Law Enforcement Sniper-Basic

(HRTC LE-SB)

4 days / 40 Hours

$1200

June 15 - 18, 2026

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Register for HRTC LE-SB here 

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In today's climate, a law enforcement sniper's marksmanship is as critical as ever. Just as important, however, is understanding when to use force, why force is justified, and how to apply it appropriately. That framework drives how we train the SWAT sniper.

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We address the lawful application of force head-on. Graham v. Connor and Tennessee v. Garner form the foundation for the split-second decisions snipers may be forced to make. Through case studies and scenario-based training, we examine how these landmark rulings apply directly to you - the sniper - during a critical incident. We also incorporate research from the Force Science Institute and discuss how those findings should influence perception, processing, and decision-making when you're behind your rifle.

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Understanding the why is non-negotiable. You must be able to clearly articulate your actions. As a law enforcement officer, you've covered use-of-force principles many times earlier in your career - but how does that understanding change when you're 100 yards from the incident, observing through a magnified optic? It's a unique perspective. All three prongs of Graham are met. The suspect is armed. The threat exists. The suspect has now turned their firearm on themself. Does that change anything? What if they're in active dialogue with your entry team from across the yard. What's being said? Does it matter? Where do you fit into these moments? Maybe your team is moving up to a breach point. One suspect, two hostages inside. You can only divide your attention so much, so what is your role from where you sit - across the street? These are the real, unique scenarios we train for.

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The how is where marksmanship comes in. The meat and potatoes of this course.

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This 40-hour LESB course delivers instruction built on relevant principles and proven methods. Throughout the course, snipers fire approximately 300 rounds from their rifles. We operate under a simple mantra: every shot is intentional. That mindset drives how we approach marksmanship training. That, combined with our course syllabus and instruction, is how we guarantee a measurable improvement in your capability with the rifle - regardless of your experience level when you arrive.

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Instruction covers the full spectrum of sniper marksmanship and employment, including fundamentals of marksmanship, shooting supports and improvised positions, ballistics and ballistic solvers, moving targets, bullet selection and construction, intermediate barriers, high-angle shots, and more. We also address sniper medical/CCP considerations, communications, team integration best practices, equipment selection, hide choice, and other operational factors that matter in the real world.

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Our goal is to develop well-rounded snipers by teaching a broad range of skills, tasks, and tactics that directly translate to operational effectiveness.​ When it matters most, we want you in the right place, at the right time, with the right equipment, making the right decisions, for the right reasons. You must hit your mark - every time, in every environment, no exceptions.

 

Popow v. Margate and Canton v. Harris established the deliberate indifference and municipal liability standards. You will leave this course with a clear understanding of what is needed to keep progressing as a sniper long after you receive your certificate and go back to work with your team. Ensuring effective training long down the road.

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Due to the extensive training agenda and a constrained timeframe of just 40 hours, there is minimal downtime in the course.

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The week concludes with a written exam, live-fire scenarios, and a final rifle qualification. Upon completion of the course, students receive their LE Sniper Basic Certificate and are eligible for 40 hours of P.O.S.T. training.

 

 

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