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Which optics-ready pistol?

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jonoMT View Drop Down
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    Posted: October/06/2016 at 10:44
Starting to do some research into this. So far the Glock MOS models and Sig P320 seem to get mentioned most, while the Springfield XDM OSP didn't really come up in the few articles/reviews I've read so far. I'm not even sure any but the Glock are actually available yet.

I'm inclined towards the G19 9mm in this case anyway because this is intended to be a light carry gun.
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Rancid Coolaid View Drop Down
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Rancid Coolaid Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: October/06/2016 at 11:03
So...several things.

1.  What is your experience with a dot-mounted pistol?  Most I know that have run them (I should say, those who wanted them more than needed them) lost interest quick.  It changes the mechanics of your sighting entirely.  If this is for coolness factor, carry on; if you "need it", definitely go for it; if it is for occasional carry and range and goofing around, it will probably be gathering dust soon.

2.  The addition of an optic moves it quickly away from "light carry." Some optics are bigger than others, holsters aren't as plentiful, and the guns "feels" different while carrying.

3.  Be ready to practice, practice, practice if you wish to become proficient.

4.  The Glocks have been around longest, but the others are available.  I've played with a few  - stock glocks, heavily modded glocks, a few FNs, and a few 1911 race guns.  I own a G22 (with 9mm conversion barrel) and a G34.  One with RMR, one with Burris.  The RMR is a suppressor host and is entirely used for night vision, suppressed applications - and at that it does very well.  The G34 is for playing around, it is big, the recoil is funny mild, and the optic works well for that application.  I wouldn't put the Burris on a defense weapon; and on the RMRs it is a tossup, but I like the duel illum a bit better than the LED if only for the "on/off" switch that ain't on the duel.

Hope that helps.  If you have specific questions, send them.
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jonoMT View Drop Down
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote jonoMT Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: October/06/2016 at 12:12
Thanks for the comments. It's one of those situations where I won't know until I try it. I'm going to talk to a couple guys I know, see if they have one or if any local places have one I can try out.

I can see where the bulk/form factor is going to change things, but when you say it's different in carrying is it just because of that? Seems like weight is minimal on those optics...mostly around an ounce.

I had to practice, practice, practice to become proficient with a .40 SW G22 with factory sights too. So I'm prepared to do that. But now you have me wondering if this is not an improvement over iron sights.

What I'm hearing is that I really need to get behind one and do some shooting before just blindly assuming it's a good investment.
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Rancid Coolaid Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: October/06/2016 at 14:54
If you can shoot one first, it would be good.  The real issue comes with window size.  Many users, when presenting, cannot find the dot in the small window.  With a rifle, the problem doesn't exist - or if it does, it is very mild; with a pistol, if you do not present in exactly the same way each time, the dot is nowhere to be seen.  And that is a problem.

Training overcomes this, but it is an issue for many, if not most.

That said, once you overcome, the overwhelming majorityare faster on first shot placement and follow-up shots.  It is indeed faster than traditional sights, but it takes some acclimating - and lots of practice, dry fire and live.


On the changes to carry, it depends on how you carry.  If you usually wear an IWB or OTB holster strong side, the optic will hit you weird for awhile, but you get used to it. It just feels like the gun isn't seated in the holster correct.  If it is on a duty belt, no problem.  If you carry weak side, also not as much of an issue.
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