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

Colts Davidsons Python Anaconda
Colts Davidsons Python Anaconda

New Guns 2026: Davidson’s Exclusive Colt Python and Anaconda

The newest two Davidson’s Exclusive Colt revolvers are introducing the first round-butt grip frame and the only 2½” barrels in the Anaconda and Python lines.

Benelli Pro Staff Shooters Make Team USA for IPSC World Shoot

Heather Eckhardt and Ashlynne Thomas will head to the competition, which will take place in Corinth, Greece, September 20 to October 4. 

My Top Pet Peeves as a Female Hunter

These are the (mostly little) things that have bugged me over the years as a woman who hunts.

Coming Soon: Muddy’s Women's Camouflage Layering System

Designed around women's biomechanics, the systems are designed to deliver unrestricted mobility, lasting comfort and superior concealment in the field.

Houston, We Have NRA Members!

More than 73,000 members gathered in the country’s fourth most-populous city to celebrate their Second Amendment freedoms.

Amanda Suffecool Bestowed 2026 NRA Sybil Ludington Women's Freedom Award

The announcement was made at the NRA Women's Leadership Forum Brunch during the 155th NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Houston.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.