NCJ Number
217553
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 34 Issue: 2 Dated: February 2007 Pages: 104,106,108
Date Published
February 2007
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article describes the advantages and effectiveness in the use of low power optics in law enforcement.
Abstract
A low power optic is the best addition to the law enforcement carbine, less-lethal or shotgun platform an officer can purchase. An optic increases the usability and efficiency of any close quarter battle system. The optic/carbine combination should be found in every unit. The low power optic sighting device which superimposes a reticle on the target would make shooting faster. Low power optics are slightly or non-magnified optical devices designed for binocular or occluded vision sighting. They generally mount directly to pica tinny rails like the EOtech HOLOgraphic sight or use standard scope tube diameters. Low power optics are appropriate for use at any distance one would normally employ a traditional iron sight. With iron sights, the shooter sees the target and moves the sights into the field of vision. The gun is kept in “ready to fire” position with no loss of peripheral vision. With all the distinct advantages of using optics, they are designed to increase the rate of accurate fire, not accuracy. Shooters used to conventional sights will need to train themselves to keep both eyes open when shooting; use reactive targets like steel speed plates or falling head plates; set-up at least six reactive targets per shot string and mow them down; practice flowing from one target to the next without allowing the eyes to leave the sighting axis; and changing the distance between targets and reshoot the plates.