Massad Ayoob has been asked to give some advice to older shooters. As an older shooter himself, Mas plenty of tips to offer. From hands, fingers, backs and eyes Mas covers it all.
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Critical Mas(s) with Massad Ayoob is a show that provides expert analysis over a wide range of contemporaneous topics related to civilian and law enforcement self-defense, the use of force, and second amendment issues, provided by a renowned and established author with a career spanning decades in training law enforcement officers and the public at large, who is frequently called upon to provide expert witness testimony.
ABOUT MASSAD AYOOB:
Massad Ayoob has been handgun editor of GUNS magazine and law enforcement columnist for AMERICAN HANDGUNNER since the 1970s and has published thousands of articles in gun magazines, martial arts publications, and law enforcement journals. He is the author of some twenty books on firearms, self-defense, and related topics, including “In the Gravest Extreme” and “Deadly Force,” widely considered to be authoritative texts on the topic of the use of lethal force.
The winner of the Outstanding American Handgunner of the Year Award in 1998, Mas has won several state and regional handgun shooting championships. Ayoob was the first person to earn the title of Five Gun Master in the International Defensive Pistol Association. He is the current President of the Second Amendment Foundation. He served 19 years as chair of the Firearms Committee of the American Society of Law Enforcement Trainers, and several years as a member of the Advisory Board of the International Law Enforcement Educators and Trainers Association. In addition to teaching for those groups, he has also taught
for the International Association of Law Enforcement Firearms Instructors and the International Homicide Investigators seminars.
Mas has received judicial recognition as an expert witness for the courts in weapons and shooting cases since 1979, and served as a fully sworn and empowered, part-time police officer for 43 years, mostly at supervisor rank. Ayoob founded the Lethal Force Institute in 1981 and served as its director until 2009, and now trains through Massad Ayoob Group. He has
appeared on CLE-TV delivering continuing legal education for attorneys, through the American Law Institute and American Bar Association, and has been retained to train attorneys to handle deadly force cases through the Armed Citizens Legal Defense Network. Ayoob served for two
years as co-vice chair of the Forensic Evidence Committee of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. He also appeared in each episode of Personal Defense TV (Sportsman’s Channel).
0:00 - Different Sight Options
1:35 - Bifocals Tip
3:00 - Arthritis Solutions
4:30 - Pyramidal Sight
5:20 - Different Carry Positions
7:25 - Learn To Adapt
#MassadAyoob #WilsonCombat #CriticalMas
I'm now 69. My eyes have changed for sure, so I explained to my optometrist that I shoot regularly in local matches. Both handgun and precision rifle. He told me to bring my handgun into the clinic and he would "fix me up". He cleared a hallway and I cleared my Sig P226 (it was after hours) and he brought out his equipment. I left that appointment with 4 different prescriptions for contact lenses that let me focus on both of my optics and the iron sights. I really appreciated his willingness to go way beyond what most eye docs would ever do.
We are both fortunate to have the services of an understanding optometrist. I have been able to bring both my target rifle & self defense handgun to the professionals office.
My eye doctor made me glasses with the bifocal at the top last fall. The front sight is crystal clear. I still would like a fiber optic front sight. S&W and Wilson won't help me. Any suggestions?
You are very fortunate to have a Dr. that cares.
One other thought about cataract surgery . . . I chose to go with monovision (where one lense is for distance and the other for reading). I was very happy with it until I went shooting. I mistakenly had my dominant eye corrected for distance which worked great for most things BUT made front sight focus non-optimal. If I had it to do over again, I would have the reading correction on my dominant eye. YMMV, discuss it with your doctor before surgery.
@@kenzzutube *Thank you for mentioning this critical point. Had not occurred to me, now top of mind. Cheers!*
Massad Ayoob is a legend. He speaks from the heart and his intentions are admirable. He simply wants to provide whatever assistance he can to his large community of followers. I’ve learned a lot from Massad and thank him for his assistance over the years. Thank you to Wilson Combat for sponsoring this expert as he continues to impart his knowledge to all of us eager to learn how to improve our skills.
1
Massad is a self-proclaimed expert who has made a lifelong career out of (mis)representing himself as an authority on UOF incidents when he has never had one. He started writing books in his early-20's and like every other damn boomer slid his way into success. I live down the road from him and he's had honorary part-time police credentials here for all of his adult life but has zero real street time as a cop. He's annoying, full of fudd lore, and sanctimonious. He's a total bootlicker and a proponent of gun control so long as it doesn't affect law enforcement.
My favorite "gun geezer". Mas has been around the block a few times and knows what the hell he's talking about. I've followed his advice since the 80s and never been steered wrong.
In the Gravest Extreme...😊
I absolutely agree! Massad Ayoob and Jeff Cooper were household names back in the 80’s! I guess we are geezers?
Mas was my first go to for gun related info. Read the books, watched some vids, always got the articles. Sound foundation for beginners on up. Took my 1st class 9 years after starting out. Word of advice, save some time and get instruction sooner rather than later.
@@hoosierplowboy5299Yep! I still have my copy bought about 1984 or so I think.
Very good information as us older folks bodies change. I just had massive shoulder surgery, still in the healing mode in my left shoulder and am a leftie 😢 Thanks
‘Sonny Crockets older stranger brother’! Absolutely one of the most hysterical lines I’ve ever heard. Awesome.
Kids: Grampa who’s Sonny Crocket ? 😂
As a healthy, pain-free 67 y/o, I am genuinely humbled as I consider how many people persevere and overcome injuries and pain. I am also trying to educate myself on options as my own 'Earth suit' starts showing its years. Thank you.
I'm 73 and feel the same as you do. I feel blessed that I'm still able to draw and engage two human silhouettes at 21 feet in about 2.5 seconds with my 1911 45 ACP's. I know the day is coming soon that this will not last much longer. I need to be as ready for that as possible, and they don't come any more qualified to help me do that than Massad Ayoob. I've been reading his materials for years and have never once read anything by him that wasn't accurate and educational.
@@the45er Agreed; I've been following Mas since the mid-'80s. Regarding the age thing, I feel like I'm in a second adolescence as I try to learn how to maintain my health and activity through the 'Golden Years'. 😎
I'm a disabled vet and age isn't helping a bit, thanks for all you do for the 2A community, you sir are a national treasure!!
You're the real treasure!🇺🇸Thank you for your selfless service to our USofA🇺🇸🦅🕊🙏Bless You🙏
So are you. Thank you for your service
I’m a veteran (Vietnam era) retired paramedic, firefighter, and LEO. As long as I can aim and see. I’m not ready to give up. Control and safety first.
The Sacred Book of Massad
He’s never led us wrong! 😊
@@kevinmcgovern5110And he’s a great speller!
@@kevinmcgovern5110 amen.
Hallowed be his name!
Being 66 I believe Massad can give me some great insight. After growing up shooting with my Dad and brother I did not shoot after Dad passed in 1981 until first grandson got me back into shooting by taking me out for my 66th birthday present in September 2022. Ends up I enjoyed it so much that I joined the GSSF and have competed in 2 indoor matches and had a fantastic time. I am shooting a G45, my CCW, and a G34. Using iron sights now and looking to upgrade to red dot soon,
once you get used to the red dot you will love it brother. carry on sir.
We are in a spiritual war. There are principalities of darkness in high places who practice the dark occult arts of summoning demonic entities to let loose in our earthly realm. These entities attach themselves and possess individuals susceptible to their influence to carry out evil acts to drive division among the American people and ultimately to undermine the freedoms of Americans. The 12 virtues helps to block, bind, and limit the influence of these "entities" specifically in the context of gun ownership. As more people understand and live by these virtues, we strengthen the angels among us and weaken the grip of the demonic entities over all of humanity.... THE 12 VIRTUES OF THE RESPONSIBLE GUN OWNER: HUMILITY: The quality of having a modest or low view of one's own importance. It involves the recognition of one's limitations, imperfections, and fallibility, and the willingness to acknowledge and learn from one's mistakes. A humble person is not overly concerned with status, recognition, or personal gain, but instead focuses on serving others and contributing to the greater good. TEMPERANCE: The quality of having restraint and moderation in one's emotions, behaviors, and desires. Temperance is an important virtue as it helps people maintain self-control and avoid impulsive or harmful actions. GRATITUDE: A feeling or expression of thankfulness or appreciation for something that one has received or experienced. It is a positive emotion that can be directed towards others or towards life in general, and is often associated with feelings of joy, contentment, and well-being. Gratitude can also be a practice, in which individuals consciously focus on the good things in their lives and cultivate a sense of appreciation for them. SOBRIETY: The quality of being free from the effects of alcohol or drugs. It can also be used more broadly to describe a lifestyle or attitude that emphasizes moderation, restraint, and self-control. MORAL DUTY: The obligation to act in a certain way that is consistent with moral principles or values. It is the responsibility that one has to do what is right and ethical, regardless of personal gain or benefit. PATRIOTISM: Patriotism generally refers to the love, devotion, and loyalty that a person feels toward their country. It often includes a sense of pride in one's country, its history, culture, and achievements. MINDFULNESS: The state of being present and fully engaged in the current moment, paying attention to one's thoughts, feelings, and surroundings. It involves being non-judgmental and accepting of what is happening in the present moment. Having situational awareness. CONSIDERATION: Involves taking into account the needs and feelings of others before making a decision or taking action. It is the act of being thoughtful and showing regard for the well-being of others. COURAGE: Involves taking action to protect others in the face of danger or adversity, and being willing to stand up for what is right, even when it is difficult or unpopular. It requires both physical and moral strength, as well as a willingness to take risks and face challenges in order to protect others. RESILIENCE: Refers to the ability of an individual or a system to recover from difficult or challenging circumstances. It involves adapting to adversity, maintaining a positive outlook, and bouncing back from setbacks. Resilience can apply to various areas of life, such as personal relationships, health, work, and business. It is not the absence of difficulty or hardship, but rather the ability to cope with and overcome them. Developing resilience can help individuals navigate difficult situations and emerge stronger and more capable. THOROUGHNESS: refers to the quality of being meticulous, careful, and precise in carrying out tasks or fulfilling responsibilities. It involves a strong attention to detail and a commitment to ensuring that all necessary steps are taken and all relevant aspects are considered. A thorough person is diligent in their approach, consistently adhering to established procedures, conducting comprehensive checks, and verifying information or results to minimize errors and ensure accuracy. PRUDENCE: Someone who is prudent carefully considers all the available information before making a decision or forming an opinion. This involves being open-minded, objective, and patient in gathering and evaluating evidence, and avoiding hasty or impulsive conclusions. Such a person would be able to weigh the pros and cons of different options, assess the potential risks and benefits, and make a well-informed and reasonable judgment.
Good gun choices. Check out red dots.
I’m 63 and now disabled. I hope Massad offers tips for disabled shooters!
I’m 61 and in the same boat
👍
It certainly would depend on exactly what disability you’re referring to.
@@gungadingo Same, fu%d up👍
I am disabled at 47 from a failed dual lumbar fusion. I wish they would offer more shooting events for disabled people.
Sir there is something that won’t be measurable but your brilliant advice and guidance over the years has undoubtedly saved lives. Please take a moment to look in the mirror and feel proud. This goes out to you and the supporting team at Wilson. Thank you.
Spot on. I’m in my 60s with arthritis in my left hand, mostly in my thumb knuckles. A friend of mine at the range showed me how to rack my pistol overhand using my finger tips and the heel of my hand. I’ve also gotten pretty good at mag changes using my index finger as a thumb. It’s all muscle memory. My old reliable iron sights deer rifle got fitted with a scope because my eyes aren’t what they used to be. Hey, we’re all getting older but I’m definitely not ready for sitting on a rocking chair on the porch yet.
I recommend HK pistols with the paddle mag release, because you can use your index finger
Hey, this getting old ain't for sissies, is it? --Old Guy
HEYYY HEY ROCKING CHAIR ARE GOOD. AS LONG AS YOU HAVE A DOUBLE SHOT OF BOURBON ON THE ROCKS IN YOUR HAND. WATCHING THE SUN SET.
@@shannonbarattini5772 actually it’s a double shot of single malt whisky, but I like the way you think.
I'm transiting to an optical sight at age 62. As someone who wears bifocals, I can fully relate to Mas's comments about tipping your head back to get front site focus. The dot is a game changer for me.
What about two sets of glasses? One for shooting/driving. One for reading.
@@deker0954 I do that. Bifocals for walking, driving etc and readers for reading and computer work. But the readers really don’t work for shooting.
That bi-focal trick may actually work for reading a monitor. Got to try that out.
I tried the bifocal at the top for one year. I didn't care for it so I transitioned to a red dot sight. It was the best answer for me. I wish I'd done it years ago.
Mr Ayoob, Fifty years of using firearms and I am still here also thanks to you and others like you. It is a pleasure to still be learning from you after all this time. .
"Gun Geezer"? I like that. We need a T-shirt with that slogan on the front. Oh, and a pocket for my shooting glasses. 😎 Decided to edit my previous comment with...I intend to watch this video multiple times in the near-future. As always with Mr. Ayoob's videos, a LOT of useful information is contained within.
At almost 68 years old, I am so thankful for red dot sights! I can still use my irons, but not as well as I used to. I'm just happy to still be able to shoot!
The man has spoken. Take the info and apply it to your training routine. I'm 66 and a former LEO and eye trouble is my main issue now with 8 eye surgeries 3 left and 5 right. NO FUN but still shoot.
Looking forward to this video. At 67 with 51 years of shooting experience, I'm still learning.
true but you know better than most that its the younger guns that need the tips what you have forgotten the younger generation haven't even learned
Much the same boat :)
66 here, my wrists are the only thing on my body that are arthritic. I have always loved the .357s and have various models that are now at issue even with .38 loads. Looking forward to this presentation. I hope he gets into older hands and wrists. 🇺🇸
I am 73 yo and a gun lover since 1968. I have S&W .357 mag/38spl revolvers and Colt 1911 .45ACP. I want to hear Massad's tips. Thank you in advance!!!Take care!!!
Absolutely.consistently learning all throughout life.
Massad is a gem. I'm 55 years old. Spent nearly half my life playing hockey and 4 years active in the USMC. Got a few, let's call em, aches and pains. I would have never considered a cross draw holster or shoulder harness until Massad talked about some of the benefits of them. Now I'm a business owner where I spend some of my day behind a desk, some out on the floor with my employees, and some on the road traveling for meetings. Love my shoulder harness and cross draw for my daily carry. Whether I'm sitting, walking and talking, or driving these holsters do it all for me with comfort. Thank you Massad!
Since I'm 70+ yo, I'm glad to see some videos on this. We are the ones that are most vulnerable to attacks. I need to defend myself & my family.
You are going to die in your scenario. At 70 someone could just kick you over. Imagine voting for people who will protect justice jobs. Didn't most of the Magats just tell us to defund the FBI? Geatz quote is the best.
Mas, I'm a tad younger than you. Petite female who fell last year and broke my right knee & left arm and I'm a lefty. Thankfully, years ago I taught myself to shoot right handed, just in case anything happened. I'll check on getting my glasses changed; something I never thought about. Great info!
Good for you for thinking ahead. I got myasthenia gravis from a cancer, and I had to learn to write right-handed due to the shakes. Doesn't affect my shooting, though. Take care. --Old Guy
@@Ed-ig7fj Happy you can enjoy time at the range. Stay safe & well
I'm a disabled, 53-year-old veteran. I wear my bifocals as he described and EDC a S&W 686-4 with a 4" barrel. I use a shoulder holster and have 2 speed loaders and 2 stripper reloads under my right arm. For summer wear, I cover my side arm with a over-sized plaid linen shirt. Where I live, I blend in with most of the late middle-aged men walking around.
I'm more self conscience of my new belly than a gun stickin out !!
Awesome firearm. But six rounds, might not be enough, and reloading is usually slower unless you’re Jerry.
@@JustDefense Paul Harrell has several videos about citizen involved shootings. The short of it is that a citizen very rarely needs more than 6 rounds in a self-defense situation. Also, I have been using, training with and carrying revolvers for well over 40 years. I do have semi-autos for anytime I think I need more than one of my hog legs can provide, but I'm just much more comfortable with the wheel guns. Be well friend and shoot straight.
@@mattbrown5511 I recently moved my carry gun from 5 shots up to 10-13. The hoodlums are driving to more distance neighborhoods and 1 to 4 are jumping out, seemingly everywhere these days. For security work, or EDC, I carried a Smith 39, or a Model 19 (both for trail carry).God bless us, there's more hoods and bears than every before. That said, all my female loved ones have their choice of Smith wheel guns, which I fully endorse.
@@johnshields9110 If it gets that bad around my parts, I have semi-auto pistols to carry. I just much more experience and training with my wheel guns, especially the 686-4. Be well my friend and watch your 6 if I'm not there.
81 here.....glock 43x mos w/ Holosun 507k adapted by Glock Store works very well for me.
Sciatica is no fun. I've had it for a while. All of your advice is always as far as I am concerned is always fantastic. Thank you
I had Sciatica too. The only thing that worked was an RF lesioning of the dorsal root ganglion. That's a fancy medical term for a needle with a special tiny tip on it that radiates radio waves into a spider web of tiny nerves that come out of each of the spinal disc spaces. You will be sedated but awake. It does not hurt. I had sciatica so bad it felt like a dog was biting my lower calf constantly. I couldn't sleep well for three months. When my mom had the same problem, I made her go to the same doctor because she wouldn't go without me insisting. She was cured a week later. You need to find a good pain management specialist who does a lot of different types of spinal injections. IT DOES NOT HURT.
Thank you Mr. Mas. Your advice not only saved my life but more importantly, the life of a 14 year old mentally challenged boy. He had the body size of a pre teen, but a deep voice, He was playing with a toy gun that looked exactly like the Beretta 92, in a bank parking lot. All the boy could say plainly was "freeze, get em up." His mother had left him in the car while she did her banking business. The young boy was outside of the car crouching behind the offside rear bumper. I was making a very large deposit for our local college registration day proceeds. As I started down two steps from the parking lot level, the boy shouted, "freeze, get em up!" Long story short, as I was drawing my weapon, rotating and crouching into a low combat stance, I saw in the split second of the turn, the boy in the reflection of the bank's door glass. In that split second, your teachings, triggered in my reflexes and I managed to hold fire. Thank you Mr. A.
Massad says in the US you're never too old to buy a gun, and you're never too young to get shot. He's d_mn right! 👍
Me and my friends were running around shooting at each other with our cap guns. Double hip holsters playing good guy and bad guy with our plastic holsters and 'fake' revolvers when an adult stuck his head out the uppermost window and yelled down to us. Can you keep it down, my wife is trying to sleep. What did we do? We didn't get shot we were about five. We left the area.
@@samueltucker8473 Glad you didn't get shot. My friends and I played "war" outside when I was very young. WW II was a fresh memory. A lot of "gunners," like Massad, claim schools are easy targets for gun massacres. That's what I meant when I wrote you're never too young to be shot in America.
I'm 85, started at 12. I use the middle lens on my trifocals. It also helps by keeping both eyes open. Thank, Mas! Great stuff!
Im 73 and my hands and fingers are still very strong, cant say the same for my back. I grew up shooting ruger blackhawk 357and 41 mag. Now i use my glock 19. I really appreciate your expert advice. Thank you.
Nice to know someone shot a .41 mag. I think it's a great cartridge! Best to ya',,,,!
Thank you SO MUCH for testifying in Oregon on behalf of us! I cannot understate how honored we were to have you advocate on our behalf! Oregon is through and through a gun culture!
At 68 Massad is spot on! Thank you Sir! Going to go see my eye doc about the trifocal and head back shooting . Which is also a pain in the neck when time at the range.
Love all the shows. Great tips in this show, I am 76 and I went to a lightweight Para Ord Commander and started carrying in a semi appendix carry 20 years ago, I experimented until I found the most comfortable. Changing subject a little, I have thought about this a lot. I believe in training, but before shooters buy lights and optics I n believe they need to know the basics. Know your house or dwelling, make sure you know every door, corner, step, windows, and light switch, in the dark without extras on your weapon. Know the other people, be able to recognize the ones that live with you by sight and size in the dark. If you live alone but have occasional guest let them know what do and where to go if an emergency arises. after you are confident and competent then add your accessories. Accessories are not failure proof you may have to depend on old school.
At 74, I have added green fiber on most of my handguns, and I’m up to two red dots guns, thinking about adding to more. I don’t enjoy 45acp or 44 mags, most of mine are 9mm. Splatter targets are my choice now,,,easier to see. Alway enjoy your videos ….,thanks for sharing.
As a fellow geezer I approve this message. Lasers are expensive but may also be a good option. Also consider that wrist weakness and or arthritis may make it difficult to consistently maintain a grip that prevents malfunctions in autos. Don't be afraid to consider other actions and or less powerful calibers. A .357 can work just fine with not only 38 specials but also short and long Colts.
60 here. I have progressive no line glasses that are set higher than normal. Yes, it does help. Practice target focus shooting and that further helps. Very proficient to 10 yards. Great tips as always. Indeed, as you change change what works for you.
Being mid fifties with multiple old injuries, I swap carry spots more often. Just got my first cross draw and works well and comfortable.
Well I am in my 70s and really appreciate your advise. It seems like we have become the forgotten generation we can always use some age appreciate hints. And yes we keep shooting, at my gun club there a number of us in or 70s and 80s.
Thank you Mr Ayoob for addressing this. I hit 69 in a couple of months and have had lower back surgery along with three other issues. Eyesight that cannot see front sight. Reflex sight took care of that. Good o'l Author, has me changing from my .45 1911's to now carrying a 9mm 1911. Shooting is enjoyable again. And the old age syndrome of lackoassious. I ended up switching to a forward cross draw holster that paired with a much stiffer carry belt took care of that issue. As hip carry required the use of suspenders just to keep the pants up when carrying any handgun with appreciable weight. Seems it does take a little thought and planning, but at least we know that many if not most of the challenges of getting older and both carrying and continuing to enjoying shooting or handguns can still be accomplished. It does take a bit of effort and thought/experimenting, but well worth it! KnifeMaker
Great advice Massad. I just turned 60, and with a few additional pounds on me, well it's not the same as before!
I need to know which tape to use to prevent my toupee from jumping up from the recoil of my Ruger Super Redhawk Alaskan 454 Casull. Stop laughing, it ain't funny.
Staples.🤬
Wear a hat or shave your head for Pete's sake.
If you're serious, Topstick. If you're trying to be funny, hot glue..
Please delete your comment.
To quote Bill Murry, " It's a little funny!"
Vet tape works well for wrapping your index finger is a good option for index finger bump. Also helps with what is known in the medical field as trigger finger( has nothing to do with a ballistic weapon) but is a term describing finger joints locking closed from being worn out. Vet tape can help with both problems at once if you are experiencing those. Thanks for sharing the tips for old timers like us. 73 yrs old now but won’t give up. 🇺🇸🦅🙏
Stomper ; Please forgive me but, what is Vet Tape? I've never heard of this item before. I'd like to find some and try it out. My fingers are in terrible shape. Thanks in advance. Stan
@@harrisonmantooth7363 Stan, vet tape is what they use now if they take a blood sample from your arm to temporally hold the pad on while it quits bleeding. It was first used by veterinary clinics on furry animals to hold supplies in position. It is wrinkly and stretchy and only sticks to itself. It comes in blue and tan. I use it when I’m working around the house to keep my fingers from closing too far and locking up, which can be painful. Hands and fingers don’t have a long shelf life for us old timers that worked with them all our life. Try drug stores and maybe on line. Hope it helps your fingers, Calvin
I think I'll try this. I get trigger finger periodically in both ring fingers, supposedly as a result of my type 2 diabetes. Had something similar in my right hand a few years ago, on the pinky, and the surgery to correct it was about as bad as the affliction (and a whole lot more expensive).
In the human drug stores , usually one size and color . From the Horse/ Farm Supply stores , rainbow of colors and different widths , and cheaper .
@@stomper2582; OH, ok. I now know what to call the tape I've been using for years. Me being a Type 2 Diabetic, whenever I went to the Lab for a blood draw, the Phlibotomist always used it to stem the blood flow. I was also on Warfarin when I first started using that tape. Thanks for enlightening this old Geezer. To all you folks educating me on this subject, thanks. Stan
I'm a retired gunsmith and I've followed you since your books long before the internet. You're an intelligent man. Stick around here.
Great advice for those of us over 50. I guess we all develop some orthopedic limitations to adapt to and overcome.
At 69 and carrying for many years, it's just too natural for me to stick with iron sites and modified Weaver Stance. I did carry my Beretta 92 with two opposing side mags. Worked great until I put on weight. Made it difficult to reach across my chest. lol. Now it's hip carry. G26 is very comfortable. Thanks again for the years of sharing your knowledge and experience.
I found 1.25 reading glasses work best for me. My dominate right eye has my best vision and the left eye is what needs corrective vision for driving. Prescription glasses work best for specific distances which are worthless for me. I need three focal planes to shoot with iron sights. The 1.25 cheap readers give me clear vision with the rear, front and target. Clearer than any other types of glasses. Thanks for you great work and dedication.
Passed this video on to a friend (retired police Sgt) who will be celebrating his 90th birthday next week. Perfect timing!
Thank you for the good advice, as always. It might be heresy to mention this on the Wilson Combat forum, but for folks with reduced finger flexibility, another option might be the paddle release available on some European pistols (e.g. HK, Walther). This may also eliminate the risk of accidental mag release when bumping up against something. Thanks again.
I am right there with you at 61. A lot of things change over time. I've been AIWB for a few years now. And taking a lot of ribbing about it. I wish I would have found it earlier. So much better on my back. Sonny Crockett's older stranger brother. I love it! Also, strength training has helped immensely with both general strength and arthritis. Great insight! Appreciate your videos!
Gotta love Massad, no games, no bs, just good tips and straight forward stuff
my father dearest loves to shoot. shoulder surgeries have made it so he can't raise his arms, he has to exaggerate the bend at his elbows to get a sight picture through a red dot. he has to wear a wrist brace too. he's in his late seventies. he has to have a heavy pistol if he wants to shoot 9mm just b/c he can't deal with the recoil through his wrists with lighter framed pistols. he has a nice set up but he wants to keep getting better. looking forward to the video.
Thank you Massad . I enjoy through the years of watching your gun training tapes. With twenty eight years of retired law enforcement. Most law enforcement training doesn't cover . Thank you again.
Mas, thanks so much for these tip! I'm 74 and have been using the fiber optic version and appendix seems to work so far. Had to laugh at the glasses. I find myself looking over my glasses to see the front sight fairly quickly. Been a fan for many families years. God Bless!
Mas has saved my life with his words.
I'm only 38 but was born with cataracts. Corrective surgery left me with single focal plane vision and I now must use multifocal lenses. Red dots on pistols have revolutionized my shooting abilities from a dinner plate size group at 15 yards to a saucer sized group at 30 yards. I recommend older shooters at least try out a red dot.
Hey, good stuff, as always. I’ve been carrying since 1975, mostly a 1911. Some years back, I put Ashley Express sights on my Kimber Pro Carry (this was before the Big Dot; the company is XS Sights today). I’d be interested to hear Mas share his opinion of that shallow V and dot arrangement for fast acquisition by older eyes.
I experimented a lot with various carry positions. The most comfortable ended up in what I called "cross draw appendix." Nobody talks about that in anything I've read or watched. You completely validated me when you mentioned that it was used by Peter Kokalis. Thank you. My Hellcat now travels with me more than ever. Keep up the good work.
As I'm getting into my twilight years, I feel fortunate that for most of my years around firearms, there was always Massad there as a guiding light. Thank you Massad!
Massad's book was the first one I ever read cover to cover. He is the best Gun Geezer! Long live MAS!
Yeah, balancing the weight is why my ex-wife carried two soare mags opposite a horizontal holster. Not because she thought she would actually need 49 rounds on tap for self defense, but because the weight was balanced within an ounce or two. Amd she ended up with a shoulder rig because of body proportions - when you're short waisted and long limbed, and your elbows are.lower than your belt line, strong side belt holsters just don't work. Being female, and one who works and lives in an environment where jeans that would allow a sturdy gunbelt was *generally* not an option, am off the belt solution was preferred to a cross draw holster, which was the other good option for her to carry a pistol - a shoulder rig ainply meant she needed a cover garment, and could otherwise wear it with anything. (And it's illustration of why, while general recommendations are fine, anyone who insists there is only one or.two "proper" carry methods is simply ignoring reality - not everyone is shaped the same, has the same range of motion, or has the same secondary considerations they *must* take into account in their situation.)
In my case, I get around on a mobility scooter. ONLY a shoulder holster allows a concealed carry position which will not print, and with which I can reach my weapon quickly and easily. The two extra mags on the opposite side are there (I hope) to help balance the load on my shoulders. Being an "old man", wearing a sports coat and hat all the time... I just look "old fashion". And wearing a dark gray sports coat with a black lining, a black T-shirt, and a black holster rig... it is very hard to "see". Plus, it allows me to carry a full frame Beretta... where anywhere else would require a more compact version which is harder to sight and has more recoil.
As always great advice and as always thank you for your time always greatly appreciated
You are the Man!
Lots of great advise. I’m fairly new to pistol shooting at 71 so I appreciate your comments.
I'm never too old or too smart to learn something new.
DittO 2 things Ido daily learn something new & kind act if possible
Thanks Mas. Earlier this year I bought a S&W Equalizer and a 380 Bodyguard to replace a couple of guns that I could no longer fire comfortably and effectively. This video reinforced my choices.
Thanks from a fellow geezer!
I too am over they three quarter century mark. I grew up using iron sights, but my eye sight is fading. I have switched to the reflex sights. I tried both red and green. I see the green much better than the red. And I went from my beloved .45 acp 1911 Colt to 9mm. The sight and caliber change has helped me regain confidence back in my ability to hit my target. Thanks for the tips and keep it up.
You can get "occupational bifocals" with the bifocals in the top and bottom. Been wearing them for over 30 years!
I look forward to the fall/ winter season so I can switch to my shoulder rig. I've had two lower lumbar fusions and carrying at 3 o'clock can be painful. I carry a double stack 45 so two fully loaded mags on one side weight almost as much as the gun on the other.
I appreciate the advice. MASsively!
Watched this a few hours ago. I'm a regular here and in my seventies, thought I would mention that an optometrist can make the reader clear any length from your face. I play guitar and couldn't read the sheet music, reading distance was only about 14"- the Dr did some math and set the reading clarity at 24", perfect for the handgun rule here.
Amazing idea about the Rx eyeglasses. I'll ask my local shop if they can do.
I'm just 55 years old and have significant health problems, especially with mobility. I literally can't physically run or retreat so I have to face any threat head on. I open carry a 4" aluminum alloy frame 1911 45 on my strong side but I have always preferred a grip forward crossdraw. Unfortunately my Lockleather holster is designed more strong side carry style and it's just not comfortable carrying it in a crossdraw. I'm hoping that Urban Carry makes a Lockleather holster with either an adjustable cant or a 15 degree muzzle forward cant holster so I can go back to the crossdraw. My eyes are getting kinda weak too but with the red fiber optic front sight I can still put the bullets where I want at any normal self defense distance. I've lost some grip strength but my personal grip style makes that much less of an issue. Unlike the modern both thumbs forward grip that is supposed to be the only "correct" way to shoot a semi auto, I use the revolver grip that I learned to use starting back in '73 when I was 5 years old and still use on any handgun today. I have a good solid grip even if I've lost some strength over the years and have no problems with recoil or accuracy and strangely enough I can shoot my little 45 one handed just as well as I can two handed. I've practiced shooting one handed a lot because in the real world you're not going to have the time to draw, get the perfect two handed grip and a perfect sight picture before the bad guy is already on top of you. Most of the time it's going to be draw, point and pull the trigger as quickly as you can if you want to survive. I don't ever see anyone training in one handed shooting anymore and I think that's a big mistake. If you watch WW 1 training videos, the soldiers are trained in one handed shooting only. That's why they're called hand guns and not hands guns. They were originally designed for one handed use. I'll have to have glasses soon and there's nothing that can be done to help most of my other disabilities, so I'll adapt to overcome my limitations with some good ol hillbilly ingenuity. If there's a problem, a hillbilly or backwoods redneck can always find a way to come up with a fix. Great advice as always Mas. Looking forward to the next one.
Outstanding advice as always. Thank you.
You really get us. Thank you!!❤
Thank you for the ideas I am 73 and can still use the iron sights but have practiced with red dots and as I get better with rmr I get better with irons. Maybe more practice is the key and yes I moved mag release to use finger.
Massad is the expert, but I wouldn’t get too worried about making defensive shots at 25 yards. Contact to 5 yards is more realistic for defensive shooting. Range fun is another story. 👍👍👍
Thank you so much for all the informative videos 🇺🇸
The fly in the ointment for "upside down" bifocals is that the "reading" portion will give you a sharp sight picture, but the target/threat will be blurred. I have found the best answer to be the red dot optic. I can focus on the threat (and clearly see whether he's pulling a gun or a cell phone), and although the red dot may be blurry, if I put the red blur in the center of the target, I'm golden. 😎
Great video and great advice for us "older" shooters!
As always with Massad, another great video, thank you sir!
Sorry to hear about your injuries and difficulties Mas, I'm there myself. There's a lot of good insights and ideas in this short video, thanks for the presentation!
Last handgun bought in 1990 and it was a .22... It took the Biden's admin to remind me of the precious things in life, so I added 7 firearms since 2020
Dimitryklush....BAHAHAAAA....in 2008 I worked at a gun store & the fear mongering about President Obama outlawing guns meant that customers were literally lined up around the block waiting on us to open in the mornings...we absolutely could not keep the shelves stocked or sell guns & ammo fast enough... people were panic buying...& how many laws regarding guns did President Obama sign into law.... exactly TWO...both or which expanded gun owners rights....same with Biden...the fear mongering among conservatives makes a Democrat President the best gun salesperson ever 🤣🤣🤣🤣
I’m 65, a childless widower. I own 34 firearms and have absolutely no idea who to leave them to. It’s a worrying problem. All my relatives are deceased.
@I B Newton sell most of them when you slow down and/or leave them to a gun club , maybe they could use or raffle them for charity!? Or up grade they're range club house.
@@ibnewton8951 I hear your pain bud, at 55 I am at a loss of who ends up selling them :(. Just some nephews and a niece who are not into firearms or The 2nd A. Sure wish they could stay with one of them… but then again, if they sell, the money may help them out a little. Good luck my friend.
@@UnstoppableYaris Thank you. I appreciate your remarks. I honestly don’t know what to do. Perhaps I should sell them on gun auction sites.
Per your time mark, you will discuss bifocals. My 65 year old eyes has deteriorated enough that I have had to go to full (no longer bifocal) lense magnification. When I look thru my AR15's scope, the bifocal lense insert (in my sunglasses) are too low to be able to line it up with the scope.
Thank you, friend. From an old man. Best regards to you and your family. Happy holidays also.
Thank you so much for addressing this subject. I do hope more will do the same.
Can you do a pistol fitting video meaning how can one tell if one should look for a certain back strap shape, grip plates thickness, trigger shoe? Is there a finger to palm ratio where fingers should rest in the end or maybe just using one thicker grip panel can help? A size guide with indicators would get lots of attention. Maybe all your employees can do a double blind test and you get data what they like best without involving looks. You could also make a video about the historical iterations and data collection on pistol ergonomics.
Obviously , I'm not Mas . There is a high degree of personal preference as to grip shape and dimensions . Yes , there can be gross mismatches of very small hands and very large guns and vice versa . In evaluating , the starting point is trigger finger placement on trigger ( as per your preferred finger placement , ie pad vs first joint ) With finger in postion , how does your hand fit the gun otherwise . Can you shoot accurately , and control recoil with that positioning ? With that hand position , how closely does the bore axis align with forearm bones ? If it does closely align , great ! And give yourself bonus points . But of these three factors , it is least critical , and isn't always a deal breaker.
As an older shooter, a laser is ABSOLUTE GAME CHANGER.
Went to lunch with buddies, and they were all talking about knee replacement, prostate cancer, and spinal fusions! We used to talk about the ladies! Found great help taking turmeric for arthritis btw. That and assisted yoga where the instructor helps you stretch. It's much better and very recouperative. Stay on the right side of the grass! 66 years for me!
Thanks for sharing this, it's appreciated very much.
Me putting my reading glasses on to type a comment.
😂
Can Never be To Experienced Not to Learn something New.. If you think you know Everything, Then Indeed you know Nothing.
As a 76 year old former Marine shooter and retired federale', I thought I was invincible. Ha! So I deal with this set of circumstances now. Having no intention of diminishing my skills if I can avoid it, this is valuable stuff. Accompanied by a great dry sense of humor. Thanks, Mas.
Thank you, always great content
Love this! Thank you so very much!
Alright Shooters. How old are you?
67 Got my first single shot .22 LR when I was 7 or 8
So old that I can't sit down or stand up from a chair without sound effects. Still vertical and breathing. I intend to keep it that way.
66-11/12
67. 20 years Army. Acquired my first 9mm last year, bought another this year. Been shooting since December last year. I can lay a quarter over a three round group and sometimes a four round group.
Age 65 Baby Boomer in the "Free State". I use sunglasses with reading lense inserts.
Gun geezer...you've just added another phrase to my vocabulary and a new honorific for myself. I guess my age (74) kind of puts me in the category. I carry (and practice regularly with) a Taurus GX4 with the optical sight option. But when you mentioned that lots of us geezers do just fine with iron sights, I could really identify. I am utterly happy with the iron sights. To me, an optic sticking vertically up from the slide is just one more thing to snag. And I've never heard of a battery running low in iron sights. My shooting in my recent CCW class was so conspicuously better than the rest, that they contrived an award for me. I found that on a micro 9, grip, arm position, and even stance are far more crucial than with a full-size pistol. I was amazed at how a few crucial suggestions from a very expert instructor helped me practically eliminate the snap and fatigue that aggravated my osteoarthritis. Now that I go everywhere armed after one too many scares (our country and world have changed since the days when I was growing up) I avoid potential conflicts even more diligently than before. But if anyone ever decides to take the conflict to me and just won't stop, It's very comforting that this gun geezer can give any potential assailant a really bad day at the office. I'm constantly learning, and you're a great instructor, Massad! Oh! and my pronouns are "who, me?"
Man I really love this series. This video was very helpful as all of videos are.
Get real Massad. Defending yourself from a car or home invasion or the equivalent is NOT a shooting competition. In the event of a home invasion, by the time you get yourself vertical from laying down or sitting and assume the two handed stance, you're DEAD. First you put a laser on your handgun and forget about wasting time bringing the gun up to peer through the sight. When the red dot is on target pull the trigger. If your sitting at a table in a restaurant you can keep the gun under the table and when the red dot is on the attackers foot or leg you fire. Then, when (s)he is laying on the floor mewling you can pull the gun out where it's visible. Then you put it on a magnetic holder right beside your bed or seat. Then you practice (at the range or equivalent) firing one handed while sitting, laying on your back, prone, kneeling and standing. THEN you're ready to defend yourself from the sociopathic assholes who break into your car or home while you are most vulnerable. Don't get me wrong, I'm a subscriber and a big fan.
Yet another well covered topic. Thank you for your vast wisdom Mas. You're the best!
I've been watching and reading you stuff since we both were kids. You never dissapoint. Thanks
Another great video sir. You are one of my most trusted information sources. Thank you.
Very helpful. Thank you for doing this video.
Thank You... Appreciate you covering this issue