Mark Flowers

Screaming toward retirement age my eyesight is not what it used to be. I fully agree with the author, practice is critical. I feel compelled to provide my two cents here for the novices who are considering their carry weapon and what accessories to include.
First, my old boss, US Army SF retired, (yes he survived 14 years in the SF), always frowned on lasers because he advised looking for the dot took precious time away from target acquisition. Combat situations last seconds, and what is done/not done in those seconds could mean who wins, you or the bad guy.
Second, on one of my toys, Kel-Tec PLR16 I mounted a green dot, thought it would help with distance shots. Just before the battery failed my Marine friend, who was skeptical about the application, was firing the pistol and using the laser was all over the target. Turning the laser off and using iron sights he grouped well with the pistol. While cleaning the pistol I removed the battery and discovered recoil had shook the laser loose from the adjusting screws, which had been carefully tightened after sighting in. (This is not my carry weapon, I depend on a 1911, and Glock with a LCP2 backup).
While at the range I see shooters using lasers and the dot wandering around the target. Their shot groups also seem to be everywhere. I know everybody has not been shooting 40 plus years and are just trying to figure it all out.
To summarize, even if you decide to have a red dot with a flashlight and a laser, Go Practice! Use your weak hand and one hand and become proficient with all. The recent article I read saddened me when I heard there are CCW folks out there that have Never fired their weapon. Stay Safe!