Ever wonder what happens if your fancy red dot or holographic sight decides to take a break? That’s where backup iron sights come in! They might seem old-school, but these simple sights are your trusty sidekicks when technology fails. Choosing the right pair can feel like a puzzle, though. There are so many shapes, sizes, and ways to attach them, it’s easy to get lost.
Don’t worry, we’re here to help you cut through the confusion! In this post, we’ll explore what makes a great set of backup iron sights. We’ll break down the important features so you can understand what to look for. By the end, you’ll have a much clearer idea of which sights will work best for your firearm and your needs.
Let’s dive in and make sure you’re always ready, no matter what.
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: 8.9/10
Upgrade your rifle’s aiming system with the Magpul MBUS 3 Front & Rear Sight Set. This set is designed for quick and easy use on your favorite firearm. It’s made from tough, impact-resistant polymer and comes in a sleek black finish. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just starting out, these sights are a solid choice to improve your accuracy.
What We Like:
- These sights are spring-loaded, so they pop up quickly when you need them.
- The polymer construction makes them strong but also light.
- You can adjust the front sight without needing any special tools.
- The front sight post has two different widths, giving you options for aiming.
- Both sights deploy easily with a push of a button, and the rear sight has different aiming holes you can switch between fast.
- They fit securely onto most Picatinny rails.
- The sights are made right here in the USA, which means good quality.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the polymer is durable, some shooters might prefer a metal sight for extreme conditions.
- The tool-less adjustment is great, but ensuring it stays put under heavy recoil might be a concern for some users.
Overall, the Magpul MBUS 3 set offers excellent functionality and durability for most users. They are a reliable upgrade that’s easy to install and use.
2. Visiofire Fiber Optic Iron Sights for Picatinny Rail
Rating: 9.0/10
The Visiofire Fiber Optic Iron Sights are a fantastic upgrade for your rifle or shotgun. These flip-up sights are designed for quick target acquisition and accuracy. They sit low on your Picatinny rail, so they won’t get in the way of your main scope. With bright red and green fiber optic dots, you can easily see your target in any light. Plus, you can adjust them without any tools, making it super easy to zero them in.
What We Like:
- These sights flip up easily with a button press, making them ready in an instant.
- The fiber optic dots are bright and come in red and green, helping you aim fast.
- You can adjust the rear sight for windage and elevation without needing any tools.
- They are made from strong aviation-grade aluminum and can handle recoil well.
- The low-profile design means they won’t interfere with your other optics.
- They come with an M-LOK rail adapter, so they fit on many different guns.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, the fiber optic material itself might be susceptible to damage if hit directly.
- The dual aperture design, while offering flexibility, might be slightly less intuitive for some users compared to a single aperture.
Overall, the Visiofire Fiber Optic Iron Sights offer a great balance of speed, accuracy, and durability for any shooter. They are a solid choice for backup sights or for primary use when quick aiming is essential.
3. VOTATU V2 Fiber Optic Iron Sights
Rating: 8.6/10
The VOTATU V2 Fiber Optic Iron Sights are a fantastic addition to any firearm equipped with a Picatinny rail. These sights are built tough from aluminum and are designed for quick action. They flip up easily with a push of a button, making them ready when you are. The bright green and red fiber optics help you see your sights better in different lighting conditions, which is great for fast shooting.
What We Like:
- They are made from strong, light aluminum.
- The sights flip up quickly and easily with a button.
- Fiber optics in green and red make them visible in many light situations.
- You can adjust the front sight for height and the rear sight for windage to make your shots more accurate.
- They have two different sight options for close-up and long-distance shooting.
- They fit on most Picatinny rails and are the same height as standard A2 sights.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, the aluminum might show scratches with heavy use.
- The limited availability means you might need to act fast to get them.
Overall, the VOTATU V2 Fiber Optic Iron Sights offer a great blend of speed, accuracy, and durability. They are a solid choice for anyone wanting reliable backup sights.
4. Visiofire 45 Degree Offset Iron Sights
Rating: 8.9/10
The Visiofire 45 Degree Offset Iron Sights are a fantastic addition for any rifle or shotgun owner. These flip-up sights offer a quick and easy way to acquire targets, especially when your main optic is out of the picture. Their clever design means they sit low on your rail, so they won’t get in the way of your primary scope or red dot. Plus, the red and green fiber optic dots make aiming super clear in different lighting.
What We Like:
- Rapid Target Acquisition: The 45-degree offset lets you quickly switch to these sights with a simple hand turn.
- Clear Visibility: Red and green fiber optic dots provide excellent aiming in bright sun or dim light.
- Tool-Free Adjustments: You can easily adjust windage and elevation without needing any tools.
- Low Profile Design: They only add 2 inches to your rail height, so they don’t interfere with other accessories.
- Durable Build: Made from strong aviation-grade aluminum, these sights can handle recoil and tough conditions.
- Easy Deployment: Spring-loaded design means they flip up with just a press of a button.
- Versatile Mounting: Comes with M-LOK and Picatinny rails for easy attachment to most firearms.
What Could Be Improved:
- While very durable, the fiber optic material could potentially be scratched if handled roughly.
- The dual aperture design, while useful, might take a little practice for some users to get used to for precise shots.
Overall, the Visiofire 45 Degree Offset Iron Sights are a reliable and user-friendly backup aiming system. They offer a great balance of features for fast, accurate shooting in various situations.
5. Flip Up Sight Backup Front & Rear Sight Set Rapid Transition Backup Sight Set for Picatinny Weaver Rail Mount
Rating: 9.0/10
This Flip Up Sight Backup Front & Rear Sight Set is a handy addition to your firearm. It’s designed to give you a reliable backup aiming option. These sights quickly pop up when you need them and stay put. They fit easily onto most rail systems.
What We Like:
- Easy to Use: You can flip these sights up with a simple press of a button. They lock securely, so they won’t move around.
- Durable and Light: Made from tough Nylon plastic, these sights are strong but not heavy. They can handle rough use.
- Versatile Aiming: The front sight has two openings. A larger one helps you aim quickly at close targets. A smaller one is good for hitting targets far away.
- Simple Installation: Mounting these sights on Picatinny or Weaver rails is straightforward.
What Could Be Improved:
- Material Durability: While the Nylon plastic is durable, some users might prefer metal sights for extreme conditions.
- Aperture Size Options: More choices for aperture sizes could offer even finer tuning for different shooting styles.
These sights are a solid choice for reliable backup aiming. They offer good performance and are easy to install.
Your Essential Guide to Backup Iron Sights
Why Backup Iron Sights?
Your firearm is a tool, and like any tool, it needs to be reliable. Sometimes, the fancy electronic sights you attach can fail. Batteries die, electronics get damaged, or they might get fogged up. That’s where backup iron sights come in. They are your trusty, no-nonsense way to keep aiming even when your primary sight is out of commission. They are simple, durable, and always ready.
Key Features to Look For
1. Durability and Construction
Backup iron sights need to be tough. They should withstand bumps, drops, and harsh weather. Look for sights made from strong materials that won’t bend or break easily. A good build means they will last and perform when you need them most.
2. Adjustability
You want to be able to fine-tune your aim. Sights that let you adjust for windage (left and right) and elevation (up and down) are important. This lets you zero your sights for accuracy. Easy-to-use adjustment knobs are a big plus.
3. Sight Picture and Visibility
How clear is the sight picture? This means how easily you can see your front sight post and the rear sight aperture (the hole). Bright, contrasting colors on the front sight post can help you aim faster, especially in low light. Some sights have tritium inserts that glow in the dark for even better visibility.
4. Mounting System
How do the sights attach to your firearm? Most backup iron sights mount onto a Picatinny or Weaver rail. Make sure the mounting system is secure and easy to install. Some sights fold down when not in use, keeping them out of the way until you need them.
5. Weight and Profile
You don’t want sights that add a lot of bulk or weight to your firearm. Slim, low-profile sights are usually better. They won’t snag on things as easily and keep your firearm feeling balanced.
Important Materials
The materials used in backup iron sights directly impact their strength and longevity.
- Aluminum: Many sights are made from aircraft-grade aluminum. It’s lightweight and strong, making it a popular choice.
- Steel: Steel is even stronger than aluminum. Sights made from steel are very durable but can be heavier.
- Polymer: Some budget-friendly sights use strong polymers. They are lightweight and can be quite tough, but might not be as robust as metal options.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes Them Better?
- Solid Construction: When sights feel sturdy and well-machined, they are usually high quality.
- Precise Adjustments: Sights that click firmly into place when you adjust them are more accurate.
- Clear Markings: Easy-to-read markings for adjustments help you get your sights set correctly.
- Good Finish: A smooth, durable finish prevents rust and looks good.
What Makes Them Worse?
- Wobbly Parts: If sights feel loose or have play in them, they won’t hold their zero.
- Stiff Adjustments: Hard-to-turn adjustment knobs can be frustrating and lead to inaccurate settings.
- Poor Visibility: Faded or unclear sights make aiming difficult.
- Cheap Materials: Sights made from flimsy materials can break easily.
User Experience and Use Cases
Backup iron sights are used by a variety of people for different reasons.
- Everyday Carry (EDC): If you carry a firearm for self-defense, backup sights are essential. They ensure you can always aim your firearm.
- Sport Shooting: For competitive shooters or those who enjoy target practice, backup sights provide a reliable aiming method.
- Hunting: Hunters often rely on iron sights, especially in situations where electronic sights might fail in the field.
- Tactical Applications: Law enforcement and military personnel use backup sights as a critical redundancy.
In general, users appreciate how simple and reliable backup iron sights are. They offer peace of mind. When they work well, they make aiming feel natural and effective.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main Key Features to look for in backup iron sights?
A: You should look for durability, adjustability, a clear sight picture, a secure mounting system, and a low profile that doesn’t add much weight.
Q: What materials are commonly used for backup iron sights?
A: Common materials include aircraft-grade aluminum, steel, and sometimes strong polymers.
Q: How do I know if backup iron sights are good quality?
A: Good quality sights feel solid, have precise and easy-to-use adjustments, and offer a clear sight picture. Cheap sights often feel wobbly or have stiff adjustments.
Q: Can I use backup iron sights with a red dot sight?
A: Yes, many shooters use backup iron sights mounted alongside a red dot sight for redundancy.
Q: How do I install backup iron sights?
A: Most are installed onto a Picatinny or Weaver rail using a screw or clamp system. You usually just need a screwdriver or hex key.
Q: Are backup iron sights hard to use?
A: No, they are very simple to use. You align the front sight post with the rear sight aperture to aim.
Q: Do I need backup iron sights if I have a red dot sight?
A: It’s highly recommended. Red dots can fail due to battery issues or damage, and backup sights ensure you can still aim.
Q: What does “co-witnessing” mean with backup iron sights?
A: Co-witnessing means your backup iron sights align with your red dot sight in the same view, so you can switch between them easily.
Q: How do I adjust my backup iron sights?
A: You typically adjust them using small knobs or screws to move the front sight for windage and elevation, and the rear sight for windage.
Q: Can backup iron sights be used on any firearm?
A: They can be used on any firearm that has a compatible mounting rail, like a Picatinny or Weaver rail.
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.
My name is Gareth Lewis, and I’m the voice behind CampingGuider.com.. I created this space to share my passion for camping and the great outdoors. With years of experience and countless adventures under my belt, I aim to inspire and guide fellow enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a curious beginner, my goal is to provide you with practical tips, honest reviews, and insights to help you make the most out of your outdoor escapades. Join me on this journey, and let’s explore the beauty of nature together!