Red Dot Pistols Aren’t Slow Up Close….You Are.

Published on December 8, 2023
Duration: 2:36

This video explains that red dot sights on pistols are not inherently slower for close-range engagements; the perceived slowness is often due to shooter technique. It details two "gross sight picture" methods: using the back of the slide or the optic housing as a reference at very close distances (under 3 yards), and the "guillotine" method, which uses the top curvature of the optic housing as an aiming point. The instructor emphasizes looking through the optic at the target, not at the optic itself.

Quick Summary

Red dot pistols are not inherently slow up close; shooter technique is key. Utilize 'gross sight picture' methods by referencing the back of the slide or optic housing for rapid engagement under 3 yards. The 'guillotine' method, aligning the optic's top curvature with the target, also enhances speed. Focus on looking through the optic at the target, not at the optic itself.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Stop Telling Yourself What To Do
  2. 00:04What You Actually See: Back of the Slide/Optic
  3. 00:28Gross Sight Picture Explained
  4. 00:39Analogy: Baseball Throwing and Aiming
  5. 01:17Historical Aiming: Bow Hunting
  6. 01:36Close Range (3 Yards) Sighting
  7. 01:49The Guillotine Sighting Method
  8. 01:57Optic Housing as Aiming Point
  9. 02:16Index Ridge on SRO/RMR HD

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I shoot my red dot pistol faster at close range?

To improve speed with a red dot pistol at close range, focus on proper aiming techniques. Utilize a 'gross sight picture' by using the back of the slide or optic housing as a reference under 3 yards. The 'guillotine' method, aligning the optic's top curvature with the target, is also effective. The key is to look through the optic at the target, not at the optic itself.

What is the 'guillotine' sighting method for red dot pistols?

The 'guillotine' sighting method involves using the top curvature or apex of your red dot sight's housing as the primary aiming point. You align this part of the optic with your target, effectively 'cutting' the target in half with the optic's edge. This technique is useful for rapid target acquisition at close distances.

Do I need to see the red dot to shoot accurately up close?

Not necessarily. For very close distances (under 3 yards), you can use a 'gross sight picture' by referencing the back of your slide or the optic's housing. While seeing the dot is ideal for precision, these gross references allow for fast, accurate enough shots when speed is paramount.

What part of the red dot sight should I focus on when aiming?

You should focus on the target itself, looking *through* the optic. Use the optic's housing or features like the 'index ridge' (on some models) as your aiming reference. The red dot is a tool to help you align with the target, but your primary focus should remain on the target.

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