We Are The Best
Weapon Competency
Weapon competency in close protection refers to the professional ability to safely, legally, and effectively handle firearms within the specific context of protecting a principal (VIP). It combines technical shooting skills with tactical judgment, legal knowledge, and disciplined behaviour under pressure.
Legal and Regulatory Knowledge
- Knowing the laws governing firearms in the operating country
- Understanding licensing, use-of-force laws, and rules of engagement
- Knowing when you can and cannot use a weapon
In the UK, for example, armed close protection is extremely restricted and usually only conducted by police or military units.
Marksmanship Skills
- Accurate shooting at various distances
- Shooting from different positions (standing, kneeling, prone, behind cover)
- Shooting in low light
- Shooting under stress
Training often includes timed drills and accuracy standards.
 Tactical Firearms Skills
- Drawing from a holster safely and efficiently
- Moving and shooting
- Using cover and concealment
- Protecting the principal while engaging threats
- Working as part of a team (communication, spacing, arcs of fire)
Close protection shooting is different from military or police shooting—your priority is protecting the principal, not winning a gunfight.
. Weapon Maintenance
- Cleaning and maintaining firearms
- Identifying faults
- Ensuring the reliability of the weapon system
A malfunctioning weapon is a liability in protection work.
Professional Conduct & Judgment
- Knowing when not to use a weapon
- Avoiding unnecessary escalation
- Maintaining composure under stress
- Prioritising the principal’s safety over engaging threats
Weapon competency is as much about decision-making as it is about shooting.
Why Weapon Competency Matters in Close Protection
Because in a real attack:
- You must protect the principal first
- You must avoid collateral damage
- You must act within the law
- You must remain calm and effective under extreme pressure
A close protection officer who is not fully competent with weapons is a danger to themselves, the team, the public, and the principal.
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