I’ve read that in self-defense situations, you usually don’t have time to aim. Most people just draw and shoot, maybe glancing at the front sight. Isn’t the average distance in these situations only about 5 yards? If I’m at home, possibly in awkward positions, would I even find the red dot in time? What do you guys think about using a red dot for a bedside gun? Pros and cons?
Red dots, 100%. Sage Dynamics did a study with trained shooters in force-on-force scenarios using both iron sights and red dots. With irons, most hits were low because people instinctively looked at the target instead of aligning the sights. Red dots allow you to stay target-focused and aim accurately. It’s just better under stress.
@Val
That makes sense. I use both (co-witnessed) as a backup, but I’m definitely faster and more consistent with a red dot, especially in low-light situations.
@Val
You’re right. A lot of competitive shooters who’ve used both irons and dots will say dots are faster and more accurate. Irons are mostly about cost these days. If you can afford it, go for a good red dot. It’s worth it.
@Linden
Agreed. Holosun has made red dots way more affordable now. You can get a good one like the 407C for around $180.
@Linden
I agree for the most part. Dots shine at distances or on smaller targets, but within 5-7 yards, there’s no real advantage over irons. Still, all my carry guns have optics because they’re better overall.
@Val
Is there a video about this study?
Cortland said:
@Val
Is there a video about this study?
It’s mentioned in Sage Dynamics’ white paper, page 44. Here’s the link: https://www.sagedynamics.org/_files/ugd/7dc128_6377087e72264cd18dbcb04eea4686ce.pdf
Cortland said:
@Val
Is there a video about this study?
He briefly talks about it in one of his force-on-force videos, but I don’t remember which one.
@Val
Where can I read or watch this study?
Go with an SRO if it’s just for home. You won’t be rough on it, and it gives you a better field of view.
Jaden said:
Go with an SRO if it’s just for home. You won’t be rough on it, and it gives you a better field of view.
Either one works fine.
Jaden said:
Go with an SRO if it’s just for home. You won’t be rough on it, and it gives you a better field of view.
Either one works fine.
Lasers might be a good option for panic situations. If you’re too rushed to aim properly, a laser could help. But if you have time to aim, you might as well grab a shotgun.
Jaden said:
Go with an SRO if it’s just for home. You won’t be rough on it, and it gives you a better field of view.
Agreed. This is the way.
Learn to use both. It’s good to have options depending on what you’re most comfortable with.
Red dots are faster. That’s why more law enforcement agencies are moving to them. There’s a learning curve, but they make target acquisition quicker and easier.
Hadi said:
Red dots are faster. That’s why more law enforcement agencies are moving to them. There’s a learning curve, but they make target acquisition quicker and easier.
Exactly. You can stay focused on the target instead of the front sight.
Optics for everything, no excuses.
Once you’re used to optics, finding the dot becomes second nature. It’s all about practice. Now I barely notice the transition—it just feels natural.
Use whatever works best for you. Why ask others?