William Drill: A Practical Pistol Drill for Speed and Accuracy

The William Drill is a high-tempo exercise designed to improve draw speed, target transitions, and recoil control—all under pressure. Created by renowned instructor William Petty, this drill mimics real-life defensive shooting by engaging multiple targets at varying points of aim. It’s fast, intense, and brutally effective.

Materials Needed:

  • Handgun
  • 6 rounds per run
  • Shot timer
  • Three silhouette-style targets (or target zones) spaced laterally
  • Eye and ear protection

Setup Instructions:

  1. Set up three silhouette targets side by side, spaced about 1 yard apart (shoulder width or slightly more)
  2. Shooter stands 5–7 yards from the center target
  3. Holstered start (outside or concealed, depending on training goals)
  4. Shot timer or verbal command to initiate

Drill Instructions:

  1. On signal, draw and fire 2 shots into each target (6 total shots)
  2. Engage left to right or right to left—consistency matters more than direction
  3. Maintain accuracy while moving swiftly between targets
  4. Reholster safely between runs

Scoring / Pass Criteria:

  • All rounds must hit the designated scoring zone (A-zone or center mass)
  • Recommended par time: 3.5 seconds or less from the beep
  • Consistency and clean transitions are the priority

Coaching Tips / Variations (Optional):

  • Mix up starting directions to keep transitions sharp
  • Add a fourth target or reduce par time as skills improve
  • Use reduced-size targets to increase precision demand
  • Try running it strong hand only or from a compressed ready instead of the holster

Recommended Target Download – You can run this with three printed silhouettes, or use a multi-zone printable designed for multiple engagements. Check out our free targets at MidAtlanticMunition’s free target library.

The William Drill hits fast and hard—just like a real encounter might. Use it to sharpen your transitions, cut your draw time, and build confidence under pressure. Stay fluid, stay accurate, check out more drills here, and if you need ammo that’s as awesome as your shooting, check out our handgun ammo collection.