There is no debate between irons vs optics on pistols. This is pure boomer nonsense and deserves to be mocked

You wouldn't rock just irons on a combat rifle if you had an optic available, so why would a pistol be any different? Yes, you should be able to use irons, and yes if your chosen handgat isn't optic compatible that blows but they really do make a huge difference. If you're on the fence just get one. If your not, then don't worry about it but understand that optics really are the move and you should probably get one down the line when you have the chance.