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Posted: 12/31/2013 8:59:04 AM EDT
I just set up a new HD pistol - an M&P40 with Streamlight TLR-2 weapon light/laser:
On Saturday I had the opportunity to test it in a night match event, and a problem quickly revealed itself. At the start of each stage, I switched the light into "Constant ON" mode, but then in recoil the light would switch off every few shots. I had to actively hold the light switch in the ON position... very frustrating. When I got home, I looked at the light, and realized that the problem is not the gun, but it is me - my grip is putting my support hand thumb very close to the switch, and it is bumping the switch off in recoil: 
I'm not going to change my shooting technique, so I need to fix the light. I can see that cutting off the portion of the switch shown below should eliminate the problem yet still leave me enough switch to activate the "Momentary ON" mode if I wish. 
Has anyone modified their light in this way? Can anyone foresee any problems with this modification? |
| It is your light so modify it the way you deem best. I, personally, would not cut back the switch because I want to be able to actuate the light from either side with either hand. Your modification is going to make it harder to use the switch on that side. If that isn't important to you, break out your dremel and have at it. |
I removed the left side of the switch incrementally, but in the end I found I pretty much had to remove everything to guarantee the light wont shut off by accident. I can still just about activate the momentary-ON function using my weak hand's thumbnail, but I don't plan on doing so. Here is how it looks now...
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Well. In any low light class I've taken or any low light techniques I've read talk about only using the light intermittently. Never using constant on. Illuminate target with splash and/or spill, use light for shot if need be.
Essentially the constant on is never used. So....you cut up a light for no reason. Matches and games rarely work the same way as real life. |
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Quoted:
Well. In any low light class I've taken or any low light techniques I've read talk about only using the light intermittently. Never using constant on. Illuminate target with splash and/or spill, use light for shot if need be. Essentially the constant on is never used. So....you cut up a light for no reason. Matches and games rarely work the same way as real life. Thanks for your concern and advice. Although I have left just enough of a stub that I could still activate the Momentary ON Mode, the techniques you refer to are not part of my home defense plan - if I'm searching my home, I'm doing it with a handheld light. If my weapon light is on, chances are I'll be shooting and thus will want it to stay on. I shoot many many thousands of rounds each year in daytime USPSA/3-Gun matches using a grip that I am sure to default to under stress... I don't want to have to remember to change my grip just to adapt to a weapon light. And I'd suggest you not underestimate the value of competitive shooting - the only way you really know how your techniques and equipment will work is under the extreme stress that only competition and combat can induce. I've seen a remarkable number of folks who took classes, did a lot of reading and bought the latest gee-whiz tactical widgets, only to have the wheels fall off when the timer goes BEEP. I invite you try it sometime - it can be a humbling experience. |
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