This video was so encouraging. I've taken a long time to save up for my rifle as I'm married with Children and I'm always on a budget. I was only able to afford to put backup iron sights on it and have been practicing with those for a while now until I can afford a scope or red dot. Now I'm just going to wait even longer.
I got a used AR15 with no name red dot that I don’t want to trust. These videos and this comment helped me tremendously remove it tonight. Range next weekend on iron from here on out until I can buy a nice dot.
@@Avicados you can get a decent red dot from Holosun that won’t break the bank I know budget is subjective but you can get a decent dot from them for like 200-250
Preach the truth Reid. When I attended Rifleman 1 there were a couple of new shooters (husband & wife) who ran a basic AR-15 and an AK-47. Both had iron sights and both were ringing steel way out there. It's doable within the confines of a two day class like Rifleman 1. Get on it y'all.
Back in the 80's Infantry soldiers in the Army at least used iron sights first on M16A1's then A2's , you didn't use any kind of optic until or unless you moved into the Special Operations community . Even there you were expected to be proficient with iron sights on your weapons .Also what needs to be remembered is even a small red dot is a 2 MOA circle which isn't really anymore accuracy than you'd get from standard mil-spec irons .
It’s more accurate because you get more leeway and your alignment doesn’t have to be as precise behind the optic that and adjusting the brightness down will make the dot appear smaller and allow you to be more precise
I'm 53 but my eyesight isn't what it used to be, and same same. Especially at night. Even with a weapon light that iron sight is not easy to see. Remember when we were young and used to make fun of our older parents for being far-sighted? My dad always said I would regret it. Haha he was right like always.
I hear you, Sir, and I can commiserate. You might look into Tech Sights peep hole sights. They'll put that rear aperture MUCH closer to your eyes and clear your sight picture considerably, plus, they never need batteries!
I have a different take on this topic. I consider 3 factors . 1. Maintenance- Iron wins here as they don't require batteries to operate. 2. Range- Short range no difference, Mid Range Iron has slight edge due to speed. Long Range Red Dot has edge due to optic. 3. Training required to get proficient. Red Dot wins here. Of course you can train with Iron and become proficient it just takes a lot longer. Based on these it would be good to train on Iron for long term SHTF or WROL situation where technology is not available. However preparing for upcoming conflicts with our own government I would air on the side of Red Dot for the learning curve and train-ability.
M&P’s are selling now for between $1500 and $2500 on GunBroker. Insane where we’ve gone in just one year. For me, I no longer possess my 20/10 eye site and at 63 years of age, I now have multiple sites on my weapons to afford me a variety of options, all of which are effective. I even have one setup with all three site options - scope, red dot and iron sites. Interestingly, I have the scope on top with the iron sites at a right 45 degree offset and the red dot 🔴 on the left at a 45 degree offset. While looking through the scope down range with my dominant right eye 👁, it is an easy transition to the red dot with my left eye for closer shots.
Add another to the "used to love irons but can't see them anymore" club. AR15 sights are too close to me now that I need to wear magnified reading glasses. AK sights...love them, but the red dot on either just works for me now that I'm past 50. It also is more like a star bit I still get hits consistently with less eye strain.
Hey Reed. I think as far as a red dot goes, the advantage comes with situational awareness. I understand take your shot then ho back to ready, but at distance, especially with aging eyes (I'm 50 now) it seems easier to have situational awareness with a red dot superimposed so I don't have to stare at a front sight, and can watch what I'm shooting at. I do agree with you about staying fresh with irons. It just seems easier for my aging eyes to use a red dot.
Shot iron sights on the M16A2 in the Singapore army in the 1980s. No problems hitting a man-sized target out to 300 m. I think the best sights are those you can comfortably and reliably use. My younger buddies in the army are now using a bullpup rifle, with an optical sight. What can I say? I'll choose my M16A2 with iron sights and the young ones can use their bullpup with optical sights. We'll both do well when we put in enough training.
I am amazed at the number of folks running AR's that have not zeroed them .. red dot or irons .. obviously that is not the case with you .. good concise video .. have a great year .. Scott
Thanks for the content Mr. Henrichs. I wish I could take your classes but in the meantime your video content has helped me tremendously. World needs more men like you
Or when rounds are being flung back. (aka Under Stress) However, let's also test this when the dot battery is dead or as diving to prone you bang those sexy red dots on a rock knocking them off zero. Run BOTH, be proficient with BOTH, under ALL circumstances.
@@johnniewasr5740 This law in VA is a perfect example. It went through the proper process, is in the books, and is now the law. It's unconstitutional and shouldn't be obeyed, but it's still the law. Hopefully the Supreme Court gets off its ass and fixes that mess. And hopefully we get a constitutionalist justice next term.
@@heythere4970 It may be a law, but it is an illegitimate law. An unconstitutional *law* is not a law at all. At least that is how I feel and how many, many more Patriots feel as well.
I learned basic marksmanship many years ago in the Marines using iron sights. That's all we had. We learned about the "clear tip of the front sight post", etc. But now, at 64, for me the clear tip of the front sight post is now a "fuzzy tip". My old eyes appreciate any help they can get.
I just began using my first red dot that my FIL gave to me, I've only used iron sights or scopes on my guns up until now. One thing I love is that you can keep both eyes open, and for me, it decreases flinching. Something about having your eyes unsquinted, fully focused on the target, almost glaring at it. And I'm a lefty with an ar-15 that has the scaled down brass deflector, so the brass gets pretty close to my face. :)
Mr Henrichs I LOVE your vids especially the insight they give, "7 yards this could be a typical room engagment". OH DEAR not for us Brits on our crowded little island, with our little houses. Good stuff though as always thank you for this vid and for your time and effort. Also HAPPY NEW YEAR..... may your future be un-eventfully, peasefull and successfull.
I mustered on the Lexington Green that morning with the rest of my company. I was determined not to retreat for any reason. When ordered to disperse I remained in place with my flint and ammo on the ground in my hat. I was hit in the second volley and knocked to the ground. As I tried to reload, I was bayoneted by the Redcoats and died on the Green. - Jonas Parker, Lexington. (QS)
Something I tell a lot of people as it's come with the time and experience is that the fundamentals of Red Dot/Reflex/Holographic Sights and Iron Sight are the same. The concept is for short range, quick target acquisition. Most Red Dots tend to have a more open objective which means a wider FOV when looking down the sight. The principle is also to shoot with both eyes open and it's usually much quicker for my eyes as well as others to find that dot than to find sight alignment. There's plenty of application for iron sights and they arent useless or anything, but for any situation you can use irons at, the Red Dot will work just as well as your time trial showed, but at longer distances it will work more to your advantage as long as you have chosen the right size dot. If you're running a 5 MOA dot on a red dot and shooting at 100 yards or beyond, it can be done but you'll be a lot less precise than running say a 3 MOA or 1 MOA dot. Likewise, a smaller dot like that up close will be harder to pick up than a larger one. But this is no different than say iron sights with a dual position sight for close/long range. In general, I prefer the Red Dot for a variety of reasons but I also believe having a pair of back up sights would be wise. There are plenty of good iron sight options out there too which fundamentally function as most Red Dots do such as XS Sights with their Big Dot line and the likes. There are plenty of other good examples but that's one of the easiest to make. End of the day though, use what you got, use it well, and I dont think you'll go wrong.
I prefer old carry handle irons. Don’t really like red dots or optics. I genuinely enjoy the art and skill of learning the fundamentals of getting good with irons and breathing and holds and just all of it. I’m a new shooter. About 2 years now. But I been hitting decent groups at 200 yards now. Been practicing for 2 years with irons
KEY POINT!!! If it's raining sideways (or snowing this time of year) red dot has lenses that get obstructed. Irons just need a quick blow and they're good to go.
Reid I recently completed a build identical to your 20 inch setup you did a couple years back, I run irons/carry handle on it and feel the longer sight radius helps with quicker target acquisition not red dot fast but still very useable.
I use a 2x7 scope with a solid QD mount. A2 front sight post, Matech rear peep. Works great. I have nothing against red dots, but I like the scope and irons better. Good video
I'll have to concur with many of the comments, I like both. But I think it's important to start with iron sights, that way you learn the basic principles, and hopefully keep a set of irons on your rifle just in case.
As Reid is stating, it's whatever you get comfortable with,,, Set Down, Snap In, and Practice, Practice, Practice. That what the Marine Corps teaches. I went though Paris Island in 1977, platoon 3037, and run my rifle drills a couple time a week, then pistol drill along side that. So keep sharp, and proficient, and for the newbies Reid Henrichs has OUTSTANDING training courses, and is an Outstanding PMI (Primary Marksman Instructor). God Speed, God Bless, and God Bless the Marine Corps,,,,,, 🇺🇸 Semper Fi,,,
One thing brother, I'm 56 now and I used to iron shoot with anybody, but now my eyes ain't what they used to be. I started using a scope and it really does help. I bought a red dot and I can hit out to 100 with it consistently. When I can get a 200 yd lane on my property, I'll see if I can use the red dot or if I am going to have to go with my scope!
I have both. For me, someone with astigmatism in my dominant eye, it helps to have a crisp red dot. I’m simply not good with those peep iron sights, or most iron sights. But at least I have them for a backup 😉🇺🇸
Im a iron sight guy, but not at 200 yards. I can't see 200 yards, I have to use magnification to even make out the target. Guess I need to go back to the eye Dr.
I like irons a lot too, but I don't care for the A1 style irons. Once you go past 300 meters, it makes it makes hitting the target much more difficult. I prefer to run the A2 style sights and use the drum as intended. For optics I prefer a fixed power scope, I find them more rugged and less things to worry about vs a variable ffp/sfp optic. But use what works for you, everyone has different preferences and what works best for them.
I remember hitting the big target at Parris Island (iirc 24”x36”) about the size of the avg man’s torso at 500m with just peep sights. Same target standing freehand at 200m...the good ole days
I dropped EoTech two or three years ago when they admitted their sights were subject to a drift caused by weather temps. I shoot from MN to AZ and had always thought I must have bumped it somehow to lose zero over the years. At least they bought it back from me...that was cool. I switched to Aimpoint PRO and like it even better...I use a Vortex flip up magnifier at distance shooting. Good combination. For all those geezers with poor eyesight...get checked for cataracts and have the surgery done. It's absolutely life changing!
I recently purchased a rifle and I really want to learn the iron sights first before I out an optic on it. I have hunted game all my life, I'm 44 years old, and I'm just getting in to the AR-15 platform. I have ordered some ammunition and plan on learning the platform as best I can.
When you get older and focus range changes, red dots can be very beneficial. I moved away from red dots to optics that run true 1X up to 6X or 8X. Gives a great amount of flexibility.
Reid...I know you’ve probably answered this question a thousand times in previous videos, but what do you recommend for a flash light mount for standard hand guards? I can’t justify a quad rail for just one attachment.
I realize that you are not asking for my opinion or a parts list but... I can't resist butting in since I can't recommend this combination of parts enough. (#1)"Midwest Industries Tactical Light Mount #MCTAR-01G2" (#2)"Vltor Scout Mount 1 Inch SM-1" (#3)"Surefire G2X Tactical"
A Magpul MOE guard has Mlok so that makes it pretty easy to mount almost anything. I did the quad rail on a rifle and while it did work just fine, the biggest advantage is the ability to use real rubber rail covers that protect your hands from the heat much better than any keymod or Mlok covers.
I use both, have both on a 300 blk pistol, and can use a 3x on there as well. I can see better with the 3x behind the red dot. But, only shoot 200 yards at my current range. There are some rear sights with elevation drums, I have one myself. I imagine those could be more accurate at distance, vs a red dot. That would also depend on ones vision, lighting, and target size.
In my experience, gun-games on a manicured range aren't the same thing as practical shooting in the real world. go over to inrangetv, their comps are fairly realistic, and you see that the difference between "Open" an "Classic" type classes isn't that much (with plenty of "open" competitors placing below the classic guys). shoot, in one of the comps, Karl runs a Win 1873 and a ww1 1911 and places well in the overall standings vs guys with tricked out ar's. it should also be noted that those guys (Ian and Karl) are not world class shooters (and don't claim to be), just guys that really like to shoot.
I do practice with iron sights more but I noticed my vision is getting worse with age. It's not terrible yet but noticeably worse than used to be so using iron sights is getting more difficult especially in low light conditions. Red dots makes this easier. But - this makes me practice with irons even more as I think one can train his eyes to some extent and slow down vision decline.
I put a cheap tasco propoint red dot on my Ruger mark III Hunter 22 pistol because the iron sights would completly hide Squirrels when I would Squirrel hunt with it ,the red dot really made all a big change in the outcome of a hunt for me .I bagged over 40 Squirrels that season with that pistol .I have went too a Bushnell handgun scope and it shoots even tighter groups with that .but the red dot really was a help for me when I needed it.
It's special because it's a S&W. I've had my Sport since 2012. Love it. Depends what you train with the most. I've always used iron sights and always will >:0
Hi Reid, I e got a question. I am running a EOtech and a 4x side flip magnifier. I'm running the EOtech as far forward as possible without mounting it to my forend rail. When I mount the magnifier I do not have room to mount flip up iron sights. I even tried to mount it backwards, nothing works. Any suggestions would be great. Thanks Reid
I love all the sighting systems. That's why I have 3 AR's, open sight, red dot that cowitness with irons, and the other with a fixed power optic. Now I need to build another so I can have a lpvo, lol.
I just close my eyes and spray and pray....lol I run a aimpoint micro. But when I shoot anything over 100yds I look through my back sight and use my red dot, it sharpens up the dot and crips it up... I have bad astigmatism try it out it works!
Reid, I use a EoTech, when I stow my weapon at the end of the day, I flip up the FRONT BUIS ( HK style from a SIG 16). When I use the weapon light, its like a red dot. I can shoot during the day with just the front sight sight up and hit what I aim at... I think this deserves consideration.
I put a 2x7 leupold scope on my AR15. It stays balls on over time,And it helps me identify specific target zones. For example a deer can move in these virginia woods and be practically invisible at 50 yards in the woods. I can make out targets and blow off top of skull. At room clearing distances i just point with my left index finger and i can destroy a head size target in a fraction of a second.
Thank you for this video. I absolutely HATE the AR platform as I grew up shooting bolt action and lever action rifles. This video is encouraging because I now feel empowered to do what works for me and not what everyone says I “should” do. So...the optic is coming off, as well as that uncomfortable-ass cheese grater hand guard, and I’m ditching the single point sling. Now if I can just find a decent stock for this thing I might actually enjoy shooting it a little bit....
my big issue is the little moment before you see the dot as you raise it up very stressful moment and sometimes I'm searching for that mofo in contrast, you have to align iron sights as well, but you see them 100% of the time; you don't have to search, only align
I hunted with a .30.30 using nothing but iron sights. I have 4 ARs and three have red dots and one has a lpvo scope. I have never used the iron sights on any of my ARs. I really need to learn to use them
I think the main argument with red dots vs irons is the overall ability and ease use of the red dot. Obviously you can be just as fast with irons at 7 yards, Even at distance on a range day. But in a stressful life threatening situation, optics are always going to be better. At night, optics are going to be better. Shooting in anything other than a perfect position, a red dot is definitely going to be better. Not arguing against the fact that proper technique does definitely matter. Just giving my 2 cents and from use and experience is all.
You brought 1 thing to my attention for myself. I put the buttstock on different area's of my shoulder when I wear body armor. After seeing this I'm going to try and correct that but the armor seems to get in my way when I wear it.
This may be a dumb question, but do you have to aim higher at closer ranges with your iron sights, as you would need to for an optic/red-dot to accommodate for the sight-over-bore?
The advantage of a red dot over irons simply comes down to science because you don’t have to shift your focus back and forth from as many different focal plains it allows you to get on target faster that’s not to say you can’t get fast with irons but if your fast with those imagine how much quicker you can be with a red dot especially if you train with it
Looking to get a nice set of irons, any recommendations? Right now im thinking the daniel defense fixed sights are the ones to get (~150) or the fixed scalarworks peak sights (~260). Anything helps!
I just watched colion do video on red dots on pistols. I've learned alot just from a thread on how they're easier to use for bad vision as you get older.
Love shooting iron sights. There's just something appealing/pleasing when shooting with them.
They don't require a battery to function. I like old style, my opinion. In the long run, what ever you are most comfortable with and works for you.
@Eugene Stoner I have and shoot both. Thanks. My setup is very similar to Reid's red dot set-up.
This video was so encouraging. I've taken a long time to save up for my rifle as I'm married with Children and I'm always on a budget. I was only able to afford to put backup iron sights on it and have been practicing with those for a while now until I can afford a scope or red dot. Now I'm just going to wait even longer.
Less is more. You can do a lot with what you have. All the best
I got a used AR15 with no name red dot that I don’t want to trust. These videos and this comment helped me tremendously remove it tonight. Range next weekend on iron from here on out until I can buy a nice dot.
@@Avicados you can get a decent red dot from Holosun that won’t break the bank I know budget is subjective but you can get a decent dot from them for like 200-250
Train.....Train... Train....!!!!!!! is ALL you need
Forgo the optic altogether and instead spend a fraction of the price on a set of high-quality fixed iron sights.
Preach the truth Reid. When I attended Rifleman 1 there were a couple of new shooters (husband & wife) who ran a basic AR-15 and an AK-47. Both had iron sights and both were ringing steel way out there. It's doable within the confines of a two day class like Rifleman 1. Get on it y'all.
Back in the 80's Infantry soldiers in the Army at least used iron sights first on M16A1's then A2's , you didn't use any kind of optic until or unless you moved into the Special Operations community . Even there you were expected to be proficient with iron sights on your weapons .Also what needs to be remembered is even a small red dot is a 2 MOA circle which isn't really anymore accuracy than you'd get from standard mil-spec irons .
It’s more accurate because you get more leeway and your alignment doesn’t have to be as precise behind the optic that and adjusting the brightness down will make the dot appear smaller and allow you to be more precise
I've grown to love the traditional A2 sights.
Right on time Reid! I just picked up a new AR today and vowed to run irons for a while! Thanks for cosigning my plan!!
I've got 70 year old eyes (along with the rest of me) and I have a hard time picking up the rear aperture.
Red dot helps me quite a bit.
I'm 53 but my eyesight isn't what it used to be, and same same. Especially at night. Even with a weapon light that iron sight is not easy to see.
Remember when we were young and used to make fun of our older parents for being far-sighted? My dad always said I would regret it. Haha he was right like always.
I hear you, Sir, and I can commiserate. You might look into Tech Sights peep hole sights. They'll put that rear aperture MUCH closer to your eyes and clear your sight picture considerably, plus, they never need batteries!
I hear ya. I'm 68 & most days feel like I was shot out of a canon for a living. But it's still fun.
@@MyBacktrail I see 6 to 7 dots, a few will fade in and out, I wonder which one is the real one?
FRONT SIGHT FRONT SIGHT FRONT SIGHT!! Focus only on the FRONT SIGHT. Thats a FACT.
It is so awesome what you are teaching people in your country.
I have a different take on this topic. I consider 3 factors .
1. Maintenance- Iron wins here as they don't require batteries to operate.
2. Range- Short range no difference, Mid Range Iron has slight edge due to speed. Long Range Red Dot has edge due to optic.
3. Training required to get proficient. Red Dot wins here. Of course you can train with Iron and become proficient it just takes a lot longer.
Based on these it would be good to train on Iron for long term SHTF or WROL situation where technology is not available. However preparing for upcoming conflicts with our own government I would air on the side of Red Dot for the learning curve and train-ability.
Love that saying "technique over technology "...I need to come to valor ridge for training soon.
Jonesy 22 Just make sure you have a stock factory rifle without modifications.
@@JS-.- hear that...easy to do when have no money though lmao...I do like the k.i.s.s. method on things anyhow...
M&P’s are selling now for between $1500 and $2500 on GunBroker. Insane where we’ve gone in just one year. For me, I no longer possess my 20/10 eye site and at 63 years of age, I now have multiple sites on my weapons to afford me a variety of options, all of which are effective. I even have one setup with all three site options - scope, red dot and iron sites. Interestingly, I have the scope on top with the iron sites at a right 45 degree offset and the red dot 🔴 on the left at a 45 degree offset. While looking through the scope down range with my dominant right eye 👁, it is an easy transition to the red dot with my left eye for closer shots.
Hi Reid... great video. I just read your American Rifleman book in about 4 days!!
Excellent demonstration Reid.
I keep backup iron sights on my rifles, but I'm older so I really need the optics for FAST sight acquisition!!
@lane johnson you have an astigmatism very common
@lane johnson Maybe try a prism sight
Add another to the "used to love irons but can't see them anymore" club. AR15 sights are too close to me now that I need to wear magnified reading glasses. AK sights...love them, but the red dot on either just works for me now that I'm past 50. It also is more like a star bit I still get hits consistently with less eye strain.
Hey Reed. I think as far as a red dot goes, the advantage comes with situational awareness. I understand take your shot then ho back to ready, but at distance, especially with aging eyes (I'm 50 now) it seems easier to have situational awareness with a red dot superimposed so I don't have to stare at a front sight, and can watch what I'm shooting at. I do agree with you about staying fresh with irons. It just seems easier for my aging eyes to use a red dot.
OUTSTANDING Reid !!
THANK YOU !!
Excellent read on BOTH books !!
Semper Fidelis
Shot iron sights on the M16A2 in the Singapore army in the 1980s. No problems hitting a man-sized target out to 300 m. I think the best sights are those you can comfortably and reliably use. My younger buddies in the army are now using a bullpup rifle, with an optical sight. What can I say? I'll choose my M16A2 with iron sights and the young ones can use their bullpup with optical sights. We'll both do well when we put in enough training.
On a man sized target, sure. But you'll never have a man sized target in real life.
Great video. Thanks Reid.
I am amazed at the number of folks running AR's that have not zeroed them .. red dot or irons .. obviously that is not the case with you .. good concise video .. have a great year .. Scott
It's tough keeping up with the Joneses lol everyone has a new optic every year. I have a few myself but I always go back to my irons
Thanks for the content Mr. Henrichs. I wish I could take your classes but in the meantime your video content has helped me tremendously. World needs more men like you
Lets see this comparison under stress in dark/low light on a moving target.
Hahaha. Good point
Exactly. No doubt I agree with almost anything he's saying about technique but a dot or lpvo is so much easier, especially if you have "technique".
Yup...T-Rex Arms has a good video demonstrating this, it's a pretty good drill to practice if you have the time and place to set it up.
Or when rounds are being flung back. (aka Under Stress) However, let's also test this when the dot battery is dead or as diving to prone you bang those sexy red dots on a rock knocking them off zero. Run BOTH, be proficient with BOTH, under ALL circumstances.
Regaina Young
I’ll probably soil myself.
That rifle will be illegal in VA if the governor gets his way, let's all hope he don't.
No it won’t. The 2A is the law. The only way it’s illegal is if you’re willing to give the tyrants the power over you to say so and believe it.
@@BretAllenStudios What's legal and what's constitutional are sadly too often different things.
@@heythere4970 No they aren't. If something isn't Constitutional, it isn't legal...*period*
@@johnniewasr5740 This law in VA is a perfect example. It went through the proper process, is in the books, and is now the law. It's unconstitutional and shouldn't be obeyed, but it's still the law. Hopefully the Supreme Court gets off its ass and fixes that mess. And hopefully we get a constitutionalist justice next term.
@@heythere4970 It may be a law, but it is an illegitimate law. An unconstitutional *law* is not a law at all. At least that is how I feel and how many, many more Patriots feel as well.
I learned basic marksmanship many years ago in the Marines using iron sights. That's all we had. We learned about the "clear tip of the front sight post", etc. But now, at 64, for me the clear tip of the front sight post is now a "fuzzy tip". My old eyes appreciate any help they can get.
I just began using my first red dot that my FIL gave to me, I've only used iron sights or scopes on my guns up until now. One thing I love is that you can keep both eyes open, and for me, it decreases flinching. Something about having your eyes unsquinted, fully focused on the target, almost glaring at it. And I'm a lefty with an ar-15 that has the scaled down brass deflector, so the brass gets pretty close to my face. :)
Mr Henrichs I LOVE your vids especially the insight they give, "7 yards this could be a typical room engagment". OH DEAR not for us Brits on our crowded little island, with our little houses. Good stuff though as always thank you for this vid and for your time and effort. Also HAPPY NEW YEAR..... may your future be un-eventfully, peasefull and successfull.
Reid rocks
Thank Reid for the wealth of knowledge. I truly respect and admire you.
I mustered on the Lexington Green that morning with the rest of my company. I was determined not to retreat for any reason. When ordered to disperse I remained in place with my flint and ammo on the ground in my hat. I was hit in the second volley and knocked to the ground. As I tried to reload, I was bayoneted by the Redcoats and died on the Green. - Jonas Parker, Lexington.
(QS)
No shit?
Real men gave their lives so that we could have the freedoms of a constitutional republic.
D Rock 75. If he died on the green how did he write the story?
Thank you for all you do sir.
"A tenth of a second is nothing to write home about".....famous last words. :P
Love this; technique over technology. Thanks Reid
Something I tell a lot of people as it's come with the time and experience is that the fundamentals of Red Dot/Reflex/Holographic Sights and Iron Sight are the same. The concept is for short range, quick target acquisition. Most Red Dots tend to have a more open objective which means a wider FOV when looking down the sight. The principle is also to shoot with both eyes open and it's usually much quicker for my eyes as well as others to find that dot than to find sight alignment.
There's plenty of application for iron sights and they arent useless or anything, but for any situation you can use irons at, the Red Dot will work just as well as your time trial showed, but at longer distances it will work more to your advantage as long as you have chosen the right size dot. If you're running a 5 MOA dot on a red dot and shooting at 100 yards or beyond, it can be done but you'll be a lot less precise than running say a 3 MOA or 1 MOA dot. Likewise, a smaller dot like that up close will be harder to pick up than a larger one. But this is no different than say iron sights with a dual position sight for close/long range.
In general, I prefer the Red Dot for a variety of reasons but I also believe having a pair of back up sights would be wise. There are plenty of good iron sight options out there too which fundamentally function as most Red Dots do such as XS Sights with their Big Dot line and the likes. There are plenty of other good examples but that's one of the easiest to make. End of the day though, use what you got, use it well, and I dont think you'll go wrong.
I I can’t wait to read your rifleman book I just bought it. I couldn’t put your pistol craft book down it was really good
Thanks for your videos. Just purchased your book in kindle version
I prefer old carry handle irons. Don’t really like red dots or optics. I genuinely enjoy the art and skill of learning the fundamentals of getting good with irons and breathing and holds and just all of it. I’m a new shooter. About 2 years now. But I been hitting decent groups at 200 yards now. Been practicing for 2 years with irons
Always a pleasure to watch one of your videos!
KEY POINT!!!
If it's raining sideways (or snowing this time of year) red dot has lenses that get obstructed. Irons just need a quick blow and they're good to go.
Irons can get caked in snow or mud just as easily.
Thank you Reid for your instructional videos! And I love your Book. Stay happy and safe Brother 🤙🇺🇸
I want a back yard like this. Nice range you have built Reid, well done!
Thank you for this. I practice with Both! KEEP ON ROCKING!
Reid I recently completed a build identical to your 20 inch setup you did a couple years back, I run irons/carry handle on it and feel the longer sight radius helps with quicker target acquisition not red dot fast but still very useable.
I use a 2x7 scope with a solid QD mount. A2 front sight post, Matech rear peep. Works great. I have nothing against red dots, but I like the scope and irons better. Good video
Just bought both books cant wait to read them 👍
I'll have to concur with many of the comments, I like both. But I think it's important to start with iron sights, that way you learn the basic principles, and hopefully keep a set of irons on your rifle just in case.
I like how this guy point it out.
As Reid is stating, it's whatever you get comfortable with,,, Set Down, Snap In, and Practice, Practice, Practice. That what the Marine Corps teaches. I went though Paris Island in 1977, platoon 3037, and run my rifle drills a couple time a week, then pistol drill along side that. So keep sharp, and proficient, and for the newbies Reid Henrichs has OUTSTANDING training courses, and is an Outstanding PMI (Primary Marksman Instructor).
God Speed, God Bless, and God Bless the Marine Corps,,,,,, 🇺🇸
Semper Fi,,,
One thing brother, I'm 56 now and I used to iron shoot with anybody, but now my eyes ain't what they used to be. I started using a scope and it really does help. I bought a red dot and I can hit out to 100 with it consistently. When I can get a 200 yd lane on my property, I'll see if I can use the red dot or if I am going to have to go with my scope!
This is Truly Appreciated from Goomiez Shop!
THANKS REID, IM AN OLD SCHOOL IRON SIGHT GUY. IM SURE LEARNING STUFF FROM YOU BROTHER. GOD BLESS
I gotta get my old self down to Tennessee and attend one of you carbine classes.
I have both. For me, someone with astigmatism in my dominant eye, it helps to have a crisp red dot. I’m simply not good with those peep iron sights, or most iron sights. But at least I have them for a backup 😉🇺🇸
Tzit tzit; awesome. Good work, Brother.
Very good video. Agree completely. Thank you very much Reid.
Im a iron sight guy, but not at 200 yards. I can't see 200 yards, I have to use magnification to even make out the target. Guess I need to go back to the eye Dr.
Dude. I have 20/20 vision and cant see well at 200 yards. Open sights haha
Take my word for it, the price of a decent optic is less than the co-pay to get your eyes done.
@Manos Pequeñitas I actually run a Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8 on my main rifle.
I like irons a lot too, but I don't care for the A1 style irons. Once you go past 300 meters, it makes it makes hitting the target much more difficult. I prefer to run the A2 style sights and use the drum as intended. For optics I prefer a fixed power scope, I find them more rugged and less things to worry about vs a variable ffp/sfp optic. But use what works for you, everyone has different preferences and what works best for them.
I remember hitting the big target at Parris Island (iirc 24”x36”) about the size of the avg man’s torso at 500m with just peep sights. Same target standing freehand at 200m...the good ole days
I love this guy‼I hope and pray I'll be able to train with him soon. Blessings to him and his wife🇺🇸. Happy Sabbath brother Reid🙏🏽
I dropped EoTech two or three years ago when they admitted their sights were subject to a drift caused by weather temps. I shoot from MN to AZ and had always thought I must have bumped it somehow to lose zero over the years. At least they bought it back from me...that was cool. I switched to Aimpoint PRO and like it even better...I use a Vortex flip up magnifier at distance shooting. Good combination. For all those geezers with poor eyesight...get checked for cataracts and have the surgery done. It's absolutely life changing!
Doing the Lord's work, Reid. Thank you. Hope to see you here in Virginia.
I recently purchased a rifle and I really want to learn the iron sights first before I out an optic on it. I have hunted game all my life, I'm 44 years old, and I'm just getting in to the AR-15 platform. I have ordered some ammunition and plan on learning the platform as best I can.
When you get older and focus range changes, red dots can be very beneficial.
I moved away from red dots to optics that run true 1X up to 6X or 8X. Gives a great amount of flexibility.
Up close a bit faster with irons. Moving back RDS start to shine. Nice vid
Thanks, sir
🤙 RIght on from Calif
USMC 93-97. I learned on m16 A2 Irons. I like my 3x scope, but take it off for the peep sights.
Thank You for this block of instruction, I am getting it down. Just slow and go.
i have iron
Nice job Brother 👊🇺🇸
It's different at night in the dark. Good video.
I like my iron sights and a flashlight. But i do have a red dot or two. They are ok sometimes. Good video Reid. Life is better on the ridge
What kind of light mount is that on the iron sight rifle???
Reid...I know you’ve probably answered this question a thousand times in previous videos, but what do you recommend for a flash light mount for standard hand guards? I can’t justify a quad rail for just one attachment.
I realize that you are not asking for my opinion or a parts list but... I can't resist butting in since I can't recommend this combination of parts enough.
(#1)"Midwest Industries Tactical Light Mount #MCTAR-01G2"
(#2)"Vltor Scout Mount 1 Inch SM-1"
(#3)"Surefire G2X Tactical"
Fantastic. Thank you very much.
Hey, I found the mount displayed in the video; It's a lot slicker.
www.impactweaponscomponents.com/product/tmc-1-light-mount-n-slot/
A Magpul MOE guard has Mlok so that makes it pretty easy to mount almost anything. I did the quad rail on a rifle and while it did work just fine, the biggest advantage is the ability to use real rubber rail covers that protect your hands from the heat much better than any keymod or Mlok covers.
I have the exact same rifle and I love it. ...519.00 from Smokey Mountain Guns in Tennessee...I don’t live in Tennessee...lol
Happy to see I am close by in West Knox. Will hit you up about a class or two
I use both, have both on a 300 blk pistol, and can use a 3x on there as well. I can see better with the 3x behind the red dot. But, only shoot 200 yards at my current range. There are some rear sights with elevation drums, I have one myself. I imagine those could be more accurate at distance, vs a red dot. That would also depend on ones vision, lighting, and target size.
How many Shooters on the three gun competition circuit use iron sights over red dot?
none and for good reason
Exactly
In my experience, gun-games on a manicured range aren't the same thing as practical shooting in the real world. go over to inrangetv, their comps are fairly realistic, and you see that the difference between "Open" an "Classic" type classes isn't that much (with plenty of "open" competitors placing below the classic guys). shoot, in one of the comps, Karl runs a Win 1873 and a ww1 1911 and places well in the overall standings vs guys with tricked out ar's. it should also be noted that those guys (Ian and Karl) are not world class shooters (and don't claim to be), just guys that really like to shoot.
I do practice with iron sights more but I noticed my vision is getting worse with age. It's not terrible yet but noticeably worse than used to be so using iron sights is getting more difficult especially in low light conditions. Red dots makes this easier. But - this makes me practice with irons even more as I think one can train his eyes to some extent and slow down vision decline.
Thanks Reid. I’m going to read your book.👍🇺🇸
Where did you find the mount for your light? I have the very same rifle and need to mount a light on it.
I put a cheap tasco propoint red dot on my Ruger mark III Hunter 22 pistol because the iron sights would completly hide Squirrels when I would Squirrel hunt with it ,the red dot really made all a big change in the outcome of a hunt for me .I bagged over 40 Squirrels that season with that pistol .I have went too a Bushnell handgun scope and it shoots even tighter groups with that .but the red dot really was a help for me when I needed it.
It's special because it's a S&W. I've had my Sport since 2012. Love it. Depends what you train with the most. I've always used iron sights and always will >:0
Hi Reid, I e got a question. I am running a EOtech and a 4x side flip magnifier. I'm running the EOtech as far forward as possible without mounting it to my forend rail. When I mount the magnifier I do not have room to mount flip up iron sights. I even tried to mount it backwards, nothing works. Any suggestions would be great. Thanks Reid
I have the same Riffle , and I love it ....
I love all the sighting systems. That's why I have 3 AR's, open sight, red dot that cowitness with irons, and the other with a fixed power optic. Now I need to build another so I can have a lpvo, lol.
I just close my eyes and spray and pray....lol
I run a aimpoint micro. But when I shoot anything over 100yds I look through my back sight and use my red dot, it sharpens up the dot and crips it up... I have bad astigmatism try it out it works!
Reid, I use a EoTech, when I stow my weapon at the end of the day, I flip up the FRONT BUIS ( HK style from a SIG 16). When I use the weapon light, its like a red dot. I can shoot during the day with just the front sight sight up and hit what I aim at... I think this deserves consideration.
I put a 2x7 leupold scope on my AR15. It stays balls on over time,And it helps me identify specific target zones. For example a deer can move in these virginia woods and be practically invisible at 50 yards in the woods. I can make out targets and blow off top of skull. At room clearing distances i just point with my left index finger and i can destroy a head size target in a fraction of a second.
I'm with you. Don't need them expensive red dots.
Nice shooting as always! And iron sights don't need batteries. I'm an iron sight kinda guy.
Same here
I hear ya on the Sky Blue! Old school. Thanks for bringing it back.Lol.
Thank you for this video. I absolutely HATE the AR platform as I grew up shooting bolt action and lever action rifles. This video is encouraging because I now feel empowered to do what works for me and not what everyone says I “should” do. So...the optic is coming off, as well as that uncomfortable-ass cheese grater hand guard, and I’m ditching the single point sling. Now if I can just find a decent stock for this thing I might actually enjoy shooting it a little bit....
The beauty of the AR platform is that you can make it into what ever you’re comfortable with.
Reid, Thank you very much. GOD Bless you and Patriot Nurse and GOD Bless The Republic!!!
my big issue is the little moment before you see the dot as you raise it up
very stressful moment and sometimes I'm searching for that mofo
in contrast, you have to align iron sights as well, but you see them 100% of the time; you don't have to search, only align
Good show
I hunted with a .30.30 using nothing but iron sights. I have 4 ARs and three have red dots and one has a lpvo scope. I have never used the iron sights on any of my ARs. I really need to learn to use them
I think the main argument with red dots vs irons is the overall ability and ease use of the red dot. Obviously you can be just as fast with irons at 7 yards, Even at distance on a range day. But in a stressful life threatening situation, optics are always going to be better. At night, optics are going to be better. Shooting in anything other than a perfect position, a red dot is definitely going to be better. Not arguing against the fact that proper technique does definitely matter. Just giving my 2 cents and from use and experience is all.
What's that funky little barrel wag after the shot?
You brought 1 thing to my attention for myself. I put the buttstock on different area's of my shoulder when I wear body armor. After seeing this I'm going to try and correct that but the armor seems to get in my way when I wear it.
Which irons should I get Mr Reid? I'd love to do a basic pistol or rifle course soon!
This may be a dumb question, but do you have to aim higher at closer ranges with your iron sights, as you would need to for an optic/red-dot to accommodate for the sight-over-bore?
No, not with co-witness.
The advantage of a red dot over irons simply comes down to science because you don’t have to shift your focus back and forth from as many different focal plains it allows you to get on target faster that’s not to say you can’t get fast with irons but if your fast with those imagine how much quicker you can be with a red dot especially if you train with it
Looking to get a nice set of irons, any recommendations? Right now im thinking the daniel defense fixed sights are the ones to get (~150) or the fixed scalarworks peak sights (~260). Anything helps!
I just watched colion do video on red dots on pistols. I've learned alot just from a thread on how they're easier to use for bad vision as you get older.
@Eugene Stoner dont know many people that are nearsighted, and they dont even shoot. I know farsighted shooter, like myself