VFRS-LE601 Red Dot Pistol Sight Training
Lead Instructor: Nick Ratliff
Nick Ratliff began his law enforcement career in 2009 with the City of Norton Police Department. Nick served as a Patrol Officer, Narcotics K-9 Handler, and Criminal Investigator. In 2013, Nick began his service with the Wise County Sheriff’s Office, where he served as a member of the Sheriff’s Response Team in various roles to include: Operator, Marksman/Observer, Shield Operator, and Medic. Nick joined the Southwest Virginia Criminal Justice Training Academy as the lead Firearms and Tactics Training Coordinator in August of 2025. Nick has training with multiple firearms instructors across the United States to include Scott Jedlinski of Modern Samurai Project and Donovan Moore of Point 1 Tactics. Nick currently holds the #16 Black Belt Patch from Modern Samurai Project and has competed in and won USPSA matches. Nick aims to share the most effective information to help students become more proficient shooters
Location: Blacksburg PD
This one day red dot sight pistol course is designed for a range of students. This is not a beginner pistol course as students are expected to have an understanding of firearms safety. However, whether students are new to red dot shooting or have time and training in red dot shooter, there will be learning points for them. Newer red dot shooters will be afforded the opportunity to learn to be more consistent in finding the red dot on the draw of the handgun and utilizing it effectively. Experienced red dot shooters will be introduced to techniques to improve speed, efficiency, accuracy and overall effectiveness with the red dot pistol platform. This course is designed to enhance three pillars of shooting: grip, trigger control, and sight package. During the course, students will learn to emphasize shot accountability and how to push limits in training to improve overall performance.
Date: June 15, 2026 8:00 AM until 5:00 PM
