zippz, just curious to see whether they taught/recommended any other ways of holding the flashlight, besides the "Harris" hold, and the pros and cons, if any.
Also, did they comment on rail-mounted lights v. hand held lights?
Polenar Tactical put out this vid that helps to visually demonstrate a few other ways of holding a flashlight:
The class was taught on harries throughout the training for its overall combination of versatility, control, and simpleness. A few brought weapon mounted lights and some used the rogers type flashlights to practice in addition to the harries. Advantages are:
1. can be used with almost any type/size flashlight from small tailcap surefires to multi-D cell maglights.
2. helps control the handgun and helps with fatigue
3. easier to aim the handgun using both hands
4. easier to aim the flashlight, it points where the handgun is pointed
5. better control of the flashlight to prevent turning on the light accidentally
Disadvantages I see:
1. Your painting a target on your chest, so shine the light and move quickly.
2. Better to use in the weaver stance, not as ergonomic in the isosceles but still very usable.
I think it's the best general purpose one to use for most people. If you get too complicated or don't practice complex methods then you run the risk of dropping something, accidentally turning on your flashlight at the least opportune time, or not getting your flashlight/handgun on target. The hardest thing about using a flashlight is to shine it where you are aiming. Takes a bit of practice to calibrate yourself.