Posted by Aaron Rice on May 2nd 2024

Finding the Best AR-15 Iron Sights for Your Money

Look, I've been messing with AR-15s for years now, and let me tell ya, finding good Iron sights ain't always a walk in the park. I've burned through more cash than I care to admit on sights that weren't worth a damn. But hey, I've learned a thing or two along the way, and I'm here to share the goods.

Why Bother with Backup Iron Sights?

First time I took my AR out with just a fancy red dot, I felt like hot shit. Then that battery died halfway through a competition. Talk about embarrassing. That's when I learned the hard way: backup iron sights aren't just nice to have, they're a must.

Types of Iron Sights I've Tried

  • Fixed Iron Sights: These are like that old hunting buddy who's always ready to go. They don't move, they don't break, they just work. I've got a set of Ozark Armament Fixed Canted Iron Sights on one of my builds, and they've never let me down.
  • flip-up iron sights: At first, I thought these were gimmicky. But man, was I wrong. Being able to flip 'em down when using a scope and pop 'em up when needed is pretty sweet. The Ozark Armament Micro Flip Ups have become my go-to.
  • Carry Handle Sights: Oldschool cool. Slapped an Ozark Armament Carry Handle on my retro build, and it's like stepping back in time every time I shoot it.

    • What to Look For (Learned the Hard Way)

  • Toughness: I once bought a cheap set of sights that bent the first time my rifle tipped over. Never again. Now I stick to aluminum or steel.
  • Adjustability: Was out hunting with a buddy last fall. His shots kept going wide. Turns out his sights couldn't be adjusted for squat. Don't make that mistake.
  • Visibility: Tried some "tactical" sights with tiny apertures once. Couldn't see shit in low light. Now I make sure I can actually, you know, see through my sights.

    • The world of AR-15 iron sights isn't always a walk in the park. With a sea of options, finding the best value for your money can feel like finding a needle in a haystack. That's why we're here—to help you cut through the noise and find the best AR-15 iron sights.

    Getting Your Money's Worth

    Here's the deal: expensive doesn't always mean better. Some of the best sights I've used, like Ozark Armament's Battle Sights, didn't cost an arm and a leg.

    Before you buy, ask yourself:

    • Can it survive a fall? (Trust me, it'll happen)
    • Can you see it clearly at dusk? (Unless you only shoot at high noon)
    • Is it a pain in the ass to install? (Life's too short for complicated sights)

    Zeroing: It Ain't Rocket Science

    Zeroing used to stress me out. Now? It's almost zen. Here's my quick and dirty method:

    1. Set up at 25 yards. Shoot three rounds.
    2. Shots left? Move the rear sight left. Right? Move it right.
    3. Rinse and repeat 'til you're hitting where you're aiming.

    I do this every time I change ammo or the wind's acting funky. Takes 10 minutes, tops.

    Keeping 'Em Running

    I used to baby my sights. Now? I treat 'em like tools, 'cause that's what they are. Here's my maintenance "routine":

    • Wipe 'em down when I clean my rifle. Nothing fancy, just get the gunk off.
    • Check for loose screws now and then. Threadlocker is your friend.
    • For flip-ups, a tiny drop of oil keeps 'em smooth.

    The Bottom Line

    Listen, at the end of the day, the best sights are the ones that work for you. I've shared what's worked for me, but you gotta find your own way. Get out there, try different setups, and most importantly, shoot. A lot.

    'Cause here's the truth: even the fanciest sights won't make you a better shooter. Only practice does that. So grab some decent irons, zero 'em in, and hit the range. That's where the real magic happens.

    Stay safe, shoot straight, and have fun out there.

    Quick Q&A

  • What's the deal with AR-15 iron sights? They're your Plan B when optics fail. And trust me, at some point, they will.
  • What should I look for? Tough as nails, clear as day, easy to adjust. Ozark Armament stuff has treated me right.
  • Why's zeroing important? Unless you like missing, you need to zero. It's how you make the sights work for you, not against you.
  • How do I keep 'em working? Don't let 'em get gunked up, check for loose parts, and don't abuse 'em. Simple as that.
  • Can I just use the front or back sight? Sure, if you like guessing where your shots will land. You need both to aim properly.


    • ARTICLE WRITTEN BY AARON RICE GENERAL MANAGER OZARK ARMAMENT

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