Weapons Qualification Course (M18 Pistol / M4 Carbine)
Air Force personnel, especially Security Forces, qualify on the M18 pistol and M4 carbine through the Combat Arms Training and Maintenance (CATM) program (AFI 36-2226). Courses combine both weapon systems, engaging E-type silhouettes at pistol and carbine distances from standing, kneeling, and barricade positions.
Military (representative)
60 rounds
~70-90% depending on tier (representative)
Read this first
Representative structure based on the general publicly known shape of Air Force CATM weapons qualification (AFI 36-2226). Exact strings, timing, and scoring are set by current Air Force standards and revised periodically — confirm with your unit CATM office before a record attempt.
Course of Fire
| Distance | Rounds | Position | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 yd | 10 | Pistol, standing, two-hand + one-handed | 10-15 sec per string | |
| 15 yd | 10 | Pistol, barricade, kneeling | 15-20 sec per string | |
| 25-50 yd | 20 | Carbine, standing / kneeling / prone | 15-25 sec per string | Transition to primary weapon |
| 50-100 yd | 20 | Carbine, prone / barricade, incl. magazine change | 20-30 sec per string | Longer-range precision |
Scoring Tiers
| Tier | Score Range |
|---|---|
| Expert | ~90% or higher |
| Marksman (qualified) | ~70-89% |
| Unqualified | Below ~70% |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many rounds are fired in the U.S. Air Force Weapons Qualification Course (M18 Pistol / M4 Carbine)?
- This course of fire totals 60 rounds across 4 stages, fired at 5 yd, 15 yd, 25-50 yd, 50-100 yd.
- What score do you need to pass the U.S. Air Force Weapons Qualification Course (M18 Pistol / M4 Carbine)?
- The minimum passing standard is ~70-90% depending on tier (representative). Higher hit percentages earn higher classifications: Expert (~90% or higher); Marksman (qualified) (~70-89%); Unqualified (Below ~70%).
- Is this the official course of fire?
- Representative structure based on the general publicly known shape of Air Force CATM weapons qualification (AFI 36-2226). Exact strings, timing, and scoring are set by current Air Force standards and revised periodically — confirm with your unit CATM office before a record attempt.
Practice toward this standard
Log shot groups, check your stance, track drills, and print practice targets built for qualification-style scoring — free in the Range Coach app.
Open Range Coach Printable Targets