Do cops use Crimson Trace?

[Apocalypsenerd]

hi,

Do cops use Crimson Trace or other laser targeters?

If so, under what conditions?

If not, why not?

Any reasons for a non-LEO to not have one?

[tyrist]

No laser sights are permitted with my agency. They don't want to train us to look for the laser. Under stress you will do whatever you have trained to do and they want us to look through the sights.

[Samuelx]

We're allowed to use them. I do. Just don't become dependent on them...

[ckim34]

I have one on my back up gun.

[alex00]

My agency does not allow us to carry any type of laser sighting device. The only reason I have ever been given is that when multiple lasers are activated it is harder for the individual to acquire their own laser dot.

[9mmepiphany]

posted by Apocalypsenerd
Any reasons for a non-LEO to not have one?

i can't think of a good reason for a non-LEO to have one at all...well maybe as a training aid for firing on the move...and very limited use for LEOs

lasers on handguns build horrible habits and are usually counterproductive to good trigger control

[retired]

i can't think of a good reason for a non-LEO to have one at all...well maybe as a training aid for firing on the move...and very limited use for LEOs

lasers on handguns build horrible habits and are usually counterproductive to good trigger control

As a non leo now, this is a good reason, plus, they look tacticalcool.

[Jonathan Doe]

LASD authorizes the device after 4 hours of training. The laser sight is not a cure for your bad shooting habit, however. I have seen enough actual shootings that the LEO's missed their targets with their pistols that were equipped lasers. You still have to have a good trigger control to hit the target. I have experimented with it at night shooting training, and it was a great aid for me. But, I will settle with the Tritium night sights.

[Apocalypsenerd]

I was considering the laser instead of getting the night sights. The price difference isn't very big and was considering the possibility of a defensive situation at night.

Is the training offered a special LEO class or something else?

Have any studies been done on accuracy with a laser vs. sights? Night time accuracy with a laser?

I just don't want to spend the money if there is no advantage, specifically in night time situations. I'm a pretty decent shot at the range.

[556fmj]

Get good with mastering your sights on your gun along with good trigger control and sight picture. You'll probably hit better and quicker than using a laser. I've also taken a few additional shooting classes outside of work that will help a good shooter shoot even better.
Just the other day I was at a gun range taking 100 yard shots at a 10 inch steel plate out of a 3 inch barreled revolver. I did hit it a few times too

[9mmepiphany]

posted by Apocalypsenerd
I was considering the laser instead of getting the night sights

that would not be a good trade off. any handgun for defensive use at night should have night sights...well actually my recommendation is just a front dot. the laser would usually be used in place of a weapon mounted light...not to say it should be used in place of a hand held light, which has a completely different use

[Jonathan Doe]

The laser is mounted in the grip, low right. You usually sight it at about 15 yards, and anything within 25 yards will be close enough for a good hit. But, like I said, I would prefer night sights than the laser. If you are kind of concerned, the bad guys can see your laser and know your location. It may have a psychological effect. It may stop the bad guy's aggression when he see the red dot on his 10 ring.

[AIMSMALL]

I tried my brothers g17 with the laser and I wasn't very good with it, the laser is hard to hold steady for me, I'm better with irons. My brother can unload 17 rounds rapid fire style with it (laser) and hit 6-8 inch groups at 15 yards I dunno how he can do that but it's impressive to watch.

[fullrearview]

I would have one in a heart beat if they made decent holster options for USP 40....That and if they would make the guide rod one for the USP.....

[Apocalypsenerd]

OK, thanks guys. Good info. I'll think on it before plopping down the cash.