A Look at Precision Rifle Training

Scott Satterlee coaching a student

We had an opportunity to connect with Scott Satterlee of Core Shooting Solutions as they were putting on a two day clinic at the Rock Lake Rifle Range outside of Spokane, WA. This facility allowed shooters to connect with targets out to 1,400 yards and beyond.

This presented us with a unique opportunity to explore the attributes and benefits of a training program backed by some of the best competitive shooters in the country. In the case of the clinic that we observed, the instructors were a “who’s who” of the Pacific Northwest and national shooting scene: Jeremy Bentham, Doug Glorfield, Kevin Dittoe and Scott Satterlee.

Scott went over what was covered in the precision rifle clinic:

• Safety
• Equipment
• Cold bore data
• Use of angular units of measure (Mil or MOA) and reticles
• Fundamentals of marksmanship
• Data gathering and confirmation
• Ballistics
• Winds
• Shooter Spotter communication
• Spotting
• Alternate supported positions
• Range estimation
• Building stable field firing positions and firing solution

Each instructor was assigned to coach up to four students which allowed for plenty of individualized attention. This type of course will meet the needs of the beginning to advanced intermediate shooter. In other words, a vast majority of shooters can benefit from the above curriculum. But for those who need to take their shooting to the next level, CORE offers more advanced training to include high angle shooting, loopholes, etc. Here is a full listing of the CORE training offerings.

Many beginning shooters question why they should spend money on training. Scott Satterlee points out that while there are some up front costs, training can be a huge money saver down the road. Scott even points to some of the training that he received in the military as a special operations instructor and how he had to “unlearn” certain aspects of that training to compete in precision rifle. So if you are serious about competing in precision rifle you are better off seeking professional instruction right away.

A low instructor to student ratio assures plenty of individualized attention

Furthermore, the relationship does not end with the class. We took training from Scott almost two years ago (one of the best investments we ever made) and he still coaches us. So besides the instruction received, you get a chance to build your network of fellow shooters and instructors.

So you are convinced that you need the training but are concerned that your equipment is not up to snuff? Rest easy because all you need to take advantage of this type of training is a rifle that can shoot 1 MOA or better and a scope that you can dial. Just about any modern mass produced bolt action rifle can achieve 1MOA accuracy or better. Once you receive some training and participate in a few matches, you’ll be in a position to make more informed choices as you upgrade equipment. Bring what you have along with a willingness to learn.

Assuming you have received proper instruction, what does Scott recommend to keep skills sharp? Scott recommends finding a place with some tricky wind. When Scott misses a target it’s not because of bad fundamentals but because of bad wind calls. Scott also shoots small bore rifle on a weekly basis (we know of some top shooters who also shoot a lot of air rifle). Other focus areas for Scott include barricades and positional practice. Getting into a position quickly and finding a target are also important skills to hone.

If you are interested in taking training from CORE solutions you have a number of options. The primary facility is located in Baker, Florida. If that is not convenient, CORE can come to you. Many clubs across the country are starting to host precision rifle matches and they can coordinate with CORE solutions to provide a convenient training option for their members.

Be sure to watch the video below. In addition to covering the materials above, we also interviewed two of the assistant instructors (Jeremy Bentham and Kevin Dittoe) who provided their own unique perspectives. You’ll also get a better feeling for the clinic by looking at some of the footage and photos that we included.

For more information, please visit www.coreshooting.com.