Train with Irons first?

Published on April 24, 2026
Duration: 8:44

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.

Quick Summary

Training with iron sights builds a solid foundation, but transitioning to a red dot sight is generally straightforward as core principles like sight alignment and target focus remain. Occlusion training can enhance target focus and optic visibility but may cause issues with changing light conditions. Red dot sights offer a significant speed advantage in competition, especially on longer stages with steel targets.

Chapters

  1. 00:01Introduction & Personal Update
  2. 00:18Iron Sights vs. Red Dot Training Utility
  3. 01:13Stoeger's Personal Experience with Red Dots
  4. 01:27Fundamental Shooting Principles
  5. 02:08Cross-Training Benefits
  6. 02:48New Shooter's Red Dot Experience
  7. 02:54Occlusion Training Explained
  8. 03:42Occlusion as a Training Tool
  9. 04:02Downsides of Constant Occlusion
  10. 04:36Situational Drawbacks of Occlusion
  11. 05:01Re-adjusting After Occlusion Training
  12. 05:39Advice on Occlusion Preference
  13. 05:44Red Dot Speed Advantage in Competition
  14. 06:01Stage Dependency of Red Dot Speed
  15. 06:13Limited Division Disadvantages
  16. 06:50Interpreting Performance Spreads
  17. 07:19Recoil Preference: Snappy vs. Pushy
  18. 07:27Walther PDP 4.5" vs. 5" Discussion
  19. 07:51Stoeger's Preference for 5" PDP
  20. 08:30Recoil Physics Questioned
  21. 08:41Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it beneficial to train with iron sights before using a red dot sight on a pistol?

While training with iron sights builds a strong foundation, the transition to a red dot is generally smooth as core principles like sight alignment and target focus remain. Ben Stoeger suggests that extensive iron sight practice before a red dot may not be strictly necessary, as the dot itself provides a clear aiming point.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of occlusion training with a red dot sight?

Occlusion training forces target focus by using one eye for the target and the other for the optic, creating a single aiming picture. It can also improve lighting conditions on the optic. However, over-reliance can lead to discomfort with changing light and glare, and it can be problematic in tight shooting scenarios requiring full peripheral vision.

How much faster are red dot sights compared to iron sights in competitive shooting?

The speed advantage of red dot sights (Carry Optics) over iron sights (Production/Limited) is highly dependent on the competition stage. While close-range stages might show minimal difference, longer distances and steel targets significantly favor red dots, leading to substantial time savings for red dot users.

Why does Ben Stoeger prefer the 5-inch Walther PDP over the 4.5-inch model?

Ben Stoeger prefers the 5-inch Walther PDP because he finds it 'snappy enough' and questions the recoil characteristics of the 4.5-inch model, feeling it has more recoil than expected. He finds the 5-inch offers a better balance of recoil management and perceived speed.

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