Laser Sights

In the previous Quick Hits post, the pros and cons of Laser Sights are being debated, so we thought we'd give it it's own thread. A point or two.

First of all, we weren't second guessing the LA County guys having to use 70 plus shots to take down a bad guy. You fire until the threat is subdued, dissipated or deceased - no question about it. Ammo is free if expended in the line of duty (unless it 's an alternate/auxiliary weapon - but that's another story). Our thought was more shots on target would disable the threat quicker. If it takes 70, it takes 70. If it takes 100, we can deal with the fallout. The shootout in 010 a few month back took well over 50 rounds if we recall, and the gunman survived over 20 hits. It happens.

Secondly, if merely displaying a laser dot on someone is frightening or excessive, how come all the TASERS have them? There is a check box on the TRRs for "painting" a subject with the laser - it is treated as if there was a weapon discharge itself. If there is a "spark display" a TRR will be completed as well.

If it improves marksmanship, we're all for it. If "painting" a subject with a laser makes them surrender quicker, then it ought to be used, regardless of the paperwork involved. And we fully support shooting more than just once a year. If you don't use your skills or training often enough, you forget things and your reactions become rusty. This Department isn't penny-wise and pound-foolish - too often we're penny-foolish, pound-stupid, especially where training is concerned.