Why Choose SIONICS Law Enforcement Training?
Trusted Partner:
Decades of experience in law enforcement and military training.
High-Quality Training:
Expert-led programs designed for real-world applications.
Focus on Safety and Readiness:
• Equipping officers with the skills to excel in high-pressure environments.
This 2-day course is designed for law enforcement personnel tasked with overwatch or designated marksman (DM) responsibilities during tactical or patrol operations. Students will learn how to effectively fill the overwatch role, including precision engagement, observation, communication, and team-based support techniques. The course focuses on foundational skills, positional shooting, real-world application of optics and equipment, and decision-making under pressure.
Topics include overwatch/DM role definition, equipment selection, optic theory (Mils vs. MOA, focal planes), zeroing techniques, alternate shooting positions, barricade work, shooter/observer dialogue, scope fluidity drills, and qualification standards. Observation and reporting drills, multiple target engagements, and scenario-based decision-making will be incorporated.
This course is conducted in an outdoor range environment and will run in various weather conditions.
SCHEDULE YOUR SIONICS TRAINING TODAY!
Email -Sales@SIONICSWEAPONSYSTEMS.COM
Meeting Today’s Law Enforcement Challenges
Evolving Threats:
• Officers face increasingly complex scenarios requiring advanced readiness.
Skills Gaps:
• Standard training often lacks the tactical depth needed for real-world engagements.
Community Trust:
• High-quality training enhances public confidence and officer decision-making in critical incidents.
Comprehensive Training Solutions
• On-Site Demonstrations: Hands-on product showcases at agency locations, conferences or events.
• Traveling Training Cadre: Mobile team delivering elite training programs.
• Advanced Precision Courses: Specialized programs for scoped carbine overwatch operations.
Training Tailored for Your Agency’s Needs
• Patrol Rifle: Foundational skills for operational effectiveness.
• Patrol Rifle Instructor (Train the Trainer): Developing agency-based trainers.
• Scoped Carbine Overwatch: Precision rifle techniques for tactical or specialty roles.
• Scoped Carbine Overwatch Instructor: Advanced instruction for marksman trainers.
Our Commitment to Your Success
• Proven Expertise: Trusted by law enforcement professionals nationwide.
• Customized Programs: Tailored training to meet your agency’s specific goals.
• Reliable Equipment: Sionics rifles are designed for the demands of modern law enforcement.
Take the First Step Toward Elite Training
• Contact Sionics Weapon Systems to schedule training for your agency.
• Join the ranks of agencies benefiting from Sionics’ commitment to excellence.
SUBJECTS COVERED AND EQUIPMENT LIST
- Introduction to Overwatch & Designated Marksman (DM) roles
- Brief history of DM programs and real-world law enforcement applications
- Equipment selection: rifles, scopes, mounts, ammunition, bipods, slings, tripods, muzzle brakes, suppressors, rear bags
- Optics overview: First vs. Second focal plane scopes
- Mils vs. MOA – concepts and application
- Scope zeroing techniques
- “Ballpark Zero” method with pre- and post-fire checklists
- Grouping drills and zero confirmation
- Scope fluidity drills and observation techniques
- Shooter–observer communication (common language drills)
- Alternate shooting positions: prone, kneeling, barricade-supported, unsupported
- Shooting off barricades and positional refinement
- Precision under pressure drills
- Multiple target engagements
- Decision-making scenarios and shoot/no-shoot drills
- Up drills and target acquisition
- Team-based drills and coordinated shooting
- Range-based qualifications and pre-qualification runs (accuracy/timing standards)
- Rifle and scope care, cleaning, and maintenance
- End-of-course debrief and certificate presentation
Firearm Requirements
- Rifle chambered in 5.56 NATO
- Equipped with a variable-powered optic (low- to mid-power magnification recommended)
- Must have a rifle sling suitable for positional and supported shooting
- Optics should be mounted prior to arrival; instructors can assist with mounting and torque verification on Day 1 if needed
- Personal or department-issued rifles are allowed, provided they are in safe, reliable, and operational condition
Equipment to Bring
- 5.56 caliber rifle with variable-powered optic and rifle sling
- Scope tools as needed (e.g., torque wrench, level, adjustment tools)
- Minimum of 3 rifle magazines
- Magazine pouch or chest rig
- 1 pair of tactical gloves
- Weapons lubrication and rifle cleaning gear
- 300 rounds of 5.56 rifle ammunition
- Note-taking material (field notebook or clipboard)
- Comfortable clothing (BDU-style pants or duty uniform) — No shorts
- Weather-appropriate outerwear (training is conducted rain or shine)
- Eye and ear protection
- Water, electrolyte supplements, and snacks
While not required, the following items are strongly recommended to enhance your training experience and effectiveness during the course:
- Deployment pack or gear backpack (to carry personal equipment and supplies)
- Tripod with spotting scope (for shooter/observer drills and observation exercises)
- Issued or personal rifle tripod (if agency-approved or personally owned)
- Binoculars (compact or full-size for observation drills)
- Shooting/rear support bag (for prone or barricade-supported shooting)
- Small tool kit or multitool (for optic adjustments and general maintenance)
- Sunscreen and lip balm (essential for outdoor range days)
- Personal first aid kit / IFAK (recommended for all live-fire environments)
- Shooting mat or ground pad (comfort during extended prone sessions)
- Weather protection gear (hat, rain jacket, cold-weather layers as needed)
- Small rangefinder (if available, useful for distance confirmation and observation drills)
- Spare batteries (for optics, electronic ear pro, or other devices)
Please refer to the course description for detailed scheduling. The Sionics Overwatch Course is conducted over 2 full days of instruction.
Courses are capped at a maximum of 14 students to ensure individualized instruction and a safe training environment.
Yes. Every student who completes the course and qualification standards will be issued an official Certificate of Completion.
Please refer to the course description or registration page for current pricing details.
FAQ's
Locations are regionally based and will be communicated prior to the course start date. We aim to host classes within a reasonable driving distance of your agency or area whenever possible.
Food is not provided. Students are responsible for bringing their own lunch, snacks, and any additional dietary needs.
Yes. Students must bring a sufficient amount of water for their individual needs. Hydration is critical, especially during summer months and movement-intensive drills.
Class begins promptly at 0800 hours each day. Please arrive early to allow time for setup and check-in.
Please email training@sionics.com as soon as possible to cancel or reschedule your registration.
We do not sell ammunition. Students are advised to bring department-issued or personally sourced ammo. If assistance is needed in locating ammunition, we’re happy to provide vendor recommendations.
We do not issue gear for the course. Students should bring department-issued and/or personal equipment they currently use or plan to use operationally. Instructors will assess and offer feedback or recommendations as needed.
However, we will have an assortment of gear available on-site for students to trial and test during the course if they choose to.
Students must be 18 years or older and employed by a law enforcement agency to attend the Overwatch LE course.
Training will continue in various weather conditions. However, student safety is our top priority. If dangerous weather (e.g., lightning, extreme winds) makes training unsafe, we will notify students of any schedule changes or cancellations.
Please refer to the Gear List in the course description. For the Overwatch Course, students should bring 300 rounds of 5.56 rifle ammunition.
Keahi Thompson
Keahi brings extensive experience across law enforcement, the military, emergency medical services, and private security. As a former SWAT operator and law enforcement sniper, he specializes in precision weapons, firearms instruction, and tactical medicine. He is also a nationally registered paramedic with a background in advanced prehospital care and emergency response.
With a diverse skill set, Keahi has trained law enforcement, military personnel, and first responders across various disciplines. He holds multiple certifications in firearms and tactical instruction, medical trauma care, and protective security operations. Keahi’s real-world operational experience and commitment to training excellence make him a trusted asset in preparing professionals for complex, high-threat environments.
Victor Lopez
Victor Lopez has extensive experience as a military and law enforcement instructor. He began his career in law enforcement in 1999 and continues to both serve and teach, including positions as a Handgun, Rifle, and Shotgun Instructor for his Law Enforcement agency. A veteran, Victor served in the US Marine Corps for 20 years including deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan as a Scout Sniper operator and Advisor. In 2009, he competed in the US Army International Sniper Competition, finishing in the top 10. In 2020 Victor completed a year long testing and evaluation for Low power variable optics for his Law Enforcement agency at the same time attending course for Designated Marksman and Magified Optics Instructor Courses.
Jon Cabrera
Jon Cabrera has been a police officer for over 28-years, with 30 years of total law enforcement experience. He is formerly a sergeant with a Southern California Law Enforcement Agency. Jon has worked a variety of assignments to include custody, patrol, as a canine handler, gang detective, and has 16-years of SWAT experience. During his 14-years as a sergeant he has worked patrol, Property Crimes and served as the team leader for his regional SWAT team. Jon also created the Designated Marksman Program for Palm Springs, Cathedral City, and Indio Police Department. Jon is a wealth of knowledge in less lethal munitions, supervisory leadership, and as a use of force as a firearms instructor.
Keahi Thompson
Keahi brings extensive experience across law enforcement, the military, emergency medical services, and private security. As a former SWAT operator and law enforcement sniper, he specializes in precision weapons, firearms instruction, and tactical medicine. He is also a nationally registered paramedic with a background in advanced prehospital care and emergency response.
With a diverse skill set, Keahi has trained law enforcement, military personnel, and first responders across various disciplines. He holds multiple certifications in firearms and tactical instruction, medical trauma care, and protective security operations. Keahi’s real-world operational experience and commitment to training excellence make him a trusted asset in preparing professionals for complex, high-threat environments.
Victor Lopez
Victor Lopez has extensive experience as a military and law enforcement instructor. He began his career in law enforcement in 1999 and continues to both serve and teach, including positions as a Handgun, Rifle, and Shotgun Instructor for his Law Enforcement agency. A veteran, Victor served in the US Marine Corps for 20 years including deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan as a Scout Sniper operator and Advisor. In 2009, he competed in the US Army International Sniper Competition, finishing in the top 10. In 2020 Victor completed a year long testing and evaluation for Low power variable optics for his Law Enforcement agency at the same time attending course for Designated Marksman and Magified Optics Instructor Courses.
Jon Cabrera
Jon Cabrera has been a police officer for over 28-years, with 30 years of total law enforcement experience. He is formerly a sergeant with a Southern California Law Enforcement Agency. Jon has worked a variety of assignments to include custody, patrol, as a canine handler, gang detective, and has 16-years of SWAT experience. During his 14-years as a sergeant he has worked patrol, Property Crimes and served as the team leader for his regional SWAT team. Jon also created the Designated Marksman Program for Palm Springs, Cathedral City, and Indio Police Department. Jon is a wealth of knowledge in less lethal munitions, supervisory leadership, and as a use of force as a firearms instructor.
SCHEDULE YOUR SIONICS TRAINING TODAY!
Email - Sales@SIONICSWEAPONSYSTEMS.COM
