Back to Basics: How to Use Iron Sights On a Rifle
BY Herschel Smith
2 years, 7 months ago
David Petzal has some thoughts on the use of backup iron sights for the user of optics.
This is a breezy read-through on a number of related things like how to mount scopes in order to get them off quickly if you really want to be able to use iron sights, various types of iron sights and how to protect them in the field, and so on.
I think being flip-up sights on an AR style rifle suits that particular need very well.
I found it informative.
On May 5, 2022 at 8:40 am, Ned said:
“Old school” ghost ring sights work just fine if you know how to use them.
On May 5, 2022 at 1:23 pm, Georgiaboy61 said:
Some very respected ex-military men I know, one a former Army Special Forces man and the other an O-6, say emphatically that in order to get the best out of a rifle optic, you should master (or at least know how to use reasonably well) iron sights first.
I am by no means an expert shot, but I can ring a steel gong at 600 yards with boring regularity using my old WWII-era M-1 Garand with iron sights. And if this old man can do it, anyone can….
And if your preferred rig is an AR15 with a carry handle and irons, there’s no excuse not to learn the OEM sights. They are some of the finest iron sights ever made standard on a weapon of its type. And if you really want to up your game, convert yours to the Santose improved battle-sight-zero or the Revised Improved BSZ or “RIBZ” system (AR15.com can show how). Or just get an after-market match-grade set of sights from Rock River Arms, White Oak, etc.
On May 6, 2022 at 8:02 am, Latigo Morgan said:
I keep detachable carry handles for my A4-type upper receivers. While they may wear optics and BUIS, should that become compromised, I can remove them and put the old carry handle back on.
All new shooters I teach, learn on the irons before optics.