Archive for November 2009
Additional Info on Handgun Designs
On the Glock Talk forum , there was recently some discussion regarding my posts about Handgun design and the Glock 19. I wanted to address some of the issues brought up.
The theme that I have emphasized throughout the posts on equipment selection is that your tactics and skill are the foundation for determining what gear works and what gear does not. If we do not share common skill or tactics then we will likely arrive at different conclusions regarding which gun we think works best. If we do arrive at the same conclusion then it will likely be for different reasons. Read more
Subcompact Handguns
Subcompact handguns are outstanding tools. They are great for deep carry and as a secondary weapon. The best gun to carry is the gun you have with you. Thus, if circumstances don’t allow you to carry a mid or full size weapon, then a subcompact gun is better than nothing.
However, they are not designed as a primary weapon system and should not be treated as such. Typically, subcompact guns are not as reliable as full size guns, and they are more difficult to shoot fast and accurate. Subcompacts are intended for deep carry, not extended training sessions. Attending a two day course like General Defensive Handgun is not optimal with a subcompact gun. Learn marksmanship and gun handling on a mid or full size gun then work with the subcompact. Read more
Handgun Optics
Used in competition for years, a non magnified red dot optic has shown to increase speed and accuracy for the operator. Recently, non-magnified red dot optics have become the standard on carbines. They are extremely rugged. The optic will probably be out dated and upgraded before the battery ever runs out.
As of late, some have been exploring the use of a red dot optic on fighting handguns. The best incarnation I have seen thus far is the work by Bowie Tactical Concepts. He mills the slide on a Glock or M&P and attaches a small JPoint optic. The optic sits very low on the gun and the center of the optic is very close to the line of sight with irons. In fact, there is a notch at the bottom of the optic to co-witness with the front sight so there is a back up if the optic goes down. Read more
Handgun Sights
We universally use sights from Heinie Specialty Products, specifically, the Ledge Straight Eight QWIK sight.
The Heinies use a thin front sight with a wide (QWIK) rear notch that is .156” wide. For defensive purposes, this provides a good balance of accuracy and speed. The Ledge design allows the operator to easily manipulate the gun one handed. Most importantly is the Straight Eight sight design. Night sights are important for low and no light engagements. However, there are problems with the conventional three dot design. Read more
The Glock 19
Universally, the Insights instructor cadre carries and shoots Glock 19s. The main exception to this are instructors who are issued a different gun by their employers. From my perspective, I did not choose the Glock 19 because it is the “perfect” or best gun out there. I see it as the gun with the least problems given my tactics and skills. Read more
