Low Light Training — How Important is it?

Did you know that the majority of violent crime occurs during the dark?
Do you know if you could hit a threat with very minimal light?
Have you ever tried shooting in complete darkness?
Would you take a shot in complete darkness?
How would you verify that someone was a threat in your home at night?
Do you keep a flashlight next to your gun?
Do you know how to hold it and shoot your gun at the same time?

As I travel to my 3rd Low Light Training course, I’m pondering the importance of this type of training, and of thinking through all of these things as a concealed carrier. I find that many people seem to learn to hit consistently and accurately, learn reloads, figure out a mode of carry, and then they tend to call it a day.  Most will practice those same things and be satisfied, never putting much thought into how they’d shoot in low light.  There is also a huge group of folks who will get their CCDW license, and then never think another thing about ability or training.  They’ll simply put the gun the nightstand and hope they never have to use it.

Since the majority of violent crime happens in darkness,  being able to shoot well in the dark is an absolute necessity.  I recommend taking as many classes as you can afford in this area. 

I’m heading now to take the 2nd level of the Elzetta Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark Courses under Fermin De LaTorre in Sevierville, TN.  In the first course, which I took last month, I learned about the physiology of the eye, how it reacts to low light.  There was also an emphasis on the law in regards to low light use of deadly force. A few light holds were taught and students were allowed to choose the one that fit their shooting style the best.  Then, there was ample opportunity to learn our individual abilities for shooting in the dark, both holding the lights and without.  We were able to see how well we knew our guns and also see the areas where we needed more practice.  This training was invaluable.  

In Level 2 of Elzetta Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark, the training will be primarily force on force with a variety of scenerios based in reality where we’ll get the opportunity to see how we handle the stress and employ skills learned. I understand that there will be an emphasis on human physiological response to stress, so that will likely be an “eye opener”.

After this weekend, I’ll come back and tell you all what I learned.  If you have had good low light training, comment below about what you’ve learned.