Concealed Carry Tips For When You're Rusty and Getting Older

[@USCCAOfficial]

What training would you recommend for older people?

[@seanomeirs8362]

I put a laser on my 81 year old fathers handgun, but he's a little OCD, and he wastes time trying to get the dot to settle down. We've been training to point shoot lately. Surprisingly accurate out to 15 yards with our revolvers.

[@seanomeirs8362]

I'll be trying out XS big dot sights next.

[@docbailey3265]

Getting out of bed and breathing.

[@keyfitter]

@@seanomeirs8362 Point shooting is what I train for. For an up close and personal encounter you may not have time to care about sights. My EDC is the old original Ruger LCP with a lousy trigger pull and lousy sights anyway. A mouse gun is the only thing I can carry that is highly concealable in a warm climate.

[@spiritualwarrior4903]

I recommend for Older Adults, to be in the house before the street lights come on. Drank Tang for Daily energy booster plus 1/2 pint of vodka!!

[@GB-ew8wc]

67 years old and wear bifocals. Changed the G3C rear sights to Glock white dots and put Ameriglo orange glow in the dark on the front and installed a Veridian red dot laser onto it. I practice monthly at the range and at least 2 hours of weekly dry fire practice using all sighting systems. You cant stop the ageing process but you can minimize the effects of it.

[@oldcop18]

Lots of truth here. I’m 75 and have been shooting since my 1968 rookie year when iron sights on revolvers ruled. Even with today’s enhancements I’m still comfortable w/iron sights on my J Frame EDC, but regular range time is a must.

[@windrider65]

I just got a new carry pistol, I've not shot it yet. I also got 250 rounds for target, I'm going to spend a few hours over the next few weeks at the range getting to know my new gun well. When I go practice, I only shoot a couple magazines a day, most of my time is spent on drawing and target, one shot. I want it to become a natural movement and smooth. Take care and stay safe everyone.

[@rayditzenberger9517]

Iron sights r great

[@mrmyturn2]

Amen Brother

[@markschneider8103]

Great advice. I’m 65 and just replaced the factory sights on S/W 9Mm EZ. With HiFiz sights, it really does make a difference to my old tired eyes 🧐

[@HalfCrazy520]

My wife is 60 and her favorite pistol is her 9 EZ and she is surgical with it. After trying several types of sights on several pistols, she got frustrated and said, "Just black out the rear sight!". The dots on the rear sight distract her and slow her down (me too, but if I offer her advice, I do it at my own peril).

[@timothysanders431]

Same set up, love it .

[@dahorseyguy1]

I am 53, and had cataracts. I had cataract repair (lens replacement) this June and July. I now have 20/20 distance sight. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS SURGERY. I had the choice of either getting my far sightedness or near sightedness repairs and chose distance for shooting. And I do not regret my choice.

[@leonleborgne573]

In the Navy, many ions ago, my instructor trained me with the point and click method because I'm near-sighted but couldn't put the sights on the target and focus. So, he had me place the pistol in front of my face and shoot where my nose is pointing. Although not bullseye accurate, I'm usually within an established 6- to 9-inch target. That method has worked for over 40 years and I would be hard pressed to relearn at this age. I certainly would not want to attempt to chase the shaky dot. Great videos though. Thanks.

[@sethtenrec]

👍👍👍

[@jacksonmehoff4963]

Too old to fight Too slow to run But my aims still pretty good

[@leoc3492]

States that don’t recognize “stand your ground “ take note.

[@jacksonmehoff4963]

im in florida All is well 👍

[@leoc3492]

@@jacksonmehoff4963 I’m in Wisconsin where you can’t stand your ground.

[@jacksonmehoff4963]

@@leoc3492 Sorry to hear that Hang in there an vote em out

[@leoc3492]

@@jacksonmehoff4963 that’s the plan, brother.

[@robertleski3307]

I found that if I put blaze orange nail polish on the front sight it makes night and day difference finding the sight picture. I put the blaze orange on all my iron sights and makes such a big difference, I went from missing every shot to every shot was on the money, PS the nail polish is a cheap fix for people on a tight budget and you can get blaze orange nail polish for less than 3.00 verses 100.00 for new sights.

[@Tom-hn2iq]

I'm also in my mid 70's. Let's not forget basic sight. Cataracts creep up on you without you even noticing. Had mine fixed and it made a world of difference. Brightness, clarity, colors, etc. I have an optics ready pistol with supressor height sights that works very well. The red dot is much quicker for me to pick up but the irons are always there as backup. And, yes, I've spent many hours in front of a mirror or wall just working on sights.

[@kfsrmn]

The red dot on the Hellcat co-witnesses nicely and come up when you go for the irons. Still having a hard time getting used to it and I find the red dot gets dusty quickly. Might be great for precision but right now I think it is slowing me down. Too many years going for the front sight and the Hellcats irons are great. I primarily train at 0 to 10 yards. Start at 0 and back up shooting. I don't get sights until I am at least 6' away or out of reach. I will have at least 2 shots center mass before I get to 6' because I practice. I go to the range at least once a week. I am 81 and encounters will probably be very close.

[@ricknelson6210]

Good sights are great, but as I get older (66) I find I use point and shoot (old cowboy style) more and more. I think yes practice with the firearm’s sights but also practice point and shoot. My thinking is I might have to defend myself be fore I grab my glasses. What are some thoughts?

[@johnnymccann5607]

Finally i think I found some one that's as smart as me , lots of BS on the you tube , iam a reloader of over 42 years of experience and knowledge of much weapons ammunition, a designer of special purpose self defense ammunition and ultra reduced center fire rifle special purpose ammunition, quiter lethal ammunition , I'll be 62 this month , I am disabled but not help less ,,my eyes not as good as once , my hands not as steady as so long ago , I am still deadly on slow fire and pretty good rapid fire, I am retraining my self in the old school ways that was proven over 100 years , as far as Training with out using sights I have used that regularly for many years, when I rarely get to teach some one I highly encourage it at least 1/4_1/3 of there practice time, it's so easy to learn and need not be a expert shot just have more desire to survive than the one wanting to take yours ,in reality we may not even have time for sights, There is no reason after a little practice anyone can't draw there pistol holding from waist high to chin high.and at 15- 20 feet keep a group inside a gallon jug size target , my sister wanted me to shoot with her when the riots started, she has never really a gun person and you could tell it ,she was all over the place, then I went old school, at 9_11yards I had a black bullseye heart size, then explained that if you try to hold that pistol perfectly still 95 out of 100 people can't do it , I told her when she got Shakey or wobbly stop , take a few breaths concentrate only on front sight. Move sight left to right passing the bullseye slowly until the sight met the dot and squeeze trigger, it greatly helped her , before that I told her I was going to shoot her pistol like some one scared to death , I would move pistol up down around zig zag all over the place 9_11 yards away acka aputting every shot in the black dot , she was amazed , so I gave b

[@mortykatz2236]

I feel the same I’m going on 71

[@montanadad2223]

I (56 years old) finally went with a sure fire trigger guard laser. Might be a crutch, bit I do like it.

[@cameronizatt3293]

Check out XS Big Dot Sights. I love them myself. They are night sights and are easy and quick to work with.

[@montanadad2223]

@@cameronizatt3293 thanks Brother! Soon to get tri-focals, will need to figure that out too.....

[@arizonapapa9453]

Good point. For me, my green Crimson Trace grips took my old 1911's to another level! I love the fact I don't need to activate anything, and don't need a special holster. I replace the batteries annually, even though the multi meter says they're fine.

[@DavidLLambertmobile]

Smart move. CT has been around for several years. I think S&W still owns the company. They were based in Oregon but that may of changed. Red & green, IR style weapon lasers are not as hip or trendy in 2021 compared to the 2000s but they can be useful. I have a green laser, O light on my Glock 22 MOS gen 5. I use it off body, in my 5.11 PuSH or home defense 🏡. O lights are robust, well made & newer models have re-charged battery designs.

[@arizonapapa9453]

@@DavidLLambertmobile I'm long past trendy. I got them mainly for shooting when I want to shoot with my weapon tight to my body for retention. I was perfectly happy with my Trijicons, and I didn't expect to like them this much, more of the "old dog, new tricks" scenario. You don't have to activate them, you can't forget to turn them off, and they can't get knocked out of alignment. I initially got a pair for my Officer's Model, but ended up adding a pair to my Combat Commander, and my Kimber LW. I didn't need to change anything in my training or carry mechanisms, and the green really shows up great. A couple of my friends were also skeptical, but now wouldn't go without them!

[@1SGPARKER]

Good advice, as usual. I'm an old retired Army Infantryman (71-year-old) who understands iron sights. They are, when properly adjusted, almost idiot-proof. Battery life isn't an issue. Also, in a self-defense firing situation, you need to practice instinct shooting. But, that is another video...

[@mrmyturn2]

Amen Brother 😀

[@ianstradian]

I’m 55 i recently purchased a Ruger Max 9 pro, and I love this little pistol. I enjoy going to the range with this firearm, I’ve gotten good enough to hit what I want to at 10 to 15 yards with two handed or one handed, even off handed. I am working on getting faster and getting better at multi target shooting, but it’s fun, that’s the best thing about this pistol it’s fun to shoot. BTW: I have over 700 shots fired through the Max 9 and zero malfunctions, even using cheap old ammunition. My next move is to mount a red dot and practicing with it.

[@markedman3990]

Thanks Kevin great video! At 60 yrs old I can attest to the fact that my once perfect vision is getting worse! For now I like blacked-out rear sight w/a bright front sight picture. I've played around w/red dot sights...they are somewhat hard to get used to(tuff to teach an old dog new tricks)but I keep working them into my training! I'm a proud member of the USCCA 🇺🇸

[@tioasn]

I am 65 yoa. I have a polymer80 glock17 clone and a Sig 320 M17 cng pistol. Both are full size pistols. Dry fire practice and live fire practice are essential no matter what type of sighting system is used. Without the muscle memory developed over time with your weapon of choice, you can gave the most expensive sighting system available to man but it will never help you in an emergency situation.

[@AMXSShirt]

Most of us got old by avoiding trouble 😉

[@marc4199]

Now THATS good advice.

[@Colt-ii4qn]

Can’t always be avoided unfortunately 😐

[@DougHinVA]

@@Colt-ii4qn no one asked for your objection.

[@AMXSShirt]

@@Colt-ii4qn True. Living through 2 wars affirmed that.

[@johncox2865]

Okay, so why are you watching USCCA to begin with? Some of us got old by taking care of ourselves. Trouble comes calling on it’s own schedule.

[@rfunk727]

I'm 69 and have been shooting since I was 14 and have had my CCW since 1987. I always carry a semi-auto that has a hammer and a manual safety with one in the tube, since this is how I was trained years ago.

[@beverlyhillspi6794]

As a former LEO I can definitely recommend learning how to “Point Shoot” is more important than sight alignment! In most cases you don’t have enough time to align your sights. Most consumer ‘’firefights’’ are over in less than 3 seconds.

[@acustomer114]

Crimson Trace laser sites are excellent for this. Go to a safe room with a properly cleared gun. do not trip the laser switch and point at the target, then trip the switch and see how far off your are. release the switch and select a different target and repeat. Good practices and no ammo used. you still need range time.

[@backdoor5993]

I really wish you would state that the "gun give a way" is for new members only. It's deceitful to imply that anyone can win.

[@danstewart2770]

I have a couple Aimpoint red dot sights (minis), but I don't use them on any of my three carry guns. I'm fairly certain I will not choose a lethal force solution for a self-defense encounter where the perp is more than ~25 feet away. Here's why: ▪︎1| In a defensive encounter, I think the farther beyond ~25 feet the perp is, the more tenuous my self-defense claim becomes. Hard to make a plausible self-defense claim against a perp 50 yards away (an exaggeration). ▪︎2| I've fired more than 100,000 rounds at a 25 foot target, so for just about any target inside ~25 feet, my fast-sighting process is more akin to point aiming than strick use of my sights, irrespective of what type of site it is. (I do, however, use a large tritium night sight on each of my carry handguns.) ▪︎3| That combined with the increased ease of carrying concealed without a red dot appliance pretty much seals the deal for sticking with iron sights.

[@williamryan9195]

Ill take it a step further. I carry with 5 ft close encounters as my target for defensive encounters. Like you said it's going to be a hard sell to the Judge that you were acting in self-defense at 25 or better and the chances are the attack is going to come at close range during a strongarm robbery.

[@DavidLLambertmobile]

I go by the 3x3x3 Rule; in short most armed citizen(not 🚔 or security, military) lethal force events are within 3sec or less, ⏱, with 3 or less rounds fired(total), at documented ranges of 3yd(9-12ft) or less. As 1 KZbin gun cadre said: unless you live an "exciting" life & have ninjas or armed commandos rushing after you, you more than likely will deal with a 3x3x3 Rule event.

[@sethtenrec]

I agree with the above comments, hence I carry a LCRX .38. Won’t jam, even in contact. Light and easily carried everywhere. Sights are what they are, doubt they would ever be used in a self defense situation. Home defense is another story entirely…

[@danstewart2770]

@@sethtenrec I totally agree. Mr. Tenrec's remarks evince a perfectly rational perspective - his choice of tool is a practical solution optimized for its use case. ▪︎ I take it from his Mr. Tenec makes the case that a self defense event can (and frequently do) go hands on, and his choice of an LCRX 38 revolver minimizes the likelihood of a malfunction and the revolver can be fired with the barrel pressed against the skin of an attacker (where most semi-auto want). ▪︎ I often carry my Ruger SP101 (357/38) loaded with 38 cal. wadcutters (an explanation for another comment). And, none of my three EDCs have an elaborate sighting system appliance attached.

[@danstewart2770]

@@williamryan9195 》 I completely agree. I too configure my EDC to a close (or very close) encounter. It's the practical solution optimized for the most likely use case.

[@kicknsystm]

I have TruGlo sights on most of my handguns. They work well for me. I even replaced the factory night sights on my Sig.365 with them. Vast improvement.

[@georgea4500]

Me too! I love my Tru-glow sights. Never go back to anything else.

[@OttoMatieque]

my preferred iron pistol sights for 56 year old eyes are trigicon HD. They give you tritium for low light, and a big bright colored insert for daytime (I like the orange sight)

[@rangersmith4652]

At 63, I'm transitioning to a larger, heavier carry pistol in the same caliber. This helps with follow-up shots. Additionally, I'm learning to use a green dot optic to overcome astigmatism and presbyopia. More importantly, the optic makes both-eyes-open targeting easier and facilitates focusing on the target, which I can see clearly, rather than the front sight, which is blurry.

[@Leonardokite]

I'm with you on the Hellcat. IMO the sights are the best in the micro pistol guns.

[@raystanczak4277]

A very valuable part of this video was demonstrating, with each pistol, how to insure that it’s actually unloaded-magazine out, work the slide and lock it, then LOOK AT THE BREECH. If it’s dark, feel the breech. NOW it’s unloaded. Other than that, good advice-don’t want us oldsters shooting up the neighborhood.

[@michaelmcinnis911]

I'm 63, wear glasses (non-line bi-focals) and have a Hellcat - I agree, the sights on it make it easy to line things up quickly and "accurately" for defensive shooting.

[@zarmindrow5831]

I don't carry on my person anymore. I mounted the holster on my walker, next to my punisher stickers.

[@scottstewart9154]

When I saw this I was hoping you would address the real problem of concealed carry for old people and that is that you start to be more forgetful, Thats what you should have addressed , Like reminding someone when they get home and they take their concealed carry out, immediately put in Safe so they don't forget before their grandkids come over and find it on Table, or if they take out for some reason in their car don't leave it plain site or remember to get it out before parking somewhere where it can be stolen when the car is broken into.

[@RightWingNutter]

I have a Glock 19. I found there was a patch on my palm, on the big pad below the thumb, where the grip would press when the tritium sight were lined up in a comfortable natural shooting grip. I could feel if the sights would be lined up as I drew it from the holster. When I put a Holosun red dot on it and sighted it in I found that the identical grip feel brought the circle dot into view in that same natural shooting grip.

[@pmh1nic]

With respect to hitting a paper plate size target at seven yards I'd recommend practicing point shooting. Your natural grip on the firearm and pointing at that distance should have you on target. Beyond that distance sights come into play.

[@JohnLloydScharf]

Unless you shoot daily, never shoot anything beyond 21 feet. Find cover or wait until they get closer.

[@tangomantactical]

@@JohnLloydScharf lol....it took me awhile to get your comment..

[@curtwuollet2912]

I agree. At legal self defense ranges, pumped full of adrenalin, sight alignment is the least of your problems. Even trained people miss by feet under extreme stress.

[@jerrygoshia843]

Yes, point shooting is a critical skill that should be honed. 21’ and closer leaves little or no time to get sight alignment…

[@irishrose7053]

I love the sight on my Hellcat Kevin. I pick up on that really quick. It fits my hand like a glove. I did not get OSP due to lack of holster options at the time of purchase. As I am a cross eye Dom. Right handed left Eye Dominant. Looking forward to cateracts surgery in 5-7 yrs. Yay. They don't tell ya about this getting old crap. Lol

[@TomRolfson]

You're not missing-out on anything earth shattering by not having the OSP. The Hellcat is a great gun and the sights are interesting, I've found through several hundred new shooter students since it came out that it's either a love or hate thing, with few people being indifferent. I own one, I love it, but I try very hard to not push my opinion on students short of keeping them away from inferior guns.

[@ajaywhite9103]

I feel your pain. unfortunately mine is an injury not fixable

[@danalamb8398]

Enjoy seeing you checking to see the firearm is safe and clear in your demonstration.

[@TartanJack]

I'm 75 and practice often. I want simple. I carry a Hellcat. I can see those sights more quickly than any other. So not only can I acquire quickly, I can follow up quickly. Don't need no stinkin' lasers or red dots. If that sounds like I'm a a codger you would be correct. But I know what I have will work when it counts.

[@RobinP556]

All great tips. Two that I’ve found that weren’t mentioned are 1, that with the finger along the side of the pistol some lasers can be covered up by the trigger finger. Another is that some red dot sights now have a larger circle around the optic’s screen that shows up and makes it easier to find the red dot in the center of the optic.

[@seanomeirs8362]

I agree. I also found that the circle/ dot prism optic is the only dot sight that my father can see clearly with astigmatism. He hates my magnified scopes, LPVO, and red dot.

[@USCCAOfficial]

Great addition!

[@Sirgromulus]

I personally love the Holosun 5xx series (with dot and circle reticles) and have several on my rifles and handguns...all green dot as well since it shows up better in various conditions.

[@DavidLLambertmobile]

I'm 51, 👴🏻. I'd add that if you fire more than a few rounds, shots 💥 be ready for the gun smoke or flash to obscure, coat the front pistol sight, get on the white light lens. 🔦 Dont think you can shoot 50, 100, 200 rounds without any smudge or gunpowder.

[@RobinP556]

@@DavidLLambertmobile Indoor shooting is seriously messy, and extremely loud. I used to be a Special Forces operator years ago and even with hearing protection it destroyed my hearing.

[@OhioGentlemenArms]

We shoot our carry guns a lot. The Hellcat is one and those night sights are great.

[@USCCAOfficial]

Hellcat sights are pretty great!

[@OhioGentlemenArms]

@@USCCAOfficialwe are very new to firearms for protection and can’t thank you enough. The amount of knowledge we gain from this channel is life saving.

[@michaelmcinnis911]

@@OhioGentlemenArms Ditto everything he just said!

[@stevepowsinger733]

I just bought the Hellcat then added the Wasp red dot. I am a little worried about it not having a safety so may not leave it loaded and chambered. I don’t CC but I might get that permit as yet.

[@USCCAOfficial]

We are glad you have found it all to be helpful! Have you checked out any of our blog posts as well?

[@guydavid8656]

Once again, because I have insomnia and I’m up at 1:45 AM Eastern standard time, I always watch your videos when I can by the way great advice, anyway I want to point out that next February I am going to be 70 years old, I do 200 sit ups every morning sometimes more sometimes a little less, I do 50 to 60 push-ups, I do a dozen sets of reps of 36 to 48 reps, on a 30 pound dumbbell, I do five minute planks, and then I do my martial arts work out, as far as shooting, I am ambidextrous, which means I shoot equally as bad with either hand, lol, so I do not intend to slow down, at least for another 30 years, lol, God bless y’all and God bless all Patriot, keep up the excellent work, USA 🇺🇸

[@doctorartphd6463]

Great advice for us older vets ! Thanks, Kevin.

[@TomRolfson]

Thank you for your service!

[@pappamike6231]

At 70 years old I love the XS Big Dots.

[@tomblain7211]

Thank you very much for all of us older folks who like you said , can't see as well as we use to ! , I've learned so much from your videos you are an amazing instructor and you have something for all ages to learn to be safe ! , Thank you again always, Tom B.

[@ScrappyXFL]

My eyes get tired at night these days, still I've shot so much over 4decades+ I trust my muscle memory. Never knew I could hip shoot till I hit a racoon at ~5 paces turning on a light and throwing open the sliding glass door while drawing. It was sneaking up on my senile sleeping cat. Homie don't play that.

[@dahorseyguy1]

I also have a hellcat, two actually. Love them

[@TrainTracker911]

I find the best for me personally is to carry with iron sights only. Laser and Red Dot sights are OK for target practice but for conceal carry, Iron sights work best. No failures to anticipate under stress.

[@richardefriend]

Since having a light available for any defensive weapon is critically important, with the plethora of combo light/laser devices, it's a no brainer that for a few dollars more than a light alone, you can have both. And making sure you have a fully charged battery is no different from the modest maintenance require for any firearm, like cleaning and lubrication. Plus, more and more combo lights are rechargeable (Olight's Baldr Mini & S being 2 for micro pistol, and Nightstick makes them as well), and most lasers operate at under 10% of the power for the light. Being a long-time wearer of "coke bottle" lens eyeglasses, with progressive (graduated) 'bi-focals', it's always hard to line up the 2 iron sights and the correct lens position for a clear focus at whatever distance the target is. Having to do this in a millisecond is problematic at best--so a well sighted laser is a godsend. Plus what happens if the attacker knocks off your glasses? Even without my glasses, I can easily see a red or green dot (especially in darker night settings). That's why for years I've had a laser on every one of my firearms that will accept one, and more recently, combo lights/lasers. The laser's that come on automatically when the gun is gripped are, IMHO, the best, and work very well with pocket carry. They don't, however, usually come with combo units. For those that aren't sure, green is a far more visible color in brighter light than red, but in the dark, it doesn't matter. Consequently, I wholeheartedly recommend lasers (and particularly combo light/lasers) to every shooter, not just (but especially for) older shooters.

[@williamabbott5404]

I just had cataract surgery and I am going to have to learn how to shoot all over again because of the massive difference in my ability to see the sites

[@BlackdogADV]

I’m 72 and generally shoot at steel 25 yards away. All my pistols have great sights but I like the Trijicon sights the best. Like you, I put a red dot on my .22 (Ruger 22/45 tactical). In my case my defensive guns will have irons and my .22 gets the dot.

[@bucsh00tt28]

Good advice and informational video. Finding the red dot moving your head is very helpful point. Thank you.

[@SDbeermug72]

My Ruger LC9 has interchangeable red and green dots for front and rear. I practice (with it safe and unloaded) by picking an object in my shop and putting the sights on it as quickly as possible with both eyes open. My dominant eye picks up the target, and it helps keep my field of vision open. By the way, I’m 67 and with corrective lenses, my vision is 20 20.

[@richardross2530]

Still carrying revolver, LEO career started in 1977 with a model 10, at 68, too hard to change to Semi-auto stay with my model 686 and 36

[@joseesparza4133]

I’ve also started switching to brass/gold front sights due to my astigmatism.

[@danb1698]

Great video Kevin, thank you. I have a few years on you and the issues that us older folks have to deal with have been of some concern to me for a long time now. I look forward to hearing more about the issue that older shooters have to deal with.

[@stephensmith60]

Great video! Thanks.

[@USCCAOfficial]

Thanks for the support Stephen!

[@woodfinlamberth2777]

Good video. My eyes have gone bad. I also have arthritis on my hands. I only carry a 44 special revolver. I can't work the slide on most small autos. For home defense I have a shotgun backed up by a model 92 beretta. All I use are my front sight. That's all I've ever used. Thanks for the video.

[@laughingatjeffisencouraged1975]

Thank you Kevin I'm glad to know I'm not the only one getting older.

[@gruges2068]

Nicely done, brother!

[@gregoryfoster8179]

I sure as hell ain't looking to get into a firefight with anyone. I practice defensive shooting using only iron sights and practice a lot of point shooting under 20 ft. Most self defensive engagements will be less than 10 ft., and if I have a better spread I'll gladly jump for cover first if possible. I would really prefer to keep my shooting on the ranges. Yeah, I'm an old codger at 63.

[@montanamornings8526]

Excellent video. Thankyou USCCA

[@aazv23]

Very good video.... my EDC is an M&P 2.O Compact 9mm, evethough the M&P comes with very good iron sights, I changed it for Meprolight Tritium sights excellent at night.

[@DavidLLambertmobile]

I had a local guy add Trijicon HDs to my 2.0 M&P 4.25" barrel. He charged $25.00. The front post is a bit loose. 🤨 The gunsmith said; "I didnt want to add locktite so you can swap it out later.". Lesson; spend the $ & go to a well trained, factory certified gunsmith. ✅

[@HalfCrazy520]

I have the same pistol. All I did was black out the rear sight, add an Apex flat/forward trigger kit (at 5 lbs), and an OLight PL Mini 2. With a full-size M&P 17-round magazine in it, it's the Smith and Wesson answer to a Glock 45 or 19X. Amazing pistol. Everyone who picks it up shoots it better than any gun on the table. The less experienced they are, the more this applies. My daughter-in-law has only shot a few times in her life. She said, "It's too big for my hands" (med/Large palm-swell/backstrap) and preceded to put 3 rounds thru the same hole at 25 feet. My wife has beat me at "Battleship" with it.

[@terryr.t.2113]

Flat white paint on degreased rears and day glow orange over flat white on degreased front blades helps. A LOT!

[@earlmorton1216]

I was hoping that you would say something about shooting with bifocals, especially with iron sights, which I have struggled to figure out. The rule (usually) is "focus on the front sight," but with my bifocals, for the front sight to be in focus, I need to tilt my head back far enough to see the sight through the secondary focus on my glasses. When I do that, the target appears to move. So should I aim at where the target was before I tilted my head back or where it seems to be when the front sight is in focus? Or should I keep my head where it normally is, and just pay attention to the front sight and its position on the target, even though the sight is out of focus? I'm a new enough shooter (less than a year) that just trying each method doesn't give me a clear answer, because there are too many other factors that could be causing inaccurate shots.

[@patrickdaly5068]

I have the same issues with bifocals. Any advice on that Kevin, or anyone else reading this?

[@freedomfamily1358]

If yall wanna ask one of the best shooters i know about glasses hes on youtube lookup hickok45 he shoots with his glasses every time guys

[@earlmorton1216]

He doesn't appear to wear bifocals, but it's a little hard to tell for sure.

[@rickjohnson3215]

Shooting with bifocals is difficult without a doubt. I’m 69 and have needed bifocals for several years. A few years ago I had problems seeing in the mid range and went to trifocals. My shooting vision and marksmanship improved tremendously. The mid focal gives a good view of the front sight while keeping a decent view of the target. It’s humbling to admit the need for trifocals but for folks our age accuracy has it’s price.

[@miketurner3116]

@@patrickdaly5068 I wear bifocals. Distance shooting I have to tilt my head and switch focus back and forth between front sight and target. Slow and anoying. Red dot sight solves this issue but requires practice to get used to finding dot. For self defense distance 20 yards or closer, I practice point shooting. I focus on the threat not the sight and more or less point my finger at it and shoot. Self defense=point shooting. Target shooting=red dot

[@stevesmith5042]

I have a late production Browning Hi-Power with factory iron sights. One day at the range I'm shooting away and suddenly the front sight totally comes off! What's even weirder is a fellow shooter told me his Hi-Power did the same thing! I sent the gun to the Browning company and the sight was replaced under warranty.

[@BLACKWOLF-1911]

I find having a black out rear and lime green front works best for me.

[@User-cc6cq]

Likewise

[@onenikkione]

This is a great PSA. My vision isn't what it used to be time to order some XS Big Dot sights.

[@stephen3727]

I went to a red dot scope on my 44 Henry rifle ,best thing I ever did, now I can shoot with both eyes open.

[@rickcohan7768]

I am currently 70+ and wear bi focals. That being said, my distant vision is not terrible and my near vision needs the lens to read smaller print. When I go to practice at the range, I wear "standard" (non prescription) 'eyes'. When I focus on the front sight with my right eye, it is a little fuzzy but I can make out the "equal height, equal light" spacing and my grouping at 3 to 7 yards is acceptable but not tight. If I use my left eye (I am right handed and right eye dominant), my front sight focus is better and my groups tighter. I train this way because, should a sudden need arise, I may not have my prescription eyewear immediately available. I am using only iron sights and this is on a 9mm pistol.

[@LionPrideBJJ]

Disagree on the method for finding the red dot. Keeping the head stable and presenting the gun at the correct angle directly up to your eyeline is much faster and more consistent. Otherwise, good vid. 👍🏼

[@patrickdaly5068]

I have a friend who is a certified firearms instructor. Before he ever took that training, he had custom lasik surgery. He said later he wished he had thought to do his surgery in reverse. He should have done the right eye for shooting since he’s right handed. Instead he has to focus with his left non-dominant eye.

[@billbailey4641]

I like all your training videos thank you

[@denniswilson1903]

Thanks for the great advice. Could you do a comparison of sighting systems for AR/AK pistols. That Is what I would use for home defense and I have found at 75 that an LPVO set to 2x is the best for my eyes. I have astigmatism so a red dot often appears as a blob instead of a circle. The cross hairs of a scope however seem to be easier to see. Thanks.

[@josephtucciarone6878]

Thank you for the excellent tips.

[@Harleyever]

At 70 , I put my Kimber 1911 pro carry ll in the safe and started carrying my Canik TP9 SF elite because of worn out hands

[@williamrutledge8367]

Keep a bottle of white fingernail polish with my shooting gear. A dot on the front iron sight and a couple of dots on the rear notch. I might be “getting” old but can still outshoot most young “whipper snappers”! Seventy four years young Marine combat veteran.

[@henburg1709]

good job mr polish guy!

[@philipdonhauser2184]

Please consider a contrasting color of shirt that you are wearing when showing sights or other items on the weapons under discussion. Black gun on black shirt isn’t helpful. Always Enjoy the content and delivery.

[@keiththomas3141]

It's best to keep it simple. Colt .45 single action army in 5 1/2 inch barrel. Just wear heavy rain coat over it. No frills.

[@trevorjones7450]

At 56, "arms' length" is ok, across the room is another story. I have learned to use both eyes. Archery is a big thing with me, so both eyes open is just a natural thing. Well done guys!

[@virginia7370]

Up close & dirty, 5ft to 20ft, point shoot (no sights). Practice. It works.

[@HalfCrazy520]

Yes, better to learn to yank the trigger without moving the gun, since when someone is rushing at you there will be no time to acquire a sight picture. *Police Report: Officers fired 67 rounds of ammunition. One suspect was hit in the foot and the other in the elbow. Distance between the officers and the suspects was 25 to 30 feet.* Because all the aiming in the world does you no good if you move the gun off target when you pull the trigger.

[@21psd]

Great info, thanks! I have the Ameriglo tritium/orange outline front sight w/ U notch black rears on my two CCW pistols. Even though the front sight is slightly out of focus for my old eyes, it's really easy for me to quickly pick up as I press out to the target.

[@TomRolfson]

I'd like to add the caveat that lasers on pistols are FAR more prone to be knocked off of zero/true than those on rifles. The mounting platform is simply not as firm and stable. Do they work? Yes. I would suggest more often for shooting from compromised positions rather than being able to use anything near an optimal sight picture. You may be shooting sideways while seated, you may be flat on your rear or back and need to shoot at an extremely awkward angle. IF you're going to carry an EDC with a laser, please verify it's mount is secure, it's sighted and true much more frequently than you would ever consider needing to consider iron sights.

[@steveturnerii8187]

Love the sights on the hellcat! Yes I am getting older lol

[@grancitodos7318]

I have found that shooting while wearing reading glasses, works well, especially ones that are a bit weak. It is more important to see the sights in focus, than sharp focus of object being shot at.

[@recondo6876]

Outstanding video. So far I am too darn old to figure out how to register for the free side arm.... But I shall endeavor to persevere....

[@paulfiebke3909]

Keep up the good work

[@recondo6876]

Outstanding video. So far I am too darn old to figure out how to register for the free side arm.... Bit I shall endeavor to persevere....

[@timothymckenna8031]

So when you find the link to the contest you get a huge scrolling web page about why to join the USCCA. Almost as cumbersome as going through a Publishers Clearing House contest. Plus, I am already a member so it would be nice to just enter the contest. Who has won? % of non subscribers vs subscribers? Asking for a friend

[@Walkercolt1]

Like John Wayne quoted my cousin Wyatt Earp in the movie "The Shootist"- "Most men aren't willing." In South Viet Nam in a fire fight one night I witnessed this first hand. Dozens of men holding their positions, but never firing a shot at the enemy. The next morning when I checked their bodies and weapons, they were dead, their weapons had never been fired and in many cases, a round never even chambered. As a Deputy Sheriff for 34 years, I found few men (or women) are willing to to die. I've never been afraid of dying, so I'm not the guy to throw-down on, you'll lose.

[@Rusty_ok]

Good advice on using the red dot.

[@armadillotoe]

It does depend upon your build, but at 70, my shoulders don't work as well as they used to. I have moved my carry position to the 2:30-3:00 o'clock position to prevent the need to reach behind me.

[@sammyfl7]

I enjoy all your videos. Even when we think we know all the content being shared, there's always something to be learned.

[@USCCAOfficial]

Thanks for the support, Sam! We're happy to hear you are learning something from all of the videos we are putting up!

[@carloszaldivar8341]

Just a question for you I am a retired police officer from New Jersey I had USCCA and loved it but you do not have it anymore in New Jersey. I am moving to Port St Lucie Florida do you know were I can get quaified at range for HR 218 in my Florida area of Port St Lucie? Thank you, RPO Carlos Zaldivar

[@rudiwiedemann8173]

Remember about parallax on a laser. Lasers are usually mounted BELOW the barrel. After sighting it in at a given distance (eg-21 feet), it will show lower than the bullet strike at shorter distance and higher than that beyond the sight-in distance. Also, lasers are great when you can align the sights to view (eg-around objects).

[@bobbytowesr3387]

I have a rock its .45 with crimson trace laser. But would love trittium sights can you reccomend a correct set for my commander model

[@JBall-hd8bw]

XS Big dots is what I use for my old, tired eyes.

[@jameshuggins4300]

And any gun with nonreplaceable front sight gets hiviz sight paint.

[@MM_in_Havasu]

Cataract surgery at age 62 allowed me to see perfectly @ 20/20, can walk a milk jug up a hill with my AK and open sights once again! Makes all the difference in the world with any kind of firearm.🔫👍

[@michael3080]

Outstanding info thanks

[@topwaterfilms]

Great info! Being 51 years young, this helps. Thanks!

[@DavidLLambertmobile]

I'm 51 also. US Army veteran 4yr. 🎗 I've owned, toted a number of firearms since the 1990s. Optics and add-ons are all the rage 2021. I'd say; buy any new, newer semi auto with a plate, mount. Even if short term, you use iron, factory sights. You might get a newer optic later. ✅ Learn how to co-witness a pistol or get the sights in-line to work if the dot fails. Be aware too, 🚨🚨🚨 larger surpressor type pistol sights might snag or get caught on jackets, coats for ccw, defense uses.

[@topwaterfilms]

@@DavidLLambertmobile Good info! Thanks for adding!

[@benmoyer1911]

Lots of times using a light, laser or holographic/red dot sight requires a hang made custom holster. Sometimes leather, kydex or a combination of the two. How do these accessories improve the draw of the firearm? All the training in the world won't create a "second nature" situation under pressure.

[@jerryrubio9963]

You hit the topic,spot on. I wear bifocals because I seldom could see the front sight. I have to train to pull the gun up and tilt my head upwards to see the front . Not the way I've shot for most of my adult life.

[@timothymckenna8031]

I like my Swampfox Sentinel alway on sight on my Canik TP9 sc

[@OttoMatieque]

in my experience, a laser mounted on a plastic frame of the pistol seem to lose zero pretty easily. Both the laser body and the pistol are plastic, which tend to be slippery. Also, the mounting rails on plastic pistol frames usually do not lend themselves to being precise or rugged.

[@paulfryejr2918]

Good video and advice for us with old eyes. Really enjoy your videos.