What prompted the original article was a discussion about the proliferation of red-dot sights for handguns. There is no doubt that we cannot fight technological advancements, and that the use of tools will only become more common. After all, look at optics for long guns as an example. Not too long ago riflemen only used iron sights, today optics cover the spectrum from holosights to precision scopes, and even a new generation that would track a target and make adjustments for you!
No doubt an advantage on the battlefield. However, my issue with technology is two-fold:
- technology fails, and
- often times technology is used to mask a problem, not to solve an issue.
I won't spend too much time discussing the first point: Technology fails. Anyone who has done this long enough will admit that Murphy is a pain in the behind, and when you need that piece of equipment, be it an optic, communication device, navigation tools, even a vehicle, or anything else, to work, you can almost bet that it won't. Therefore, being able to use "old-school" equipment and methods become paramount. Unfortunately the art of navigating and orienteering by use of a map and compass for example is all but gone.
When one becomes dependent on technology he may find himself ill-prepared when the situation truly requires use of that tool. Redundancy is key in assuring success in executing a mission.
The second point is far more important in my mind. Using the handgun optic is a perfect example. if you think about it, handguns are deployed in close distances and grave situations. There is a trade off when using a handgun: precision versus time. Faster shots give up some precision, and precise shots take a little longer. I would assume that the red-dot adaptation for handguns was designed to make shots fast AND accurate. What bugs me is that we prefer spending the money on outfitting officers, soldiers, security professionals etc. with more gear (which takes more space, adds weight, requires more maintenance, and as discussed before...may fail) instead of spending the time and effort to better train them!!!
I bet that every proficient shooter can hit a target 5 feet away in fractions of a second. Does using a red-dot optic really going to improve the shot that much? Doubtfully. Arguably, the despondency on the use of the optic may cause the shooter to take more time to properly acquire the red dot and place it on target, which may in fact cost the shooter valuable time. Unfortunately we are creating a generation that is incapable of properly executing a basic task but doesn't even recognize because technology allows them to marginally complete it!
One more issue with technology, specifically social media and text messaging: people are losing their ability to communicate in person. Social interaction is limited to social media and face-to-face is almost shunned upon. Younger generations can't spell right because they are so used to short-hand text messages. When it comes to saving lives, the ability to communicate is paramount. Are we heading down a downwards spiral?!?
One more issue with technology, specifically social media and text messaging: people are losing their ability to communicate in person. Social interaction is limited to social media and face-to-face is almost shunned upon. Younger generations can't spell right because they are so used to short-hand text messages. When it comes to saving lives, the ability to communicate is paramount. Are we heading down a downwards spiral?!?
The list of course goes on and on.
I am a big fan of technology, and will be the first one to admit that I try to take full advantage of what it has to offer. That said, I try to not let it overshadow the basic skills that I need to improve on, and use it as a back-up to my abilities, not the other way around. Seek the training to improve your skills, and use to technology to fail-proof it...not to do it for you!
Stay safe,
BK Blankchtein
Masada Tactical Protective Services
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