Why Bother with Iron Sights? The Unsung Heroes of the AR15
Iron sights. They might seem like relics of a bygone era, especially in a world dominated by red dot sights and magnified optics. But for AR15 owners, they remain a critical component. Iron sights are more than just a backup; they represent unwavering reliability, simplicity, and a pathway to consistent accuracy, no matter the circumstances. Whether you’re a seasoned operator, a competitive shooter, or a responsible gun owner, understanding the best AR15 iron sights is essential for maximizing your rifle’s potential.
This article dives deep into the world of iron sights, guiding you through everything you need to know to make informed decisions. We’ll explore the key features, types, and crucial considerations that separate the good from the truly exceptional. We will also analyze some of the top contenders on the market, providing detailed reviews to help you pinpoint the perfect set of sights for your AR15. Prepare to enhance your shooting experience with a clearer sight picture and a greater peace of mind.
In a world saturated with advanced optics, why are iron sights still relevant? The answer lies in their inherent advantages:
First and foremost, iron sights are **remarkably reliable**. They don’t require batteries, which can fail at the worst possible moment. They’re built with simple, robust designs that can withstand harsh conditions. A well-made set of iron sights will consistently perform, regardless of the environment or the intensity of your shooting.
**Durability** is another key advantage. High-quality iron sights are typically constructed from durable materials like steel or aircraft-grade aluminum, making them incredibly resistant to impacts, bumps, and drops. This inherent toughness ensures that they’ll remain functional when you need them most, unlike delicate electronic devices.
Iron sights are an **indispensable backup** for your primary optic. Should your red dot, scope, or other electronic sight fail, iron sights offer an immediate and reliable alternative. They provide a fail-safe mechanism that allows you to continue engaging targets with confidence. Having a solid set of iron sights gives you the assurance to confidently maneuver through challenging situations.
Finally, iron sights are often the most **affordable** option, making them accessible to shooters with any budget. This affordability doesn’t mean sacrificing quality. There are many excellent sets of iron sights available that offer outstanding performance at a reasonable price.
Navigating the Selection Process: Features That Matter
Choosing the right iron sights requires careful consideration. Several key features will significantly impact your shooting experience:
Considering the Type: Fixed vs. Folding
One of the first decisions is choosing between fixed and folding iron sights.
**Fixed iron sights** offer unwavering simplicity and immediate readiness. Once installed, they’re always in the upright position and ready for use. This simplicity translates to inherent ruggedness and ensures that you can acquire your target quickly and reliably. However, fixed sights often occupy space on your handguard or rail, potentially hindering the use of optics. They can also, in some cases, obscure the sight picture of a mounted optic.
**Folding iron sights**, on the other hand, offer a low-profile design. They can be folded down when not in use, creating more space on your rail for other accessories and minimizing obstruction of your optic’s sight picture. This gives you the advantage of a clear and unencumbered view when using a red dot or scope. Folding sights typically deploy quickly, ready for use in a fraction of a second. The disadvantage is that folding sights may be a bit more complex mechanically than their fixed counterparts, but quality brands offer very reliable folding options.
The Importance of Material and Build
The materials used in the construction of your iron sights directly impact their durability and longevity.
**Steel** is the gold standard for strength. Steel sights are incredibly durable, resistant to impacts, and can withstand the rigors of hard use. The primary drawback is that steel sights can be heavier than those made from other materials.
**Aluminum**, particularly aircraft-grade aluminum, offers a balance of strength and weight. Aluminum sights are significantly lighter than steel, making them a good choice for reducing the overall weight of your rifle. However, make sure the aluminum is of high quality to avoid bending or breaking.
**Polymer/Plastic** sights are often found on folding options. They are lightweight and suitable for backup sights. Polymer sights are good for absorbing impacts, however, they are not the best choice for extremely rugged use.
Adjustability and Functionality
The ease and precision with which you can adjust your iron sights are vital for accurate shooting.
**Windage Adjustment:** This allows you to correct for horizontal deviations, such as those caused by wind or canting your rifle. Look for sights that provide easy-to-use windage adjustments, often with click-adjustable dials or knobs.
**Elevation Adjustment:** Elevation adjustment allows you to compensate for bullet drop at different distances. Look for sights with clear and precise elevation adjustment mechanisms. Some sights may offer incremental adjustments for different ranges.
**Adjustment Tools:** Some sights require tools, like a screwdriver or an adjustment tool, to make adjustments. This is usually not a big deal, but it’s important to note when comparing sights.
Sight Picture and Acquisition
The clarity and configuration of your sight picture are critical for rapid and accurate target acquisition.
**Sight Picture Clarity:** The sight picture refers to how your front and rear sights align with the target. Clear and crisp sight picture is key for accurate shots. Look for front sights that provide a bright and distinct aiming point, such as a simple post or a protected post. The rear sight should offer a clear aperture or notch to align with the front sight.
**Sight Radius:** The sight radius is the distance between the front and rear sights. A longer sight radius generally provides a more precise aiming point, which can translate to improved accuracy at longer ranges.
Compatibility Considerations
Before purchasing any iron sights, ensure they’re compatible with your AR15 setup.
**Rail Type:** The Picatinny rail, also known as the Mil-Spec 1913 rail, is the standard for most AR15s. Your sights must be designed to attach to this type of rail.
**Gas Block Clearance:** If your rifle has a front sight integrated into the gas block, ensure the sights you choose are compatible with the specific design of your gas block.
**Height:** Consider the height of your sights, especially if you plan to co-witness them with a red dot sight or other optic. Co-witnessing means aligning your iron sights with your optic. Understanding the co-witness height of your red dot or scope is crucial. Options include absolute co-witness (iron sights aligned at the same height as the red dot) and a 1/3 co-witness (iron sights appearing in the lower third of the optic’s field of view).
Top Contenders: Exploring Some of the Best Options
To better understand the options, let’s explore some outstanding iron sights currently available:
Magpul MBUS Gen 2: The Reliable Budget-Friendly Choice
The Magpul MBUS Gen 2 sights have earned their reputation as a dependable and affordable option. Constructed from impact-resistant polymer, they are lightweight, durable, and fold down neatly when not in use. The Gen 2 sights provide a solid sight picture, with adjustable elevation and windage, and feature a simple, yet effective design. They are a great choice for those looking for a cost-effective backup solution or a lightweight setup.
Magpul MBUS Pro: The Premium Steel Option
Stepping up in quality, the Magpul MBUS Pro sights provide a significant upgrade. Constructed from durable steel, the MBUS Pro sights are exceptionally rugged and provide a robust platform for your AR15. They offer a low-profile folding design and are fully adjustable for windage and elevation. The MBUS Pro sights provide a sharp, clear sight picture and are a reliable upgrade over their polymer counterparts. They are ideal for shooters who prioritize durability and want a premium quality set.
Troy Industries Folding BattleSights: Precision and Reliability Combined
Troy Industries folding battle sights are renowned for their excellent build quality and precision. These sights are constructed from high-quality materials and are fully adjustable. They offer a smooth and reliable folding mechanism and a sharp, well-defined sight picture. Troy BattleSights are designed to withstand hard use, making them a favorite among professionals and serious shooters. They’re built to be tough and offer excellent performance, making them a reliable choice.
Daniel Defense Fixed Iron Sights: Built for Performance
Daniel Defense fixed iron sights are constructed from robust materials and are designed for demanding applications. Their fixed design ensures they are always ready for action, providing unwavering reliability. They offer a clear and crisp sight picture, allowing for fast target acquisition. These sights are made to last, making them a perfect choice for anyone who is looking for an extremely durable set.
A2-Style Fixed Iron Sights: The Classic Option
For those seeking a cost-effective and proven solution, A2-style iron sights are a great option. These fixed sights are a classic design, known for their simplicity and reliability. They typically feature an adjustable rear sight for windage and elevation. While not as advanced as some modern sights, A2-style sights provide a functional and affordable option. This is a great starting point for those who are new to AR15s.
Mastering the Fundamentals: Installation, Zeroing, and Beyond
Once you’ve chosen your sights, you need to install them and zero them properly:
Installation Basics
1. **Rail Preparation:** Ensure your Picatinny rail is clean and free of debris.
2. **Front Sight Installation:** Attach the front sight to the rail, ensuring it’s properly aligned.
3. **Rear Sight Installation:** Attach the rear sight to the rail, ensuring proper alignment.
4. **Tighten Securely:** Tighten all screws securely, but do not overtighten, as you might damage the rail or the sights.
Achieving Proper Zero
Zeroing your iron sights means adjusting them to align with your point of impact at a specific distance.
1. **Choose Your Zero Distance:** 25 yards/meters is a common distance for close-range zeroing. 100 yards/meters is a good option for intermediate ranges.
2. **Positioning:** Place a target at your chosen distance.
3. **Initial Shots:** Fire a small group of rounds.
4. **Adjustments:** Adjust your sights based on your point of impact relative to your point of aim. If your shots are low, raise the front sight. If your shots are high, lower the front sight. Adjust windage as needed to correct for horizontal deviations.
5. **Fine-Tune:** Continue adjusting and shooting until your shots consistently hit your desired point of impact.
Caring for Your Sights
Regular maintenance will keep your sights functioning reliably.
**Cleaning and Lubrication:** Clean your sights regularly with a soft cloth and, if needed, a mild solvent. Apply a light coat of gun oil to protect against rust and corrosion.
**Damage Inspection:** Periodically inspect your sights for any signs of damage, such as loose screws or cracks.
**Storage:** Store your rifle and sights in a dry, protected location to prevent damage.
Wrapping Up: Choosing Wisely for Your AR15
Iron sights are not merely a backup; they’re an essential part of your AR15 setup, providing unmatched reliability, simplicity, and precision. Selecting the best AR15 iron sights involves understanding your needs, budget, and preferred shooting style. Consider the type, material, adjustment mechanisms, and your specific requirements. Practice is critical.
Remember, the best iron sights are the ones that you can consistently use and trust. They are key to mastering your rifle and gaining confidence in the field.
If you have questions or would like to share your personal insights, please leave your thoughts in the comments.
