(1) Each agency that employs a public safety officer who is authorized to carry firearms during the work assignment must:
(a) require the officer to complete successfully the firearms proficiency requirements provided in this rule at least once a year, for any manufacture and model of firearm customarily carried by that officer;
(b) designate a POST-certified agency firearms instructor to document annual firearms proficiency, which must include:
(i) date of qualification;
(ii) identification of the officer;
(iii) firearm manufacture and model;
(iv) results of qualifying; and
(v) course of fire used.
(c) keep on file in a format readily accessible to the council a copy of all firearms proficiency records.
(2) The minimum standards for annual firearms proficiency are:
(a) Handgun – a minimum of 30 rounds, fired at ranges from point-blank to 15 yards with a minimum of 15 rounds at or beyond seven yards;
(b) Shotgun – minimum of five rounds fired at a distance ranging from point-blank to 25 yards;
(c) Precision rifle – a minimum of ten rounds fired at a minimum range of 100 yards;
(d) Patrol rifle – a minimum of 20 rounds fired at a distance ranging from point-blank to 50 yards;
(e) Fully automatic weapon – a minimum of 30 rounds fired at a distance ranging from point-blank to ten yards, with a minimum of 25 rounds fired in full automatic (short bursts of two or three rounds), and a minimum of five rounds fired semi-automatic.
(3) The minimum passing score for annual firearms proficiency is 80% for each firearm on an IPSC Official Target or dimensional equivalent.
(4) The MLEA sets the passing score for the Montana Law Enforcement Basic Firearms Qualification.