Gun Rant: Do I Still Need Backup Iron Sights??!

Published on August 5, 2022
Duration: 12:37

This video discusses the necessity of backup iron sights on modern rifles, especially in light of advanced optic technology. The instructor emphasizes that for rifles intended for serious use ('go-to-war' rifles), backup sights are crucial due to potential optic failures. For less demanding applications like 'truck guns,' they may be optional. The discussion also covers the implications of higher optic mounts and the selection of quality backup sights.

Quick Summary

Backup iron sights are crucial for 'go-to-war' rifles where optic failure is a risk due to 'Murphy's Law.' For less demanding rifles like 'truck guns,' they are less critical if the primary optic is maintained. Higher optic mounts require specific considerations like see-through or quick-detach mechanisms for backup sight integration.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Vacation Recap
  2. 00:36Topic: Do I Still Need Backup Iron Sights?
  3. 00:50Advancements in Optic Technology
  4. 01:34The Case for Backup Iron Sights
  5. 02:08Defining the 'Go-To-War' Rifle
  6. 02:30Murphy's Law and Optic Failures
  7. 03:30Backup Sights for Truck Guns vs. Duty Rifles
  8. 03:45Instructor's Rifle Examples (11.5" vs. B180)
  9. 04:51Redundancy and Maintenance
  10. 05:03Determining Rifle Application
  11. 05:20Optic Mount Height Considerations
  12. 05:41Ergonomics of Higher Mounts
  13. 06:16Higher Mounts and Night Vision
  14. 06:21Co-Witness vs. Higher Mounts
  15. 07:05Backup Sights with High Mounts
  16. 07:20See-Through Mounts vs. Quick Detach
  17. 07:44Choosing Backup Iron Sights
  18. 07:50Recommended Backup Sight Brands
  19. 08:32Fixed vs. Flip-Up Sights
  20. 08:51Integrating Sights and Mounts
  21. 10:03Budget vs. Heavy-Duty Sights
  22. 10:25Metal vs. Polymer Sights
  23. 10:51Final Thoughts & Food for Thought
  24. 11:12Instructor's Training Services & Patreon
  25. 11:41Outro

Frequently Asked Questions

When are backup iron sights essential for a rifle?

Backup iron sights are essential for rifles intended for serious use, often termed 'go-to-war' rifles. These are firearms meant to handle any threat, foreign or domestic. The instructor emphasizes that due to 'Murphy's Law,' optic failures can occur, making iron sights a critical redundancy.

What are the best backup iron sight brands to consider?

For reliable backup iron sights, the instructor recommends Magpul's flip-up sights (available in polymer and metal) as a cost-effective option. For those seeking more robust fixed sights, Daniel Defense is suggested. Avoid cheap, low-quality alternatives.

How do higher optic mount heights affect backup iron sight usage?

Higher optic mounts (like 193/226 height) improve ergonomics and night vision compatibility but often prevent traditional co-witnessing with iron sights. This necessitates considering mounts with see-through peep sights or quick-detach mechanisms for backup sight access.

Should I use a see-through mount or a quick-detach mount for my optic?

If you want immediate access to backup sights with a high mount, a see-through mount allows the mount itself to function as a rear sight. Alternatively, a quick-detach (QD) mount lets you rapidly remove the optic or mount if it fails, exposing your iron sights.

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