Recommended flashlight "handling"

[Buckeye 50]

I read somewhere yesterday to the affect that most Tactical Operators prefer gun mounted flashlights to the handheld.  I know there is no exact right way to do this but I have concerns about pointing a loaded weapon at someone in low light or darkness where some 70+% of most gunfights occur.  I was taught what I think was called then (not sure though) the FBI method of holding the flashlight high in your weak hand while holding the gun in your strong hand - eliminates the "aimed-gun" component I mentioned above while also not providing a critical target to aim at.

Thoughts?  I mean, I am open and have no preference just what I wrote above.

Thanks,

Pat

[DeltaSteve]

Wilson's Night Master: Low Light Shooting & Flashlight Techniques--DVD  http://www.amazon.com/Wilsons-Night-Master-Flashlight-Techniques-DVD/dp/B0002D68V0

[Denver1911]

Most tactical operators are not pointing a flashlight (and thus the gun) at people that they wouldn't be pointing their gun otherwise.

For those of us who are not tactical operators, it may make sense to use both.

[DM1906]

Tactical low-light tactics have evolved over time, same as tactical shooting positions. I prefer modified weaver, but I train and practice all positions. Triangle is difficult for me to wrap my head around, but I train it and improve. I prefer a detached (obviously) the SL20X, which I've trained with for over 20 years. The only disadvantage is it requires single-hand firearm handling, including long guns. Ultimately, there is no single tactic that is ideal for every situation. Personally, I don't care for weapon mounted tactical lighting. I have them, but don't rely on them, primarily. I am not opposed to having the option available, but tactical low-light engagement should have multiple options. It is always better to have both hands on your handgun, but a hand-held flashlight precludes that. If your sole source of tactical lighting is attached to your weapon, you WILL be pointing/aiming your weapon at targets you will not wish to fire upon. If you are well trained, it should not be an issue for you, PC be damned.

Train all disciplines available to you, but choose a "default" you are comfortable with, because that's what you will do when it's in the fan. If you don't train, a thought will betray you when you need it. It's a perishable skill.

[Pinsnscrews]

I had learned the method of holding the light in your offhand, and resting your gun hand on the forearm of the off hand as it crossed your body. This put the light off to the side of your body, but kept your gun centered.

Later I learned the "syringe" method using a slim AAA Maglight. Holding it between the fingers of your off hand like a syringe, parallel to the firearm with the butt palmed against the grip for a two hand grip. Never liked the way the light bounced from recoil with that one.

Recoil is why I don't like gun mounted lights for handguns. Between the flash, and the flutter of the light, I found it too distracting for a solid follow up shot. This is my personal feeling, and not something I would tell someone else not to do. Everyone needs to find what works for them.

[Raggedyman]

You don't need to, and shouldn't, point the gun at what you want to see to use the light. The Harries technique is awkward and difficult in practice.

Read this: http://www.ar15.com/forums/t_3_20/446092_Proper_use_of_weapons_lights_on_ARs.html