Following up on his previous training, Rob Gorman of Tactical Yoga hosted a ‘Dynamic Shotgun and Pistol Course’ at the Longest Mile this past August 15 and 16.

Quickly establishing a core of repeat students, they were joined by a handful of new shooters.

Despite a gorgeous summer, the week leading up to the course proved to be quite wet. By the time we assembled in The Longest Mile’s pistol bay, we all had to contend with quite the mud pit.

And ‘mud pit’ might be a little too kind considering the rain we got leading up to this. You probably haven’t really drilled technique until you try to execute a 180 degree target acquisition while trying to extract your feet from a glue/snot vice grip the terrain has on your boots. All the while on a timer.

As with previous courses, Rob took the weekend to put us through the paces with pistol and shotgun. This really opened my eyes to how versatile a firearm the shotgun is. We learned and experienced first-hand the effects of different loads and distances.

We’d retreat under the protection of a tent from the elements while reloading and reviewing the past drill and considering the next.

Many of the drills and techniques that were shown were both new and exciting. From optimal shotgun re-loading, to clearing pistol malfunctions while running the course, and finally transitioning from shotgun to pistol, it was a blast! Be certain: pun intended.

Although the conditions were not conducive to some of the more advanced movement we were able to execute with the rifle course, Rob was sure the keep us engaged and introduce drills that worked well with the limited mobility.

One of Gorman’s goals is to ensure that participants come away as a better shooter. I am confident in stating that ALL of us accomplished this, and had a shit ton of fun. I can’t remember a single negative reply when Rob asked ‘Everyone want to try it again?’

Want more awesome? Consider two words: Rolling Thunder.

Simply put, Rolling Thunder is a drill in which the entire firing line maintains a constant rate of fire with their shotguns while being on target. Starting with one round chambered, the first shooter fires their round on-target, quickly followed by the second shooter, and so on down the entire firing line. Meanwhile, after having shot, the trick is to quickly place a shell into the shotgun and acquire your target before the cycle starts again. This continues until you load and shoot around five rounds.

And goddamn, man: teeth rattle and muscle was torn from bones. Long range shooters were left wondering what kind of hell was unleashed that moment in the pistol bay. If you weren’t part of it, your instinct was likely to pack up, save skin, and head for safety. Then promptly sign up for the next course.

I think we drilled this particular exercise 4 or 5 times in total over the course of the weekend. Ammo reserves permitting, we could ALL have done this another 4 times. Easy.

Ultimately, after reviewing the course upon the completion, it’s easy to say that everyone attending enjoyed a fun weekend. We all came away with new skill sets and experiences. Very much looking forward to the next training opportunity with Rob of Tactical Yoga.

Approximately 400 9mm rounds and 200 shotgun shells (plus a handful of slugs and buckshot) later, new friends were made and skills learned.

Click here to contact Tactical Yoga today. Drop Rob a line and let him know what you’re interested in. From long range shooting, pistol, rifle, and shotgun, Rob’s got a weekend planned for you.

View the Tactical Yoga Patrol Rifle & Pistol Training Course photo galleries.