We often find that when experienced pistol shooters transition from shooting iron sights to red dot optics, they encounter discomfort. Buck explains why that is and what his recommendation is to overcome this opposition.

The transition to Pistol Mounted Optics (PMO) is almost inevitable at this point. Agencies and individuals alike see the benefits and are moving en masse toward adoption. This doesn’t mean that it’s easy for everyone to change. Some of us that have significant experience with iron sights may feel something akin to “withdrawal sickness” as we attempt the transition.

In the above video, we talk about nuances associated with making the jump to pistol mounted optics (PMO) and some things we can do to combat the “hiccups.” In the end, all shooters benefit from making the change and it’s much easier than we think. In fact, the same discipline that makes a good “irons” shooter, will help with a quick and successful transition to this very important technology.

One of the most important distinctions that we can point to when making the switch, is the amount of work required to make successful hits. Using irons requires a considerable amount of pretty technical effort. We have to be present enough in the shot (at the gun) to see the front sight and then, negotiate it to some standard into the rear sight. We measure (often on the move) very small tolerances and make fine corrections.

This may seem easy to a seasoned shooter and the reason for that is obvious: experience. The more you do something, the better you are at it. It’s also very likely why seasoned shooters often have the hardest time transitioning… a PMO requires a lot less of the shooter. Developing an aiming solution is much more of a neutral event than its predecessor (iron sights).

While this is good news in general, it does present the more seasoned shooter with some extra work initially. They have to learn to work less. As funny as this sounds…it’s hard for some of us to let go. The fact of the matter is: there is simply nothing for us to do. When the dot is imposed on the target….we just have to press the trigger.

A tool (in this case, a reliable red dot sight) helps you to do work more efficiently. Aimpoint sights are purposefully designed to be simple, so you can concentrate on the most important part of the shot…the target.

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