Tactical Sights

[tmg57]

I have no training with the shotgun as a defensive weapon but I have a fair amount of experience shooting skeet and sporting clays. I am confused about the role of the iron sights that are used on tactical shotguns. I know that while shooting clay birds you should NEVER look at the barrel, much less a at bead or any form of sight. In defensive shooting, is the weapon aimed like a rifle or pointed like a shotgun? Maybe a combination of the two?

 

[conw]

I didn't know you never looked at the bead shooting clays. I have to learn more about that sport.

Seems to me like you may be overthinking the defensive shotgun aiming though. Anything that gets the shot on target?

 

[Dave McCracken]

Defensive shotguns are aimed for best results. With patterns often under 12" at typical HD distances, you HAVE to aim to place that pattern in the CNS of your target.

Good news, figuring out leads is a lot easier....

 

[Fred Fuller]

Sights are for when you have time to aim and need the extra accuracy the split second it takes to accomplish aiming vs. pointing requires. Not all defensive shotgun use is at across-the-room distances, not all instances of defensive shotgun use offer you full unobstructed frontal targets to shoot at. And not all defensive shotguns are always loaded with buckshot- some have slugs too.

It isn't the sights or the gun that's tactical- it's the SHOOTER.

lpl/nc

 

[Smitty in CT]

...Good news, figuring out leads is a lot easier....

Reminds me of the line from the movie "Full Metal Jacket":

Private Joker: How can you shoot women or children?
Door Gunner: Easy! Ya just don't lead 'em so much! Ain't war hell?