Low / No Light Shooting – Practical Considerations for Training
FBI statistics indicate that most lethal encounters occur at night, in low or no light, with an average of three shots fired in under three seconds. Despite this, the majority of training takes place in daylight or in well-lit environments, which creates a gap between real-world conditions and training settings.
Understanding light and darkness is essential. Various forms of light—direct, indirect, ambient, reflected, and natural—can significantly influence visual perception and target identification. Proper training under these conditions allows for better tactical decision-making and threat management.
Initial training should include theoretical modules that explain how lighting conditions affect both visibility and detectability. This foundation supports the practical application of low-light shooting techniques.
Flashlights play a critical role in low-light environments. When used in combination with a firearm, a flashlight provides not only illumination but also a tactical advantage. It helps in identifying threats and may temporarily disorient an aggressor.
Common handheld flashlight shooting techniques include:
One-handed techniques : FBI, Neck Index, …
Two-handed techniques : Harris, Surefire, …
Selection of the appropriate technique depends on individual preference, equipment, and operational context.
Tips for one-handed shooting include:
Slight inward cant of the firearm for skeletal alignment
Front-to-back grip pressure for control
Directing the muzzle steadily toward the target
Training in low or no light should be a regular part of firearms proficiency development. It prepares individuals for realistic conditions and minimizes performance gaps during actual incidents.
