and emphasizes proper magazine placement.

One thing it does NOT work is rapid engagements at close range; i.e. room distances to 25m.

Granted while combat arms units will likely train at this distance, Non-Combat MOS units should also have some close distance rifle training because:

1. The probability of getting in a close engagement is much more likely than a far one and significantly more devastating; particularly in an urban fight or a trench - warning link NSFW.
2. Being able to shoot accurately and fast at close range reinforces the shooting fundamentals of stance and trigger control
3. We need Soldiers to train to shoot multiple rounds on target to ensure threat neutralization vs the current one shot per target mentality
4. We need to train close distance specific issues that are not apparent at range, i.e. height over bore

The Marine Corps revamped their annual Rifle Qualification in 2021 to include a series of close range drills which are pass/fail that are timed, including a failure to stop drill (2 the body, 1 to the head within 5 seconds) and box drill (2 body shots to target A, 2 body shots to target B, 1 head shot to target B, 1 head shot to target A within 10 seconds).

Proposed solution: After table IV zeroing, add another table where you take two 25m zero targets side by side and conduct a shooting drill From a close distance (e.g. 10m). Table is pass/fail. If pass then proceed to rifle qual. If fail, then remediation. Example drill: Soldier from the standing position will fire 5 rounds, execute a speed reload, and engage the second target with another 5 rounds. All rounds must be within the targets and completed within 10 seconds.

Pros:

1. Works above close range fundamentals.

2. This can be done at any 25m zero range.

3. Minimal logistical burden in turns of time and range equipment.

Cons:

1. More ammo expenditure... 10 rounds per Soldier not counting reshoots.

2. Would be unable to run zeroing and the above COF at the same time (i.e. range safety).

3. Does not include engaging moving targets - a topic for another day.

4. EST would also need to be reprogrammed to simulate the above COF as well.