As of 2023 red dot optics (any color dot) can be used in an LTC range proficiency shooting test. There cannot be any magnification nor can lasers be used.
I have had mixed thoughts on handgun optics for many years. It actually started with lasers in the early 2000’s. I was a departmental firearms instructor at the time. My department had approved lasers if the officers purchased them and the brand/model was approved.
The main laser officers gravitated to was the Laser Max that actually replaced the guide rod. That allowed the officer to use the same holster as many of the grip lasers would not work with the holster once they were installed.
The officers were required to qualify with the gun and installed laser to departmental standards. I will just get to the point, every officer shot slower and less accurate with the laser. Even with practice and training they were chasing the dot rather than getting the gun on target. Further, if they missed activating the laser it caused most to fidget with the gun rather than taking the shot. I was not then, nor am I now a handgun laser fan. Especially when the average self defense shooting is 7 yards or less.
Yes, I understand that some people like them and that is fine. Many think it will “intimidate” an aggressor, that theory is only evident in Hollywood movies.
The last few years the handgun optic has arrived in the mainstream for many handgun shooters. Again, I was doubtful it was much of a necessity for a 7 yard or less self-defense situation. Then my department issued Shadow System handguns with a Trijicon RMR. I have to say it was a pleasant experience.
Once the optic is zeroed it is very accurate. It is not like a laser in that you still point the gun to the target area and instead of looking at the front sight you look at the target. Where the dot is that’s where the bullet is going assuming your other fundamentals are executed correctly.
There are several quality handgun optics on the market, Trijicon and Halo Sun to name a couple. They come in dot and circle dot configurations for the most part. I recommend a couple of things, that the optic is on all the time and know how long the battery will last. If the battery life is stated to be 1 year, set your calendar to change it every 9 months, it’s not worth the risk. You won’t have time to turn it on in a suddenly presented self-defense situation.
Further, the important thing is to train with it extensively, even if it is dry fire, learn to get it on target as quickly and smoothly as you can. Also, I recommend you have the higher hard sights installed so you have something to use if the dot isn’t there for some reason. Additionally, you can use the sights to help you get the dot lined up properly going to the target until you get acclimated to the dot system.
Stay safe, stay alert.
Phil Ryan
Police Firearms Instructor
Owner/Instructor TCCI & NTGT
