Guerrilla Warfare School

Introduction

The purpose of this guide is to prepare the reader to become and effective guerrilla fighter according to minimum acceptable standards.

The content of this guide will be presented as a self-guided training program. The reader will be presented with a series of exercises along with PASS/FAIL standards of completion.

This guide is for educational purposes only.

The reader assumes all liability for consequences which may follow from carrying out the actions in this guide.

Good luck and train hard.

How to use this guide:

This training program will be presented in phases. It will be assumed that the reader has no experience or training in basic infantry and survival skills. By following the training program carefully, the reader will be able to train themselves in basic infantry tasks according to minimum acceptable standards. Anyone of any level of experience or fitness will be able to us this guide, provided they are of sound health and they have the will and discipline to hold themselves to the standard for each task.

Irregular forces such as guerrilla fighters do not benefit from standardized military organization or equipment. It is not the purpose of this guide to cover every possible circumstance, and it is of course assumed that anyone engaging in this training program will equip themselves to the best of their ability, with the most effective and reliable equipment they have available.

As such, the first section will be devoted to the individual equipment necessary to complete the basic training phases. The trainee will be expected to acquire equivalent gear; however, the trainee may acquire the equipment as necessary according to the training program.

The program will begin with an individual training phase meant to familiarize the trainee with basic skills and give them a chance to develop physical fitness. Over the course of the program, the complexity, physical fitness and personnel requirements of the exercises will escalate.

Each phase will encompass a certain amount of training days required to learn and perform each task to standard. Since the program is self-guided, these tasks can be performed as the trainee is able. However, it is very important that the trainee hold themselves accountable for completing the tasks, and that they continue to perform at least a basic regimen of physical fitness and drills in order to maintain and develop their skills. A task is considered completed once the trainee can perform it according to the given PASS/FAIL standard. If the standard is not met on the first attempt, the trainee should continue attempting it until the standard is met.

INDIVIDUAL EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS:

A certain amount of individual equipment will be necessary in order to complete the basic course. It is impossible to cover all types of available equipment or variations of each piece of equipment. Indeed, the purpose of this guide is not to review or compare gear. There are plenty of sources of that type of information available already. However, since a minimum amount of equipment will be assumed in the following tasks, this first section will provide a list, along with basic notes and recommendations.

The gear list will be broken down into three “lines”:

Line 1: Uniform and equipment that is worn on the trainee’s person. If the trainee does not possess any equipment, they should start acquiring the items on this list first.

Line 2: A basic fighting load as worn by light Infantry.

Line 3: A basic sustainment load necessary for extended time in the field.

Line 1 (Worn) Equipment List:

Uniform Top & Bottom
Boots (hiking/combat)
Socks (wool/synthetic)
Hat w/brim
Gloves
Shirt (synthetic)
Face Cover (bandana, head wrap, shemagh)
Eye Protection
Ear Protection
Knee Pads
Fire Starter (matches/ferro rod/lighter)
Water Purifier (filter/tablets)
Signal Mirror
Multitool w/pliers
Map
Simple Compass
Navigational Protractor
Headlamp
Nylon Belt
Pistol Holster
Pistol
Pistol Magazines
Tourniquet
Waterproof Pen/Paper
Emergency Ration

Uniform:

The type of uniform and its coloring will be dependent on the local environment. The trainee should select a uniform that matches the color of their intended area of operations. Most modern military uniforms are a cotton/polyester blend woven in a grid, or ‘rip stop’ pattern. Genuine military issue uniforms are a good place to start, because they’ve been field tested and surplus equipment is usually cheap.

If possible, NIR compliant uniforms should be acquired. NIR compliant material is specially treated to reduce the reflection of Infrared light, which means it will blend into its surroundings better when under the gaze of Night Vision Goggles or other NIR devices.

Boots:

Conventional wisdom holds that if one is to splurge on any piece of gear, it should be boots. Boots should be sturdy and provide ankle support. All-leather boots will not perform well over extended periods in wet environments. Boots should either have a waterproof lining, or be constructed using drain holes and sections of breathable nylon so that they dry quickly. Military surplus boots can be durable, but may require insoles for comfort. Many brands of hiking boots are also acceptable.

Boots should be broken in extensively before they are taken to the field. Strapping on a brand new pair of US Army issue combat boots and going on a ruck march is a mistake one will only make once.

Socks:

Socks should be either wool or synthetic. Cotton socks stay wet longer.

Hat:

A hat with a brim is necessary to keep the sun off one’s face. It should match the color or camo pattern of the uniform.

Gloves:

Leather or synthetic gloves should be durable, yet as thin as weather conditions allow so that dexterity is not sacrificed.

Shirt:

Like socks, shirts should be either wool or synthetic. Cotton is a poor choice for field gear.

Face Cover:

A bandana, shemagh or balaclava will keep one’s face and neck camouflaged and protected from the elements. Fleece balaclavas should only be worn in extreme cold conditions.

Eye & Ear Protection, Knee Pads:

Personal protective equipment is necessary to avoid injury to one’s vital sense organs. Ear plugs and sunglasses should be carried at the very least, though ballistic eye protection and electronic ear muffs offer additional protection. Knee pads are welcome when taking hasty fighting positions.

Fire Starter:

A fire starter is basic survival equipment, and one should be carried in each line of equipment to create redundancy in case of loss. A ferro rod with striker should be carried as a first option, and lighters and matches can be carried as backups.

Water Purifier:

Another piece of basic survival equipment that is duplicated in each line of equipment. One can survive for extended periods of time without food, but without a clean source of water, chances of survival drop drastically and quickly. Iodine tablets should be carried as an emergency measure, and water filters should be carried for more permanent use.

Signal Mirror:

Another piece of basic survival equipment that will allow one to signal friendly forces, search teams and first responders in case of emergency.

Multitool:

A multitool with pliers is an indispensable tool. It can be used for an almost infinite variety of tasks, including weapons maintenance, in field repairs, and crafting things like snares.

Map, Compass and Protractor:

Land navigation is an essential skill that the reader will learn and practice during this course. A map, compass and navigational protractor are necessary tools to that end.

Headlamp:

A headlamp with a red light allows one to navigate using map and compass after nightfall. A red light is necessary in order to preserve the user’s natural night vision and avoid alerting opposing forces of one’s whereabouts.

Nylon Belt:

A sturdy nylon belt such as a rigger’s belt should be worn in order to support the weight of the user’s pistol and other belt-mounted items, and to facilitate emergency climbing and repelling action if necessary.

Pistol, Holster and Magazines

An automatic, striker fired or Double Action/Single Action pistol in a common caliber serves as the sidearm of the irregular militia, and the main weapon of the underground urban operative. It is not the purpose of this guide to indulge in lengthy debate over which platform is the best. At a minimum, a model of pistol currently or previously in issue by police and military forces should be sought. A compact frame pistol such as the Glock 19 is an ideal choice because it can be concealed or worn outside the belt as a sidearm.

A holster with some type of retention mechanism will be also be required, as well as a minimum of three magazines. One magazine will be retained in the pistol, and the other two should be placed in a belt pouch.

Tourniquet:

The leading cause of death on the battlefield is blood loss. A tourniquet can be applied to a limb in case of a large wound or arterial bleeding. Arterial bleeding can cause death in less than three minutes, which makes a self-applied and improvised solution very inadvisable.

Waterproof Pen and Paper:

It will be necessary to take notes, copy orders, draw range cards, and other tasks which require paper and pen. However, regular paper will be easily ruined in wet conditions, and typical ballpoint pens will bleed and wash off if they even write at all.

Emergency Ration:

This is just a small amount of calories to keep on hand in case one is caught without the rest of their gear. Military forces often carry a ‘field stripped’ MRE; that is, and MRE that has been taken out of its bulky wrapping and stripped down to the most calorie dense components, then taped together into a more convenient package to carry.

Line 2 (Fighting Load) Equipment List:

Rifle
Rifle Magazines
Load Bearing Equipment with Pouches
Fixed Blade Knife
IFAK
550 Cord
Hydration Carrier
Water Purifier
Flashlight
Lensatic Compass
Fire Starter
Poncho
Poncho Liner
Emergency Ration

Rifle and Magazines:

A well-functioning, reliable rifle is literally a matter of life or death for an irregular militiaman and his opponents. There are, again, too many types of rifle to list here, and availability will vary according to location. In the United States, the AR-15 chambered in 5.56 will be one of the most practical choices. If possible, reputable manufacturers such as BCM or Aero Precision should be sought after.

Along with the rifle itself, it will be necessary to acquire at least four magazines, a sling and a weapon-mounted light. Optics, like the rifle, should be of quality manufacture; though at minimum the rifle should be equipped with quality iron sights.

Load Bearing Equipment:

This will be a belt, vest or chest rig designed to carry the fighting load. In the past, the United States relied on the ALICE belt and harness system, then progressed to MOLLE compatible vests and chest rigs. Coming full circle, it is once again popular to mount as much of the fighting load as possible to a purpose built MOLLE or duty belt. Any of these solutions are acceptable, and as usual, military surplus is an excellent source of reliable and affordable equipment.

If Necessary, an Assault Pack or Butt Pack can be incorporated to carry items such as the Poncho, Poncho Liner and field rations.

IFAK

The Individual First Aid Kit contains items meant to be applied to the carrier by a friendly third party in order to treat the most common and deadly types of battlefield injuries and prevent death until more comprehensive medical care can be sought. Since the leading cause of death related to battlefield injuries is blood loss, the items contained in the IFAK should be focused on staunching the flow of blood. Tactical Combat Casualty Care will be taught during the course of this guide. In the meantime, a basic IFAK should contain the following items at a minimum:

Tourniquet
Compression Bandage (Israeli or OLAES)
Hemostatic Agent (Celox or QuikClot)
Gauze

This will allow for the treatment of massive blood loss injuries. As funds and availability allow, the following items can be added in order to treat wounds to the chest cavity and respiratory system:

Chest Seals (x2)
Nasopharyngeal Airway
Chest Decompression Needle

Fixed Blade Knife:

A full tang survival or combat knife serves as a final line of defense in case of close contact with the enemy, and facilitates various survival tasks such as processing wood and cordage or striking a ferro rod. No one knife will be designed to excel at all of these tasks, but a knife with a full tang, plain spine, high carbon steel content, and shallow, simple and non-serrated grind should be fine in most circumstances.

550 Cord:

A hank or prepared guy lines of 550 cord will allow the user to quickly construct expedient shelters and lash together gear, among many other survival tasks. In combination with the Poncho, a prepared 25’ ridgeline and several 3-5’ with knots pre-tied will allow the user to construct an emergency shelter in a matter of minutes.

Hydration Carrier:

Staying hydrated is extremely important during high stress, high exertion combat and survival scenarios. A one-quart canteen or hydration bladder carried on the L.B.E. should be considered a critical piece of equipment.

Water Purifier:

Another piece of basic survival equipment that is duplicated in each line of equipment. One can survive for extended periods of time without food, but without a clean source of water, chances of survival drop drastically and quickly. Iodine tablets should be carried as an emergency measure, and water filters should be carried for more permanent use.

Flashlight:

A flashlight facilitates navigation, gear handling and target identification in low-light situations in circumstances where light discipline is unnecessary.

Lensatic Compass:

As with all other basic survival items, this is duplicated in more than one line of equipment in order to create redundancy. A military style lensatic compass allows the user to shoot an azimuth to known landmarks for purposes of navigation and orientation.

Fire Starter:

A fire starter is basic survival equipment, and one should be carried in each line of equipment to create redundancy in case of loss. A ferro rod with striker should be carried as a first option, and lighters and matches can be carried as backups.

Poncho:

A military Poncho is a lightweight, multipurpose piece of gear. It can be used as a poncho in order to keep one’s person and equipment dry in case of rain, and it can be used as a tarp to create field expedient shelters.

Poncho Liner:

The Poncho Liner, or ‘woobie’, maintains survivability and comfort when sleeping in the field in lieu of a full sleep system.

Emergency Ration:

This is just a small amount of calories to keep on hand in case one is caught without the rest of their gear. Military forces often carry a ‘field stripped’ MRE; that is, and MRE that has been taken out of its bulky wrapping and stripped down to the most calorie dense components, then taped together into a more convenient package to carry.

Line 3 (Sustainment Load) Equipment List:

Ruck
Sleep System
Cookset
Stove
Entrenching Tool
First Aid Kit
Hygiene Kit
Extra Shirts
Extra Socks
Extra Uniform
Thermal Layers
Wet Weather Top & Bottom
Cotton Bandana/Shemagh
Waterproof Pack Liner
Cordage
Water Container
Fire Starter
Water Filter
Maintenance Kit
Rations

Ruck:

The Rucksack is used to carry the sustainment load for extended time in the field, and is usually left behind at a secure location, rally point or patrol base during operations. The ruck must be durable and designed to carry a significant amount of weight comfortably. The ruck should feature an internal or external frame and waist belt. Military surplus rucksacks are among the best options because of their toughness and cost. The Medium Alice pack with frame is an older, less sophisticated and less comfortable piece of equipment, but it is highly adaptable and rugged. The MOLLE II rucksack is much larger and features a plastic frame. The U.S. Marine Corps has developed the FILBE and ILBE pack series, which are designed to carry extremely large and heavy loads.

Most civilian hiking packs are not constructed to meet the durability requirements of heavy field use, so they are not optimal choices. However, exceptions would include packs designed for hunting or third-party tactical markets.

Sleep System

The sleep system should include the following items:

Sleeping Bag, synthetic fill
Sleeping Pad, insulated, foam or inflatable
Sleeping Bag Cover (bivy sack)
Carrier (stuff sack or external carrier)

A sleeping bag should be rated for the lowest expected temperature, but the temperature range can be extended through the use of clothing. Down sleeping bags are lighter, but down loses its loft when wet, and is not recommended.

A sleeping pad is necessary to insulate the user’s body from the ground, especially in cold climates.

A bivy sack is a waterproof emergency shelter into which the bag and pad are placed. In combination with a Poncho shelter, a bivy sack will keep the user warm and dry through almost any weather conditions. The U.S.G.I. Goretex bivy sack is one of the best pieces of gear money can buy, and is very cheap compared to equivalent civilian models.

Depending on the rucksack, the sleep system can be carried inside the ruck or lashed to the outside using an external carrier.

Cookset and Stove:

This will include instruments for heating and eating food and boiling water. If a 1 quart canteen is being used, a steel canteen cup makes an excellent, space saving option for a small pot. There are many different types of stoves available, but a solid fuel or alcohol burning stove will take up the least space and weight when compared to a gas stove. An additional benefit to solid fuel stoves such as Esbit stoves is that they can employ small sticks as fuel, meaning that fuel shortage will rarely be an issue.

Entrenching Tool:

Modern entrenching tools are folding shovels that can be employed in several configurations for a wide variety of tasks. They can be used as a shovel, pick, root saw, chopping instrument, seat, and if worse comes to worse, a weapon.

First Aid Kit:

In contrast with the IFAK, which is meant to provide immediate, temporary treatment to life-threatening injuries, a general first aid kit should include items used to treat minor cuts, stings and burns. A minor cut may not seem like a big deal, but if left untreated it can become infected.

Items for treating foot-related ailments should not be overlooked. Foot powder or baby powder can be used to keep feet dry and healthy. Moleskin can be used to isolate blisters and prevent them from becoming worse. Waterlogged or blistered feet can make an already stressful experience soul-crushing.

Hygiene Kit:
Any items necessary for personal grooming and maintenance shall be included here. It is important to maintain good hygiene during extended time in the field. Baby wipes can be used in lieu of running water for a field expedient bath. Additionally, sunscreen and bug spray are important outdoor items.

Extra Clothing:

Extra clothing, in particular extra socks, should be kept dry inside the pack. At the very least, it is vitally important that a dry set of clothing be kept to change into at night when the temperature drops. It may not be fun to wake up and change back into a wet set of clothes, but it’s better than hypothermia.

Thermal Layers:

A thermal base layer (top & bottom), fleece jacket liner and fleece or wool watch cap will help maintain body temperature at night, and can extend the working range of a sleeping bag considerably.

Wet Weather Top & Bottom:

Rain gear should always be available in case of adverse weather. Military issue Goretex jackets and pants are well worth their cost.

Bandana/Shemagh:

Basically the only piece of cotton advisable in the field, a cotton bandana has a litany of survival uses. It can be used to filter large particulates out of water. When combined with ground up charcoal from a camp fire, it can even be used as an emergency water filter. It can be used as a bandage, splint, container, and of course a face covering.

Water Proof Pack Liner:

A waterproof bag of some type should be used to line the ruck in order to protect the items inside. Given an airtight seal, it will make the pack buoyant. At the very least, a couple of large trash bags should be used for this purpose.

Cordage:

An additional hank of 550 cord, or even a length of rope, should be stored in the ruck.

Water carrier:

And additional two quart canteen or water bladder should be carried in the ruck, expanding water capacity of the full kit to at least three liters. Water should be kept topped off as much as possible, particularly if using canteens or water bottles; sloshing water is noisy.

Maintenance Kit:

Weapons and equipment maintenance is a critical task. As such, a weapons cleaning kit, sewing kit, and small selection of basic tools should be carried in the ruck.

Additional Equipment Considerations:

The above constitutes a basic light infantry loadout that will be useful in a wide variety of situations, but it is by no means all-inclusive. Gear requirements will vary depending on area of operations, mission critical tasks, season etc.

Additional expendable items such as plastic freezer bags, batteries, personal comfort items and the like should not be overlooked. However, it should be remembered that everything is carried. One would be surprised at how little equipment is necessary to survive for weeks in the wilderness. As such, It is recommended that unnecessary items be kept to a minimum.

Body Armor:

Body armor sold in the U.S. is rated according to the NIJ certification standards listed above. Note that level III armor is rated to defeat 7.62x51 M80 ball ammunition and M855 “Penetrator” steel-tip 5.56. However, regular 5.56 ball ammunition traveling above 2800-3000 fps will punch straight through level III steel plates, making them nearly worthless for defeating rifle threats in the U.S.

For this reason, manufacturers have begun producing “level III+” plates. The standards for testing III+ armor vary according to manufacturer, because no such NIJ certification exists. It is important to review the manufacturer’s lab results before buying any armor, but for all intents and purposes, level III+ plates are the only steel plates worth buying.

The use of body armor should be dependent on the mission and the expected threat. Guerrilla forces rarely engage in close combat with the enemy, preferring to stick to hit and run tactics, though different missions have different requirements.

Training Program

This training program is intended to teach someone with no knowledge or experience basic infantry skills. It will be presented in weekly intervals containing blocks of instruction, skill-building drills, and self-administered critical skill assessments. For those without a current physical fitness routine, a workout plan will also be provided.

The program will initially cover three phases: individual, buddy, and team.

The individual phase will teach individual soldier skills such as marksmanship, land navigation, and basic wilderness survival.

Once the individual phase has been completed, the trainee will be expected to locate a suitable buddy, and if necessary, train them on the individual soldier skills learned in phase one. Then, as a buddy pair, they will train in basic tactical movement and communication, Tactical Combat Casualty Care, and more advanced marksmanship techniques.

After completing the buddy phase, the buddy team will once again locate and train one to two more buddy teams. The group will then train as a fire team in basic small unit tactics, patrolling, and field operations.

It is, essentially, a simplified and self-administered basic training course, designed to be completed in a fair amount of spare time and with limited resources.

Extensive use will be made of dry-fire training and exercises to account for the cost of ammunition and availability of suitable training areas. However, a minimum amount of live-fire training and exercises will be expected, and recommended. If the trainee has access to large quantities of ammunition and suitable facilities, they will benefit greatly from substituting additional live-fire training.

Short guides will be included on how to locate and choose training partners and facilities, how to train safely, and how to maintain operational security. The beauty of this program is that since it is self administered and comes from a centralized source with whom no communication is necessary, it can be conducted in a safe manner according to the time constraints and resources of the trainee.

WEEK ZERO: Pre-Indivdual Phase Assessment

Tasks:

(1) Complete physical fitness assessment
(2) Research and locate suitable training facilities
(3) Take stock of individual equipment and note deficiencies
(4) Complete introductory ruck march

WEEK ZERO TASK 1

Task: Perform physical fitness assessment.

Conditions: During any time of day, given a ten-meter distance in which to conduct shuttle sprints, two 20 pound weights or one 5 gallon water jug, and wearing a vest, plate carrier, L.B.E. or pack weighing no less than 15 pounds.

Standards: Within 6 minutes, complete the following set of exercises four times.

5x burpees
1x shuttle sprint (20 meters)
10x alternating lunges
2x shuttle carry weights or jug (40 meters)

If this task is failed, the trainee has a low level of functional fitness. If they are not engaged in a physical fitness routine, a routine will be provided, starting the following week.

WEEK ZERO TASK 2

Task: Identify suitable training facilities for live-fire training, land navigation training, ruck marches, and field training exercises.

Conditions: As able, given resources on local area.

Standards: Locate and gather information on the following types of training areas.

Indoor/outdoor shooting range with a minimum lane length of 25m for purposes of basic marksmanship training and weapons zeroing

Outdoor shooting range with a minimum range of 50m for purposes of live-fire exercises and weapons qualification

Large area suitable for land navigation training, wilderness camping and field training exercises

Trail or road with a minimum length of 6 miles for the purpose of conducting ruck marches

Gather and record information about hours of operation, road access and route planning, terrain conditions, expected civilian usage, land ownership, fees and permits etc.

Indoor Shooting Ranges:

Indoor shooting ranges carry the advantage of convenience and availability. They are very common throughout the United States, and in some other locations they may be the only place one can access or fire weapons.

However, most indoor ranges charge fees, have a maximum range of 25m, and do not allow shooters to draw from a holster or shoot and move. The beginning portion of marksmanship training will be written to allow the use of an indoor range, but after weapons zeroing another solution must be found.

National/State Parks and Wilderness Areas:

Discharging firearms is generally prohibited in national parks; however, national forests, many state parks and wilderness areas have very limited regulations on the discharge of firearms.

For this reason, state park and wilderness areas are often excellent options for training because they fulfill multiple roles at once. Given a large enough wilderness area, it is possible to conduct nearly all of the exercises and tasks in this guide in a single location in relative privacy.

Be sure to check the regulations for your local park system.

The above National Forest areas generally have only the following restrictions on the discharge of firearms:

Not within 150 yards from a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation area or occupied area.

Not across or on a national forest or grassland road or body of water.

In any manner or place where any person or property is exposed to injury or damage as a result of such discharge.

Into or within a cave.

Firing tracer bullets or incendiary ammunition.

Disturbing, injuring, destroying, or in any way damaging any prehistoric, historic, or archaeological resource, structure, site, artifact, property.

Abandoning any personal property or failing to dispose of all garbage, including targets, paper, cans, bottles, appliances.

Mission Analysis and Planning:

Planning and preparation are critical to ensure the success of any task. During the course of mission planning, military leaders use a planning tool called METT-TC. The habit of planning along these lines should be developed when considering training tasks.

MISSION

Intent one and two levels up – the broader goals and effects desired by the person(s) issuing the mission

Specified tasks – the tasks explicitly given to the soldier or unit

Implied tasks – secondary or tertiary tasks which must be completed in order to achieve the specified tasks

Mission essential tasks – critical tasks that define the success and completion of the mission

Limitations – the limitations imposed by the commanding unit or officer, or by the conditions of the mission itself

Restated Mission – the mission reformulated according to the planner’s own understanding, generally formulated as Who, What, Where, When and Why

ENEMY

Disposition/Composition – the type, placement and security stance of the enemy

Strength – the numbers of enemy personnel, vehicles, weapons systems etc.

Recent activity – known intelligence about recent behavior

Weaknesses – potential weaknesses in enemy positions, security measures etc.

Course of Action – the possible and probable COA the enemy will follow

Reinforcement abilities – the ability of the enemy to receive support from additional personnel, indirect fire, aircraft etc.

TROOPS AVAILABLE

Key Leaders – the leaders identified with receiving mission orders and delegating the tasks to their own subordinates

Disposition/Composition - the type, placement and security stance of available troops

Strength - the numbers of available personnel, vehicles, weapons systems etc.

Activity – the current activity of the troops in question

Weaknesses – identified weaknesses which the leader would exploit, if he were an enemy

Morale – the attitude, mental and emotional state of the unit

Maintenance level – the state of equipment

Combat service support – the logistical support available

TERRAIN

Observation and fields of fire – areas allowing clear observation and fields of fire, particularly along areas of approach and egress, as well as terrain and obstacles which create ‘dead spaces’

Cover and concealment – terrain, foliage, structures etc. which provide concealment from observation or cover from direct and indirect fire

Obstacles – physical impediments to movement along avenues of approach and egress

Key terrain – terrain features that are essential to the mission, or which offer a decisive advantage if seized

Avenues of approach – areas which allow effective movement toward key terrain or objectives

TIME

Time necessary to plan and prepare orders

Time to conduct inspections and rehearsals

Line of departure

Time to conduct movement to/from the start point, critical points and objectives

CIVILIAN CONSIDERATIONS

The location, disposition and attitude of local civilian populations

Conducting Map Reconnaissance:

Practice using OCOKA (Observation and fields of fire, cover and concealment, obstacles, key terrain, avenues of approach) by selecting a suitable shooting area on the map above. Remember that in order to shoot safely and in compliance with National Forest regulations, there must be a suitable field of fire terminating in a backdrop, without crossing over any trails or roads.

WEEK ZERO TASK 3

Task: Perform checks and inspections on personal equipment.

Conditions: Given the equipment checklists for worn, fighting load and sustainment load equipment, and an orderly layout of currently available equipment.

Standards: Ensure all personal equipment is well adjusted, serviceable and in properly maintained condition.

Equipment like rucksacks, plate carriers and L.B.E. should be properly fitted to the user.

Once adjusted, all loose webbing and ties should be secured.

If something is found to be in non-working condition, the deficiency should be noted and a plan to correct it made.

PERFORMING PRE-COMBAT CHECKS AND INSPECTIONS:

Pre-combat checks and inspections are a vital part of Troop-Leading Procedures according to military doctrine. They allow one to ensure that they are properly prepared for a given training exercise or mission. They should be performed before any training event or mission in order to be certain that something as small as a dead battery or loose strap doesn’t jeopardize the success of the event or the lives of the guerrilla or his comrades.

Checks and inspections are the No. 1 tool to combat those twin enemies of readiness—apathy and complacency. It’s human nature for people to get used to their surroundings and begin to overlook minor problems. By conducting regular inspections, one will be able to correct small problems before they become big problems. They are also an important part of mindset.

In a high-stress situation, something as simple as a loose strap or unsecured item can become a catastrophe. Maintaining standards is important for this reason. All straps should be properly adjusted and then secured with properly colored tape or elastic straps. All weapons should be clean and checked for function and reliability. All mission essential and sensitive equipment should be properly stored, and if necessary, tied to the user, L.B.E. or ruckasck to prevent its loss.

Combat is an already chaotic and confusing affair. It’s important to make sure that equipment works for its user and not against them.

ADJUSTING BODY ARMOR:

The purpose of body armor is to prevent immediate loss of life or consciousness from being shot in the cardiovascular or nervous system, so that the user may continue to engage targets with their weapon. When body armor is properly fitted, it will also cover most, but not all, of the respiratory system.

Plates should cover an area from the Suprasternal Notch to 1-3” above the belly button (when seated) and from nipple to nipple. Plates which are too small will not cover vital parts of the cardiovascular system; plates which are too large will impede mobility and weapons handling.

WEEK ZERO TASK FOUR

Task: Complete introductory ruck march.

Conditions: During any time of day, given an uninterrupted road or trail of two miles in length (or one mile out and back), and a pack weighing no less than 25 pounds.

Standards: Complete a march of two miles within 35 minutes.

CONDUCTING RUCK MARCHES:

Long-range movements are often a necessary part of infiltrating into an area containing an objective, conducting reconnaissance, and evading enemy forces, among many other critical tasks. Many historical guerrilla forces have had no other transportation than their own feet. For this reason, developing the fitness necessary to carry one’s own equipment during extended marches should be considered a major component of training.

Utilization of and familiarity with difficult terrain inaccessible to large conventional forces is one of the greatest strengths and defenses of guerrilla fighters. The ability to move quickly, efficiently and safely over such terrain could be critical to the continued operations of the guerrilla unit.

PREVENTING FOOT INJURY:

The feet are one of the most essential parts of the body to keep healthy for anyone performing light infantry tasks. Foot injuries are simple to prevent, but once they happen they pose a serious risk to safety and morale.

The first key to the prevention of foot injuries, such as sprains, blisters and infections, is to have the proper footwear. Boots should be supportive and snug enough not to allow free movement of the foot within the boot, but have enough spare room to accommodate a bit of swelling. Boots with a breathable construction will allow foot sweat to dissipate.

Socks are equally important. Wool socks are best because they wick moisture away from the foot, and synthetic or blended socks will dry more quickly than pure cotton. Pure cotton socks are to be avoided if at all possible.

As necessary, change wet socks and boots out for dry ones.

TREATING BLISTERS:

Preventing friction and moisture is best, but blisters are a given until one’s feet are conditioned for long marches. When hot spots form, they can be covered with bandaids, tape or moleskin to prevent further rubbing.

Moleskin is a type of protective padding that isolates a blister. To use it, cut out a piece slightly larger than the blister, then cut a hole in that piece the size of the blister and place it around the affected area.

Blisters should not be popped. Instead, thread a sowing needle with a few inches of cotton thread, then sterilize both using alcohol or boiling water. Push the needle through one end of the blister roof and out the other side, leaving about a half inch of thread on both sides. Cut the needle off the thread, then clean and cover the area. The thread will act as a wick to draw out the fluid without exposing the raw skin underneath or creating an environment prone to infection.

WEEK ONE FITNESS PLAN

This fitness plan can be used for trainees without a current plan or with a low level of physical fitness.

It is recommended all workouts begin with a warmup/stretching routine

Session 1

5 sets:

5x Push-up
10x Sit-up
15x Squat
Rest 30 seconds

3 sets:

10x Superman Back Extension
10x Two-count Flutter Kick

Session 2

6 sets:

12x Alternating Lunge (6 each leg)
6x Plank Walk-up
6x Lateral Lunge
6x Plank Walk-up

2 sets:

25x Leg Raise
25x Sit-up

Session 3

4 sets:

Burpees 30 seconds
Rest 30 seconds
Squat 30 seconds
Rest 30 seconds
Burpees 30 seconds
Rest 30 seconds
Isometric Squat Hold 30 seconds

4 sets:

6x Bird Dog (each side)
6x Superman Back Extension

Session 4

15 minutes of:
Sprint 15 seconds
Walk 30 seconds

THE WILL IS THE WEAPON

Guerrilla warfare is a contest of wills above all else. Each side is attempting to break their opponents’ will to continue the conflict. Where conventional state forces have the benefit of numbers, heavy weaponry and massive logistics chains, irregular forces have their discipline and devotion to the cause.

History has shown time and again that these things cannot be defeated. Bullets can’t destroy an ideology, or the will of men to fight and sacrifice for their people. As long as one fighter remains alive to struggle and proselytize, the cause remains alive as well. As long as one man is willing to light the path to victory, he will rally people to his cause. An occupying force can resort to the total destruction of the people in order to pacify their resistance, but the more they resort to such measures, the more they strengthen the resolve of the resistance and erode their own political will.

Times change, along with methods and equipment; but the will to fight is eternal. It is the distant torch in the darkness lighting the sure path to victory. As long as the path is kept, defeat is impossible. The flame can never be extinguished.

INDIVIDUAL MOVEMENT TECHNIQUES

Rush: 3-5 second dash to next piece of cover or concealment

Bear Crawl: On hands and knees, obscured by cover

High Crawl: On elbows and knees, obscured by low cover

Low Crawl: Dragging body with hands, as low to ground as possible, when only micro-terrain is available

Never present a silhouette against a contrasting background. Always walk along the military crest of a hill or terrain feature rather than its actual crest, and if it is necessary to look or vault over an obstacle stay as low as possible.

Individual Movement Techniques Video

FM 101-5-1 refers to the military crest of a terrain feature as "An area on the forward or reverse slope of a hill or ridge just below the topographical crest from which maximum observation and direct fire covering the slope down to the base of the hill or ridge can be obtained."

Traveling or taking position on the military crest allows one to observe as much as possible, without silhouetting themselves against the sky.

An individual moving through an urban environment should maintain a minimum standoff from walls.

When a corner or doorway is reached, it is important that weapon muzzles are not "flagged" by extending past the plane of the corner, where they can be seen.

"Slicing the pie" is done with one's hips oriented toward the corner and weapon pointed just beyond it, carefully sidestepping to reveal the dead space one angle at a time.

Bullets do not always behave as might be expected; for example, there is often a significant amount of deflection in their angle of ricochet off of common surfaces.

This causes many ricochets to have a very oblique exit angle.

In other words, "bullets follow walls".

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-4-2L6bfkV0

INDIVIDUAL FIELDCRAFT:

Eight S elements of personal concealment

Shade
Shape
Shine
Silhouette
Shadow
Sound
Spacing
Speed

WEEK 2 FITNESS PLAN

This fitness plan can be used for trainees without a current plan or with a low level of physical fitness.

It is recommended all workouts begin with a warmup/stretching routine.

Each session is one day.

Session 1

Complete this circuit as many times as you can in 20 minutes:
5x Push-up
10x Alternate Lunge (5 each leg)
5x Windmill Push-up
10x Jump Squat
5x Wide Hands Push-up
10x Two Count Flutter Kick
5x Diamond Push-up
10x Tip-over (5x each leg)

Session 2

4 sets:

60 seconds Mountain Climber
30 seconds Rest
60 seconds Squat
30 seconds Rest
60 seconds Side Plank Hold, Right
30 seconds Rest
60 seconds Side Plank Hold, Left

2 minutes:

Maximum amount of Push-ups

Session 3

4 sets:

24x Squat
24x Alternate Lunge (12x each leg)
12x Jump Squat
12x Jump Lunge (6x each leg)

5 sets:

30 seconds Burpees
30 seconds In and Out
30 seconds Rest

Session 4:

3 mile ruck march with 30 pound pack, target time of 45 minutes

WEEK TWO: BASIC MARKSMANSHIP

Tasks:

(1) Complete fifteen perfect Dry Fire Dime Drills in a row on each weapon in three positions: standing, kneeling and prone unsupported.
(2) Complete 7 full sets of the Fight Down/Fight Up Drill
(3) Complete 20 sets of Speed Reload Drill on each weapon
(4) Zero individual rifle

BASIC MARKSMANSHIP

Four fundamental rules of firearm safety:

TREAT EVERY WEAPON AS IF IT IS LOADED

Always treat every weapon as if it is loaded at all times, until it has been unloaded and checked both visually and physically for a round in the chamber. When cleaning or practicing dry fire drills, check to see that the weapon is unloaded, then move all loaded magazines and ammunition to a separate location.

KEEP YOUR FINGER OFF THE TRIGGER UNTIL YOU ARE READY TO FIRE

The trigger finger is to be kept off the trigger, outside of the magazine well until a target has been acquired and identified and the shooter is ready to fire.

DON’T POINT THE MUZZLE AT ANYTHING YOU DON’T INTEND TO SHOOT

Never point a weapon at anything you are not ready to destroy. Maintain muzzle awareness around friendly forces and bystanders. When moving in a low-threat environment, keep the weapon slung or holstered, or in the Collapsed Low Ready position. When moving around friendly elements in a high-threat environment, keep the weapon in the Low Ready or High Ready position.

POSITIVELY IDENTIFY TARGET AND ITS SURROUNDINGS

Know what is in front of, behind, and to the sides of your target. You are responsible for every bullet fired from your weapon and its final destination.

MARKSMANSHIP FUNDAMENTALS:

Stability
Aim
Control

STABILITY

Leveraging body mechanics and available support to provide a stable firing platform for the weapon. Firing positions vary greatly according to situation and available cover, but the shooter must always strive to minimize unwanted movement by achieving the most stable and relaxed firing position they can, and maintain consistency in shoulder and cheek welds in order to ensure proper sight picture and sight to target alignment and recoil management.

In almost all firing positions, the head should maintain an upright alignment. A proper cheek weld is established by placing the stock high enough on the shoulder to allow for an upright head position. The stock of the rifle should be brought up to the head, rather than bringing the head down to the rifle. Depending on individual facial structure, the cheek bone is placed directly on the stock, which often results in the skin of the cheek being bunched up and forming a small fold over the rifle stock.

THE HANDGUN FIRING POSITION

Stability is much harder to achieve with a handgun, since it lacks the extra point of contact afforded by a rifle stock.

Starting with feet shoulder width apart and a “nose over toes” forward lean, the arms are extended straight outward from the chest so the handgun’s sights are raised to meet the plane between the dominant eye and the target. Elbows are not fully locked to allow for recoil.

The strong hand is placed as high up on the grip as possible, with the trigger finger resting straight along the frame. The gun is in alignment with the wrist and forearm. The fingers of the weak hand are wrapped around those of the strong hand, with the weak hand thumb placed forward on the frame until it forms a plane with the weak side wrist and forearm. The strong side thumb rests on the heel of the weak side palm. Both hands apply firm and even pressure, and together they fully enclose the grip with as much skin to grip contact as possible.

AIM

Aiming is the continuous processing of weapon orientation, sight alignment, sight to target alignment, and deliberate holdover adjustment applied during shot preparation, taking the shot, and the follow-through necessary to take subsequent shots.

Aiming, as a continuous cycle, can be broken into:

Weapon orientation – orienting the weapon toward the target in a stable firing position

Sight alignment – the physical alignment of all components of a sight system on a plane with the dominant eye and the target

Sight picture – the complete line of sight through the sights to the target

Point of Aim (POA) – the specific location at which the line of sight intersects the target

Desired Point of Impact (POI) – the desired point of impact on the target to cause a lethal or incapacitating strike

SIGHT ALIGNMENT

This is the process of making sure all components of a sighting system are mechanically aligned with each other, and with the eye. Iron sights have three points of alignment: the front sight post, the rear sight aperture, and the eye. Red dots and magnified optics have two: the reticule and the eye. A proper and consistent cheek weld that allows the eye to look directly through the center of the aiming device is necessary. If the alignment between the firer’s eye and the aiming device changes between shots, it will increase the grouping size of multiple shots.

SIGHT PICTURE

Once the sights are aligned and placed on the target, a sight picture is achieved. During the course of follow up shots, the sight picture must be continually moved back to its original position on the target or adjusted as necessary.

The human eye can only focus on one plane at a time. It is important that the shooter focus on their front sight post or reticule, rather than the target.

POINT OF AIM

This is the point at which the line of sight through the aiming device intersects the target. It is important to note that this plane and that of the bore itself are not on the same axis. The bore will almost always have an upward angle in relation to the optical plane.

POINT OF IMPACT

The point at which the round strikes the target. Many factors can make this diverge from the point of aim; the greatest force working on the point of impact on a vertical axis is gravity. A bullet is fired on an upward trajectory and begins falling as soon as it leaves the muzzle, making range one of the greatest considerations. On a horizontal axis, conditions such as wind and the speed of target movement must be considered.

HOLDS

In order to achieve the desired POI under varying conditions, it is sometimes necessary to aim at a point in relation to the target other than its Center of Visible Mass (CoVM). This is called a hold. At engagement ranges under 300 yards, shooter applied holds based on experience and knowledge of the conditions are usually sufficient. Long range shots may require a more deliberate method which requires the performance of ballistic calculations. Above are common immediate holds applicable to an M4/AR-15 type weapon system with a 25/300 yard zero.

CONTROL

As with aiming, control is a continuous cycle. It can be broken into the following components:

Breathing control
Trigger control
Shot
Follow-through

The focus of the control sequence is to minimize the arc of movement induced by inherent instability in the shooting position, the shooter’s own breathing, and the trigger press itself. This allows the greatest window of opportunity for effective shots, as well as a shorter recovery time for follow-up shots.

BREATHING CONTROL

Breathing contributes to the arc of movement in a way the shooter can control, but not eliminate entirely. Each individual will develop a method of breathing control that suits them best, but it is important that the method remain consistent and repeatable. For this reason, a common method of breathing control is to fire on the natural pause between breaths.

TRIGGER CONTROL

Trigger control is necessary in order to maintain proper aim through the process of initiating the shot all the way up to the point at which the bullet leaves the muzzle, without inducing unnecessary movement.

Trigger finger placement: the trigger finger should be placed on the trigger where it lays naturally after achieving a proper grip. Since this will vary by individual hand size, there is no specific part of the finger which should be used for every individual. Finding a natural trigger finger placement based on a proper grip will allow the shooter the greatest mechanical advantage in manipulating the trigger.

Trigger squeeze: the shooter must pull the trigger directly rearward in a smooth and consistent manner. Some of the most common marksmanship-related issues involve improper trigger squeeze; “jerking” the trigger by pulling it in an inconsistent motion, pushing it or pulling it to one side or the other, and “flinching” by suddenly changing grip pressure and angle in anticipation of recoil, will all cause a round to miss its desired point of impact.

Trigger reset: as part of follow-through and preparation for subsequent shots, the shooter should not simply release their finger from the trigger immediately after firing. Consistent rearward pressure should be kept on the trigger until after the bullet leaves the muzzle, and then the trigger should be let back out to its reset point. Trigger reset is key to firing multiple shots quickly and accurately.

SHOT

During the shot, the shooter must keep their eyes open and their focus on the sight picture through the entire process of trigger pull and the discharge of the weapon itself. It will often be apparent to the shooter if an error such as flinching or jerking the trigger has pulled the muzzle away from their intended point of aim.

FOLLOW-THROUGH

As with many sports-related physical skills, follow-through is essential in order to ensure proper form of execution and recovery. Immediately following weapon discharge, the following things must be considered:

Recoil cycle: the weapon action or bolt will travel to its rearmost position and then return to battery. The weapon must be kept as stable as possible through this process by maintaining a stable shooting position.

Recoil recovery: the sight picture must be reacquired in its pre-shot position.

Trigger reset: as the weapon action cycles, the mechanical components relating to the trigger will be reset. Failure of the trigger to reset could potentially indicate a malfunction which requires remedial action; such as a double feed, failure to return to battery or bolt override. As described above, continuous pressure should be kept on the trigger through the shot and then released until the trigger and sear reset, leaving it pre-staged for subsequent shots.

Sight picture adjustment: returning the sight picture to the target aiming point. Given a stable, natural firing position and good follow-through techniques, this should happen naturally at the end of the recoil cycle.

Assessment: once the sight picture and target point of aim are reacquired, the shooter decides their next course of action; whether it be taking subsequent shots, transitioning to another target, visually scanning their surroundings, reloading or correcting a malfunction.

SHOT PROCESS SUMMARY

DIME DRILL

Warning! Make sure weapons are unloaded before engaging in dry fire practice!

Some of the most common marksmanship-related errors are related to trigger control. Jerking the trigger, as well as pushing or pulling it to one side, will cause the muzzle to move off of the intended POA. This dry fire drill will help to perfect the shooter’s trigger control without firing a single live round.

Choose a small target and assume a stable firing position. Balance a coin on the exposed barrel or muzzle device of a rifle, or front sight post of a handgun. Acquire a good sight picture and point of aim, then smoothly and consistently depress the trigger directly to the rear. Given good trigger control, the coin will not fall off the weapon once the hammer strikes. If the coin does fall off, the trigger squeeze must be adjusted.

Try this in various positions with both a handgun and rifle.

WEEK 3 FITNESS PLAN

This fitness plan can be used for trainees without a current plan or with a low level of physical fitness.

It is recommended all workouts begin with a warmup/stretching routine.

Each session is one day.

5 sets:

5x Alternate Lunge
10x Plank Walk-Up
15x BW Squat
20x Mountain Climber
25x Sit-up

3 sets:

6x Bird Dog (each side)
12x Superman Back Extension
24x Jumping Jack

Session 2:

6 sets:

5x Push-up
10x Alternate Lunge
5x Incline Push-up
5x Decline Push-up
10x Tip-over

3 sets:

Plank Hold as long as possible
Side Plank Hold Right as long as possible
Side Plank Hold Left as long as possible

Session 3:

3 sets:

60 seconds Mountain Climber
60 seconds Jump Squat
60 seconds Rest

3 sets:

60 seconds Push-up
60 seconds In and Out
60 seconds Rest

3 sets:

60 seconds Jump Lunge
60 seconds Leg Raise
60 seconds Rest

3 sets:

60 seconds Burpees
60 seconds Sit-up

Session 4:

20 minutes of:

Sprint 30 seconds
Walk 60 seconds

ZEROING

The range at which a rifles sights or optics are zeroed determines the elevation holds necessary on targets of various distances.

Since a bullet is fired on an upward trajectory, its flight path will start below the line of sight by however many inches the bore is offset underneath the optic (2.6 inches for most AR’s). With short zero ranges, the bullet will intersect the line of sight twice; once as it rises and once as it falls. Longer zero ranges will intersect only at the apex of the bullet’s flight path.

For 5.56 platforms:
25/375yrd zero: good for longer range engagements
36/300yrd zero: minimum amount of elevation change for targets 1-300yrds
50/200yrd zero: good for close engagement ranges

CRITICAL SKILL EVALUATION:
Basic Rifle Qualification

Conditions: During any time of day, at a live-fire range of at least 25m in length; given the Alt-C Silhouette Target, a rifle, and four magazines loaded with ten rounds each, carried in L.B.E.

The target may be printed on A4 paper, trimmed where it overlaps, and taped together. It must be placed at a range of 25m.



Course of fire:

Magazine changes as necessary. Engage each target with the specified number of rounds; where duplicate targets exist at a given range, engage ALL with the specified number of rounds.

Standing (10)

150 x1
100 x2
50 x2

Prone (20)

300 x2
250 x2
200 x2
150 x2
100 x2
50 x2

Kneeling (10)

300 x1
250 x1
200 x1
150 x1
100 x1
50 x1

Standards: within four minutes, score a minimum of 25 hits. Only hits fully inside each silhouette are counted.

Ratings:

0-24=Fail
25-29=Marksman
30-35=Sharpshooter
36-40=Expert

Week 4 Fitness Plan

Each session is one day

Session 1

5 sets:

5x Dive Bomb Push-up
10x Alternate Lunge
20x Two Count Flutter Kick

5 sets:

5x Plank Walk-Up
10x Reverse Lunge
20x Superman Back Extension

2 minutes:

Maximum amount of sit-ups

Session 2

5 sets:

60 seconds Squat
60 seconds Squat hold
4 sets:

6x Knee to Elbow Push-up (each side)
12x Split Squat (each leg)
24x Bird Dog (12 each side)

2 sets:

25x Leg Raise
25x In and Out

Session 3

5 sets, 30 seconds each:
Burpee
Plank Hold
Sit-up
Side Plank Right Side
Push-up
Side Plank Left Side
60 second rest

3 sets:

12x Lunge Cycle (forward lunge, reverse lunge = 1 rep)
12x Lateral Lunge
12x Tip Over

Session 4:

6 mile ruck march with 35 pound ruck, target time of 90 minutes

LAND NAVIGATION

Navigating by map and compass is a critical skill. Many different types of maps are available, but USGS topographical maps in a 1:50,000 scale are preferable. These maps are freely available for public access, and can be printed by area through sites such as CalTopo.com

Typical components of a map margin:

1 – Grid Note. This is the location of the grid square, typically expressed according to some variation of the Universal Transverse Mercator coordinate system. This map, which is a section of a 7.5 minute quadrangle provided by USGS, has the USNG spatial address of 17SQA.

2 – Scale. The scale is a representative fraction that gives the ratio of a map distance to the corresponding distance on the Earth’s surface. On this map, one unit of measure on the map equals 50,000 units of the same measure on the ground.

3 – Bar Scales. Bar scales are rulers used to convert map distance to ground distance.

4 – Declination Diagram. Shows the relationship between grid north and magnetic north.

READING GRID COORDINATES

On a typical UTM-derived topo map, each grid represents an area of 1,000m square. The grid note on the map denotes the region, which is a 100,000m square. In USNG coordinates this is expressed by two letters: in this case, QA. In UTM, this is grid 0740.

When plotting grid coordinates, always read RIGHT and UP.

4 digit – accurate to within 1,000m

To find the grid location of an object on the map, first find the closest easting line to the west of your target location. Then, find the closest northing line to the south of your target location. In this example, these are 50 and 83 respectively. This gives us the four digit grid location QA5083.

6 digit – accurate to within 100m

Go RIGHT and UP from the southwest corner of the four digit grid location in 100m increments. The example is 500m to the east of line 50 and 300m north of line 83, giving us QA505833.

8 digit – accurate to within 10m

Go RIGHT and UP from the six digit location in 10m increments. The example is QA50508330,