Fixed Or Folding Rifle Sights: A Comparison

As the AR world continues to evolve, stone age specs like the standard iron sight have become relatively extinct. New innovations have given way to more technologically advanced rifle sights. Even with more advanced optics though, having a back-up iron sight can make all the difference.

Back Up Iron Sights

Back up Iron Sights (BUIS) are a great way to ensure you always have a sight on your AR. If a bit redundant, BUIS provides a helping hand, as more tech-advanced sights require batteries or are less durable.

Iron Sights can be made in steel or aluminum. Steel is more durable and long-lasting, but adds extra weight. Aluminum does not have as much durability, but is much lighter than steel.

Polymer is also a viable option. However, finding a reliable polymer rifle sight is more difficult than its metal counterpart.

Height Differences Matter

The height of your sights matter. There are two different height types for rifle sights.

Same-Plane- The front and rear sights on a Same-Plane sight are the same height. That means on whichever rail the sight is placed, the front sight must be at the same height.

Gas Block- The front sight is about 1/4″ higher than the rear sight. However, these are only meant for circumstances where the gas block is lower than the upper receiver.

Fixed Or Folding Sight?

The choice between a fixed or folding sight makes all the difference. Here are the main reasons people choose either fixed or folding rifle sights.

Fixed Sights- Fixed sights are generally more solid depending on the material. They are designed for primary use, and do not fold in any way. This also means that you don’t need to worry about the sight moving. Just Set it and forget it.

Folding Sights- These sights are meant as secondary assets. If a primary rifle sight runs out of battery, or another sight is in use, then this folding sight can be positioned up or down.

They do lack in durability, simply because more moving parts yield higher margin of error. the hinge may become loose with time, creating less accurate shots.

Fixed sights are usually more dependable in the long run, but folding sights provide an extra asset. The general rule of thumb is that Fixed sights are for primary use, and folding sights are for secondary use.

Now that you know what to look for when purchasing new optics, Visit Thunder Tactical to get the best quality rifle sights!