#carryoptics

[shootersfaync]

Just in the door: @holosunoptics EPS Carry optics for your blaster!!! #shootersfaync #braggblvd #holosun #epscarry #holosunepscarry #enclosedemitter #reddot #carryoptics #edc #reddotlife #fay#fayettevillenc #ftbragg #fortbragg (at Bragg Blvd) https://www.instagram.com/p/CmH5CK1LqSY/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[trexarmskydex]

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Our video with @tony_cowden is live on YouTube! Various topics discussed, lots of rounds spent, many targets slain. Tony is an awesome guy and a true student of the gun. Constantly training and pursuing higher levels of capability. Something that is actually surprisingly rare for firearms instructors these days. - #instructor #sof #military #firearmsinstructor #trexarms #uspsa #carryoptics #trexarmskydex #tanfo #glock17 https://www.instagram.com/p/B1kCqoThYlG/?igshid=f69jt9hobe2c

[averagedadarmory18]

Throw back to the first thing I ever Cerakoted! An @sigsauerinc P320c and a @sigsaueroptics Romeo optic. #averagedadarmory #throwback #throwback🔙 #cerakote #cerakotethatshit #cerakotethat #cerakotemilitia #cerakoteslayer #cerakotemadness #hunting #edc #2a #military #camo #burntbronze #carryoptics #pewpewlife https://www.instagram.com/p/BtUuE5ene1H/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=2gfzytor045x

[duke-of-errl]

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It was a HOT day, but I had a solid performance at the MidAtlantic Sectionals. Took 2nd Overall in Carry Optics! Huge thanks to my family and sponsors for the support! . . @pewpewplates @vortexoptics @lousfirearms @the_original_dryfiremag @modernmateriel @theuspsa #USPSA #glock #glock19 #reddotlife #tacticaltubesocks #carryoptics (at USPSA at Ontelaunee Rod & Gun Club)

[untitledead]

[edgarmills]

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A bit slow on the lateral moving & shooting, no misses, still a good time, definitely fun! Come out and do the things you can't do on your local public range. #moveandshoot #pewpew #carryoptics #actionshooting #tacticalshooting #trainlikeyourlifedependsonit #selfdefense #momswithguns #pinkpistols #blackgunsmatter #armedequality #armedcitizen #atlanta #chattanooga #romegeorgia #swat #sert #specialforces (at Rome, Georgia) https://www.instagram.com/p/CU2l0aIDL7_/?utm_medium=tumblr

[m-wtactical]

It's almost that time again, how are you getting ready for the weekend, local matches, and/or major matches. Let us know in the comments... Click on the linktr.ee in the bio and find out more about what we have coming up Hat: @m_wtactical Eye Protection: @huntershdgold Shirt: @jm4dimensions           @csrashooters           @huntershdgold           @caetransfers           @theguncleanersllc           @reddirtshootingsports           @red_dirt_usa Holster: @jm4_tactical #thisisuspsa #reload #dillion #matches #limited #carryoptics #open #production #WEtrain #getthastrap #getactive #Woodland https://www.instagram.com/p/CSKD8DFLOb4/?utm_medium=tumblr

[m-wtactica1]

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Did you head on over to @americangunchic YouTube Channel and watch the full video. Go check it out!!! A brief conversation on my take of the @tarantactical combat master. Click on the linktr.ee in the bio and find out more about us Hat: @m_wtactical Eye Protection: @huntershdgold Shirt: @jm4dimensions           @csrashooters           @huntershdgold           @caetransfers           @theguncleanersllc           @reddirtshootingsports           @red_dirt_usa Holster: @jm4_tactical Lubricant: @theguncleanersllc #knowledge #custom #glock #tti #racegun #reddot #carryoptics #talk #america #WEtrain #getthastrap #getactive #woodland https://www.instagram.com/p/CRVKgsSjGWt/?utm_medium=tumblr

[251wpnwrx]

Results, beautiful solid true threads 👍🏼 #251WpnWrx #Glock #Custom #EDC #CarryOptics #Gunsmith #TapAndThread #G19 #2A (at Foley, Alabama) https://www.instagram.com/p/B4tKSbXgWJH/?igshid=1kethv3b3r8pg

[haikufpv]

Not only am I keeping it, but I plan to continue competing with it regularly (until someone sells me an X-Five) #sig #sigsauer #sigsauerp320 #p320rx #uspsa #carryoptics #springerprecision #apexflatty #tmgn #tmgnmatchnight #hatersgonnahate

[shootersfaync]

Just in the door: @eotech EFLX! #shootersfaync #braggblvd #eotech #carryoptics #pistoloptic #shooterready #fay #fayettevillenc #ftbragg #fortbragg #shopsmall #shoplocal (at Bragg Blvd) https://www.instagram.com/p/CnUg7IzrsRN/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[garbage86]

#Repost @strikeindustries with @get_repost ・・・ You talked, we listened. After receiving feedback from competition shooters and people in the field, our Sidewinder has been upgraded to easily handle 5.56 and larger calibers, while withstanding harsher conditions. Paired with our extremely low profile Ambush mounting system. The Sidewinder II is a drop in solution for your optics and offset sights, allowing instant access to your back up iron sights, without removing your optic. Truly ambidextrous with pivots that allow you to lock and hold zero at 45 degrees & inline sighting. The spring loaded twist dial allows tool-less adjustment of front sight post height. Never Settle. Always Innovate. Available now in Black & Red on our website Link Above ☝ ... ... #strikeindustries #ironsights #buis #ar15 #picatinny #optics #carryoptics #cowitness #ar15build #ar15parts #rifle #rifles #pewpewlife #riflescope https://www.instagram.com/p/ByWDzmYgmS_/?igshid=1ukq1yxng05cf

[trexarmskydex]

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Shot the Chris Tilley “Go Shoot Outdoors” match today. One of the harder club matches in the country. Pretty happy with my performance minus a couple stages that set me back. Using a Carry Optics Glock 17 with Dpro from a Ragnarok, and reloading from MARS carriers. - #uspsa #glock17 #dpro #ragnarokholster #kydex #speedreload #carryoptics #trexarms #trexarmskydex #aimbotkin (at GoShoot Outdoors) https://www.instagram.com/p/BzUbYZ4hTz7/?igshid=pb84ejpcpc0s

[lejaun79]

I received good news this week regarding my new licence application, so I'm going to investment in a red dot sight. I've got my eyes on you. #carryoptics (at Cape Town, Western Cape) https://www.instagram.com/p/BxmWmkoFZks/?igshid=wwppmqdmm7ne

[gunporn-generalawesomeness]

Ladies don't let wearing a dress stop you from carrying! Guys, don't let your ladies sacrifice just to look good! @cancanconcealment has a variety of holster options to meet your needs including garters, corsets, hip huggers and sport belts for any size pistol. Check them out at https://www.cancanconcealment.com/ #cancanconcealment #ladieswhocarry #carryoptions #edc #alwayscarry #garter #corset #hiphugger #sportbelt https://www.instagram.com/p/Bn1POKHH_MU/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1v3gx4n1i214u

[talontacticalminutes-blog]

Red Dots on Pistols

Talon Tactical Minute

By: James Scordato, Director of Firearms Training

A little over a year ago, my wife finally decided to learn to shoot.  I had been researching red dot sights on pistols for a while, so I decided to have her learn using a miniature red dot sight (MRDS or RDS).  I put together a Glock 17 for her using a Trijicon Ruggedized Miniature Red Dot (RMR) RM07 (6.5 MOA dot) on a Suarez International slide.  The gun is great, no malfunctions whatsoever, accurate and easy to shoot.

I have issues transitioning back and forth, from a Glock to other pistols, due to the differences in the grip angle.  So, I decided to build myself a red dot equipped pistol using an M&P 2.0 in 9mm and a Leupold Deltapoint Pro (DPP).    I chose the Leupold offering due to the size and clarity of the glass and the smaller 2.5 MOA dot since I have an astigmatism and all red dot sights tend to "bloom", making the dot appear larger to me.  I've now had it put together for about a month and I’ve put in a few dry fire sessions and a few live fire sessions.

Comparing the sights, RMR vs DPP:

-Glass:

The lens on the Leupold (top) is both larger and has less tint.  In my opinion, the housing around the lens of the DPP seems to be less noticeable.   The RMR (bottom) has a slightly darker tint to the lens, noticeable, but not an issue so far.  I have read that the tint allows for a dimmer LED (to lengthen battery life) yet still be visible in bright sunlight.

-Battery:

The first RMR battery had to be replaced after about 10 months.  I used the battery that came with it.  Most reports, using Duracell batteries, have them still running strong at a year or longer.  Replacing the battery with the RMR is a bit of a pain and there are two issues that you need to be aware of:  1. You must re zero the pistol after replacing the battery (mine only needed one click of adjustment). 2. It is recommended that you replace the screws each time or at least every other time you remove the sight.  Apparently, the screws stretch and lose flexibility causing some issues if not replaced. 

The DPP battery goes into a compartment located on the top of the scope and would never need to be removed. The DPP also has an auto off feature so when the sight is completely still for a period of time, it shuts down.  The sight turns back on instantly with the slightest movement. 

In general, both the RMR and DPP red dot sights should have batteries replaced annually.

Mounting:

Mounting an RMR seems to be slightly easier, the base is shorter and the footprint is smaller.  You do have to use a “sealing plate“ for the RMR.  Co-witnessed irons, recommended for defensive pistols with an RDS, can be shorter with the RMR, our Glock uses .315" tall sights.  The DPP has an adjustable rear that can mount directly to the scope, it required a .385" tall front sight.  The .385" tall front sight barely fits into a current production Blade-Tech Classic holster; any taller front sight would likely require a custom holster.  The one issue with using the DPP and its attached rear sight is that it removes the dovetail for the rear sight.  This means that you will be unable to take the optic off and just use iron sights.

Dot:

The RMR seems to have a more definitively round dot. Comparing to other dot sights I've tried, including DPP, Fastfire III, Aimpoint, Vortex Viper and EOTech (to name a few) the RMR has the crispest round dot.  MOA is a size that converts to about an inch at 100 yards, so a 6.5 MOA dot will cover about 6.5” at 100 yards.

Size:

The RMR is smaller all around and adding less bulk to a carry gun is a consideration.  However, the size difference isn't a deal breaker.

Durability:

We have about 2,000 rounds through the Glock with the RMR, and about 500 rounds through the M&P with the DPP with absolutely zero issues.  Not a durability test by any stretch of the imagination, but reports for both show that, 10,000+ rounds should be easily attainable.  See the link to Aaron Cowan's testing below.

Mounting an RDS to your pistol:

Slides:

There are several companies selling aftermarket Glock slides that are already cut for various optics.   We chose Suarez International and were not disappointed in the least.  It’s quality construction and all the OEM and aftermarket parts have fit like they should.  I do not know of anyone that is making an aftermarket slide for M&Ps.

Milling your slide:

We used a company called Primary Machine in Louisiana to have a G19, two G43s and my M&P cut for various optics.  They did phenomenal work and the Cerakote finish was flawless as well. Sending your slide to be milled by a reputable machine shop is highly recommended.  This also gives you the opportunity to add any serrations or cuts and have it coated a different color to give your pistol a more customized look.

Dovetail mounts:

A dovetail mount uses the rear sight dovetail or cut in the slide where your rear sight is mounted.  There are no permanent modifications to the firearm.  They are not a terrible way to test out an optic or the theory of using one.  They are not something I would recommend for long term use or carry.  There are more robust, temporary mounts, such as the Suarez "L" mount and the Dueck mount, that do not make any permanent changes to the slides which seem more robust and give the capability to use co-witnessed iron sights.  The dovetail type mounts, place the dot sight quite high and change the index of the gun more substantially. 

My experience so far:

My eyes have gotten worse over the last 5 years or so and, therefore had my ability to shoot accurately.  Utilizing an RDS on a pistol, my accuracy is back to as good as it ever was.  I was concerned that learning to "track the dot" was going to be a chore.  Tracking the dot or sights, means that I am watching the dot or front sight, as it snaps away from the target in recoil and as it returns to the target. There are drills that can help you learn to track the sights.  The first time I started pushing the speed, the dot appeared to be a blurry mess.  I like the Practical Shooting Academy trigger stripe drill.  But, the Matt Burkett timing drill is another popular option.  After one complete Trigger Stripe drill consisting of 54 rounds, tracking the dot became no issue for me whatsoever.

Acquiring the dot:

There are countless stories about the dot being difficult to acquire and that shooting closer targets is slower.  A quick YouTube search of USPSA "Open" or "Carry Optics" division videos will quickly dispel this myth.  The issue at hand is memorizing what it feels like to have the pistol pointed where you want.  This is commonly referred to as “muscle memory”.  The correct terminology can be debated, or you can look up "kinesthetic awareness" for a better understanding of the physiological components of myelination etc.  Having proper co-witnessed sights, will help you visually align the gun and find the dot more easily until you have ingrained this awareness.

Are dot sights on pistols for beginners?

Short answer, yes.  The one caveat is that eventually, beginners need to learn iron sights as well.  There was a test performed at Norwich University with Trijicon a few years back.   They took a group of people and separated them into smaller groups with similar shooting experience amongst them.  One group was given RMR equipped Glocks and the other was given the same model pistol equipped with iron sights.  The group that started with the RMRs had better scores throughout the test, even after switching that group to iron sights.

Some benefits of using a dot sight on your pistol:

-Using an optic can give you the ability to keep your eye focus on your threat and see what they are doing.  With irons you have to lower the gun, to look over the sights, to see the threat. Lowing the gun is more distracting and takes more time.

-Accuracy increases using dot sights, just look at the scores for bullseye shooters using dot sights vs the iron sight shooters, or in USPSA Open division vs. Limited and Carry Optics division vs. Production.  There is only one visual reference on the gun to focus on and to align with the target compared to two visual references with irons.

The downsides:

-There’s the cost, since adding a duty/carry quality optic with co-witnessed iron sights to your pistol can run you up to $650 or more.  

-There is the added bulk, but it's so minimal that it's almost a non-issue for on body carry. Although, for off body carry, we ran into some issues finding a suitable bag/purse to fit a G17 with an RMR.

-You have to practice a bit more...maybe this should be listed under benefits?

-What if it breaks?  Buy quality, it'll break less often and higher end companies usually stand behind their products.  In case of optic failure, having co-witnessed iron sights are always necessary on a duty or carry gun.

Which dot sights do I recommend?

For a duty/carry gun, I recommend the Trijicon RMR or the Leupold Deltapoint Pro.  I would encourage you to do your own research and to learn the pros and cons to each offering.  I am going to start working with a Glock G43 that we mounted a smaller sight on called the JPoint from JP Enterprises (below).  Reports are that it is not as robust as the RMR or DPP, however it is much smaller and will see less use, so more on that later.

I will admit that, it may take a bit more practice to get used to and maintain a moderate level of proficiency with a dot sight versus irons.  However, I have absolutely no interest in moderate proficiency, nor should you.  To me, the benefits of using a dot sight far outweigh the downsides.

Those of us with aging eyesight, would be well served by looking into properly mounting a dot sight to our carry pistols.  I would definitely recommend them over some of the huge iron sights that are sold as easier and faster to see.  Those sights can work ok, but can you shoot a group at 15 yards with them?  

Red dot sight equipped pistols are welcome at all of our courses.

Test Beds:

M&P 9, full size 4.25”: I rounded the corners of the firing pin safety, but the rest of the internals are as they left the factory.  The slide was sent to Primary Machine to have it milled to mount the Leupold Deltapoint Pro with the attached Leupold rear sight and Graphite Black Cerakote.  I installed a Dawson Precision .385’ tall x.100” wide fiber optic front sight to co-witness to the rear.  The co-witness is extremely low in the lens, which was what I wanted.  The rear is adjustable, so whatever ammunition I decide on can be adjusted for.  I’ve also been hearing some of the top trainers in the country switching from tritium front sights to Fiber optic.  If I don’t like it, it’s an easy swap.  I do recommend using a color other than red for the fiber optic insert when used in conjunction with a red dot sight.

Glock G17, Gen 4 (left):  Suarez International slide in Aqua Terra finish with their tritium front and plain black rear sight, Trijicon RM07 installed using the Suarez sealing plate and supplied screws.  This results in a “lower 1/3” co-witness.  We also used a Storm Lake threaded drop in barrel, Suarez Patrol Trigger, trigger spring and firing pin safety.  Everything has worked flawlessly together, extremely accurate and reliable. The one small issue I have had is the point of impact with the iron sights and our chosen defensive ammunition, which is off significantly enough that we will have a custom height rear sight made to match point of aim to point of impact.  Dawson Precision can do this at an extremely reasonable price.

Other info and links:

A link to the complete Norwich University study can be found here: https://www.trijicon.com/na_en/community/whats_new_archived_item.php?whats_newID=news_123

The company that we decided to go with for milling our slides can be found here:  http://primarymachine.com/

Aaron Cowan, of Sage Dynamics, has an extremely thorough and informative document on the subject. It includes the various optics that he has used and their lifespans.  It can be found here: http://docs.wixstatic.com/ugd/7dc128_c8da57977a8c4b53903192fa603fce6f.pdf

Gabe Suarez, with Suarez International, was one of the first adopters of attaching small red dot sights to defensive and duty handguns.  A ton of information can be found on his forum, warriortalk.com and his blog at http://blog.suarezinternational.com/

USPSA Carry Optics videos:

Super slow shooting here: https://youtu.be/v83bxCsSam0  here: https://youtu.be/DkZTGdU37lY And to prove that guys don’t have all the fun: https://youtu.be/IUVpcmWU2v8

Train hard, train often, train well

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