What type of commands can serve as a discretionary shooting skill?

Verbal commands serve as a discretionary shooting skill because they provide clear and direct instructions that can effectively communicate intentions and expectations in a high-stress situation. The use of verbal commands is crucial for ensuring that all parties involved—be it law enforcement, the public, or individuals in a critical incident—understand the directives being issued. This clarity can help de-escalate a situation, prevent misunderstandings, and ultimately lead to a better outcome.

In contrast, non-verbal communication, covert signals, and silent gestures may lack the immediacy or clarity that verbal commands provide. While these forms of communication can be useful in specific contexts, they do not convey the same level of explicit direction that is often needed during discretionary shooting scenarios. The ability to issue clear verbal commands allows officers or responders to maintain control and to mitigate threats effectively, reinforcing the importance of verbal communication in tactical situations.