There's no substitute for Data On Previous Engagements!At the beginning of the class, I was smart enough to take the left most postion on the line because I didn't want any flying brass down my shirt.
This is the key, and something to really temper your self-criticism. The concepts and drills taught (at any class) are simply an introduction and framework. Just like learning a new sport or musical instrument it will take many more repetitions than even a two day class could allow. If you can remember what to do and why it's important, you've been successful.The drills we ran were all things that, thanks be to God, I can run on my home range.
You also found some things that didn't work as well as you hoped, and a few that worked better than expected. That's a big part of the Carbine class IMO. Run what you brung, as hard as you can. Find your limits and that of your gear. Choose what gear/methods need work, which need replaced and those you can rely upon.
Not every engagement will be under perfect conditions!Talk about a rude awakening when we were zeroing at 100yds and I was getting showered with brass!
Good news, you were fully covered so that brass couldn't find bare skin.