The Tactical Advantage: A Definitive Study Of Personal Small-Arms Tactics

INTRODUCTION

As the typical student of small arms progresses in his studies, he eventually realizes that winning a fight requires much more than just good shooting or dexterous gunhandling. He realizes that even an ace tactician will die if he puts himself into an nowin situation. He also begins to realize that how he handles a tactical problem has as much effect on his victory (or defeat) as does the quality of his shooting.

The study of avoiding and, if necessary, managing these situations is what makes up the art of tactics. Notice that I did not say the science of tactics. Tactics are not an exact science like mathematics or physics. There is no "if A does this, then B does that" thinking in this art. The art of tactics is a living one that is always changing and adapting to the needs of the situation. It is dependent for success only on the operator's creativity. Just as there are no guarantees in a gunfight, there are also no absolutes to tactics (you will see this again in Chapter 8).

The study of tactics begins with the study of certain principles and guidelines. I must point out, however, that these principles and guidelines do not guarantee success. Instead, they serve only to help minimize your exposure to danger when of Murphy is feeling mischievous.

Some of these concepts were learned from Chuck Taylor at the various courses we taught together. Others, however, were learned through trial and error in the arena where losers die and the only trophy is the right to keep breathing. These concepts were developed from the deadly life-ending mistakes of many of my police comrades… and some, from living through many of my own "lucky" mistakes. These were all extremely poignant and valuable lessons learned in the world's toughest school where much of the tuition was paid for with the blood of heroes. In studying these concepts, we attempt to ensure that the next "mishap" happens only to the bad guys, instead of to one of us!

Realize also that the concepts described for dealing with a particular tactical problem (for example, a corner) also apply to any other obstacle that creates the same tactical effect, such as furniture or a bend in a trail.

The result is, in my opinion, the most complete study of tactical principles ever written. But you must be the final judge of that when the last word has been read.

This book is for everyone interested in the subject of personal security, regardless of occupation. It will be of value to the lone homeowner who wants to find the best way to check out that frightening and suspicious noise from across a dark house on a warm summer night. It is for the police officer and his partner who will be searching a building together, and alone, in response to a silent burglary alarm, at O'dark thirty. It is also for the tactical operative, weighed down by his assault gear, who will be conducting a covert movement to contact with his team during an early-morning raid. I have been in all those pairs of boots many times and know well the needs of each situation.

I will discuss the principles and guidelines that facilitate tactical problem solving, as well as the various architectural features found in many urban dwellings and the best ways to "clear" them, whether you are alone or accompanied by one or two other shooters. I will examine the low-light environment and how to use the available ambient and artificial light to your advantage. Other topics include tactical communications, mindset, the handling of captured hostiles, and the weapons most suitable for the task of searching a dwelling.

Sound tactics are often the only thing that stands between a glorious and spectacular victory and the cold anonymity of death and defeat. Study these principles, incorporate them into your tactical "bag of tricks," and be prepared to win!

Gabriel Suarez, 1998

Santa Monica, California