Having an open and honest discussion on critical topics is a clear indicator of a vibrant enthusiast community. Nowhere is this more prevalent than with defensive firearms. One topic that comes up in online forums, training classes, and at ranges is the value of laser sights. Advocates praise their targeting and defensive benefits while critics dismiss them as unnecessary gadgets. Keep reading as we look at common laser sight myths and compare these misconceptions against what happens in the real world. It’s a conversation that will help you make informed decisions about this technology.
Myth 1—"Laser Sights Give Away Your Position"
Why This Concern Exists
The idea that laser sights give away positions results from how these devices are portrayed on screen and how they operate in the real world. Hollywood loves a good visual, and a laser beam is ideal for cutting through the darkness of a dramatic scene, revealing the shooter’s position to an adversary. At the same time, we’ve all watched a show or movie where lasers become visible in fog, dust, or smoke. Some people extrapolate this into thinking that lasers are visible in all conditions.
Military concerns about infrared lasers visible to night vision equipment have also transferred into civilian discussions, despite a fundamental contrast between these specialized tools and consumer-grade visible laser sights.
Reality: Close-Range Encounters Render This Negligible
The reality of most defensive situations makes this concern theoretical. Such encounters typically occur at close distances, under 25 feet. There simply isn’t enough time for an attacker to gather intelligence about your location. Furthermore, unlike movie-style depictions of always-on laser beams, standard red or green laser sights aren’t continuously visible unless there’s something in the atmosphere (like smoke or dust). What's visible is primarily the dot on the target, not the path to the shooter.
For those still concerned about this issue, there are other approaches. For example, using a pulsating laser mode can minimize the chance of your position being revealed while still enjoying targeting advantages. In addition, taking advantage of tactical positioning behind cover is always a good idea at critical moments.
Myth 2—"You Don't Need to Aim if You Have a Laser"
Reality: Fundamentals Still Matter
A common misconception is that laser sights for self-defense eliminate the need for proper aiming technique. This misunderstanding could lead to tragic circumstances because there’s no shortcut to fundamental marksmanship principles. No matter what accessories you use, proper grip, the correct stance, and effective trigger control remain essential regardless of aiming method. A handgun laser sight provides a convenient visual reference point but doesn’t guarantee accuracy, especially if you lack proper technique. If anything, a laser sight is more likely to reveal improper shooting style over iron sights by revealing excess movement during the trigger pull.
Anyone asking, "Are laser sights good for self-defense?" should understand that handgun effectiveness depends mainly on foundational skills. A laser sight is meant to supplement, not replace, these fundamentals.
Laser as a Training Aid, Not a Crutch
Experienced firearm instructors often turn to laser sights as diagnostic tools. A laser sight can provide immediate feedback during dry-fire practice, indicating trigger control problems, an improper grip, or recoil anticipation. Plus, no rounds are fired.
When used correctly, this approach can accelerate skill development. Instructors can readily identify and correct issues that would otherwise require numerous range sessions to diagnose. At the same time, a laser is invaluable for self-correction during home practice, making live-fire exercises at the range that much more effective.
Myth 3—"Lasers are Only for Novice Shooters"
Reality: Even Professionals Benefit
Despite myths that handgun laser sights are only for beginners, numerous elite military and law enforcement units rely on laser sighting systems. As needed, these professionals can turn to laser sights for meaningful tactical advantages in certain situations.
Special operations teams use lasers during building-clearing operations, particularly in low-light conditions where traditional sight alignment becomes challenging but targeting is critical. In addition, SWAT teams employ laser sights for precision shooting from unconventional positions, such as when shooting around barriers or from behind ballistic shields. In short, laser sights are far from being “training wheels.” Instead, they can be professional tools in the most demanding situations.
Advantages for All Skill Levels
Handgun laser sights have another inherent benefit: they can support accurate targeting when the shooter might face physical limitations.
When a Laser Sight Makes a Difference
Low-Light and Awkward-Position Shooting
Like the military and law enforcement, average handgun owners can depend on laser sights for unique tactical situations. It’s not that difficult to imagine a low-light environment where a laser sight could make all the difference. This might involve a late-night break-in at home or walking through a dimly lit parking lot when confronted by an attacker. These are instances when traditional sight alignment is difficult, if not impossible.
Unconventional shooting positions are also well-suited to laser sight use. This could involve shooting after taking cover or retention shooting, where the firearm remains close to the body. In either condition, projecting the point of impact is far easier than aligning the eye to the sights.
Psychological Deterrent Effect
While nothing is guaranteed in a critical self-defense situation, don’t underestimate the psychological impact on an attacker seeing a laser dot on their body. This could be enough to have the assailant surrender or flee, all without firing a shot, which is ideally the best outcome. Of course, this deterrent effect is a side benefit of using a handgun laser sight, but it could matter when it counts.
Clearing the Air on Lasers
Train with Your Tools
It’s easy to look at online reviews and forum comments about using laser sights for self-defense, but the best information comes from hands-on experience. Your reasons for seeking protection and personal situation are unique. As a result, gun owners should test laser sights under different conditions and with varied training.
This approach allows individuals to determine how laser sights complement their existing skills or can enhance their marksmanship abilities. It’s also an ideal time to assess whether these devices can support their self-defense needs, such as in low-light conditions or unusual firing positions. From proper dry-fire practice at home to range exercises and professional instruction, numerous opportunities exist to increase proficiency.
Informed Decisions for Self-Defense Gear
In short, discover why decisions about self-defense gear should involve an objective evaluation, not myths or dubious online advice. Like any tool, laser sights have advantages and limitations, varying by owner and situation.
Countless gun owners have discovered the advantages of a laser sight. These include faster target acquisition and adaptability to different shooting positions. In addition, a handgun laser sight can support training goals like improving grip and maximizing pre-fire readiness.
Ultimately, defensive shooters need to separate laser sight myths from reality and decide what matters most to them. Consider how often you’ve looked at a review for a product or service and had a completely different experience.
Explore ArmaLaser handgun laser sights—there are dozens of options for the most popular handgun models. Each ArmaLaser unit is engineered to the highest standards, ensuring a factory-like fit to your sidearm. Learn more at the ArmaLaser store or contact customer support online or at (800) 680-5020.
Be sure to read the ArmaLaser blog for the latest topics covering handgun self-defense, laser sights, concealed carry, and more.
DISCLAIMER: This article is for educational purposes only and is based on correct firearm handling and lawful use. This information is not a substitute for proper training.