Smythbusters: Are AR-15 Rear Sights Interchangeable?

Published on April 7, 2020
Duration: 1:48

This video debunks the myth that AR-15 rear sights are not interchangeable with front sights from different brands. According to Steven Caleb of Brownells, modern production AR-15 rear sights are manufactured to a standard height, allowing them to function correctly with various brands of front sights, including those integrated into handguards. This interchangeability applies to current production firearms, with exceptions noted for retro-style builds.

Quick Summary

Modern production AR-15 rear sights are designed to a standard height, making them interchangeable with front sights from various brands, including those integrated into handguards. This means a Magpul rear sight will work with a Daniel Defense front sight, and similar compatibility exists for Troy and Midwest Industries components on current AR-15 platforms.

Chapters

  1. 00:03Introduction: AR-15 Rear Sight Myth
  2. 00:12The Myth of Non-Interchangeable Sights
  3. 00:22Interchangeability Explained
  4. 00:27Example: Magpul Rear & Daniel Defense Front
  5. 00:36Handguard Integrated Sights Compatibility
  6. 00:46Standard Rear Sight Height
  7. 00:56Front Sight Height Variations
  8. 01:03Retro Builds vs. Modern Sights
  9. 01:15Call for Exceptions and Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Are AR-15 rear sights interchangeable with front sights from different brands?

Yes, for modern production AR-15s, rear sights are generally interchangeable with front sights from different brands. This is because rear sights are manufactured to a standard height that allows them to regulate correctly with most functioning front sights.

Can I use a Magpul rear sight with a Daniel Defense front sight on my AR-15?

Absolutely. The video demonstrates that a Magpul rear sight works fine with a Daniel Defense front sight. This interchangeability applies to most current production AR-15 components, including sights integrated into handguards from brands like Troy or Midwest Industries.

What about AR-15 front sights that are part of the handguard?

Front sights that are integrated into the handguard, such as those from Troy or Midwest Industries, are also compatible with standard AR-15 rear sights. The key is that modern rear sights are built to a consistent height for broad compatibility.

Are there any exceptions to AR-15 sight interchangeability?

Yes, the primary exception mentioned is for retro-style AR-15 builds, which may have different sight height specifications. For current production firearms, however, the standard rear sight height ensures compatibility.

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