After taking a low light course with just a handheld I arrived at the conclusion that a WML is mandatory alongside the handheld, get both, train with both, and practice with both
Not having a wml because you have night sights is like not turning on your headlights because you have dashboard lights. It's ill thought out argument that undermines the first fundamentals of responsible gun use. Thank Aaron as always; best free firearms info anywhere!
piggybacking on that, and Aaron's assertion that you NEED to train for low light, get a blue gun, slap your WML on, and take it out to dry fire train. I say blue gun. cause they're pretty affordable, and chances are you can get one to mirror your carry weapon, even to the weight, and it's a relatively innocuous training tool that won't get you into much trouble.
@@Breaker197 I think you can get airsoft even cheaper and you can shoot with those, add some magnets or something else to get the correct weight. I'm only saying this because I was going to buy a blue gun until I saw how ridiculous the price was for a non functioning model
I agree with your reasoning here as to why they can be very beneficial, especially for home defense where bulk can be of little concern. However when it comes to CCW, this goes down the rabbit hole a little. When it comes to the gun community, there is this “all or nothing” mode of thinking I see. Once someone decides to CCW, they are now expected to carry certain rounds, a spare mag, a weapon light, a red dot, a separate handheld light, a tourniquet, a second gun just in case, a less lethal and a fixed blade. That’s too much to ask for Grandmaw, who just wants to carry her single stack .380 because she feels safer with it. To clarify, I don’t think this video is off putting at all. But I see a lot if people say if you’re not tac Joe, you might as well be unarmed.
I am a serious shooter, I train weekly to bi-weekly depending on my schedule. I honestly find your videos to be spot on, you do an excellent and "Real" job of educating shooters. Keep it up Brother.
When I first started carrying a gun, I was already carrying a handheld light with good output. I thought this was enough until I trained the first time in low light. From concealment with the handheld I quickly realized I needed to work on my one handed shooting since I was missing at 5-7 yards more than I would like to admit. I then stumbled upon your Lux video and immediately purchased a holster for a TLR 1 HL. I carried that set up for a year and took my first class with it and was far more effective in low light based on my ability to have a standard grip. I now run a Tier 1 with a TLR 7, TLR 1 HL and a Surefire X300 for different guns and weather types. Still have a powerful handheld. I concur 100% about the requirement for a WML on anything you are carrying. After several classes and carrying a gun with WML everyday there are no downsides even with comfort as a concern. Thanks for the knowledge.
Ryan Hershkowitz it has been my main wml since I posted this and I now have several on different guns. Because I carry AIWB and am small in stature I like the TLR 7 a lot. You do lose lumens and candela but it works for my purposes so far. TLR1HL and the Surefire are what I use for a outside the waist band or belt applications.
I had taken a bunch of classes, then realized that I'm walking around at night til dawn everyday for work. Taking a low light class next month. Can't wait to find out that my light and sight choices suck. :)
Are there things I don't know? Yes. Is some of what I believe wrong? Yes. Nothing proves it more than the low light journey. And that experience has helped me with every subject/study since. A lot of credit goes to you, Pettey & UTM.
I use a weapon light in my profession. I was stubborn for years because I hated the holster for a pistol with a light. In the unit I work we clear a house sometimes 2-3 times a day. I have been using my pistol light on my duty belt for the last year and it is so useful. I have even gone to a light on my off duty pistol too. I still have a handheld flashlight at all times too, because 1 is none and 2 is 1. Great info thanks for the video.
You are the first person I have heard mention finding your gun with night sights in the dark. I travel all over my state for work and constantly stay in hotels. My weapon is always on a different nightstand in every hotel that I stay in, thus why I always have night sights so I can find my weapon in the dark if necessary. Thank you
Garrett L I tried the TLR-6 on my Shield. It affects your grip and greatly reduces the amount of space inside the trigger guard. I immediately took it off and returned it. With the advent of small rechargeable battery powered lights, there should be rails on these guns with powerful small lights to put on them.
Light options for G26/27/33 have opened up some now that there are a couple companies making add on rail assemblies for them. That being said I don't know how well they actually work or how durable they may be. Hell, I've never even seen them in person. I prefer carrying a G19/23/32 -- x300u combo or even better one of the same combos but with my grip frame chopped down to G26/27/33 grip length on hot days.
Emmanuel Goldstein I normally carry a Glock 17 with a Surefire x300 but where I work is a fucking “gun free zone” which is pure bull shit so I have my 43 for work so that way I can still have a gun on me, I do think you should carry the biggest gun you can
One of the few schools of thought on pistol craft and modern defensive riflery i absolutely find invaluable. Ive always harped this WML topic to loved ones with defensive firearms. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this and many other topics aaron 😎👍
The days leading up to me watching this video, I’ve been kicking myself in the ass for buying the Trijicon hd night sights. Dawson precision makes some bad ass black out rear, fiber front for like 80 bucks. They don’t wash out with the light and have a smaller point of aim. Like you said in this video, there’s things we don’t know yet and a ton to learn. Great video, all the fuds need to watch this
I agree 100%. You don't know what you don't know, and the pursuit of learning new things should be a mandatory way of life for those of us who carry to protect. Keep up the good videos!
Agreed. Doesn’t have to be anything crazy for the handheld light either. I carry a Streamlight Microstream, smaller than a tube of chapstick yet sufficiently bright and produces 250 lumens
Emmanuel Goldstein MLK was a staunch advocate for the 2nd amendment. There’s interviews with his daughter that talk about it. Please look it up. He was a man of peace , yes. Believe that someone was in his house trying to hurt his kids he would’ve dirt napped the aggressor without hesitation.
Yes, I agree. At one particular point in my life the only handgun I had available to me was a full size USP with a matching Insight Technologies light (this was a while ago). I'm only 5'7" and I carried it appendix. All day. Every day. In the Texas summer heat. As you said, it wasn't comfortable but it was damn sure comforting.
Shouldn’t the officers be able to buy there own accessories? I’m a diesel tech and welder and I have to buy my tools for the job. I’d have no complaint buying a 150 dollar wml
@@edcason2236 at some point, even with department issued items, officers end up buying their own equipment regardless if it is allowed or not. And if NYPD was concerned they wouldn't of blown millions on old cellphone technology with window phones (initially issued)
My favorite hand held light technique... is none of them! 10 minutes into a low light class and this will become frustratingly evident. Been having good results with the Streamlight brand.
former pilgrim look at the John wick movies. If they have lights on their weapons. They tend to die. The first movie, the house fight scene, the second movie, the catacombs fight scene, and 3 the fight scene with Halle Berry.
Yes, I’m the oddball case and I recognize that fact. I am forced to stick with Streamlight 3 and 4 lights (170 lumens) because much more sets off an ocular migraine and then I see, basically, what you’d see looking through a kaleidoscope. While I totally agree with your premise, I had to stay within my physical boundaries to make it work. Bummer for me.
GT is a childish ass channel with a bunch of petulant children in the comments. GT reviews OVERPRICED gear 90% of his children base viewers cant afford.
Rob I agree with you. Because I am one of those people that can’t afford 90% of the stuff he reviews. However, I still enjoy listening to someone review something, or cover topics like Aaron or even P&S.
Very good video! I love watching your videos, there are always a new topic that i had not fully thought out! I need low light training and practice for sure!
Solid argument. However, If you're in an environment, especially your own home, that's literally so dark that you can't see anything, neither can the potential threat. If the potential threat is using a light, you won't need one too. If your family members or friends aren't fully aware that they need to identify themselves and turn on interior lights when entering or moving around your home when it's dark inside and out, because they know you're armed and intent on protecting your home, you've already failed them.
Third option for low-light practice. Airsoft. Yes, it's silly; yes, laugh at it a bit. Do note though that it's much more accessible and often slightly cheaper, plus it offers force on force to a very limited extent and you can test equipment like holster/sling and accessories like these lights. It's not a replacement at all, at most it's a supplemental hobby and something to do with the kids, but it can be fun and useful. Isn't that a good thing then?
Many reputable training places will run force on force with airsoft, as well as with other solutions. It's an excellent addition to a complete curriculum
Thanks for the video, made me confident to spend the money on an appendix holster with room for a light. Thought it might be goofy or clunky, but I'll get used to it.
I’ve taken a few low light classes at the local range but they wont’ let you use the WML just a handheld source of white light. The instructors rationale is that you’re out supposed to use your gun light as a flashlight. Then we practiced holding the flashlight and shooting. Idk man didn’t make much sense to me. In a threat situation I”m def using my WML instead of my pocket flashlight.
I somewhat agree as long as activation of the light is with the thumb of your support hand to prevent an accidental discharge from your trigger finger slipping.
I really like your view point on this. I’m in full agreement. I would also like to hear your thoughts on strobe lights as well. Some people swear they would be a huge benefit in some sort of situation. I am opposed to them. Never do I want to creat confusion in a situation where I may have to shoot someone. I did notice that none of his scenarios used a strobe.
I live in a VERY rural environment, no street lights, just moon light - sometimes it's pitch black around my property and a WML is mandatory for me. I don't always have a hand-held light on me and if I do it's not nearly as powerful as my WML so it's WML for me...
I took my first low light class recently. You might say it was ... enlightening. But seriously, the difference between a 350L handheld light and a 1,000L WML was like night and day. (Ok, I'll stop now). It was painfully obvious real quick that shooting with a light in your support hand is a huge comprise and far less effective then having a light that let's you keep two hands on the gun.
Recently put a TLR-8G on my Glock 19MOS and Night Fision sights to avoid the overhang one might experience with other sights and it’s (my pistol) in sitting in a Raven Concealment Perun holster. I’m very happy with this set up. Now trying to decide which WML to put on my G17, gotta love this shit 🤷🏻♂️😬😎 LoL
I'm overweight ( working on fixing this) & appendix Iwb carry G17 w/ rmr & xc1 - plan on updating to x300 when I can but also carry handheld Streamlight - I've done some low light training but not enough - agree both wml & handheld are needed & have their own uses
I didn't use to hold the belief that high lumens were necessary until I ran high lumen lights, and actually conducted searches in several environments at work. I'm fully convinced of the need for light superiority.
Some people will say that “they’ll just shoot at the light”. With that the problem is just where is the real threat, to right, to the left, up or down. Shooting at the light only means you may hit the light but you haven’t eliminated the threat. Meanwhile your in the dark lite up like A Christmas tree and a perfect target. Also I think once that light hits you, your going to be stunned for a second or two. In that case only a fool would start shooting at a light. Also remember this , if your gonna just start shooting at the light you will need to pray it’s not some child with a flashlight.
Duty gun is an Beretta M9. Air Force policy forbids me from putting a light on the gun. Apparently I'll still be forbidden from using a WML even when we transition to the Sig M18. The DOD is filled with luddites. If you have a solution for that I'd really love to hear it.
Is that policy just for SecFo??? We have the SureFire lights and Safari Land holsters to accommodate them issued to us. We’ve already ordered the same holsters for the Sig as well.
When you do get an M18, just get an X300U and do it anyway. Worst comes to worst, put it on at the beginning of shift and take it off at the end. Screw what your leadership thinks. 9/10 they won’t even notice, unless you’ve got an inspection coming up. If you’re cool with the guys in the armory they won’t screw you over.
The problem i run into is that for those of us not carrying a glock, sw, or sig, holster options with lights are pretty limited. I often pocket carry do to my job and finfing a holster and light combo for a pocket pistol is all but impossible. I have done quite a bit of low light or no light shooting and a handheld flashlight sucks but it is do able. I have trained one handed and trained to drop a light for a good grip and both techniques are ok. I agree that a weapon mounted light is better but the 700-1000 dollars I would spend on a new gun, new optic, new light, new holster to maje it happen coukd be better spent on ammo and additional training using what I already have. This is all referencing Concealed carry. All my HD firearms have mounted lights.
Stand alone light works for me! Not planning on searching or clearing a room, I would turn on the lights and let an invader know that I know they are in my house, or hanging out in dark places. Having WML will give the bad guys your location and be a target for them. Shooting happens at close range 3' or 10' maybe 20', 20 feet would be questionable in the court of law.
I can 95% agree. My only point with low light classes is that it seems a lot of places will only offer low light after all their other beginner, intermediate, advanced, etc are taken first.
I carry a compact Beretta with a very limited rail spac3. I have carried a tlr3 in the past, before I decided that I would rather carry a handheld with 4 to 10 times the output and not have to compromise on holster selection. That might change in the future, there's a couple new options on the market like the pl2 mini or tlr7 that look promising, and aftermarket support is improving, but for now, a thyrm switchback on a hlx gives me 90% of the capability and will wash out anything I put on the rail.
If I was going to go with anything, it would probably be the tlr7. The problem is that I would need a custom key in order to make it work. Keep in mind that when I say improvements, it's relative to where compact lights were, the heat regulation alone is enough to turn me off.
Hi Aaron, Once again, thanks a lot for your videos. I fully agree with you, wml are mandatory. Im teaching classes, recommending my students to have two tactical lights (wml, handlded) But, more recently, i had several conversations with French LE operators. The fact is: if they want to respect their regulations, they cannot point their guns at someone, (during a control for instance) So, they just put their WML in a specific kydex holster and use them as handlded. If they need it on their guns, they just fit them on their guns.. I got my opinion on that, but id be really interested to hear yours :) Respectfully
That’s a novel concept, the idea that they would have the time and or ability to place a light in the heat of the moment is unrealistic, it sounds like a person saying I will put my seat belt on right before we crash.
I understand what you are saying and completely agree with needing to be able to collect data to make the best choice possible. I do not carry a wml (I only have X300s) at appendix because of thickness of the holster. I put in the time on handhelds and can totally agree with wml are easier to use when shooting. Concealment is very important to me and a wml adds bulk to the holster no matter how big or small it is. Can I get away with carrying my X300s? Yes I could but the overall concealment decreases and maybe it’s not that big of a deal since I can already conceal very well but it’s something that I definitely notice. I’m not disagreeing with you to be rude I respect your teachings and have taken classes from you before and will continue to do so in the future. It’s hard to explain it all over text but hopefully you understand what I’m trying to say.
I carry every day at the Boulder store King Sooper. I happen to be off work that day and I was not in the vicinity when it happened but I do contemplate what my steps before law-enforcement…
I’ve been saying this for years. Every weapon I carry has a weapon mounted light on it...even my concealed carry and back up guns have them. Make sure the batteries are good, your lights work and don’t forget to bring reloads.
I have a TLR6 on my 43. Its definitely anemic. I haven't tried it yet and if it works a special holster would have to be made, but I bought a "Recover Tactical Glock 43 Picatinny Rail Adapter " It lets railed lights attach onto a 43.
@@possumtrotranch I got the PL mini 2 as well as the recover tactical adapter for my 43x. Now just in a holster for it I'm looking at this one. www.triadholsters.com/kydex-holster-glock-43x-and-olight-pl-mini2-perses-iwb-inside-the-waistband/
Great vid. You present in a logical, rational manner. Very refreshing, enjoyed it immensely. Question for you - with WML, need for night sights is negated to a degree (you mentioned finding your gun in the dark as one reason), meaning fiber optic is an option (which helps with my 47 y/o eyes). What are your thoughts on this? If you’ve got another video, reference and I’ll check it out. Thx
If I don't have a light bearing holster yet, is the streamlight hlx - 1h easy to put on and take off fast, so I can have it on while it's on my nighstand until my holster arrives?
It’s too bad your channel doesn’t get the love that some of the more..shall we say entertainment gun channels get. The world doesn’t understand we are the ones keeping new stuff in their hands. (Left handers) haha. Real practical information here. Thanks Aaron
"It's your responsibility to not shoot the wrong fucking people" this should be a motto for everyone that carrys a gun. In a defensive situation, there's more people that don't need a bullet in them than those that do.
In my experience night sights work great at dusk/sunrise when the light is just at that weird level that your wml isn't all that helpful. For me my eyes pick up the glow of them just fine.
I was really disappointed the new G48 doesnt have a rail for a light. But I get the point is to be slim, but Id love to see a super slim but relatively powerful light come out for it.
I agree 100% i got lights on all my firearms i carry and I for sure need to go take a low light course or any defensive course really cause I'm 100% self taught!
The only self defense handgun I own that I won't run a light on is my Wilson 92c, because style points. Also the reason that it is primarily a BBQ gun and range toy. I stopped carrying my 43 with the lack of light availability and round coung and went back to a standard compact handgun.
My great uncle shot his daughter by mistake in the dark back in the sixties. She was coming back inside after taking a new dog outside late at night. Killed her. Terrible accident.
I DO think WML are required for Home Defense, and for LE/.mil...all topics which you focus on. As far as I know Tom Givens' did the largest study on weapon lights, and he determined that in CCW shootings, a weapon light was NEVER needed...in every instant when people had to defend themself from someone, there was enough residual light (from streetlights or whatever) that no WML was necessary. Not one. Despite all the focus on LE and .mil tactics, Givens' fame comes from focusing on civilian shootings (and he has a very good record of students winning gunfights). Of course, this was just citizens defending themselves in the real world. This is the problem with the disconnect between citizens CCWing out of the house and LE/.mil.
I been waiting on this topic. I just had a discussion with a friend about this and he was saying how you wont ever need a wml in a self defense encounter because of the speed that things happen i kinda agree and disagree but any firearm i carry will always have a light on it just because it cant hurt
Not to dog your friend, but the argument does not make sense. Because things can happen quickly, we shouldn't try to PID a potential target? That is the exact reason to do so, so we can determine if the target needs rounds or is an unexpected friend, loved one or innocent nonthreat stranger. His response feels like blaze away and hope for the best.
I kind of agree with your friend. Having the gun on them and a good draw is what most people need. To me it seems like most of the SELF DEFENSE situations I could envision needing a light it would probably be more prudent to retreat to a safer location than try to identify a threat. You can't prepare for everything and we all have different comfort levels and sense of perceived risk. I am not so tightly wound that I think there is any chance of me shooting an unexpected friend. If I were that worried about being prepared for everything I would wear a helmet when driving my car.
I do carry a weapon mounted light. Glock 19 with RMR and TLR-1 HL. That being said, with my body type, it doesn’t hide nearly as well as it does when I don’t carry the light. The holster search continues...
My gtw rifle and my main pistol all have lights....and I have had formal training live fire wise. I did a ton of airsoft though, low light stuff too. I know the value of it and how to use from all that kind of experience. I know airsoft doesn't correlate 100% at all. But in case you can't find a class it's not a bad thing
Unfortunately my CZ PCR does not have a rail. I've been looking into grabbing a P-01 so that I can mount a light. Towards the end it sounded as if you did not prefer night sights. Do you think a WML with fiber optic is a superior combination for defensive use?
As Aaron eluded to, the light washes out the tritium and are therefore not preforming. Unsure of the title, but he does talk about sights in another video. Though mrds are all the rage these days.
Any advice for a new LEO (about 1 year on the job) at a department that currently doesn't allow WMLs? (Technically there is policy allowing officers to carry WMLs but only after completing a department provided training course that currently doesn't exist and has no firm timeline for its creation). I have a background utilizing WMLs from time in the military, but feel like I'm too low on the totem pole at this (not-small) department to go straight to the chief or lead firearms instructor with my concerns. If you are curious, I believe the prohibition on WMLs is based on the asinine belief held by the brass that officers will use WMLs to check licenses on a traffic stop, conduct HGN tests, and all other manner of shenanigans.
I've been saying this about WML for a carry gun for years. I've also been made fun of for it for just as long. It's also not allowed while I carry at work doing armed security as per our head trainer's directive on the matter.
This is situation specific. I'm literally never outside of my house at night. Every once in a while, I might find myself coming home from work at dusk. There is a zero chance of me entering my (presumably) occupied house if there are obvious signs of forced entry. If there aren't signs of forced entry, the first thing I'm doing is turning on a light. It would stand to reason, therefore, that I have no actual need to spend the time and money reoutfitting myself for a weapon mounted light that I would never use. What very little work I do at night, I can't take a gun to because it's always schools. If your activities do find you in darkness often, then yes, I would agree it's mandatory. To blanket the statement, however, I would say no. It's not mandatory. This is, of course, referencing concealed carry. Home defense is a completely different animal. If the carry gun is also the primary home defense gun, then yes. In my case, it isn't.
Tristan H it’s still mandatory. You cannot predict the future, only likelihood based on normal patterns. You don’t have to agree with me. It’s perfectly okay not to.
I think it comes down to sacrifices. Guys who carry, make them all the time. Dudes carry owb for comfort even though they know Iwb conceals better. They'll carry a G43 or G26 even though they know a G17 would be better in the event of a gunfight. Soft loops on holsters are way more reliable than clips and J-hooks but people get lazy and run the clips that are easier to attach. We seem to weigh our options a lot and then settle.
I conceal and carry a Gen 5 Glock 45 chambered in 9X19 aka 9mm Luger and have a Sure Fire X400 laser/light combo. The light puts out 1,000 lumens and even in broad daylight, will greatly hinder an individuals vision if the light is shown in their eyes.
“They’ll just shoot at the light”
Well as the good guys we carry the burden of knowing who we’re shooting at
After taking a low light course with just a handheld I arrived at the conclusion that a WML is mandatory alongside the handheld, get both, train with both, and practice with both
great points; agreed 100%
Mrgunsngear Channel
Sooooo, you’re saying there’s a chance
Not having a wml because you have night sights is like not turning on your headlights because you have dashboard lights. It's ill thought out argument that undermines the first fundamentals of responsible gun use. Thank Aaron as always; best free firearms info anywhere!
I remember seeing maglights hose clamped to m4's....no excuses
piggybacking on that, and Aaron's assertion that you NEED to train for low light, get a blue gun, slap your WML on, and take it out to dry fire train. I say blue gun. cause they're pretty affordable, and chances are you can get one to mirror your carry weapon, even to the weight, and it's a relatively innocuous training tool that won't get you into much trouble.
We’ve come a long way!
@@Breaker197 I think you can get airsoft even cheaper and you can shoot with those, add some magnets or something else to get the correct weight. I'm only saying this because I was going to buy a blue gun until I saw how ridiculous the price was for a non functioning model
I agree with your reasoning here as to why they can be very beneficial, especially for home defense where bulk can be of little concern.
However when it comes to CCW, this goes down the rabbit hole a little. When it comes to the gun community, there is this “all or nothing” mode of thinking I see. Once someone decides to CCW, they are now expected to carry certain rounds, a spare mag, a weapon light, a red dot, a separate handheld light, a tourniquet, a second gun just in case, a less lethal and a fixed blade. That’s too much to ask for Grandmaw, who just wants to carry her single stack .380 because she feels safer with it.
To clarify, I don’t think this video is off putting at all. But I see a lot if people say if you’re not tac Joe, you might as well be unarmed.
did anyone else wearing headphones freak out at 9:49 thinking they were being attacked by a mosquito in their ear lol. otherwise great video
chrbeam101 lol I threw my headphones into the laundry basket when I heard it
I am a serious shooter, I train weekly to bi-weekly depending on my schedule. I honestly find your videos to be spot on, you do an excellent and "Real" job of educating shooters. Keep it up Brother.
When I first started carrying a gun, I was already carrying a handheld light with good output. I thought this was enough until I trained the first time in low light. From concealment with the handheld I quickly realized I needed to work on my one handed shooting since I was missing at 5-7 yards more than I would like to admit. I then stumbled upon your Lux video and immediately purchased a holster for a TLR 1 HL. I carried that set up for a year and took my first class with it and was far more effective in low light based on my ability to have a standard grip. I now run a Tier 1 with a TLR 7, TLR 1 HL and a Surefire X300 for different guns and weather types. Still have a powerful handheld. I concur 100% about the requirement for a WML on anything you are carrying. After several classes and carrying a gun with WML everyday there are no downsides even with comfort as a concern. Thanks for the knowledge.
Joseph, how do like the TLR-7? I have a TLR-1HL that I am considering running my G19 but I sure like the idea of the smaller footprint of the 7.
Ryan Hershkowitz it has been my main wml since I posted this and I now have several on different guns. Because I carry AIWB and am small in stature I like the TLR 7 a lot. You do lose lumens and candela but it works for my purposes so far. TLR1HL and the Surefire are what I use for a outside the waist band or belt applications.
I had taken a bunch of classes, then realized that I'm walking around at night til dawn everyday for work. Taking a low light class next month. Can't wait to find out that my light and sight choices suck. :)
Hey. How did the class go? Any insights?
one of the best UA-cam gun channels hands down 👏
Are there things I don't know? Yes.
Is some of what I believe wrong? Yes.
Nothing proves it more than the low light journey. And that experience has helped me with every subject/study since. A lot of credit goes to you, Pettey & UTM.
But the Marine Corps taught me ignorance isnt an excuse! Lol
Amen Semper Fi brother
Thank you Aaron. I hope you and yours have a wonderful Holiday
I use a weapon light in my profession. I was stubborn for years because I hated the holster for a pistol with a light. In the unit I work we clear a house sometimes 2-3 times a day. I have been using my pistol light on my duty belt for the last year and it is so useful. I have even gone to a light on my off duty pistol too. I still have a handheld flashlight at all times too, because 1 is none and 2 is 1. Great info thanks for the video.
You are the first person I have heard mention finding your gun with night sights in the dark. I travel all over my state for work and constantly stay in hotels. My weapon is always on a different nightstand in every hotel that I stay in, thus why I always have night sights so I can find my weapon in the dark if necessary. Thank you
I hope we get more WML options for the g26/43 in the near future.
No rail on the 43 sucks. Not a huge fan of the guard mounted lights.
Garrett L I tried the TLR-6 on my Shield. It affects your grip and greatly reduces the amount of space inside the trigger guard. I immediately took it off and returned it.
With the advent of small rechargeable battery powered lights, there should be rails on these guns with powerful small lights to put on them.
I use the recover tactical rail with an Olight PL mini 2 that puts out 600 lumens
Light options for G26/27/33 have opened up some now that there are a couple companies making add on rail assemblies for them. That being said I don't know how well they actually work or how durable they may be. Hell, I've never even seen them in person. I prefer carrying a G19/23/32 -- x300u combo or even better one of the same combos but with my grip frame chopped down to G26/27/33 grip length on hot days.
Emmanuel Goldstein I normally carry a Glock 17 with a Surefire x300 but where I work is a fucking “gun free zone” which is pure bull shit so I have my 43 for work so that way I can still have a gun on me, I do think you should carry the biggest gun you can
One of the few schools of thought on pistol craft and modern defensive riflery i absolutely find invaluable. Ive always harped this WML topic to loved ones with defensive firearms. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this and many other topics aaron 😎👍
Common sense just aint as common as it used to be...
I'm glad I understood this. I have always purchased an WML for my pistolas
The days leading up to me watching this video, I’ve been kicking myself in the ass for buying the Trijicon hd night sights. Dawson precision makes some bad ass black out rear, fiber front for like 80 bucks. They don’t wash out with the light and have a smaller point of aim. Like you said in this video, there’s things we don’t know yet and a ton to learn. Great video, all the fuds need to watch this
Defiantly swatted my ears thinking there was a skeeter flying around them.
Just got my new surefire x300 the other day for edc. You really make great points about why a WML is so important.
I agree 100%. You don't know what you don't know, and the pursuit of learning new things should be a mandatory way of life for those of us who carry to protect. Keep up the good videos!
You just said a whoooole lot of stuff people don't want to hear, but need to hear. Subbed.
I’m so pleased with this video! Thanks for sharing dude.
You should carry both...a hand held and a wml. You might not want to muzzle what you're trying to identify.
Umbrella or baseboard lighting can help negate that issue.
I believe in having both so you can flash the handheld in an attacker’s eyes while you move offline. I think it’s something I learned from John lovel?
Agreed. Doesn’t have to be anything crazy for the handheld light either. I carry a Streamlight Microstream, smaller than a tube of chapstick yet sufficiently bright and produces 250 lumens
Also, having a handheld light has utility outside of shooting, that you may not be able to use your cell phone light for.
But what hand will you have your tactical pocket sand in?
"Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that." -MLK
MLK confirmed WML advocate
@Emmanuel Goldstein lol no
@Emmanuel Goldstein he owned a fucking arsenal in his house, don't bullshit to get us to dislike him
Emmanuel Goldstein MLK was a staunch advocate for the 2nd amendment. There’s interviews with his daughter that talk about it. Please look it up. He was a man of peace , yes. Believe that someone was in his house trying to hurt his kids he would’ve dirt napped the aggressor without hesitation.
"Whitey bad"
--- Malcolm X.
Great video. You presented your points in a very clear and thorough way
Yes, I agree. At one particular point in my life the only handgun I had available to me was a full size USP with a matching Insight Technologies light (this was a while ago). I'm only 5'7" and I carried it appendix. All day. Every day. In the Texas summer heat. As you said, it wasn't comfortable but it was damn sure comforting.
Best statement ever. "It's your responsibility to not shoot the wrong fuc%ing people". Mike drop. My work is done!
How is it some LE departments still don't allow WML (looking at you NYPD)?
Cost. Thst is the argument we get.
Shouldn’t the officers be able to buy there own accessories? I’m a diesel tech and welder and I have to buy my tools for the job. I’d have no complaint buying a 150 dollar wml
@Bob jones you must've missed the part that officers don't make laws when you were left sleeping on the short bus
@@eddiearchuleta615 you would think, but it is considered a modification and they can't make modifications
@@edcason2236 at some point, even with department issued items, officers end up buying their own equipment regardless if it is allowed or not. And if NYPD was concerned they wouldn't of blown millions on old cellphone technology with window phones (initially issued)
My favorite hand held light technique... is none of them!
10 minutes into a low light class and this will become frustratingly evident.
Been having good results with the Streamlight brand.
former pilgrim look at the John wick movies. If they have lights on their weapons. They tend to die. The first movie, the house fight scene, the second movie, the catacombs fight scene, and 3 the fight scene with Halle Berry.
NotAMethDealer you’re just being sarcastic, pls tell me you’re being sarcastic
Wonderful video. Thanks so much. Keep up the solid content.
Yes, I’m the oddball case and I recognize that fact. I am forced to stick with Streamlight 3 and 4 lights (170 lumens) because much more sets off an ocular migraine and then I see, basically, what you’d see looking through a kaleidoscope. While I totally agree with your premise, I had to stay within my physical boundaries to make it work. Bummer for me.
@ Jake Lonergan 170 lumens > 0 lumens.
I get those too. SUCKS. You’re fine, and then boom, you’re not. You lose vision and then feel nauseous for the next 4 hours.
Tlr-6 may be a good option.
I listened accordingly...thanks for your time.
SageDynamics and Garand Thumb both upload new videos. I came here first.
It’s like gun Christmas
Flannel daddy is very disappointed in you
GT is a childish ass channel with a bunch of petulant children in the comments. GT reviews OVERPRICED gear 90% of his children base viewers cant afford.
Rob I agree with you. Because I am one of those people that can’t afford 90% of the stuff he reviews. However, I still enjoy listening to someone review something, or cover topics like Aaron or even P&S.
Same
Very good video! I love watching your videos, there are always a new topic that i had not fully thought out! I need low light training and practice for sure!
Solid argument.
However,
If you're in an environment, especially your own home, that's literally so dark that you can't see anything, neither can the potential threat.
If the potential threat is using a light, you won't need one too.
If your family members or friends aren't fully aware that they need to identify themselves and turn on interior lights when entering or moving around your home when it's dark inside and out, because they know you're armed and intent on protecting your home, you've already failed them.
Yeah, solid advice for kids 🙄
Third option for low-light practice. Airsoft. Yes, it's silly; yes, laugh at it a bit. Do note though that it's much more accessible and often slightly cheaper, plus it offers force on force to a very limited extent and you can test equipment like holster/sling and accessories like these lights.
It's not a replacement at all, at most it's a supplemental hobby and something to do with the kids, but it can be fun and useful. Isn't that a good thing then?
@Praise The Masculine Flames Can't hurt to look into it. Your nearest airsoft venue is just a web search away.
Many reputable training places will run force on force with airsoft, as well as with other solutions. It's an excellent addition to a complete curriculum
I played airsoft at night definitely need a light or your gona have a bad time
thank you for this video!! how bout doing a video on holsters for carrying pistols with WMLs PLEASE
Trex arms has a few great options
Thanks for the video, made me confident to spend the money on an appendix holster with room for a light. Thought it might be goofy or clunky, but I'll get used to it.
Can't believe I missed this. I agree as well. We encourage our officers to equip with wmls. Most do
I’ve taken a few low light classes at the local range but they wont’ let you use the WML just a handheld source of white light. The instructors rationale is that you’re out supposed to use your gun light as a flashlight. Then we practiced holding the flashlight and shooting. Idk man didn’t make much sense to me. In a threat situation I”m def using my WML instead of my pocket flashlight.
Perfectly objective video and evidence based opinions, I wish I found your channel earlier
Excellent video! Now if I can just get my department to get on this wagon...
I somewhat agree as long as activation of the light is with the thumb of your support hand to prevent an accidental discharge from your trigger finger slipping.
I really like your view point on this. I’m in full agreement.
I would also like to hear your thoughts on strobe lights as well. Some people swear they would be a huge benefit in some sort of situation. I am opposed to them. Never do I want to creat confusion in a situation where I may have to shoot someone.
I did notice that none of his scenarios used a strobe.
I live in a VERY rural environment, no street lights, just moon light - sometimes it's pitch black around my property and a WML is mandatory for me. I don't always have a hand-held light on me and if I do it's not nearly as powerful as my WML so it's WML for me...
I took my first low light class recently. You might say it was ... enlightening.
But seriously, the difference between a 350L handheld light and a 1,000L WML was like night and day. (Ok, I'll stop now).
It was painfully obvious real quick that shooting with a light in your support hand is a huge comprise and far less effective then having a light that let's you keep two hands on the gun.
Recently put a TLR-8G on my Glock 19MOS and Night Fision sights to avoid the overhang one might experience with other sights and it’s (my pistol) in sitting in a Raven Concealment Perun holster. I’m very happy with this set up. Now trying to decide which WML to put on my G17, gotta love this shit 🤷🏻♂️😬😎 LoL
Clicked on video to learn about WML's...ended up questioning my entire existence.
Well done sir.
I'm overweight ( working on fixing this) & appendix Iwb carry G17 w/ rmr & xc1 - plan on updating to x300 when I can but also carry handheld Streamlight - I've done some low light training but not enough - agree both wml & handheld are needed & have their own uses
An interesting topic and is making me reassess my carry options.
Great vid and info as always! I need to get to a class to get some more knowledge.
I didn't use to hold the belief that high lumens were necessary until I ran high lumen lights, and actually conducted searches in several environments at work. I'm fully convinced of the need for light superiority.
Some people will say that “they’ll just shoot at the light”. With that the problem is just where is the real threat, to right, to the left, up or down. Shooting at the light only means you may hit the light but you haven’t eliminated the threat. Meanwhile your in the dark lite up like A Christmas tree and a perfect target. Also I think once that light hits you, your going to be stunned for a second or two. In that case only a fool would start shooting at a light. Also remember this , if your gonna just start shooting at the light you will need to pray it’s not some child with a flashlight.
Duty gun is an Beretta M9. Air Force policy forbids me from putting a light on the gun. Apparently I'll still be forbidden from using a WML even when we transition to the Sig M18. The DOD is filled with luddites. If you have a solution for that I'd really love to hear it.
@@graynotescartridgebox That probably would be easier than convince the brass that WMLs are a good idea.
Carry a WML in your pocket, put it on if you ever need it
Is that policy just for SecFo??? We have the SureFire lights and Safari Land holsters to accommodate them issued to us. We’ve already ordered the same holsters for the Sig as well.
When you do get an M18, just get an X300U and do it anyway. Worst comes to worst, put it on at the beginning of shift and take it off at the end. Screw what your leadership thinks. 9/10 they won’t even notice, unless you’ve got an inspection coming up. If you’re cool with the guys in the armory they won’t screw you over.
@Emmanuel Goldstein hes in the military. "Find another job," is not that easy. Switching jobs in the military is hard enough, and you can't just quit.
Needed to be said. Great job.
The problem i run into is that for those of us not carrying a glock, sw, or sig, holster options with lights are pretty limited. I often pocket carry do to my job and finfing a holster and light combo for a pocket pistol is all but impossible. I have done quite a bit of low light or no light shooting and a handheld flashlight sucks but it is do able. I have trained one handed and trained to drop a light for a good grip and both techniques are ok. I agree that a weapon mounted light is better but the 700-1000 dollars I would spend on a new gun, new optic, new light, new holster to maje it happen coukd be better spent on ammo and additional training using what I already have.
This is all referencing Concealed carry. All my HD firearms have mounted lights.
“If the need for violence is there, by all means be violent” 👍🏻 keep the videos coming.
Stand alone light works for me! Not planning on searching or clearing a room, I would turn on the lights and let an invader know that I know they are in my house, or hanging out in dark places. Having WML will give the bad guys your location and be a target for them. Shooting happens at close range 3' or 10' maybe 20', 20 feet would be questionable in the court of law.
Sounds like terrible thinking. Good luck.
Having a stand alone light will also give the bad guys your location.
@@Psychli all lights do that. In daylight they just shoot at you. That’s a pervasive myth that doesn’t pass the common sense test.
"...by all means be violent" 🤣🤣 love this
You had me at positive identification!
I can 95% agree. My only point with low light classes is that it seems a lot of places will only offer low light after all their other beginner, intermediate, advanced, etc are taken first.
I agree, that being said I have not be able to find a weapon mounted light for a xds, much less a holster with light for xds
I carry a compact Beretta with a very limited rail spac3. I have carried a tlr3 in the past, before I decided that I would rather carry a handheld with 4 to 10 times the output and not have to compromise on holster selection. That might change in the future, there's a couple new options on the market like the pl2 mini or tlr7 that look promising, and aftermarket support is improving, but for now, a thyrm switchback on a hlx gives me 90% of the capability and will wash out anything I put on the rail.
av willis the pl2 mini sucks rectum. It’s ok for Internal PID but that’s about it. You will get no control and pathetic throw outside.
If I was going to go with anything, it would probably be the tlr7. The problem is that I would need a custom key in order to make it work. Keep in mind that when I say improvements, it's relative to where compact lights were, the heat regulation alone is enough to turn me off.
Hi Aaron,
Once again, thanks a lot for your videos.
I fully agree with you, wml are mandatory. Im teaching classes, recommending my students to have two tactical lights (wml, handlded)
But, more recently, i had several conversations with French LE operators.
The fact is: if they want to respect their regulations, they cannot point their guns at someone, (during a control for instance)
So, they just put their WML in a specific kydex holster and use them as handlded. If they need it on their guns, they just fit them on their guns..
I got my opinion on that, but id be really interested to hear yours :)
Respectfully
That’s a novel concept, the idea that they would have the time and or ability to place a light in the heat of the moment is unrealistic, it sounds like a person saying I will put my seat belt on right before we crash.
Awesome video!
I understand what you are saying and completely agree with needing to be able to collect data to make the best choice possible. I do not carry a wml (I only have X300s) at appendix because of thickness of the holster. I put in the time on handhelds and can totally agree with wml are easier to use when shooting. Concealment is very important to me and a wml adds bulk to the holster no matter how big or small it is. Can I get away with carrying my X300s? Yes I could but the overall concealment decreases and maybe it’s not that big of a deal since I can already conceal very well but it’s something that I definitely notice. I’m not disagreeing with you to be rude I respect your teachings and have taken classes from you before and will continue to do so in the future. It’s hard to explain it all over text but hopefully you understand what I’m trying to say.
I carry every day at the Boulder store King Sooper. I happen to be off work that day and I was not in the vicinity when it happened but I do contemplate what my steps before law-enforcement…
Great video and very true.
I’ve been saying this for years. Every weapon I carry has a weapon mounted light on it...even my concealed carry and back up guns have them. Make sure the batteries are good, your lights work and don’t forget to bring reloads.
I have a TLR6 on my 43. Its definitely anemic. I haven't tried it yet and if it works a special holster would have to be made, but I bought a "Recover Tactical Glock 43 Picatinny Rail Adapter " It lets railed lights attach onto a 43.
Matt Wyatt I need to check this out for my 43X. Thanks for sharing.
@@possumtrotranch I got the PL mini 2 as well as the recover tactical adapter for my 43x. Now just in a holster for it I'm looking at this one. www.triadholsters.com/kydex-holster-glock-43x-and-olight-pl-mini2-perses-iwb-inside-the-waistband/
Great vid. You present in a logical, rational manner. Very refreshing, enjoyed it immensely. Question for you - with WML, need for night sights is negated to a degree (you mentioned finding your gun in the dark as one reason), meaning fiber optic is an option (which helps with my 47 y/o eyes). What are your thoughts on this? If you’ve got another video, reference and I’ll check it out. Thx
If I don't have a light bearing holster yet, is the streamlight hlx - 1h easy to put on and take off fast, so I can have it on while it's on my nighstand until my holster arrives?
It’s too bad your channel doesn’t get the love that some of the more..shall we say entertainment gun channels get. The world doesn’t understand we are the ones keeping new stuff in their hands. (Left handers) haha. Real practical information here. Thanks Aaron
"It's your responsibility to not shoot the wrong fucking people" this should be a motto for everyone that carrys a gun. In a defensive situation, there's more people that don't need a bullet in them than those that do.
Fairbanks Alaska during winter, definitely mandatory.
Excellent video....
In my experience night sights work great at dusk/sunrise when the light is just at that weird level that your wml isn't all that helpful. For me my eyes pick up the glow of them just fine.
You didn't watch the video
@@NOT-FINANCIAL-ADVICE. no I did.
Night sights don’t give you information about the target, just where the sights are. You can (and should) have both.
Great carry piece! What holster do you utilize? Still Guncraft?
I was really disappointed the new G48 doesnt have a rail for a light. But I get the point is to be slim, but Id love to see a super slim but relatively powerful light come out for it.
Emmanuel Goldstein you are an absolute fucking idiot.
G48 MOS has a rail.
I agree 100% i got lights on all my firearms i carry and I for sure need to go take a low light course or any defensive course really cause I'm 100% self taught!
@SAGEDYNAMICS What are you EDC sights for a comped glock with a WML?? Fiber Optics?
What holster are you running for that 19x / 300x combo?
The only self defense handgun I own that I won't run a light on is my Wilson 92c, because style points. Also the reason that it is primarily a BBQ gun and range toy. I stopped carrying my 43 with the lack of light availability and round coung and went back to a standard compact handgun.
My great uncle shot his daughter by mistake in the dark back in the sixties. She was coming back inside after taking a new dog outside late at night. Killed her. Terrible accident.
I DO think WML are required for Home Defense, and for LE/.mil...all topics which you focus on.
As far as I know Tom Givens' did the largest study on weapon lights, and he determined that in CCW shootings, a weapon light was NEVER needed...in every instant when people had to defend themself from someone, there was enough residual light (from streetlights or whatever) that no WML was necessary. Not one.
Despite all the focus on LE and .mil tactics, Givens' fame comes from focusing on civilian shootings (and he has a very good record of students winning gunfights). Of course, this was just citizens defending themselves in the real world. This is the problem with the disconnect between citizens CCWing out of the house and LE/.mil.
“It’s the stakes not the odds.”
I been waiting on this topic. I just had a discussion with a friend about this and he was saying how you wont ever need a wml in a self defense encounter because of the speed that things happen i kinda agree and disagree but any firearm i carry will always have a light on it just because it cant hurt
Better to have it then not. Preparation is everything.
Not to dog your friend, but the argument does not make sense. Because things can happen quickly, we shouldn't try to PID a potential target? That is the exact reason to do so, so we can determine if the target needs rounds or is an unexpected friend, loved one or innocent nonthreat stranger. His response feels like blaze away and hope for the best.
I kind of agree with your friend. Having the gun on them and a good draw is what most people need. To me it seems like most of the SELF DEFENSE situations I could envision needing a light it would probably be more prudent to retreat to a safer location than try to identify a threat. You can't prepare for everything and we all have different comfort levels and sense of perceived risk. I am not so tightly wound that I think there is any chance of me shooting an unexpected friend. If I were that worried about being prepared for everything I would wear a helmet when driving my car.
I do carry a weapon mounted light. Glock 19 with RMR and TLR-1 HL. That being said, with my body type, it doesn’t hide nearly as well as it does when I don’t carry the light. The holster search continues...
I've got a Phlster Floodlight on the way that I'm excited to try. Check it out.
Emmanuel Goldstein nah dude I’m more worried about getting expelled from college when I’m rocking that shit in math class
My gtw rifle and my main pistol all have lights....and I have had formal training live fire wise. I did a ton of airsoft though, low light stuff too. I know the value of it and how to use from all that kind of experience. I know airsoft doesn't correlate 100% at all. But in case you can't find a class it's not a bad thing
This is facts. Found it out the hard way
Unfortunately my CZ PCR does not have a rail. I've been looking into grabbing a P-01 so that I can mount a light.
Towards the end it sounded as if you did not prefer night sights. Do you think a WML with fiber optic is a superior combination for defensive use?
As Aaron eluded to, the light washes out the tritium and are therefore not preforming. Unsure of the title, but he does talk about sights in another video. Though mrds are all the rage these days.
I know several cops with 20+ years of experience that claim they have never turned on their weapon mounted lights
Excellent reason to have a WML
I love the aplc and if I wanted bigger I would pick the Valerie olight .
Any advice for a new LEO (about 1 year on the job) at a department that currently doesn't allow WMLs? (Technically there is policy allowing officers to carry WMLs but only after completing a department provided training course that currently doesn't exist and has no firm timeline for its creation). I have a background utilizing WMLs from time in the military, but feel like I'm too low on the totem pole at this (not-small) department to go straight to the chief or lead firearms instructor with my concerns.
If you are curious, I believe the prohibition on WMLs is based on the asinine belief held by the brass that officers will use WMLs to check licenses on a traffic stop, conduct HGN tests, and all other manner of shenanigans.
@Emmanuel Goldstein thank you for your helpful advice...
I've been saying this about WML for a carry gun for years. I've also been made fun of for it for just as long. It's also not allowed while I carry at work doing armed security as per our head trainer's directive on the matter.
This is situation specific.
I'm literally never outside of my house at night. Every once in a while, I might find myself coming home from work at dusk. There is a zero chance of me entering my (presumably) occupied house if there are obvious signs of forced entry. If there aren't signs of forced entry, the first thing I'm doing is turning on a light. It would stand to reason, therefore, that I have no actual need to spend the time and money reoutfitting myself for a weapon mounted light that I would never use. What very little work I do at night, I can't take a gun to because it's always schools.
If your activities do find you in darkness often, then yes, I would agree it's mandatory. To blanket the statement, however, I would say no. It's not mandatory.
This is, of course, referencing concealed carry. Home defense is a completely different animal. If the carry gun is also the primary home defense gun, then yes. In my case, it isn't.
Tristan H it’s still mandatory. You cannot predict the future, only likelihood based on normal patterns. You don’t have to agree with me. It’s perfectly okay not to.
Never know what strang random one off situation may make you need to go out at night some day.
I think it comes down to sacrifices. Guys who carry, make them all the time. Dudes carry owb for comfort even though they know Iwb conceals better. They'll carry a G43 or G26 even though they know a G17 would be better in the event of a gunfight. Soft loops on holsters are way more reliable than clips and J-hooks but people get lazy and run the clips that are easier to attach. We seem to weigh our options a lot and then settle.
I conceal and carry a Gen 5 Glock 45 chambered in 9X19 aka 9mm Luger and have a Sure Fire X400 laser/light combo. The light puts out 1,000 lumens and even in broad daylight, will greatly hinder an individuals vision if the light is shown in their eyes.
Jason Ralston I got a TLR7 for flush mount fit and it's still plenty bright