Pieing & Threshold Evaluation: Seeing Before Being Seen

A disciplined operator never enters blind.Threshold evaluation — often called pieing — is the method of gaining visual control of a room from outside its doorway. It allows the team to collect information before exposure increases.

This is not about speed — it’s about awareness and geometry.

1. Control the Threshold

The doorway is the most dangerous space in any structure.

Operators must:

• Avoid standing squared in the opening

• Stay off-angle from the frame

• Maintain balance and stability

Why it matters:The threshold is where exposure is highest and reaction time is lowest.

2. Slice the Room Gradually

Imagine the room divided into invisible “pie slices.”

As you move, you reveal one slice at a time:

• Small, controlled shifts

• No sudden steps

• No leaning beyond stability

Each movement gives you more visual information while keeping exposure minimal.

Why it matters:Seeing a threat first gives you time to decide the next action.

3. Eyes Lead, Weapon Follows

Alignment must stay consistent:

• Eyes identify the space

• Weapon aligns with the eyes

• Body supports the weapon

Never allow your muzzle to drift outside your visual control.

Why it matters:Misalignment creates delays and reduces reaction effectiveness.

4. Manage Exposure

Improper threshold evaluation exposes:

• Knees

• Elbows

• Weapon barrel

• Shoulders

Operators must stay aware of how much of their body is visible from inside the room.

Why it matters:The more you expose, the more reaction time the opposing force gains.

5. Evaluate Before Committing

Before stepping inside, the operator should assess:

• Near corners

• Deep corners

• Center of the room

• Obstacles and furniture

• Potential concealment areas

This evaluation informs the team’s next decision:

• Enter

• Hold

• Change pace

• Reposition

Why it matters:Information controls tempo and decision-making.

6. Communication at the Threshold

Operators must communicate findings concisely:

• “Left clear”

• “Shadow right”

• “Obstacle center”

• “No visual”

Use whispers, hand signals, or comms discipline — never loud discussion.

Why it matters:The team must share the same situational awareness before entry.

Common Errors

Standing too close to the doorway Moving too fast through angles Letting the weapon lead the eyes Ignoring lower or upper visual planes Failing to communicate findings

Final Word

Threshold evaluation is not a beginner skill — it is a professional habit.

A disciplined operator gathers information before committing movement.Entering without evaluation places the entire team at risk.

If you control the threshold, you control the room.