The Best AR Sights
When it comes to outfitting your AR-15 rifle, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing between AR iron sights and AR red dot sights. Both have their own set of advantages and disadvantages, and the right choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Iron sights, also known as “open sights,” have been around for centuries and have been used on firearms of all types. These sights consist of a front post and a rear aperture, and the user aligns the front post with the rear aperture to aim at the target. Iron sights are typically made of steel or aluminum and are durable and reliable.
One of the main advantages of iron sights is that they are simple to use and require minimal training. They are also inexpensive and can be found on many entry-level rifles. Additionally, iron sights are not affected by battery failure or electronic malfunctions, which makes them a great backup option in case your red dot sight fails.
However, iron sights also have some disadvantages. They can be difficult to use in low light conditions and may not be as accurate at long distances as other types of sights. Additionally, iron sights can be difficult to adjust for windage and elevation, and they can be obstructed by other objects in the field of view.
Red dot sights, also known as “reflex sights,” are a more recent invention that has become increasingly popular in recent years. These sights use a small red dot that is projected onto a transparent screen, and the user aligns the dot with the target to aim. Red dot sights are typically powered by batteries and can be found on many high-end rifles.
One of the main advantages of red dot sights is that they are easy to use and require minimal training. They are also very fast to acquire and can be used with both eyes open, which makes them ideal for close-quarters combat. Additionally, red dot sights are not affected by parallax, which can cause errors when aiming at long distances with iron sights.
However, red dot sights also have some disadvantages. They can be affected by battery failure or electronic malfunctions, and they can be expensive. Additionally, red dot sights may not be as durable as iron sights and may not hold zero as well.
Another important consideration when choosing between iron sights and red dot sights is the intended use of your rifle. If you plan on using your rifle for hunting or long-range shooting, iron sights may not be the best choice. The limited accuracy and difficulty in adjusting for windage and elevation can make it harder to take precise shots at longer distances. In this case, a red dot sight or even a magnified optic would be a better option.
On the other hand, if you plan on using your rifle for close-quarters combat or home defense, iron sights may be the better choice. The simplicity and reliability of iron sights make them a great option for fast, close-range engagements. Additionally, the lack of batteries or electronics means that you don’t have to worry about them failing at a critical moment.
Another advantage of red dot sights is the ability to co-witness with iron sights. Co-witnessing means that you can use the iron sights as a backup if the red dot sight fails. This can be especially useful in high-stress situations where you don’t have time to troubleshoot a malfunctioning sight. Many red dot sights are designed to be used in conjunction with iron sights, which makes co-witnessing a possibility.
When it comes to cost, iron sights are generally less expensive than red dot sights. You can find a set of iron sights for as little as $20, while red dot sights can range from $100 to $500 or more. However, it’s important to note that you get what you pay for. Cheaper red dot sights may not be as durable or reliable as more expensive models, so it’s important to do your research and choose a quality sight that will meet your needs.
In summary, choosing between iron sights and red dot sights for your AR-15 rifle is a personal decision that will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Iron sights are simple to use, reliable, and inexpensive, but they can be difficult to use in low-light conditions and may not be as accurate at long distances. Red dot sights are easy to use, fast to acquire, and not affected by parallax, but they can be affected by battery failure or electronic malfunctions, and they can be expensive. When making your decision, consider the intended use of your rifle, your budget, and the features that are important to you.
Overall, both iron sights and red dot sights have their own set of advantages and disadvantages, and it ultimately comes down to what you prefer and what you will be using your rifle for. It’s important to consider the intended use, budget, and features that are important to you when making your decision. With the proper research and a good understanding of the options available, you can be sure to choose the sight that best suits your needs.