So you've signed up for your first course with The Cadre. Here's everything you need to know to show up prepared and get the most out of your training.
Before You Arrive
Complete Your Background Check
All students must complete a background check through SentryLink before attending. The cost is $19.95 and results typically come back same-day. Don't wait until the last minute—get this done as soon as you register.
Know Your Zero
Show up with a confirmed zero at 100 yards. If you're unsure, get to the range before the course and verify. We'll fine-tune from there, but starting with a solid zero saves time and lets us focus on building skills rather than troubleshooting equipment.
Read Your Confirmation Email
We send detailed logistics info after registration—location details, schedule, and any course-specific requirements. Read it. Print it if you need to.
Gear Checklist
Required: Rifle & Optics
- Precision rifle in .223 Rem, 6mm, 6.5 Creedmoor, or .308 Win with a quality barrel
- Scope with a reliable reticle and locking turrets, zeroed and ready
- Two magazines that feed reliably
- Bipod attached and adjusted to your rifle
- Sling (optional but recommended)
Required: Support Gear
- Rear bag for stability (squeeze bag, sock, or purpose-built rear bag)
- Secondary support bag for barricade work
- Notebook and pen for data, notes, and coaching points
- Ballistic solver (Kestrel, phone app, or printed DOPE card)
Required: Ammunition
- Minimum 100 rounds of quality match ammunition
- Bring more if you have it—you won't regret having extra
- Factory match ammo works fine; bring what you've verified shoots well in your rifle
Required: Personal Gear
- Eye protection (clear or tinted based on conditions)
- Ear protection (electronic muffs recommended so you can hear instruction)
- Weather-appropriate clothing (layers are your friend)
- Hat and gloves (conditions vary)
- Sunscreen (you'll be outside all day)
Recommended Extras
- Snacks and water (we'll have breaks, but stay fueled)
- Portable chair or pad for breaks and classroom portions
- Cleaning kit and basic tools for your rifle
- Weather meter or Kestrel for precise environmental data
- Tripod for glassing (if you have one)
- Backup battery/power bank for electronics
What to Expect
Day One: Fundamentals
We start in the classroom covering rifle setup, position building, and the mechanics that make precision shooting work. Then we move to the range for zero confirmation and fundamental drills. Expect to shoot, get feedback, adjust, and repeat.
Day Two: Pushing Distance
Once fundamentals are solid, we move out. External ballistics, wind reading, and engagements at intermediate to long range. You'll learn to read conditions and make adjustments on the fly.
Day Three: Putting It Together
Field positions, practical scenarios, and match-style stages. This is where everything comes together. You'll shoot from positions you've never tried, solve problems under time pressure, and leave with a clear understanding of where to focus your practice.
Mindset
Leave Your Ego at the Gate
Even if you've been shooting for years, come ready to learn. Our instructors will challenge what you think you know—and that's how you get better. The students who improve the most are the ones who stay open.
Ask Questions
If something doesn't make sense, ask. If you want to know why we do something a certain way, ask. Curious students become better shooters.
Embrace the Miss
You're going to miss. That's part of the process. What matters is understanding why you missed and how to fix it. We're here to help with that.
Support Your Classmates
Everyone on the line is there for the same reason. Celebrate hits, help troubleshoot misses, and make the training environment better for everyone.
Logistics Tips
- Arrive early on Day One for check-in and setup
- Bring cash for lunch if the venue doesn't have food service
- Know the drive time to the range—some locations are remote
- Charge your electronics the night before
- Label your gear if you're worried about mix-ups
Questions?
If you're unsure about anything, reach out before the course. We'd rather answer questions now than have you show up unprepared.
See you on the range.
No shortcuts, no gimmicks—just proven techniques and honest feedback.