Low-Light Shooting & Gun-Mounted Lights: What to Know

Here's how to use the light to your advantage even when you're defending in the dark.

posted on July 14, 2022
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

Think about it: Are you more likely to be attacked in broad daylight, or after dark? Many defensive experts recommend you think seriously about adding a gun-mounted light to your defensive firearm. One of such expert is Smith & Wesson GUNSMARTS instructor Ken Scott, and in this episode, you'll learn some of the basics of low-light shooting with a gun-mounted light.

Yes, the technology we're discussing is, essentially, a flashlight. However, once it's mounted on your gun, you won't be using it in exactly the same way you use a regular flashlight. That's because there are two competing and extremely important factors at work: First, that you need to identify your target and what is beyond it; an second, that you need to do so without affecting your ability to see anything else.

You already know that your eyes need to adjust from bright to dark, and that it takes some time. If you accidentally illuminate too much of your own field of view with that gun-mounted light, you risk your night vision. The good news is that there's a way to compensate ... although you'll have to start by breaking some habits. Here's how to do it.

Latest

Team Beretta Us Open 2026 Lede
Team Beretta Us Open 2026 Lede

Team Beretta Tops Podium at 2026 NSCA U.S. Open and U.S. Beretta Gold Cup

The U.S. Open marked the second event of the inaugural Beretta Gold Cup, which brought the prestigious international competition series to the United States for the first time.

5 Hunting Dog Breeds You’ve Never Heard Of

Labs, beagles and German shorthaired pointers are great, but if you’re looking for something beyond the norm, take a look at these lesser-known gundogs.

New Gear 2026: Winchester Super Match Competition Ammo

The new line includes match grade center-fire pistol, rifle and shotshell ammunition.
 

New Guns 2026: EAA Witness2311 XXX Double Stack 1911 Series

EAA's goal was to reduce the overall footprint of the double stack 1911 platform without sacrificing performance, interchangeability or capacity.

Where Is Your Gun RIGHT NOW?

A gun you can’t get to when you need it is useless.

Scary Self-Defense Truth: You’re Already Behind

It’s built right into the name—we call it self-defense, not offense. And being on the defensive means you’re already a step behind.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.