Establishment of Standards in Weapons Training Programs

• NCJ Number: 79373
• Author(s): LM Baltrusch
• Date Published: 1981
• Length: 660 pages
• Sale Source: UMI Dissertation Services
• Publication Type: Thesis/Dissertation
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: *This document is currently unavailable from NCJRS. University of Beverly Hills - doctoral dissertation.

Annotation

This dissertation presents a systematic approach to developing standards in police weapons training programs that will fit different needs and philosophies. It is directed toward public administrators of police agencies who may need such standards to defend their weapons training programs in court.

Abstract

An analysis is made of several targets used in police weapons training (i.e., bobber targets, silhouette targets, disk targets, etc.). The paper examines the limited data published on targets and illustrates that the targets are not as precise as commonly believed. An analysis is made of existing shotgroup measurements and their limitations. A new set of measurements is developed, based on standard mathematics, that allows analysis of the distribution patterns of the bullets as they strike the target. The analysis defines the shotgroup as an ellipse which is described with polar coordinates that identify its size, degree of elongation, and orientation of elongation. The collection of data for the purpose of developing and testing the theory of shotgroup distribution is examined. This includes detailed descriptions of 30 fired shotgroups of 30 rounds each, with the data listed by quadrant, subarea of intensified quadrant, rectangular coordinates, and polar coordinates. An analysis is then made of the 30 fired shotgroups. The analysis confirms the concept that the shotgroup is not random but follows predictable mathematical rules. The paper demonstrates that it is possible to estimate scores by a combination of target, shotgroup size, and shotgroup location on the target. Methods of establishing qualification (skill) standards designed to withstand challenges of adequacy in a court of law are demonstrated. Methods of handicapping subsize weapons are developed. The establishment of qualification standards is then extended into night shooting, with discussion of a new variable -- light level. A standard of measuring light is established, and light levels are recommended for different police training concepts. Grids, tables, diagrams, curves, and other illustrations are provided. About 30 references and appendixes presenting the data collection instrument and responses are included. (Author abstract modified)