DarrellG

I started in law enforcement in the early eighties so an option of a hand held or mounted illumination system wasn't a choice. Later in my career, we pushed for weapon mounted lights and eventually got them. It wasn't by chance that it was approved. We had to give accurate and factual information that allowed this to happen. A great tactical flashlight (180 lumens or better) is a great backup but a pistol mounted light is a must and I'll tell you exactly why. During stress (such as a life threatening situation) the body does some things automatically some beneficial and some detrimental. Sympathetic contraction - All digits on your hands contract when you only wanted selected to contract. Hand confusion - Like sympathetic contraction, one hand may preform an action that was meant for the other. Fundamental Negatives of shooting with hand held light: NO TWO HANDED GRIP ON WEAPON Grip displacement on followup shots Impossible to do with injured arm. I would recommend if you do decide to use a flashlight for EDC that you learn to shoot one handed and without any type of hands together flashlight technique. Also keep in mind that when using a hand held flashlight that the beam of the light doesn't have to be centered on the area you're aiming at. Learn to shoot effectively within the outer portions of your lights beam.

+1 on revolvers and S&W in general. If she has little or no experience with handguns this is exactly where to start. I also recommend something that is hammer-less. Almost a zero chance of malfunctions, ease of learning, and the ability to fire while still concealed in a pocket or other garment/purse makes it a great weapon. Besides, if she later wants to move up to an auto, you can carry it.

Right now, I'm working on my own consulting business and tweaking some of my lesson plans to teach advanced defensive handgun. Eventually my wife and I want to open a world class training facility and range so we are taking some steps towards that goal. BTW... Thanks all for the warm welcome.

Hello all. My name is Darrell and I live in Elizabethton for the moment. Former military (Army) Hooha! I’m originally from Florida moving here last year retiring from law enforcement. In my former life, I was a range / active shooter instructor and armorer. Other than shooting, I spend my time now hunting for a job, mountain biking, trout fishing and enjoying this beautiful state. Hope I can add to the forum and learn a few things too.