Episode 3: The Pro's Guide to Team CQB

Topics Covered:

• Split Stacks
• Priorities of Work
• Opposing Threats
• Exiting a Room

Priorities of Work

• Definition: The sequence of actions taken after entering and securing a room.
• Steps:
  1. Check the Dead/Threats: Ensure any threats are neutralized.
  2. Check the Living: Ensure they are non-threats.
  3. Room Check: Search for hidden individuals in places like under beds and in closets.
  4. Mark the Room: Use chem lights or other markers to indicate the room has been cleared.

Split Stacks

• Definition: Having assaulters positioned on both sides of a threshold (doorway).
• Types of Split Stacks:
  • One assaulter on each side of the door.
  • Full stacks on both sides.
• Tactical Advantage:
  • Allows assaulters to see more of the room (approx. 90%) while waiting to enter.

Exiting a Room

• Process:
  1. Cell leader decides the exit route.
  2. Number one man leads the direction of travel.
  3. Number two man provides rear security.
  4. The stack flows into the hallway or next room.

Opposing Threats

• Definition: Situations where an assaulter cannot cover multiple directions at once.
• Challenge: The layout often presents threats an individual assaulter cannot manage alone.
• Solution:
  • Another assaulter should assist in covering opposing threats.
  • Requires understanding and acknowledgment that these threats are unpredictable.

Detailed Steps

• Conducting Thorough Checks:

  • Prioritize dead, living, room, then mark.
  • Adapt search methods based on the space available (e.g., switching to secondary weapons for tighter spaces).

• Stacking at Entry/Exit Points:

  • Use communication signals (e.g., head nod, verbal cues) to manage entry and exit strategies.
  • Ensure proper coverage and security as the team moves.

Strategic Movement

• Diminishing Returns:

  • Describes taking deep looks into a room or hallway for intel while waiting for commands.
  • Allows for gaining more information about the environment.

• Body Bunkering:

  • A method of moving past opposing threats by using physical protection and covering fire.

Conclusion

• Understanding and managing opposing threats are crucial in CQB.
• Disciplined coordination is necessary for successful room clearance and stack management.

Stay tuned for the next episode on hallways and intersections, including strategies for navigating various types of intersections in CQB.