Visible Lasers: Tip for Non-Lethal Force | True Story | Tactical Rifleman

Published on February 22, 2019
Duration: 6:58

This entry details the tactical application of IR and visible lasers in combat, drawing from the experience of a retired US Special Forces operator. It covers the evolution of laser aiming devices, their use in night targeting, and a critical incident in Mosul where a visible laser served as a non-lethal communication tool to de-escalate a dangerous situation. The importance of proper zeroing and avoiding 'target fixation' are emphasized.

Quick Summary

Retired US Special Forces operator Karl explains that visible lasers, while not always preferred, are valuable non-lethal tools for communication and deterrence in combat. They can be used to gain attention or signal danger without lethal force. Modern laser modules also allow daytime zeroing of IR lasers via the visible dot.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to IR Lasers
  2. 00:19Military Use of Lasers
  3. 01:10Visible Lasers for Zeroing
  4. 02:28The Mosul Incident
  5. 05:01Visible Lasers as Non-Lethal Force
  6. 06:21Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

How can visible lasers be used in a tactical situation?

Visible lasers, like the red dot demonstrated, can serve as a non-lethal tool for communication. By directing the dot onto a person or their surroundings, an operator can gain their attention, signal danger, or guide them away without resorting to lethal force, as seen in the Mosul incident.

What is the primary advantage of modern laser aiming modules?

Modern laser aiming modules often feature co-aligned Infrared (IR) and visible lasers. This allows operators to zero their IR laser during daylight hours using the visible laser's aiming point, ensuring accuracy for night operations without needing to wait for darkness.

What tactical error was highlighted in the Mosul incident?

The Mosul incident demonstrated the danger of 'target fixation.' This occurs when multiple soldiers become overly focused on a single individual, neglecting their broader security responsibilities and potentially creating vulnerabilities in the tactical environment.

What is the difference between IR and visible lasers in tactical use?

IR lasers are invisible to the naked eye but visible through night vision devices, making them ideal for covert targeting and identification at night. Visible lasers, while less covert, are crucial for daytime zeroing and can be used as a non-lethal tool for communication and deterrence.

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