My post below is NOT a commentary on Mosby's piece. It is related only in passing, as part of the same topic - sidearms. Here's Mosby's piece.
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Most Americans will have, at best, a sidearm when confronted with violence unexpectedly.
If you have been paying attention to folks like Mosby & Cooper, you already know your sidearm is primarily a last-ditch defensive weapon, designed to keep you alive long enough to reach your rifle. In some circumstances, the sidearm is transformed to the role of offensive weapon. It is a versatile, powerful tool. Just be sure you know its limitations, and yours.
In my CQB classes I often find people who may not have ever had any formal training in fighting at the buckle-to-buckle range, but they have outstanding instincts. For instance, when you see a guy or gal pull that sidearm and keep it tucked in close to the body, that should inform you that you are probably dealing with someone who has a bit of training, or at the least has damned good instincts. The enemy who hangs a handgun out there at the end of an extended arm - he's a gift.
Our host in Alabama is a natural fighter. His instincts are to keep his arms in tight to the body when in an unarmed confrontation. He moves in small steps. He keeps his head low and ready to move out of the way. His punches are close and powerful. This is the same sort of fighter in an unarmed scenario you have to be wary of engaging. Like the gunfighter keeping his pistol close to the body, the unarmed fighter keeping his head (not getting excited in a fight), keeping his body tight, you are facing someone with experience, or good instincts. A few others in Alabama and elsewhere instinctively "spin" during certain CQB techniques (I call them "Spinners" - it's a technical term, don't try this at home ;) - this trait often doesn't reveal itself until you are actually in a fight - but the moment you see it, you must adjust.
I demonstrate to every class the limitations of carrying only on your strong side. I advise them to carry on the off-side as well, and like Josey Wales whenever possible. Respect what your sidearm can do, and what it can't do. Respect what you can and cannot do. Learn to use your sidearms as emergency defensive weapons, and as limited offensive weapons. But never rely on that handgun over your own brain.
Most importantly - train now while the training is not on-the-job. Seek out pistol fighters and riflemen and medics and others who have the skills you will need. Learn now.
Kerodin
III
