WWSD Optics Showdown: Shooting Upside Down

Published on October 10, 2017
Duration: 9:08

This video details a challenging competition stage requiring shooters to engage targets from an inverted, support-side position using a rifle with a variable optic. The discussion highlights the effectiveness of variable scopes at 1x magnification for close-range engagements in awkward positions, comparing their performance to dedicated red dot sights. It also touches on the difficulties of prone pistol shooting and individual shooting idiosyncrasies.

Quick Summary

Variable scopes at 1x magnification can be effective for close-range shooting in awkward positions, offering a forgiving eye box. However, dedicated red dot sights are superior due to their lack of eye relief, allowing for flexible sight picture acquisition as long as the dot is visible.

Chapters

  1. 00:03Stage Introduction and Setup
  2. 00:24Shooter Start Position and Handgun Staging
  3. 00:34Rifle Staging and Engagement Rules
  4. 00:49Support Side Shooting Technique
  5. 01:02Crawling Through Window and Pistol Engagement
  6. 01:14Scoring Rules for Hits and Misses
  7. 03:57Stage Three Debrief and Impressions
  8. 04:01Unusual Stage and Support Side Shooting
  9. 04:10Testing Optic Eye Box in Extreme Positions
  10. 04:33Recoil and Caliber Considerations
  11. 04:48Pistol Engagement Challenges
  12. 04:52Prone Pistol vs. Standing Shooting
  13. 05:34Variable Scope Performance at 1x
  14. 05:51Red Dot vs. Variable Scope Eye Relief
  15. 06:15Optic Power Setting Considerations
  16. 06:33Eye Box Forgiveness of Specific Scope
  17. 06:40Scope as a Red Dot Alternative
  18. 06:56Optic Options for 14.5 inch Carbine
  19. 07:06Stage Times and Performance
  20. 07:20Final Stage and Conclusion Preview

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a variable scope be used effectively as a red dot sight in competition?

Yes, a variable scope set to 1x magnification can be surprisingly effective for close-range engagements in awkward shooting positions, offering a forgiving eye box. However, dedicated red dot sights generally provide superior performance due to their lack of eye relief and greater flexibility in sight picture acquisition.

What are the challenges of shooting from an inverted, support-side position?

Shooting from an inverted, support-side position is extremely challenging, requiring significant hand strength to hold the rifle. It can also lead to self-inflicted contact, such as hitting one's glasses, especially with lighter recoiling calibers like 5.56mm.

How does prone pistol shooting compare to other positions?

Prone pistol shooting can be unexpectedly difficult for some individuals, potentially costing more time than shooting from a standing position. Individual shooting idiosyncrasies mean that what is typically considered a stable position may not be optimal for everyone.

What makes dedicated red dot sights superior to variable scopes for rapid acquisition?

Dedicated red dot sights excel because they have no eye relief; as long as you can see the dot through the optic, you can shoot. The dot can be anywhere within the lens, and you can still achieve a hit, offering unparalleled flexibility for rapid target engagement.

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