Being now of an age of certified geezer-tude, I think I’m qualified to speak about defensive handguns for the elderly. Hell, I’ve been teaching old folks to shoot since I was twenty-something, so…
Second Amendment stalwart David Codrea recently linked one of my past articles on the topic, and inspired me to share it with you.
True then, true now. Your comments, as always, are invited.
A regular serious weight training program really helps with all aspects of your daily life as you age, to include your ability to safely handle a variety of firearms. I also keep a hand exerciser by my reading chair and use it on a daily basis.
Lot of good commentary there that’s relatable. For those who’ve moved from bifocals to trifocals, the middle distance (sights) correction goes at the top of your glasses, the near distance stays at the bottom. However, eventually, the target/threat can get excessively fuzzy. Contrast in sight colors helps too. Someone in the industry needs to realize that black front sights aren’t necessarily the best choice. The white dot in the front sight helps with semis, revolvers can be a problem.
The optical sight can help a lot with the above. Concealment is largely a matter of frame size/over all height. But some optics are definitely larger than necessary-I’m talking about Deltapoint, but that’s not the only example. Changing your carry method can help.
I find myself using revolvers a lot, especially around the farm and locally. They’re heavier, but I think more suitable for dealing with 4 legged varmints that are more likely threats these days. The shapes are easier to hide also. Besides, when I practice, I don’t have to bend down to pick up empties.
Finally, caliber choices…. back in the 80s-that’s 1980s-I realized I was faster and more accurate with a 9 than a .45. However, there’s limits to downsizing. I worked for decades under Federal requirements that duty handguns deliver a minimum of 200 ft lbs of energy. There’s some reduced recoil loads that still manage to meet this floor. OTOH, the popular .380 often doesn’t, even on paper. There’s a lot of forensic evidence that expanding bullet loads generally don’t reach vital areas. Being fair, the vast majority of defensive gun uses don’t involve actually shooting anyone. To borrow a phrase, it’s better than a stern look and a harsh word, but you might want to think real hard about going down that road.
Briefly looking at long guns, stepping down to a 20 gauge shotgun might make sense. Looking at varmints in pastures, a pistol caliber carbine or something in the AR/MSR family’s might be easier to cope with than a deer rifle.
Fellow geezer here. Birthday is just a couple of days off yours. Arthritis is mainly a mobility problem for me. Hand arthritis and nerve damage hasn’t affected my shooting or malf drills yet(Glocks) but it makes disassembly most difficult. Back issues make long training sessions exhausting and painful but I have switched to more frequent and shorter formats. I also haul a chair along so I can sit during the talking part. My eye issues resolved when I went from bifocals to trifocals. Middle pane is just right for front sight. Even better after the cataract surgery since I don’t need glasses at all though I commonly wear them for reading.
Mas,
Great reminder of an article. Although, it seems as if “Geezerhood” hasn’t slowed you down much given your recent performance on the Casino Drill at Mr. Givens’ IDC in Florida. I think it is a great reminder to all of us that we may slow down, but its not too bad if we keep moving!
As a bonafide geezer, my hands were having difficulty with Glock slide. I found a ring attachment for the back of the slide which enables it to be pulled back easily with one finger. Was cheap and simple to install, even with my limited mechanical skills…..
I recently went from 380 in my pocket to a G19 in a monarch shoulder rig from Andrews Leather in St Augustine. Highly recommend his work. He’s an artist and the rig is very comfortable.
This is a great re read of a blast from the past. I feel your pain brother. We have even more helpful equipment options available today. Durable red dot sights and multi focal contact lenses have help me greatly.
Oh I feel the pain. Somewhat of a pun intended. B-day in 16 days and still fortunate enough to be able to work the slide. May the Arthritis be with me. My golden years need the nessity of a touch of Kroil from time to time. Soon to be 72 still as Jerry states, getting some. When the time comes I’ll clean the cobwebs off the revolvers
When I upgun to a medium frame semi-auto in the wintertime, I also add suspenders to my belt holster carry. Really helps out the back and hips.