Why you shouldn't search with a weapon-mounted light on a handgun - Massad Ayoob Critical Mas EP40
Massad Ayoob strongly advises against using weapon-mounted lights (WMLs) for searching, as it constitutes pointing a loaded firearm at everything illuminated. This practice can lead to severe legal consequences, including felony aggravated assault charges, even without a shot fired. Ayoob emphasizes using a separate handheld flashlight for searching and only deploying the WML for Positive Identification (PID) once a threat is confirmed. Proper technique involves identifying the threat with a handheld light before transitioning to the WML for engagement.









