[Maze]

Hi!
I would like to start shooting in USPSA, so I am buying a new gun. Now have a question. I am blind with one eye, so I need to know in which way do i need to go. Should I go with iron sights or red dot?

[bikerburgess]

It all depends on what you like. Red dots are great for focusing on the target and keeping both eyes open without double vision, a problem you won't have but target focus is nice. Being blind in one eye could help with iron sights because you won't have to close one eye or learn to not get double vision with both eyes open like most people do.
So my two cents worth is go with whAt you like your handicap is not a issue either way.

[Hi-Power Jack]

bikerburgess, on Aug 24 2009, 10:37 AM, said:

It all depends on what you like. Red dots are great for focusing on the target and keeping both eyes open without double vision, a problem you won't have but target focus is nice. Being blind in one eye could help with iron sights because you won't have to close one eye or learn to not get double vision with both eyes open like most people do.
So my two cents worth is go with whAt you like your handicap is not a issue either way.

+1. Plus, if you go with a red dot, you are into Open - Very Expensive.

You need a more expensive gun, more expensive mags, etc. So, it's
also a matter of cost.

And how good a shooter you are - if you're just starting out, I'd suggest
open sights - limited or single stack, whatever your have.

Then, if you want to get involved in shooting a compensated, optically
sighted gun - and you have the money for it - go for it - it really does
help with the shooting.

I've seen a few people (very few) put an optical sight on an uncompensated
gun, but not sure that would be a real help in IPSC - the recoil would lose
your dot on each shot, and probably slow you down - be great for those
long distance and small targets though.

[little_kahuna]

After shooting a lot of iron sights, I think that use of both eyes is kind of important, as one is necessary to search your surroundings (stage props etc) and the other is used to focus on the frontsight, but switching focuses from frontsight to look for your next target or direction could be tiresome with only use of one eye. Either one, irons or dot, you will adjust to it and shoot it well as long as you practice it.

[chirpy]

It might be a good idea to check with an eye specialist who is also a competitor in USPSA. You might be able to find someone by checking with headquarters. You can explain your situation and get an expert opinion. Also, I would see if your local club(s) have practice night during the week and try to shoot some of both.

JMHO

Richard

PS: It might help to offer to chip in on the cost of ammo.

[MarkCO]

James Gill shoots like a house on fire, has shot open and limited, and he is missing his left eye. He is on here as wugguswhompus

I sent him a PM with the post thread and asked him to take a look. Best,

This post has been edited by MarkCO: 24 August 2009 - 01:29 PM

[wugguswhompus]

The loss of vision will slow you down as much as you let it. You need to ask first what your resources will allow. Can you afford the pen set up. Then exactly how you like to shoot. Maybe you would prefer to shoot production if you shoot for carry practice. I just like to shoot so iron or optic works the same for me. I get more practice with iron through the classes I teach. Also an optic gives new or learning shooters a very high confidence. You will see that your vision on the gun matters less then your overall understanding of the gun and the sport. Its hard to explain all through text so if you or anyone else needs a better understanding feel free to call me at anytime. 2104126636. Plus I have a lot of time on my hands and I get bored easily. Hope I helped. James gill Usmc a61694 rudy project shooting team. Guntrainingsanantonio.com

[mildot1]

Which is your strong hand and which eye can you see thru???? Might make a difference in some of the replies you get.

I was going to ask a similar question since my dad is right handed and blind in the right eye.

Mildot

[Maze]

Same here. Right handed with no vision in right eye. I just thought that would be easier with red dot, because no need to focus between target and sights. If my understanding is right.

[chirpy]

Just remembered...John Sayle, one of the founders of USPSA and IDPA only has vision in one eye. He has used both over the years and is a top flight Trap shooter also. Although he has lost a step or so he remains a very tough shooter. I guess if you set your mind to something and practice, it won't matter which you choose.

Richard