S12E14: Red Dots on Carry Guns…Are They Worth It?
About This Episode:
Today, Riley Bowman and Jacob Paulsen discuss the pistol optics and why we think it's important to start considering them, if you're not already. There is quite a bit of data that supports the efficacy of using them in a defensive context. How about you...do you think red dots on pistols are a good idea? Do you or will you use them on your carry gun? Tune in to learn more!
Resources Used in This Episode:
-Sage Dynamics White Paper on MRDS - https://www.sagedynamics.org
-NLEFIA Pistol RDS Survey Final Summary Jan 2025 - https://www.scribd.com/document/811177971/NLEFIA-Pistol-RDS-Survey-Final-Summary-Jan-2025
-Norwich University RDS Pistol Study - https://soldiersystems.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/2011_Norwich_Study_RMRvIronSights.pdf
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I don’t need them nor require them . The distance in a self defense scenario doesn’t support needing them
Furthermore, if you need a red dot to aim at that distance then you need more training
I don’t need or require them either. I do however, acknowledge that they give me an advantage over using iron sights alone regardless of the distance.
I’d stick with iron sights. Especially if you have to respond to a threat within 20 feet. A red dot could cost you too much time trying to aim. Unless there is a continued threat from someone fleeing, using the red dot would be too much of a temptation to try to stop someone no longer a danger. Once the bad guy stops firing — law enforcement should take over. Legal risk of proving it was self-defense may not be upheld in court. Adrenaline could contribute to making a decision that could put you in legal jeopardy. Keep red dots for target proficiency. Not for quick self-defense
Aiming with a dot doesn’t take any more time than aiming with iron sights. I would argue its even faster.