Yes, iron sights in full sunlight. But the Crimson Trace turns on automatically as soon as you put your fingers around the grip so it’s always there if you can see it. I would imagine most threats are at night, as was yours, and the laser puts you on target instantly without having to look down the iron sights. Close quarters makes it even more valuable.
“My experience”? Zero, and I hope it stays that way. I moved to Merryland in the late 90s and haven’t had a CCW since. But hopefully that will change with the latest federal ruling even though it will probably have to go before the Supremes.
I use a- red laser pen to perfect hand-eye coordination and quick-draw technique, off-range, and I don’t even both with the front sight if the threat’s under 15-20ft. I’m so accurate it’s scary. I have a pair of Crimson Trace grip-sights for my Kimber(s), but still haven’t installed them. They’re in storage, in the GunSafe.