Intermediate Rifle

MARSOC Qual — Stage 04

Used in: Military Qualification

Source: USMC MARSOC (Marine Raiders)

5s
Par Time
25–15 yd
Distance
2
Rounds
1
Reps
2
Total Rounds

Stage 4 introduces shooting on the move. From low ready at 25 yards, advance toward the target and fire 2 rounds into the body zone while moving, completing all shots by the time you reach 15 yards within a 5-second par.

Moving with a carbine in full kit adds complexity that static drills cannot replicate. The tactical vest shifts weight forward, the helmet changes your center of gravity, and the sling tension varies as you walk. The key is isolating your upper body from your lower — your legs absorb the movement while your shoulders maintain the firing platform. At this distance range, center-mass body shots while moving are achievable if your footwork is smooth.

Part of the MARSOC Qualification (Carbine)

50-round, 14-stage course (all carbine) with Marine E silhouettes. Vest and helmet mandatory. Scoring: A zone = 2 pts, B/C = 1 pt, D/miss = 0. Max 100 pts, pass at 80% (80 pts).

Equipment Required

  • Patrol carbine (M4/AR-15 platform or equivalent)
  • Tactical vest and helmet (mandatory)
  • Marine E silhouette target (alt: USPSA/IPSC)
  • Minimum 2 rounds of ammunition
  • Shot timer
  • Clear lane for forward movement (25 to 15 yards)

Range Setup

25→15 ydIPSCadvanceMOVE + FIREEND15 yd

Setup

Stand facing a Marine E silhouette (or USPSA/IPSC) target at 25 yards. Carbine loaded, on safe, in low ready. Vest and helmet worn. Shot timer set to 5-second par. Clear lane for forward movement to 15 yards.

Scoring

MARSOC scoring: A zone = 2 pts, B/C = 1, D/miss = 0. Max for stage: 4 pts (2 rounds).

Tips

Use a heel-to-toe walk, knees slightly bent. Break each shot between steps when both feet are on the ground. The vest weight actually helps stabilize the upper body if your footwork is controlled.

Progression

Start slow — walk the distance at half speed and fire 2 rounds. Once both consistently land in the A-zone, increase your pace. The drill rewards smooth movement over fast movement. In kit, smooth is even more important because the vest amplifies any bounce.