Sights and Poor Eyesight - Solutions

[DeltaBishop]

I am new here and have not shot a handgun (until recently) in about 30 years. I have a need for one and am applying for a CCW. Thank said, I have a question for some of you folks regarding sights and poor eyesight.

Back when I used to shoot quite a bit (1970's and 80's) my vision was very good up close and good at a distance. Now I'm 53, had laser correction and my distance vision is extremely sharp but my up-close vision is horrible out to about 4'.

I have a dilemmna of using my reading glasses to see my sights (making the target a complete blurr) - OR - going without the glasses (making the target clear, but my sights a complete blurr). So far as I know, I cannot use lasers on a concealed-carry pistol in CA legally.

Is there anything out there that would fix this problem - either in sights or another type of vision correction? Laser Grips would solve the problem, but I can't do that if I want to conceal carry.

I would appreciate any constructive input.

Thanks in advance!

[asgalindez]

I was always taught to focus on the front sight, like you were trying to see every little imperfection. The front sight will be crystal clear, your rear sight and target will be somewhat blurred.

You should try this out at the range and decide if you need to do anything after seeing the results.

[InGrAM]

Ghost ring or peep dot sights work well for my Father.

[tal3nt]

No first hand experience with them, but Truglo TFO (tritium fiber optic) sights are supposed to be excellent for those with less than average eyesight

[leadstorm]

There's no law against using lasers on carry pistols/revolvers in California.

Some issuing agencies, however, do not allow handguns with laser sights to be included on permits. It's strictly a policy of these issuing agencies.

Where do you live?

[leadstorm]

Oh, and if your issuing agency does not allow laser sights, I recommend XS Big Dot sights. They're great.

[DeltaBishop]

No first hand experience with them, but Truglo TFO (tritium fiber optic) sights are supposed to be excellent for those with less than average eyesight

I tried a set of these on a rental at a range and - if they were bigger diameter they would have worked. I'll look for some different sizes. Thanks for the manufacturer name.

[DeltaBishop]

There's no law against using lasers on carry pistols/revolvers in California.

Some issuing agencies, however, do not allow handguns with laser sights to be included on permits. It's strictly a policy of these issuing agencies.

Where do you live?

Contra Costa County - where I'm told it may be near impossible to get a CCW. The application states no lasers or any other modifications.

[DeltaBishop]

I was always taught to focus on the front sight, like you were trying to see every little imperfection. The front sight will be crystal clear, your rear sight and target will be somewhat blurred.

You should try this out at the range and decide if you need to do anything after seeing the results.

Front site is a blur without reading glasses - it's that bad. I'll keep your suggestion in mind when I find some better sights though. I appreciate the insight (pardon the pun).

Ghost ring or peep dot sights work well for my Father.

I'll Google them or ask about them where I picked up the pistol. Thanks.

[DeltaBishop]

Oh, and if your issuing agency does not allow laser sights, I recommend XS Big Dot sights. They're great.

Googling them now. Thanks!

[psango]

Bi-focals are great for this, You could have your optometrist order up some with the reading glasses in the lower portion and clear glass in the upper.

at 65 I'm wearing blended trifocals. I can see the front sight in the middle portion and the target in the top. I had them build me a set just for range use. My doc is a shooter my age, and knew just what I needed.

[JMP]

I have noticed a big difference in sights if I am shooting indoor vs. outdoor. Just saying.

[asgalindez]

Question: If you get your CCW, and find yourself in a situation where you may need to use your weapon, do you usually have your glasses on, or do you only wear them when needed?

[Whatisthis?]

If a laser is not allowed, I guess a Trijicon RMR on a G26 would probably be out as well. If they are allowed, they look fantastic but could cost quite a bit of money. I would recommend XS big dot night sights unless you have a lot of money lying around... or do something with your glasses and not actually modifying the gun (i.e someone said bi-focals)

[leadstorm]

Googling them now. Thanks!

I let a buddy shoot my Glock with the Big Dots - he is 61 years old, and was not wearing glasses of any sort (he needs reading glasses inside of 3'-4'). He is now ordering sets of Big Dots for all his carry guns.

They are not a precision/bullseye sight - they are an excellent combat sight.