What does the "21-foot rule" suggest?

The "21-foot rule" pertains specifically to the dynamics of an armed confrontation and the time it takes for an assailant to close distance on a defender. It suggests that an armed assailant can cover a distance of 21 feet in the time it typically takes a person to draw a firearm and accurately fire it. This principle is often referenced in law enforcement training to highlight the critical importance of spatial awareness and response time in potentially dangerous situations.

Understanding this rule emphasizes the need for officers to recognize that within that span of 21 feet, an individual could potentially pose a lethal threat before the officer would have the ability to effectively respond with their weapon. This concept underscores the necessity for appropriate tactical planning and reaction, reinforcing the idea that distance and reaction time are vital factors in ensuring officer safety during confrontations. This recognition can affect decisions made in the field regarding engagement, distance management, and de-escalation tactics.