Active USPSA classifier

03-18 High Standards

Prepare for USPSA classifier 03-18 High Standards with the official two-string procedure, proportional distance plan, division HHFs, time calculator, and five videos.

Build a target plan View stage plan

Stage plan and briefing

Know the course before the timer starts.

This GM Path plan follows the official setup dimensions and composition. The briefing below summarizes the official source in plain language.

The 10-yard and 15-yard fault lines are measured from the target line. Target shoulders are five feet high, with 18 inches between targets. USPSA does not specify the fault-line lengths.

Written briefingHandgun

Start position

Stand naturally behind the applicable fault line. Face downrange with both hands relaxed at your sides. The handgun is loaded and holstered.

01
String 1: From the 15-yard fault line, engage T1–T3 with two rounds each freestyle.
02
Reload, then engage T1–T3 with two rounds each using the strong hand only.
03
String 2: From the 10-yard fault line, engage T1–T3 with two rounds each freestyle.
04
Reload, then engage T1–T3 with two rounds each using the weak hand only.

Scoring: Virginia Count
Course: 24 rounds · 120 points
Procedure: Two 12-round strings combine freestyle fire, a mandatory reload, and strong-hand-only or weak-hand-only fire from 15 and 10 yards.
Penalties: Virginia Count penalties apply. Hand-use and reload requirements follow the official written stage briefing.

The official briefing, current USPSA rules, and range officer control at the match.

Verify with the USPSA source

3:48

Five-video field library

Watch the decisions, not only the timer.

Creator analysis of distance work and one-hand control. C Class is creator-reported.

Creator-reported class and score details stay labeled as creator reports. GM Path does not infer a performance band from video alone.

Watch on YouTube

020:21

Carry Optics

USPSA Classifier CM 03-18 “High Standards”

A compact view of both strings and the hand changes.

Alex Sotelo - USPSA Carry Optics Division Shooter

030:55

Two strings

USPSA Classifier CM 03-18 "High Standards" - Carry Optics

A full two-string Carry Optics view. Score and class details are creator-reported.

XZ Log

040:27

One-hand pace

USPSA Classifier High Standards 03-18 M class 92.29%

A comparison of strong-hand and weak-hand pace. M class and 92.29% are creator-reported.

Johnny NC

050:40

Open

03-18 high standards open uspsa 90%

An Open example for equipment contrast. The 90% result is creator-reported.

Rob Kosack

Target calculator

Work backward from your hit plan.

Choose a division, goal, and exact 24-shot result. GM Path calculates the slowest time that meets the selected band.

DivisionPower factorTarget band

24-shot hit plan

ACDMikesOther penalties

24 of 24 scored shots

HHF source

Values come from the current official USPSA classification source and were checked August 25, 2026.

Open the USPSA source

Review guide

Find the first break in the run.

Review the run in parts. Fix the first part that loses control.

Check the first shot

Confirm that the start position, draw, and first sight picture stayed controlled.

Check the order

Find any extra movement, late target decision, or transition that crossed the intended path.

Check the points

Compare the time saved with the points lost. Keep the pace only when the score supports it.

Choose one drill

Practice the first repeatable fault. Do not change several parts of the run at the same time.

Sources and limits

Check the source before match day.

Official stage

Use the USPSA stage file for setup, procedure, scoring, and penalties.

USPSA 03-18 stage file

Classification math

USPSA controls High Hit Factors, score processing, and official classification results.

USPSA classification source

Corrections

Found a source, score, or calculation problem? Send the page section and official source.

Report a correction

Editorial reviewReviewed by GM Path

Official stage and classification sources checked August 25, 2026. Video notes identify creator-reported claims.

Browse all classifier guides

Safety notice

Use this guide only at a lawful range with proper supervision. Follow all firearm safety rules, current USPSA rules, the official written stage briefing, and the range officer. This guide does not replace training or match commands.