Jay Cunningham
02-26-2011, 10:38 PM
KISS - Keep It Simple, Stupid
This post is written with the AR-15 carbine in mind, but is applicable to other fighting guns, including pistols.
There are two concepts involved here, and they are different:
literal KISS
KISS as a concept
literal KISS = The notion that the rifle must be as basic and simple as possible. This usually winds up in the ultimate expression of a gun with A1 sights, a fixed stock, either no sling or a carry strap and no forward assist. This means the gun istself is as stripped down and as simple as possible.
KISS as a concept = A rifle configured to make life simple for the end-user. It includes all of those items (CCO, light, "tactical" sling) that make life simpler for the end-user in a variety of situations.
So, apples and oranges... you need to determine what "KISS" best suits your needs.
An Aimpoint optic is superior to iron sights (even night sights) in every area that matters. They are extremely reliable and rugged. They are, in fact, KISS.
A 2 point adjustable sling, such as the Vickers model, is essentially just as simple as a parade carry strap but gives much enhanced functionality. It is, in fact, KISS.
Picatinny rails are an incredibly easy and versatile way to attach things to your long gun. They stay put and don't break. They are, in fact, KISS.
A white light on your gun is absolutely essential for locating and identifying potential threats in low-light. SF lights and some others are super-rugged and have long battery lives. They are, in fact, KISS.
Guys looking to have the ultimate lightweight 5.5 lb AR are deluding themselves because they are probably sacrificing capability. While lightweight is nice, I would rather tote a few extra ounces or lbs. if that means my carbine is a more effective weapon.
Which is simpler to use, an Aimpoint or iron sights? The Aimpoint is simpler.
Which is simpler to use, the carry strap or an adjustable 2 point sling? The carry strap sucks for both carrying the rifle and especially for transitioning. The adjustable two point is simpler.
Is shooting a long gun with a hand held light simpler than shooting with a mounted light? The weapon light is simpler.
See, the KISS principle works...
Keep It Elegant Stupid.
The above is not "The Law as Told By Jay"; it is simply an expression of some opinions that I've formed through my training and experience with several very good instructors. Please feel free to discuss and disagree!
This post is written with the AR-15 carbine in mind, but is applicable to other fighting guns, including pistols.
There are two concepts involved here, and they are different:
literal KISS
KISS as a concept
literal KISS = The notion that the rifle must be as basic and simple as possible. This usually winds up in the ultimate expression of a gun with A1 sights, a fixed stock, either no sling or a carry strap and no forward assist. This means the gun istself is as stripped down and as simple as possible.
KISS as a concept = A rifle configured to make life simple for the end-user. It includes all of those items (CCO, light, "tactical" sling) that make life simpler for the end-user in a variety of situations.
So, apples and oranges... you need to determine what "KISS" best suits your needs.
An Aimpoint optic is superior to iron sights (even night sights) in every area that matters. They are extremely reliable and rugged. They are, in fact, KISS.
A 2 point adjustable sling, such as the Vickers model, is essentially just as simple as a parade carry strap but gives much enhanced functionality. It is, in fact, KISS.
Picatinny rails are an incredibly easy and versatile way to attach things to your long gun. They stay put and don't break. They are, in fact, KISS.
A white light on your gun is absolutely essential for locating and identifying potential threats in low-light. SF lights and some others are super-rugged and have long battery lives. They are, in fact, KISS.
Guys looking to have the ultimate lightweight 5.5 lb AR are deluding themselves because they are probably sacrificing capability. While lightweight is nice, I would rather tote a few extra ounces or lbs. if that means my carbine is a more effective weapon.
Which is simpler to use, an Aimpoint or iron sights? The Aimpoint is simpler.
Which is simpler to use, the carry strap or an adjustable 2 point sling? The carry strap sucks for both carrying the rifle and especially for transitioning. The adjustable two point is simpler.
Is shooting a long gun with a hand held light simpler than shooting with a mounted light? The weapon light is simpler.
See, the KISS principle works...
Keep It Elegant Stupid.
The above is not "The Law as Told By Jay"; it is simply an expression of some opinions that I've formed through my training and experience with several very good instructors. Please feel free to discuss and disagree!