Ever feel like your firearm is missing something crucial for those unexpected moments? Imagine this: your primary optic fails, leaving you in a bind. What’s your plan B? That’s where backup iron sights come in, acting as your reliable eyes when technology lets you down.
Choosing the right backup iron sights can be surprisingly tricky. You want something durable, easy to use, and that won’t break the bank. There are so many shapes, sizes, and mounting styles, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and make a choice you might regret later. We’ve all been there, staring at endless product pages.
But don’t worry! This post will cut through the confusion. We’ll explore what makes a good set of backup iron sights, discuss common pitfalls to avoid, and help you understand the features that matter most. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge to pick the perfect sights that fit your needs and your firearm.
Our Top 5 Backup Iron Sights Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Backup Iron Sights Detailed Reviews
1. Magpul MBUS 3 Front & Rear Sight Set Fits Picatinny Rail
Rating: 8.6/10
Upgrade your firearm with the Magpul MBUS 3 Front & Rear Sight Set. This set gives you reliable and easy-to-use sights that work with most AR-style rifles. They are made from tough polymer and snap right onto your Picatinny rail. You can quickly flip them up when you need them and fold them down when you don’t. These sights are a smart addition for any shooter.
What We Like:
- The sights are spring-loaded and flip up fast.
- They are built tough from impact-resistant polymer.
- You can adjust the front sight easily without tools.
- The rear sight has two different peep holes for different ranges.
- They clamp securely onto most Picatinny rails.
- Made right here in the USA.
What Could Be Improved:
- The polymer construction might not be as rugged as metal sights for extreme use.
- The tool-less adjustment, while convenient, might require a bit more care to keep from shifting accidentally.
The Magpul MBUS 3 set offers excellent functionality and durability for its price. They are a solid choice for anyone looking for reliable backup sights.
2. VOTATU V2 Fiber Optic Iron Sights
Rating: 9.4/10
The VOTATU V2 Fiber Optic Iron Sights are a great addition to any firearm. They are designed to be backup sights, meaning they are there if your main sights fail. These sights are built tough and easy to use. They also have a cool feature that helps you see them better in different lighting conditions.
What We Like:
- These sights are made from strong aluminum. They are also lightweight, so they won’t add much weight to your firearm.
- You can flip them up easily with a small button. This makes them quick to deploy when you need them.
- The sights have bright green and red fiber optics. This helps you see them clearly, even when it’s sunny or dim.
- You can adjust the front sight for how high it is. The back sight can be adjusted for windage (left and right). This helps you shoot more accurately.
- They offer two different sight picture options. This allows for fast shots up close or more careful shots at longer distances.
- These sights match the height of standard A2 sights. They attach easily to most rails.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, the flip-up mechanism might wear down with very heavy, constant use.
- The fiber optic brightness is fixed. Some users might prefer adjustable brightness for even more control.
Overall, the VOTATU V2 Fiber Optic Iron Sights offer a solid and reliable backup aiming solution. They are a smart choice for shooters looking for improved visibility and quick target acquisition.
3. Visiofire Fiber Optic Iron Sights for Picatinny Rail
Rating: 8.9/10
Upgrade your firearm with the Visiofire Fiber Optic Iron Sights. These sights are designed for quick target acquisition and accuracy in any light. They flip up easily and stay low profile, so they won’t get in the way of your main optics. With red and green fiber optic dots, you can switch between close-quarters and precise shooting in a snap. Plus, you can adjust them without any tools.
What We Like:
- The flip-up design is super handy. It only adds 2 inches to your rail height.
- You can switch between red and green dots. This helps you aim better in different lighting.
- Adjusting the sights is a breeze. No tools are needed for windage and elevation.
- They are built tough with aviation-grade aluminum. They can handle recoil and tough weather.
- The spring-loaded flip-up action is fast and easy. Just press a button to deploy them.
- They come with M-LOK rails, making them fit on many rifles and shotguns.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instructions mention M-LOK rails, but the product description says they are equipped with M-LOK Picatinny rails. This could be a bit confusing.
- While durable, the plastic box might not offer the best long-term protection for the sights.
The Visiofire Fiber Optic Iron Sights are a solid choice for anyone looking for reliable backup sights. They offer great features for their price, making them a valuable addition to your gear.
4. Visiofire 45 Degree Offset Iron Sights
Rating: 8.5/10
Upgrade your shooting experience with the Visiofire 45 Degree Offset Iron Sights. These sights are designed for quick target acquisition and won’t get in the way of your main scope. They’re perfect for when you need to switch targets fast.
What We Like:
- The 45-degree angle lets you quickly see your target without moving your whole head.
- Fiber optic sights with red and green dots make aiming easy in any light.
- You can adjust them for windage and elevation without any tools.
- They flip up easily with a button push.
- Built tough with aviation-grade aluminum, they can handle recoil and bad weather.
- They fit on M-LOK and Picatinny rails, working with most rifles and shotguns.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instructions might be a bit tricky for some users.
- While durable, the plastic carrying case feels a little basic for such high-quality sights.
These Visiofire sights are a solid addition to any firearm, offering speed and accuracy. They give you a reliable backup option for quick transitions.
5. Magpul MBUS PRO Flip Up Steel Front Sight Black MAG275 Bundle with MBUS PRO Rear Sight Black MAG276 Made in USA
Rating: 8.6/10
The Magpul MBUS PRO Flip Up Steel Front Sight Black MAG275 Bundle with MBUS PRO Rear Sight Black MAG276 is a high-quality sight system. It’s made right here in the USA. This bundle includes both front and rear sights. They are designed to fold down neatly when not in use. This keeps them out of the way. They also pop up quickly when you need them.
What We Like:
- Built Tough: The sights are made from strong, black case-hardened steel. They have a Melonite QPQ finish. This finish makes them very resistant to wear and tear.
- Easy Adjustments: The rear sight has two different peep holes. You can easily adjust the windage (side-to-side movement) without tools. The front sight lets you adjust the elevation (up-and-down movement) easily.
- Versatile Fit: These sights fit standard 1913 Picatinny rails. This means they will work on many different rifles, including those with rail-height gas blocks.
- American Made: It’s great to see a product made in the USA. This often means good quality and support.
- Convenient Bundle: Getting both the front and rear sights together saves time and effort. They are designed to work perfectly with each other.
What Could Be Improved:
- Price Point: While high quality, these sights are a bit more expensive than some plastic alternatives.
- Folding Mechanism: Some users might find the folding mechanism a little stiff at first. It does loosen up with use, though.
This Magpul MBUS PRO bundle offers excellent durability and precise adjustments. It’s a reliable upgrade for any firearm equipped with a Picatinny rail.
Backup Iron Sights: Your Reliable Second Sight
When you’re out in the field, whether for sport, self-defense, or just enjoying the shooting range, having a reliable backup sight is crucial. Backup iron sights are a fantastic addition to any firearm, offering a dependable aiming solution even if your primary optic fails. This guide will help you choose the best ones for your needs.
Why You Need Backup Iron Sights
Modern firearms often come with or are upgraded with sophisticated red dot sights or scopes. These are great, but they rely on batteries or electronics. If your battery dies, or your optic gets damaged, you can still aim accurately with iron sights. They are simple, robust, and always ready.
Key Features to Look For
1. Adjustability
Good iron sights let you adjust for windage (left and right) and elevation (up and down). This allows you to fine-tune your aim for different distances and shooting conditions. Look for sights with positive clicks, meaning you can feel and hear each adjustment. This helps you know exactly how much you’ve moved the sight.
2. Sight Picture
The design of the front and rear sights matters. A common setup is a round aperture (hole) in the rear sight and a post or bead in the front. Some sights offer different aperture sizes or post types (like tritium dots for low light). A clear sight picture makes aiming faster and more accurate.
3. Mounting System
How the sights attach to your firearm is important. Most backup iron sights mount to a Picatinny or Weaver rail. Make sure the sights you choose are compatible with your firearm’s rail system. Some sights are designed to fold down when not in use, which is great for keeping your primary optic clear.
4. Durability and Construction
Backup sights should be tough. They might get bumped around. Look for sights made from strong materials that can withstand recoil and the elements.
Important Materials
Most quality backup iron sights are made from:
- Aluminum: Lightweight and strong, often used for the main body of the sight.
- Steel: Very durable and can handle heavy use. Often used for internal components or the entire sight for maximum toughness.
- Polymer: Some sights use high-strength polymer for lighter weight and good impact resistance.
- Tritium Inserts: For low-light aiming, some sights have small vials of tritium that glow continuously.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Improving Quality:
- Precision Machining: Well-made sights have tight tolerances, meaning parts fit together perfectly.
- Smooth Adjustments: Sights that adjust easily and securely are better.
- Clear Markings: Easy-to-read adjustment markings help you remember your settings.
- Good Finish: A durable coating protects against rust and wear.
Reducing Quality:
- Loose Parts: Sights that feel wobbly or have play in them are not reliable.
- Stiff Adjustments: Sights that are hard to move or get stuck can be frustrating.
- Poor Alignment: If the sights don’t line up correctly, your shots will be off.
- Cheap Materials: Low-quality plastic or soft metal can break easily.
User Experience and Use Cases
User Experience:
When you use backup iron sights, you want them to be intuitive. Folding sights are popular because they stay out of the way until you need them. They should deploy quickly and lock into place securely. The aiming process should feel natural and allow for quick target acquisition.
Use Cases:
- Sport Shooting: For competitions or practice, they offer a reliable aiming method.
- Hunting: If your electronic sight fails in the field, iron sights save the day.
- Self-Defense: In a critical situation, you need a sight that always works.
- Training: They are excellent for learning the fundamentals of aiming.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main Key Features to look for?
A: Key features include adjustability for windage and elevation, a clear sight picture, a reliable mounting system, and durable construction.
Q: What materials are commonly used for backup iron sights?
A: Common materials include aluminum, steel, and high-strength polymer. Some sights also use tritium for low-light visibility.
Q: How does the material affect the quality of the sights?
A: Stronger materials like steel and quality aluminum generally lead to more durable and reliable sights, while cheaper materials can reduce quality and longevity.
Q: What makes one set of backup iron sights better than another?
A: Precision machining, smooth adjustments, clear markings, and a good protective finish improve quality. Loose parts, stiff adjustments, and poor alignment reduce quality.
Q: Are folding backup iron sights better than fixed ones?
A: Folding sights are often preferred because they stay out of the way of your primary optic when not in use and can be deployed quickly. Fixed sights are simpler and can be more robust.
Q: How do I know if backup iron sights will fit my firearm?
A: Most backup iron sights are designed to fit standard Picatinny or Weaver rails. Check your firearm to see what type of rail it has and ensure compatibility.
Q: Can I use backup iron sights with a scope or red dot sight?
A: Yes, that’s their primary purpose! They are designed to work alongside your primary optic and provide a backup aiming solution.
Q: How do I adjust my backup iron sights?
A: Most sights have small knobs or screws. You turn these to move the rear sight left/right (windage) and the front or rear sight up/down (elevation) until your shots are on target.
Q: What is tritium, and why is it in some iron sights?
A: Tritium is a radioactive element that glows in the dark. It’s used in small vials in sights to help you aim in very low-light or no-light conditions without needing batteries.
Q: How often do I need to clean or maintain backup iron sights?
A: Backup iron sights require very little maintenance. A light wipe-down with a clean cloth to remove dust or debris is usually sufficient. Avoid harsh chemicals.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.