50 HR basic sniper / observer course
Starting Day 1 snipers learning their weapon systems and going through service and set-up inspection by instructors.
Learning the correct fundamentals of precision marksmanship from the ground up.
Progressing through the week with Range Finding and Observation Skill Drills.
JULY 26-31, 2026 LAFAYETTE PARISH SHERIFF'S OFFICE
COURSE REGISTRATION IS NOW CLOSED
This is our 50HR Basic Sniper Course which we have continued to refine and improve year after year. The course is led by Louisiana POST Firearm Instructors who are certified Sniper Law Enforcement Instructors and active snipers in a full time SWAT unit.
EXPECTATIONS
Students should expect to leave with a sound understanding of the basic fundamental skills needed to deploy as a law enforcement sniper. Students will be required to pass a shooting and written test to successfully complete the course.
TOPICS COVERED
Weapon system familiarization, introduction to ballistics, scope operations, range finding, fundamentals of marksmanship, various shooting positions, tripod use, gas mask use, low light shooting, target discrimination, observation skills, camouflage techniques, use of force, and legal considerations.
PREREQUISITE
YOU MUST CURRENTLY BE A MEMBER OF A FULL OR PART TIME LAW ENFORCEMENT SWAT TEAM/TACTICAL ELEMENT. This will be verified with your agency.
Students must be capable of completing the SniperCraft Sniper PT Test which will be administered on the first day of arrival.
COST
The course and housing are provided TUITION FREE by the Sheriff of Lafayette Parish. Students will need to cover the cost of their food, transportation, ammo, etc. (Housing is a modern barracks setting with bunks)
SCHEDULE
The course will begin SUN afternoon at 3PM on JUL 26th, and will conclude by 5PM on FRI JUL 31st. Students should expect up to 10-11 hour days with lunch break.
REQUIRED GEAR
PLEASE UNDERSTAND WHAT "REQUIRED MEANS"
Quality Rifle (Bolt or Gas Operated) 5.56, .308, 6.5, 6 ARC
Quality Optic (Must be capable of at least 10X magnification)
240 Rounds of Match Grade Ammo
Rear Support Bag
Sling
Bipod
Gas Mask
Tripod (we only have a couple to loan)
Hearing Protection
One set of camouflage clothing
Binoculars or Monocular
Notebook and Pens/Pencil
OPTIONAL
Any Additional Support Bags
Any Additional Camo Strategies (ghillie)
Bug Spray
Sun Screen
Lightweight Sun Hoodie
Ball Cap
Water/Electrolyte Solutions
Snacks
Backpack
REGISTRATION
YOU SHOULD ONLY REGISTER ONCE YOU HAVE BEEN APPROVED TO ATTEND BY YOUR AGENCY. Please do not register until doing so and preventing someone else from attending.