Abstract
Using tools (e.g. a stick) to interact with (e.g. reaching) faraway objects compresses distance estimation (Witt & Proffitt, 2008), an effect that persists with remote interaction (i.e. using a laser pointer; Davoli, Brockmole, & Witt, 2012). Relevant to the US Army, small arms weapons are tools that permit remote interaction with (e.g. shooting) and passive viewing (e.g. sighting) of distant targets. Does using a gun influence distance estimation compared to a non-lethal tool (e.g. a range finder)? Does the tool’s effective range or the interaction used (e.g. shooting vs. sighting) matter? The present study investigated these research questions.
Soldiers completed a distance estimation task in head-mounted virtual reality. On each trial, participants saw a distant target [range: 3-27m]. We manipulated the tool used (a pistol vs. a range finder), the interaction engaged in (shoot the target vs. sight it), and the effective range of the tool (long vs. short) in a fully counterbalanced, within-participants design.
We observed distance overestimation overall which decreased linearly as a function of target distance. Distance estimate compression was greater for sighting vs. shooting, which was enhanced by gun use and long range tools.
The results suggest that sighting a distant target with a weapon compresses distance estimates, compared to a non-lethal tool.