10s
Par Time
10 yd
Distance
12
Rounds
3
Reps
36
Total Rounds
El Presidente is one of the most iconic and demanding pistol drills in existence. Designed by Jeff Cooper, it tests virtually every core handgun skill in a single string of fire.
Start facing away from three USPSA targets spaced 1 yard apart at 10 yards. At the buzzer, turn 180 degrees, draw, and fire two rounds on each target (left to right or right to left). Perform a reload, then fire two more rounds on each target. That’s 12 rounds total with a mandatory reload in the middle.
The standard par time is 10 seconds, which is achievable for most intermediate shooters. Competitive shooters run it under 7 seconds with all A-zone hits. This drill rewards smooth transitions, efficient reloads, and the ability to maintain accuracy while moving between targets at speed.
What It Trains
Turn-and-draw, target transitions, and a fast reload under a demanding par.
Range Setup
Setup
Three USPSA/IPSC targets spaced 1 yard apart at 10 yards. Start facing uprange (back to targets). Pistol holstered, hands at surrender position.
Scoring
All 12 hits scored. A-zone = 5 pts, C = 3, D = 1, miss = -10. Calculate hit factor: points / time. Track both raw time and points.
Tips
The turn is free time — use it to get a perfect grip. Your draw should be complete before you face the targets.
Progression
Start by focusing on clean hits, then compress time. Sub-8s with all A-hits is strong. Sub-7s is expert level. Vary your transition direction.
Common Mistakes
- Over-swinging past each target on transitions instead of driving the gun to the next A-zone.
- Fumbling the reload — eyes leaving the magwell before the magazine is seated.
- Turning and drawing as one rushed motion, sweeping the muzzle before it points safely downrange.
- Sacrificing hits for time and dropping points on the second string of three.
Skill Standards
10 yd · 12 rounds · 3 targets · with a reload · scored clean (all down-zero)
| Novice | > 12 s |
|---|---|
| Carry-Ready | 10–12 s |
| Competitor | 7–10 s |
| Elite | under 6 s |
Jeff Cooper's original 10-second par; faster tiers reflect USPSA practice.
FAQ
What's a good El Presidente time?
Under 10 seconds with all A-zone hits is the classic passing standard. Competitive shooters run it under 7 seconds.
How many rounds is El Presidente?
12 rounds — two on each of three targets, a reload, then two more on each.
What is the setup for El Presidente?
Three USPSA targets one yard apart at 10 yards. Start facing away from the targets with hands at your sides.
Who created El Presidente?
Jeff Cooper designed it to test the draw, target transitions, reload, and recoil control in a single string.