Low Light Shooting/Clearing.

[BlackKnight]

The rail controversy has prompted this question. Seem a lot of people are against light on their guns. So, how do you train/do your low light shooting or clearing.
Tactics and training have evolved. When I first came into shooting I was taught the old FBI way of holding a flashlight away from the body because of the belief that's where the bad guy is going to shoot. Well, I'm going to tell you that tactic limits you to a lot of things, like that's very difficult to do in tight close quarters. Especially if you're doing a fluid room clearing.
And if you're holding a flashlight close to your gun and grip then why not have it on the weapon then? Keep in mind the light is not supposed to be constantly on.
Anyway, thoughts?

[sdmc530]

We use on gun lights so you have a free hand. I don't have a strong opinion on the matter but this does make sense. We used to teach hold light with gun drawn but its the same as tony said. So just went to mounted.

[Caleb]

The rail controversy has prompted this question. Seem a lot of people are against light on their guns. So, how do you train/do your low light shooting or clearing.
Tactics and training have evolved. When I first came into shooting I was taught the old FBI way of holding a flashlight away from the body because of the belief that's where the bad guy is going to shoot. Well, I'm going to tell you that tactic limits you to a lot of things, like that's very difficult to do in tight close quarters. Especially if you're doing a fluid room clearing.
And if you're holding a flashlight close to your gun and grip then why not have it on the weapon then? Keep in mind the light is not supposed to be constantly on.
Anyway, thoughts?


I prefer the light on the weapon, this way I have a two handed grip on said weapon or a free hand for whatever it's needed for. I only have to worry about Lisa and if she is behind me, anything lit up by the light doesn't belong there.

[Riverpigusmc]

I used to just toss a frag grenade in the room first. Can't do that now

[BlackKnight]

I used to just toss a frag grenade in the room first. Can't do that now

funny funny. Awesome! Leave it up to a Marine to "Kill 'em and let God sort 'em out." I love you guys.

[brownie]

I prefer a handheld light for two reasons.

1. The light changes the balance point I'm eminently familiar with.
2. I'm not buying new holsters that house the light on the gun.

As for at night on the night stand, there's a surefire there with the gun, but I've got the house set up so I can see with the small nightlights and wouldn't be using a light for the most part.

[sdmc530]

I used to just toss a frag grenade in the room first. Can't do that now

See now that is just smart thinking there. Two thumbs up!

[BlackKnight]

I prefer a handheld light for two reasons.

1. The light changes the balance point I'm eminently familiar with.
2. I'm not buying new holsters that house the light on the gun.

As for at night on the night stand, there's a surefire there with the gun, but I've got the house set up so I can see with the small nightlights and wouldn't be using a light for the most part.
Good valid points, one I forgot to cover.
1. For me I haven't noticed any difference in balance as well as accuracy.
2. I only have two holsters that allow a light attached. They are for my G21sf, and G19. They are both set up on a rig. I do not wear a light on a daily carry. Either way I also have a handheld light as backup.
I believe a weapon mount light is good tool supported by good tactic, but should have handheld as a secondary or primary depending on the situation.

[milkmanjoe]

I dont clear rooms nor do I go search if I hear a bump in the night. I do, however, have a small fridge full of beer next to my bed. Morning will come. However....if I must move it is pistol strong hand and razor sharpened flashlight in off hand. If I dont shoot I will cut.

[Rick McC.]

I prefer a handheld light for two reasons.

1. The light changes the balance point I'm eminently familiar with.
2. I'm not buying new holsters that house the light on the gun.

As for at night on the night stand, there's a surefire there with the gun, but I've got the house set up so I can see with the small nightlights and wouldn't be using a light for the most part.

Same here, plus I don't want to sweep everything I want to see with my pistol.

[pitor]

I have a nice streamlight for my g19 but I don't use it. I know the layout of my rather small house like no one else. I'm not going to go clearing rooms, but rather yell a cuss storm while hunkering down with the wife, and trying to keep the hounds from going out to sniff the bastards

[Caleb]

Forgot to mention that if it's a bump in the night ( as in someone in the house kinda bump) I'll grab the shottie, make sure the better half is with me, and bunker down in the bedroom as she calls 911. If perp decides to enter the bedroom, well then...... Fireworks!