2016 Red October AK Match - Stage 5 - Total Darkness

Published on December 2, 2016
Duration: 10:10

This video details Stage 5 of the 2016 Red October AK Match, focusing on a challenging 'Total Darkness' scenario. The stage involved engaging nine steel targets from three positions, with a water can to carry between them. The primary difficulty stemmed from extremely low light conditions, exacerbated by distracting illumination sources like red LED pucks, VTAC barricade lights, bonfires, and flashing police lights, which did not significantly aid target acquisition. Competitors, particularly those using iron sights on AK platforms with short sight radii, faced significant challenges in acquiring a sight picture. The discussion highlights the tactical decision-making regarding weapon lights in low-light scenarios and the impact of lighting on aiming techniques, noting the tendency to shoot high in low light versus low in bright light.

Quick Summary

The 'Total Darkness' stage of the 2016 Red October AK Match presented significant challenges due to extremely low light, making iron sight acquisition difficult. Shooters noted a tendency to aim higher in low light compared to bright light. Tactical decisions regarding weapon lights were critical, as illuminating oneself could make a shooter a 'bullet magnet.'

Chapters

  1. 00:06Stage Overview and Concept
  2. 00:20Stage Requirements: Positions, Targets, and Water Can
  3. 01:26Night Setup: Illumination Sources and Distractions
  4. 03:56Challenges of Night Shooting with Iron Sights
  5. 04:04Misunderstanding of Lighting Requirements
  6. 04:36Decision to Run Without a White Light
  7. 05:06Sight Radius Issues on AK Platforms
  8. 05:36Alternative Sight Acquisition Technique
  9. 06:29Low Light vs. Bright Light Aiming
  10. 06:57Detailed Sight Picture Acquisition Process
  11. 07:30Stage Completion and Time
  12. 08:06Fascinating Stage Design and Learning Experience
  13. 08:11Lack of Practice Time
  14. 08:39Value of Unique Match Experiences
  15. 08:53Stage Status and Potential Removal
  16. 09:17Recommendation to Attend Future Matches
  17. 09:27Conclusion of Day One

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the main challenges of the 'Total Darkness' stage at the Red October AK Match?

The primary challenges were the extremely low light conditions, making target acquisition difficult with iron sights. Distracting illumination sources like red LEDs and flashing lights did not significantly improve visibility, and the short sight radius on AKs exacerbated the problem. Competitors also had to manage carrying a water can between positions.

How does aiming in low light differ from aiming in bright light?

In low light, shooters tend to aim higher on the target, often employing a '6 o'clock hold.' Conversely, in bright light, the tendency is to aim lower. This difference is crucial for accurate shot placement in varying light conditions.

What tactical considerations are there for using weapon lights in low-light shooting?

While a weapon light can aid target identification, using one in a dynamic shooting scenario can make the shooter a 'bullet magnet' by illuminating their position. This stage highlighted the trade-offs, with some competitors opting to run without a light to maintain a lower profile.

What alternative sight acquisition techniques were used in the low-light AK match stage?

When traditional sight picture acquisition was impossible, shooters focused on picking up the protective ears of the front sight post. They would then align these ears with the rear sight notch, using any available dim target illumination to guide their aim.

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