Lessons Learned in my THIRD YEAR of Concealed Carry

This video addresses the utility of cowitness iron sights when using a red dot optic for competition. The instructor, Joel Park, argues against their necessity, citing personal experience where backup iron sights have failed more frequently than red dots. He demonstrates how significant optic window movement can make finding a red dot difficult, suggesting that if one can't find the dot, they likely won't find the irons either. The focus should be on developing a consistent draw stroke and indexing to the target.

This guide details the use of the Mantis Titan X smart laser training pistol for realistic dry-fire practice. It covers setup, including optic mounting and charging, and emphasizes practicing critical self-defense skills like draw time and the TAP-IFS post-incident protocol. Instruction is provided by John Correia, a subject matter expert in self-defense and firearms training.

This video from Modern Protector, presented by a firearms instructor, focuses on three essential gadgets that enhance shooting skills for concealed carriers. It emphasizes practical training over purely aesthetic EDC setups. The recommended gadgets are a C pistol for dry-fire practice, a red dot sight to improve speed and focus, and a shot timer to measure and improve draw and follow-up shot times, crucial for winning gunfights.

This video details the transition from iron sights to a red dot optic for competitive pistol shooting. The speaker, an experienced shooter, highlights the significant learning curve involved, particularly in presentation and target acquisition. Key takeaways include the increased field of view and speed offered by red dots, and the necessity of adapting the draw stroke to account for the optic's higher mounting point. The speaker emphasizes that red dots expose shooting flaws more readily than iron sights.

This video discusses the utility of training with iron sights before transitioning to red dot sights, the benefits and drawbacks of occlusion training with red dots, and the performance differences between pistol divisions in competition. Ben Stoeger, a highly experienced shooter, suggests that while foundational skills transfer, extensive iron sight training before a red dot may not be strictly necessary due to the inherent advantages of red dots. He also details occlusion training as a tool for target focus but warns of potential drawbacks in varied lighting conditions. Stoeger further explains that the speed advantage of red dots is stage-dependent in competition, and discusses recoil characteristics of different Walther PDP models.

This video from Brownells, featuring Caleb, explores the optimal zero distances for an AR-15, primarily for competition use. It analyzes four common zero distances: 25, 36, 50, and 100 yards, detailing their impact zones on an IPSC A-zone target at various ranges. The instructor emphasizes that the 'best' zero is dependent on the intended use of the firearm and the optic employed, recommending the 100-yard zero as a versatile option for experienced shooters, while suggesting 36 or 50 yards for those using red dots or LPVOs respectively, especially for closer engagements.

Tessah Booth, an established firearms and outdoor content creator, demonstrates a practical approach to storing an AR-15 style rifle for home and campsite defense. The guide covers essential safety protocols for keeping a firearm accessible yet secure in a remote camping environment, emphasizing an unchambered storage condition with the safety engaged.

Tessah Booth, an expert in concealed carry for smaller frames, details her transition to the SIG P365X. She explains her previous experiences with the Glock 42 and Glock 48, highlighting the challenges of concealing the latter despite its capacity and optic readiness. Booth ultimately chose the P365X for its factory optics-ready slide, modular grip options, and a smoother trigger pull compared to Glocks, finding it a superior balance for her concealed carry needs.

This guide focuses on adapting to a new micro-compact handgun, specifically comparing the Sig Sauer P365 and Glock 48. It emphasizes that initial performance differences are normal and can be overcome through consistent dry fire and range practice. The speaker, an experienced shooter, highlights the importance of customization and understanding the unique characteristics of smaller firearms for concealed carry.

This guide compares the Holosun 407k and 507k red dot sights, drawing on the practical experience of firearms instructor Tessah Booth. Key differences in reticle options (6 MOA dot vs. 2 MOA dot/circle-dot MRS), visual feedback, and price point are detailed. The 407k is presented as a simpler, more affordable option ideal for beginners or budget-conscious users, while the 507k offers greater versatility for those seeking advanced reticle choices. The review emphasizes practical application for concealed carry firearms like the Glock 48 MOS.