NW Precision Pro Staff — The Black Hat Society

The Black Hat Society is not a title that is given. It is earned.

At NW Precision Training, a Black Hat represents far more than shooting proficiency. It signifies a standard of character, discipline, humility, and service. This is a quiet fraternity of men and women who have proven—through action—that they are Everyday Warriors: capable, grounded, and committed to the well-being of others.

Membership begins with performance under pressure. Every Black Hat candidate must first meet the same firearms standard required of active Oregon law enforcement officers by successfully passing the Oregon DPSST handgun qualification. This is followed by a second, multi-layered scenario-based evaluation designed to assess judgment, decision-making, accountability, and composure—not just marksmanship.

But skill alone is never enough.

Once the minimum performance standards are met, the true evaluation begins. A candidate’s attitude, work ethic, leadership, humility, and respect for others are continuously observed—by range instructors, range safety officers, existing Pro Staff, and fellow Black Hat members. How a person carries themselves, supports others, handles correction, and serves the team matters as much as how they shoot.

Formal induction into the Black Hat Society requires a unanimous vote. One dissenting voice is enough to pause the process. This ensures the integrity of the society is protected and that every Black Hat is worthy of the respect the symbol carries.

To wear the Black Hat is to have earned the trust of the staff and peers who already wear it. It is an outward sign of inward standards—competence paired with character, confidence tempered by humility, and strength guided by service.

This is an exclusive brotherhood and sisterhood, worn proudly but never loudly. Black Hatters do not seek recognition; they live in a way that earns it.

Capable. Accountable. Service-minded.

Everyday Warriors.