Posted by Matt Rice on Feb 12th 2024

Mastering Precision: A Guide to Adjusting AR 15 Iron Sights for Accurate Shooting

Alright, listen up. If you're anything like me, you've probably spent way too much time squinting down your AR-15, praying to the shooting gods that your rounds hit somewhere in the same zip code as your target. Been there, done that, got the "I Can't Hit Squat" t-shirt. But fear not, my fellow lead slingers, 'cause I'm about to drop some knowledge on how to make those iron sights your new best friend.

The Iron Sight Smorgasbord

First off, let's chat about the hardware. Ozark Armament’s lineup of iron sights that'll make your rifle happier than a pig in mud:

  • Carry Handle Rear Sight: For when you're feeling nostalgic but still want to hit the broad side of a barn.
  • Battle Sights (BUIS): Because when your fancy red dot decides to take a siesta, these bad boys have got your back.
  • 45 Degree Flip Ups: Perfect for those "Oh crap, they're closer than I thought" moments.
  • Micro Flip Ups: So small, you'll forget they're there until you need 'em.
  • Fixed Canted Sights: For the "tacticool" in all of us.
  • A2 Front Sight: The grandaddy of AR sights. Respect your elders, kids.

I've played with all of these especially the A2 Carry Handle Rear Sight, and let me tell you, each one's got its own personality. But don't worry, we'll get you two acquainted in no time.

The Art of Not Shooting Like a Storm Trooper

Okay, picture this: You're at the range, lining up your shot, and suddenly everything clicks. That, my friends, is what we call the perfect sight picture and correctly zeroing your sights. Here's how to make it happen:

  1. Front sight: Clear as your ex's intentions after asking to "grab coffee."
  2. Rear sight and target: Blurrier than your vision after a night out.
  3. Make sure your sights properly aligned like you're making a sight sandwich.

Get this right, and you'll be punching holes in paper (or ringing steel) like it owes you money.

Elevation: Because Gravity's a Pain

Let's talk about getting your rounds to land where you actually want them. Elevation adjustments are all about fighting our old nemesis, gravity. Here's the down-low:

  1. Get comfy: Set up your rifle like you're nesting for the winter. Sandbags are your friend.
  2. Pick your poison: Front sight post or rear sight dial? Choose wisely.
  3. Make your move:
    • Shots going high? Lower that front sight like it's hot.
    • Hitting low? Raise it up like you're trying to get the teacher's attention.
  4. Test fire: Send some freedom seeds downrange and see what happens.
  5. Rinse and repeat: Keep tweaking until you're hitting targets like a boss.

Remember, patience is key. Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is a perfect zero. Trust me, I've spent more time adjusting sights than I care to admit (don't tell my wife).

Check out this guide from the National Shooting Sports Foundation for more information.

Windage: Taming the Sideways Shuffle

Now, let's tackle that annoying left-right wiggle. Windage adjustments are your ticket to sideways success.

  1. Find the magic knob: It's on your rear sight. Become one with the knob.
  2. Remember the golden rule: Right is right, left is... well, left.
  3. Click away: Each click moves your impact just a smidge. It's like seasoning your food – a little goes a long way.
  4. Shoot, swear, adjust: Fire a few rounds, mutter under your breath, and tweak as needed.
  5. Repeat until perfect: Or until you run out of ammo. Whichever comes first.

Pro tip: Use a grid target. It's like GPS for your bullets.

Fine-Tuning: Because Good Enough Isn't

Alright, hotshot. You've got the basics down, but let's turn it up to 11. Here's how to really make those sights sing:

  1. Know your battlefield: Adjusting for a 50-yard backyard plink is way different than reaching out to 300.
  2. Play meteorologist: Wind, temp, humidity – they're all conspiring against you. Learn their tricks.
  3. Be a nerd: Keep a log of your adjustments. Future you will high-five past you.
  4. Embrace the suck: Practice isn't always fun, but neither is missing the target and getting roasted by your buddies.

Remember, I once spent an entire weekend adjusting my sights. My wife thought I'd lost it, but hey, who's laughing now when I can hit a gnat's ass at 100 yards? (Okay, maybe not a gnat, but you get the idea.)

If you've got more questions check out AR15.com for more useful guides you can also look at Ozark Armament Resources section for more detailed guides as well.

The Bottom Line

There you have it, folks. From understanding the bits and bobs of your iron sights to fine-tuning like a pro, you're now armed with enough knowledge to make your AR-15 sing sweeter than a barbershop quartet.

Whether you're running Ozark Armament's latest whiz-bang sights or sticking with old reliable, these tips will have you shooting straighter than an arrow in no time.

So get out there, make some noise, and watch those groupings shrink faster than your wallet at a gun show. Remember, the best sight adjustment is the one you figure out yourself. It's your rifle, your skills, and now, your perfect shot.

Now go forth and conquer, you magnificent lead-slinging beast. And if anyone asks where you learned all this? Tell 'em your weird uncle who spends too much time at the range taught you. That's me. I'm the weird uncle.

Happy shooting, and may your aim be truer than a politician's promises aren't!

ARTICLE WRITTEN BY MATT RICE, OWNER OPERATOR OF OZARK ARMAMENT

!