What is the Designated Marksman Workshop?

Step into the Designated Marksman (DM) role and elevate your tactical shooting skills at our exclusive 3-day, all-inclusive workshop. Designed for those serious about advancing their mid- to long-range engagement skills, this course goes beyond traditional rifle training.

You’ll learn to master the art of precision shooting while embedded within a squad, handling real-world scenarios such as patrolling and unit defense when under attack.

Hosted at a one-of-a-kind venue, this immersive training includes:

Expert-led instruction on designated marksman techniques and tactics
Patrolling and defensive scenarios unique to the designated marksman role in infantry
Engaging long-range targets under simulated operational conditions
All-inclusive lodging, food, and training for the entire three days
Exclusive access to our expert cadre, with time to network, have fun and gain insights outside of formal training

This isn’t just a course—it’s a rare opportunity to train, live, and learn alongside professionals in a setting like no other. The investment covers everything, ensuring you can focus entirely on honing your skills and building your tactical proficiency.

Spaces are extremely limited. Will you seize the chance?

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is this class designed for?

The class is designed for beginner to advanced shooters who want to improve their shooting skills.

How much does the workshop cost?

Standard: $2,500 (Includes three full training days, food/drinks, and lodging.)

What's the difference between a Designated Marksman and a Sniper?

A designated marksman (DM) is specially trained to provide accurate fire at ranges beyond the standard infantry rifleman's capabilities but within the sniper's range limits. The designated marksman operates as a member of an infantry squad or platoon. He is responsible for engaging targets at mid-range, typically between 300 and 600 meters, where a standard rifleman might be less effective.

Unlike a sniper, who operates independently and focuses on long-range precision, the designated marksman works within their unit to enhance the firepower and accuracy of the squad. They usually use a more accurate, semi-automatic rifle with a magnified optic, allowing for both precision and relatively rapid follow-up shots.

The role of the DM varies between military branches and countries, but the key distinction is that they remain embedded in the infantry unit, engaging targets of opportunity rather than seeking out specific high-value targets as snipers often do.

What topics are covered?

Throughout 3-days, you will learn a ton! Here are the main topics:

Environmental considerations and ballistics
Data gathering
Known and unknown distance shooting
Positional shooting with and without support
Angled/elevated shooting
Barricades
Walkthroughs: File / Wedge / Modified Wedge / Traveling, Traveling Overwatch, Bounding Overwatch / Permissive, Semi-Permissive, Non-Permissive / Danger Areas (Linear, Small, Large)
Establishing an assault
React to contact (attack)
Reac to contact (break contact)

What are the class’s gear requirements?

Required rifle and ammo:

Patrol rifle capable of 2 MOA or better (minimum caliber .223)
Low Power Variable Optic (LPVO) is preferred. If you are running a red dot, have a magnifier.
Sling: 2 Point Sling preferred
Bipod
(4) 30-round magazines (minimum)
(1) 20-round magazine
1,000 rounds of .223/5.56 ammunition. (For optimum results, we recommend 77 gr OTM; however, it is not mandatory. Arena will have 55 gr bulk ammo for purchase at 1,000 rounds for $525. You can also ship ammo to the facility.)

Required gear and accessories:

Capability to carry your magazines (i.e., chest rig, battle belt, or plate carrier)
Small rear bag
Assault backpack for carrying all equipment
Weather-appropriate clothing and gloves
Eye protection
Ear protection
Rifle cleaning Gear
Note-taking material

Nice to haves:

Spotting scope
Kestrel (or some other ballistic calculator)
Laser range finder
Knee pads
Barricade bag (recommend Schmedium Waxed Game Changer - heavy or lite fill)
Shooting mat
Hat
Sunblock
Chapstick
Insect repellent
Hand warmers
Cooler with drinks/snacks
Camp chair/stool

What kind of lodging is provided?

Arena has on-site lodging for 60 people (30 cabins). You will have your own cabin at the workshop.

Each cabin includes a microwave, mini-fridge, private bathroom/shower, heat, and air conditioning.

Can anyone attend the workshop?

Students must know how to operate their rifles and safely manipulate their firearms. This is NOT a class for brand-new shooters. If you have any questions regarding whether the workshop is a good fit for you or not, please email us at info@tacticalhyve.com.

Students must be at least 21 years old or 18+ with a guardian. Due to the Department of State ITAR regulations, tactical training is only available to US Citizens/Legal Residents.

What is your cancellation policy?

No refunds or credits will be offered because of the planning and manpower needed to conduct this workshop. However, you may allow someone else to take your spot if you cannot make it.

Designated Marksman Workshop: A Tactical Precision Experience (Blakely, GA)