Sapper Standards — Ranger Beers Supply Co.

Physical Fitness

PT Requirements

Candidates must pass the APFT with a minimum score of 60 points per event (age-adjusted) before beginning training. The physical assessment phase also includes a 12-mile ruck march, combat water survival test, and obstacle course. Approximately 20% of candidates are eliminated during the first three days.

Event	Standard	Notes
Push-ups	60+ in 2 min	APFT minimum, age-adjusted
Sit-ups	60+ in 2 min	APFT minimum, age-adjusted
2-Mile Run	60+ points	APFT minimum, age-adjusted
12-Mile Ruck	Under 3 hours	35-lb load minimum
Swim Test	Pass	Combat water survival test
Obstacle Course	Pass	Assessed during Days 1–3

Course Requirements

What You Must Demonstrate

Demolitions math proficiency — calculate charge sizes, timber cutting, steel cutting, and breaching charges
Live demolitions execution — prepare, prime, and detonate explosive charges safely
Breaching techniques — mechanical, ballistic, explosive, and manual methods
Mine warfare — emplacement, detection, and clearance procedures
Tactical planning — develop and brief engineer support plans for combat operations
Patrol leadership — lead squads through tactical missions integrating engineer tasks
Peer evaluations — maintain positive peer assessments throughout the patrol phase

Grading

How You're Evaluated

The Sapper Leader Course uses a GO/NO-GO grading system for all practical evaluations. Students must demonstrate proficiency in each phase before advancing. There are no written exams — evaluation is entirely performance-based across demolitions, breaching, and tactical tasks.

Students typically lose 15–20 pounds during the 28-day course. The combination of caloric deficit, sleep deprivation, and continuous physical demands makes SLC one of the most attrition-heavy courses in the Army, with only about 35% of candidates earning the Sapper Tab.