Handgun Tactics | Why You Don’t Need a Laser

August 11, 2017 by Brandon Webb 4 Comments

I always get asked the question, “What’s the best laser or sight system for my gun?”. I am a big fan of keeping it simple. Add too much crap to the mix and you may look like a tactical ninja on the range but you’ll look a different way when it comes down to shooting for keeps!

I’ll spare you the Navy SEAL instinctive fire lesson and just tell you these seven words. Get a tactical light for your weapon. You don’t need a laser, a light blinds and can (and should) be used as your front sight. It works as I demonstrate in the video below. I’m sure the usual overweight self-proclaimed gun experts writing for Harris publications (Have you seen those weirdos?) will tell you different however, they don’t know what the fuck they’re talking about.

SUREFIRE X300 weapon light

Watch and decide for yourself. Then get a light and forget the fancy lasers.

About the Author

Brandon Webb Former Navy SEAL Brandon Webb served over thirteen years active duty service. After completing Basic Underwater Demolition SEAL (BUD/S) training with class 215, his career involved combat deployments to both Iraq and Afghanistan. After his last deployment with SEAL TEAM THREE, he worked at the Naval Special Warfare Group One (NSWG1) Sniper Cell, then finished up his last assignment as the Naval Special Warfare Command Sniper Course Manager.

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CG59

Agree absolutely! A good light also permits target ID whereas a laser does not.
Richie F

I agree and disagree. For closer distances absolutely, especially when it is dark. As you get further away, the light then becomes a beacon for the adversary. A light is also a less effective targeting aid in sunlight, unless you are very close, in which case you probably do not need a targeting aid.

A compact combo laser/light like the railmaster pro gives you the option to choose the optimal solution. Will most readers need to make a long distance shot? No, the majority of self defense shots are within the range where a light would be sufficient. But if there comes a time when you need to aim in the dark without obviously giving your position away, or you need assistance on that long shot, a laser could be very helpful.
- Sidewinder
  
  I agree with you.
  
  I also took a look at that close range target on the video. There is room for improvement.
  - CG59
    
    So you’re saying Brandon doesn’t shoot so well! Any of those shots would result in incapicitation. Perfect is the enemy of good enough.

Handgun Tactics | Why You Don’t Need a Laser

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