Are you aiming to achieve both accuracy and reliability with your AR-15? Whether you’re a competitive shooter, in law enforcement, a member of the armed forces, or a civilian enthusiast, the importance of a good set of iron sights for your AR is undeniable. Even in the age of high-tech optics, iron sights provide an indispensable backup and are vital for certain shooting styles and situations. But with numerous options available, how do you pick the right set for you?
Our Top Picks
Our #1 Top Pick: Magpul MBUS Pro Steel Sight Set
When it comes to durability and reliability, it’s hard to beat the Magpul MBUS Pro Steel Sight Set. These sights are crafted from solid steel, ensuring they can handle the rigors of any environment, from training grounds to combat zones. The slim profile design means they seamlessly integrate into your AR setup without adding unnecessary bulk.
Moreover, the MBUS Pro sights feature a tool-less adjustment, which is a dream come true for shooters who prefer to make quick, on-the-fly changes. The positive detent locking mechanism ensures your sights stay put once you’ve dialed in your zero. The Melonite finish not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also offers excellent corrosion resistance.
Pick #2: Troy Industries Micro HK Style Front and Rear Folding Battle Sight
The Troy Industries Micro HK Style Sights take compact design and accuracy to the next level. These sights are perfect for shooters who prefer a smaller, less obtrusive sighting system that doesn’t compromise on performance. The HK-style front sight allows for faster target acquisition, and the rear sight’s two apertures cater to both precise shooting and CQB scenarios.
These aluminum sights are lightweight yet robust and fold neatly out of the way when you’re using an optic. Additionally, they lock securely in both the deployed and folded positions, giving you peace of mind that they won’t accidentally move when you least expect it.
Pick #3: Daniel Defense A1.5 Fixed Rear Sight
For those who prefer fixed sights for their simplicity and ruggedness, the Daniel Defense A1.5 Fixed Rear Sight is an outstanding choice. Its aircraft-grade aluminum construction ensures it can withstand heavy use without failing. This sight is particularly notable for its lightweight design, which doesn’t add much weight to your AR.
The A1.5 features a classic A2 style design with a dual aperture and is specifically designed to work with front sights of a standard height. If you have no need for folding sights and want something that’s always ready and reliable, this is the sight to consider.
Pick #4: Scalarworks PEAK Fixed Iron Sights
Scalarworks PEAK Fixed Iron Sights strike an excellent balance between innovation and traditional design. These sights are engineered to eliminate the common problems found with other iron sights, providing a snag-free profile. The PEAK sights’ precise and sharp aiming features ensure top-notch accuracy.
The use of high-quality materials makes these sights not only lightweight but also extremely durable. Additionally, the sights’ high-contrast photoluminescent inserts stay visible in low light conditions, ensuring you’re never at a disadvantage during dawn or dusk shooting sessions.
Pick #5: Griffin Armament M2 Sight Deployment Kit
Lastly, the Griffin Armament M2 Sight Deployment Kit delivers versatility and performance. These sights are designed to offer rapid deployment, with a cantilevered spring mechanism that ensures they pop up instantly when needed. They’re perfect for those who use optics primarily but want a reliable backup that’s ready at a moment’s notice.
The M2 sights are also adjustable without the need for special tools, which is ideal for shooters who need to adapt quickly to different ranges. Constructed from stainless steel and featuring a black oxide finish, these sights are prepared to face the toughest conditions without faltering.
What to Know Before You Buy
– Compatibility: Ensure the iron sights you’re considering are compatible with your AR-15’s rail system.
– Material: Iron sights are typically made from steel, aluminum, or polymer, each with its advantages in terms of weight, strength, and cost.
– Type: Decide between fixed or folding sights based on your usage and preferences, considering the pros and cons of each.
– Adjustability: Consider how easily you can adjust the sights for windage and elevation, as well as the tools required for adjustments.
– Visibility: Check how visible the iron sights are in various lighting conditions, including the presence of any luminescent features.
Factors to Consider Before Buying
– Durability: Look for a robust construction that can endure the stress of repeated recoil and rough handling.
– Profile: Choose a low-profile design to reduce snags and maintain a streamlined firearm appearance.
– Sight Picture: Ensure the sight design allows for a quick and clear sight picture for fast target acquisition.
– Co-Witnessing: Consider if you want your iron sights to co-witness with any optical sights you may have on your AR.
– Brand Reputation: Go for brands with a proven track record of quality and customer service in case you encounter any issues or need support.
Why Trust ChooseRight?
At ChooseRight, we’re committed to providing thorough and impartial reviews for shooters by shooters. Our recommendations are based on extensive research, including sifting through thousands of user reviews and soliciting professional feedback. We understand the expectations and demands of different shooting disciplines, and we align our assessments accordingly. With ChooseRight, you can be assured of getting insights that are grounded in real-world experience and technical expertise.
Finishing Thoughts
Finding the best iron sights for your AR is a mission-critical decision that affects both performance and peace of mind. Whether you select the robust Magpul MBUS Pro Steel Sight Set, the highly compact Troy Industries Micro HK Style Sights, or any of the other top picks we’ve covered, remember to weigh your options carefully. Consider the type of shooting you’ll be doing, how these sights complement your AR setup, and choose a set that will serve you reliably for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are iron sights?
Iron sights are a system of aligned markers (sights) used to assist in the aiming of a device such as a firearm, crossbow, or telescope. On firearms like the AR platform, these consist of a front post and a rear notch or aperture that align to help a shooter aim at their target.
Why should I use iron sights on my AR if I have a scope?
While scopes and other optical sights provide magnification and can be great for accuracy at longer ranges, iron sights are much less susceptible to damage, rarely lose their zero, and are unaffected by battery life or electronic failures. They provide a reliable backup in case your primary optic fails.
Are iron sights accurate?
Iron sights can be very accurate, especially at close to mid-range distances. With practice, a shooter can achieve a high level of precision using iron sights. They are also beneficial for quick target acquisition in close-quarters situations.
What should I look for in a good set of iron sights for my AR?
A good set of iron sights should be durable, easy to install, and offer clear sight pictures. Look for sights made from high-quality materials like steel or aluminum. Features like adjustability for windage and elevation, flip-up capabilities, and compatibility with your specific AR model are also important.
Can iron sights co-witness with a red dot or holographic sight?
Yes, many iron sights are designed to co-witness with red dot or holographic sights. This means that the iron sights line up along the same sight plane as the optic, allowing the shooter to use both simultaneously or to quickly transition to iron sights if needed.
What is the difference between absolute co-witness and lower 1/3 co-witness?
An absolute co-witness aligns the iron sights directly in the center of the optic’s sight picture, while a lower 1/3 co-witness positions the iron sights in the lower third of the optic’s view, allowing for a less cluttered sight picture and a clear view through the optic itself.
What does it mean if iron sights are “flip-up”?
Flip-up iron sights can be folded down when not in use, allowing for a lower profile and the ability to use an optic without interference. When needed, they can be quickly flipped up into place to serve as a primary or backup sighting system.
How do I zero my iron sights?
Zeroing iron sights involves adjusting them so your point of aim corresponds to your point of impact at a specific distance. This typically is done by adjusting the front sight for elevation and the rear sight for windage, following the manufacturer’s instructions, until your shots consistently hit your intended target spot at your chosen zero distance.
Are there different types of rear iron sights?
Yes, there are typically two main types of rear iron sights: notch sights (often referred to as “open sights”) and aperture sights (also known as “peep sights”). Aperture sights generally offer a more precise sight picture and can be easier to use for some shooters.
Can I install iron sights on my AR myself?
Many iron sights are designed for easy installation and can be installed by the user. However, depending on the sight and your level of mechanical skill, you may prefer to have a professional gunsmith install your sights to ensure they are correctly aligned and secure.
Remember to familiarize yourself with firearm safety practices and to unload and safely handle your firearm while installing or adjusting sights.
