Inside the FBI Qual: Targets, Drills, and Dimensions Explained

Introduction

The FBI qual target has become a benchmark in the firearms training world. Whether you're a law enforcement officer, instructor, or responsibly armed citizen, using FBI-standard targets can significantly improve your shooting skills. This guide will break down everything you need to know about the FBI’s qualification targets — including the Q, QIT-97, and QIT-99 — and how to use them effectively. You'll also find usage tips, comparisons, and direct links to where you can purchase high-quality versions from Axle Targets.

What is the FBI Qualification Course?

The FBI qualification course is a 50-round shooting test designed to evaluate a shooter’s accuracy, speed, and tactical response at varying distances. It's more than just a marksmanship exam — it's a structured simulation of real-world encounters.

The course of fire includes stages at distances of 3, 5, 7, 15, and 25 yards, with specific requirements for drawing, reloading, transitioning hands, and shooting under time constraints. This makes it one of the most respected and practical pistol qualification standards used today — and not just by the FBI. Many local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, as well as civilian training programs, have adopted the FBI qual as their go-to standard.

Training with the official FBI pistol qualification target ensures that shooters are practicing with realistic expectations and performance metrics.

Overview of FBI Qualification Targets

There are three primary targets used in FBI pistol qualifications: the Q, QIT-97, and QIT-99. Each has a different purpose and design, but all share the goal of simulating human threat zones and rewarding accurate, controlled fire.

• The Q Target is the original silhouette used in early FBI qualification courses. It's a full-torso target with a simple outline and scoring zone.

• The QIT-97 Target introduced more defined scoring areas and a slightly narrower silhouette to encourage better shot placement.

• The QIT-99 Target is the current standard, featuring more realistic threat zone dimensions and high-contrast scoring areas. It is widely used in official qualifications and by elite-level civilian shooters.

Each target offers a unique benefit depending on the drill, course of fire, and shooter level. Throughout this article, you’ll learn the detailed dimensions, best use cases, and the differences that set these targets apart — so you can train smarter, not just harder.

The Q Target – Classic FBI Silhouette

The original FBI Q target is a simplistic yet effective silhouette designed to represent a human torso. Its purpose was to train agents to place consistent, combat-effective hits on vital areas without the distractions of detailed scoring zones.

The standard Q target typically measures 22.5 inches wide by 35 inches tall, with a rounded silhouette shape that approximates the upper torso and head of a standing human. The scoring area is traditionally a large center mass zone, and while it lacks defined point values, it encourages shooters to aim center-mass under pressure.

Although largely replaced by more refined models, the Q target is still used in many basic training environments and introductory pistol qualifications. It's ideal for new shooters or courses focusing on fast target acquisition and shot grouping rather than precision scoring.

For shooters looking to train on the Q target, Axle Targets offers a high-quality version designed for both indoor and outdoor range use. You can purchase it here:
FBI Qual Target - Axle Targets

The QIT-97 Target – Transitional Design

The QIT-97 target is a refinement of the Q silhouette, developed to encourage more accurate shot placement. This target narrows the torso zone and introduces visual scoring areas that simulate vital threat zones more accurately.

Measuring approximately 23 inches by 34 inches, the QIT-97 target features a smaller silhouette than the Q target and includes subtle outlines for scoring zones. While it still retains a minimalist design, it offers better visual feedback for shooters working on precision drills at speed.

This target is often used in law enforcement transition training — especially for departments that moved from revolvers to semi-automatic pistols and needed to adjust training standards. It supports both basic and intermediate-level drills that balance speed with accountability.

The QIT-97 remains a favorite for agencies and shooters who want something more defined than the Q, but less detailed than the QIT-99.

The QIT-99 Target – Modern Standard

The FBI QIT-99 target is the current gold standard for FBI and law enforcement pistol qualifications. It features high-contrast outlines and distinct scoring zones that emphasize precision shooting in high-stress situations.

The QIT-99 target dimensions are typically 23 inches wide by 34 inches tall, with clearly defined hit zones:

• The center-mass zone (often labeled as the “A zone”) simulates the heart/lung area and rewards precision hits.

• The head zone represents critical threat neutralization areas and is often included in advanced drills.

This target supports the full 50-round FBI qualification course, including specific drills that assess movement, low-light shooting, reloads, and timed accuracy. The QIT-99 helps shooters understand exactly where their rounds land in relation to human anatomy, which is crucial for real-world applications.

If you're looking for an official, competition-grade version of the QIT-99, Axle Targets offers a premium product that’s range-ready and law enforcement approved. You can buy it here:
FBI QIT-99 Target - Axle Targets

FBI QIT-99 vs QIT-97 vs Q Target

When deciding which FBI pistol qualification target to use, it’s helpful to understand how each version fits into the broader training ecosystem. Each target has its unique advantages, making it suitable for different shooter levels and qualification goals.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Which One Should You Use?

• Use the Q target if you're running high-volume drills and want shooters to focus on grouping and speed.

• Choose the QIT-97 for transitional drills that demand more accountability without overwhelming newer shooters.

• The QIT-99 is the best choice for shooters looking to simulate official FBI and law enforcement standards.

FBI Pistol Qualification Stages & Scoring

The full FBI pistol qualification course is a structured 50-round test divided across timed stages and varying distances. It’s designed to replicate real-world defensive scenarios — not just static marksmanship.

Course Overview

• 3 Yards: 6 rounds in 3 seconds from the holster, then strong-hand only fire.

• 5 Yards: Multiple strings requiring shooting and reloading under time pressure.

• 7 Yards: Movement, reloads, and off-hand shooting.

• 15 Yards: Shooting from cover, using barricades or simulated obstacles.

• 25 Yards: Precision fire at distance within tight time limits.

Scoring is typically based on hits within the designated scoring zones (e.g., A-zone or head shots on the QIT-99 target). A passing score for FBI agents is generally 80% or higher — meaning 40 out of 50 rounds must land within the designated scoring areas.

Best Practices for Using FBI Qual Targets

To get the most out of your fbi qual target sessions, follow these best practices:

• Use Correct Distances: Match the course's actual yardages for realistic results.

• Time Yourself Accurately: Use a shot timer or stopwatch to simulate real pressure.

• Focus on Shot Accountability: Always evaluate shot placement, not just target hits.

• Track Progress: Keep a training journal with times, scores, and observations.

Top Drills for FBI Qualification Practice

• 3-Yard Draw and Fire: Fire two rounds in under 2 seconds from a holster.

• 5-Yard One-Handed Shooting: Practice strong and support-hand firing.

• 7-Yard Reload Drill: Simulate slide-lock reloads with precision shots.

• 15-Yard Cover Drill: Engage from behind simulated cover with lateral movement.

These drills are best performed using the QIT-99 target to simulate realistic hit zones.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

• Misunderstanding Zones: Study the target’s A and head zones before each session.

• Speed Over Control: Build speed slowly after establishing accuracy.

• Reloading Errors: Practice reloads during dry fire to reduce fumbles.

• Neglecting Weak-Hand: Allocate 15% of training time to support-hand shooting.

Benefits of Training with FBI-Standard Targets

• Realistic Threat Simulation: Emulates human anatomy under stress.

• Performance Benchmarking: Standardized targets enable consistent progress tracking.

• Versatility: Suitable for beginner and advanced-level tactical training.

• Accountability: Demands precise hits, especially with the QIT-99.

Where to Buy FBI Qualification Targets

For reliable, law enforcement-grade paper targets, trust Axle Targets:

• FBI Qual Target (Q Version):
  https://axletargets.com/products/fbi-qual

• FBI QIT-99 Target:
  https://axletargets.com/products/fbi-qit-99

If you're not quite ready to make a purchase, no problem — you can still level up your training with our free printable FBI targets. Perfect for at-home dry fire practice or a quick range session, these downloadable targets let you experience the same dimensions and layouts used in FBI qualifications. Just visit our website and check out the free resources section to get started.

How to Incorporate FBI Qual into Your Range Routine

• Run the full FBI qual monthly to track overall skill.

• Focus weekly sessions on one stage or drill at a time.

• Keep notes on scores, times, and target zones hit.

• Use the same type of target each session for consistency.

Conclusion

Training with the FBI qual target — whether it’s the original Q, the transitional QIT-97, or the modern QIT-99 — provides a powerful framework for real-world marksmanship. These targets aren’t just paper—they’re tools that teach precision, stress management, and accountability.

Whether you're prepping for a law enforcement qualification, seeking to improve personal defense skills, or just looking to raise your standards at the range, FBI-style targets offer measurable, proven results. Combined with focused drills, honest scoring, and quality products from Axle Targets, you can bring professional-level training to your routine.

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FAQs

1. What are the official FBI QIT-99 target dimensions?
23" x 34", featuring clearly marked A-zone and head zones for precise shot tracking.

2. Can civilians legally purchase FBI qual targets?
Yes, FBI qualification targets are legal for civilian use and widely available online.

3. What’s the difference between the FBI Q, QIT-97, and QIT-99 targets?
The Q is a basic silhouette, QIT-97 adds semi-visible zones, and QIT-99 offers precise scoring zones.

4. Do I need to follow the exact 50-round FBI qualification course?
No, but replicating the course ensures you’re training to law enforcement standards.

5. Are FBI qualification targets good for concealed carry practice?
Absolutely — they help simulate real threat zones and improve tactical accuracy under stress.