Posted by Matt Rice on Feb 14th 2024

Enhancing Shooting Accuracy: A Comprehensive Guide to Iron Sights M4 for Optimal Precision

Alright, picture this: There I was, all decked out with my shiny new M4, feeling like I'd just stepped out of a video game. Then my buddy Mike - you know, the one who's been shooting since he could walk - he takes one look and goes, "Nice toy. Where are your iron sights?" Talk about a reality check.

Why Iron Sights? (Or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Basics)

Look, I get it. In a world of red dots and holographic wizardry, iron sights for the M4 seem about as cutting-edge as a stone axe. But here's the thing - they work. Like, really work.

  1. Tougher than my ex's new boyfriend: I've dropped my M4 in mud, sand, and once in a plate of nachos (don't ask). The AR carry handle rear sight? Didn't even flinch.
  2. No batteries, no problem: Remember that time the power went out and your phone died? Yeah, iron sights don't care about that.
  3. Skill builder: Using iron sights is like doing squats for your shooting skills. Hurts at first, but man, does it pay off.

Iron Sight Flavors: Choose Your Fighter

Fixed Sights: The "I Don't Have Time for This Sh*t" Option

These are like that old Nokia phone your dad still uses. Not fancy, but they'll survive the apocalypse. Plus, they're always there, like that one friend who shows up uninvited but always brings beer.

Flip-Up Sights: The Mullet of the Gun World

Business in the down position, party when you flip 'em up. Perfect for when you want to switch between your fancy scope and good ol' iron sights faster than you can say "target acquired."

Adjustable Sights: For the Tinkerers and Perfectionists

If you're the type who spends hours adjusting your car's side mirrors, these are for you. Fiddle with 'em all day long. Just don't blame me when your shooting buddies leave you behind. Understanding adjustments is one of the most important things you should know if you want to properly Zero your M4 iron sights

The Good, The Bad, and The Iron-y

Let's keep it real - iron sights aren't all sunshine and rainbows.

The Good Stuff:

  • Tough enough to survive your clumsiest moments (speaking from experience here)
  • Always ready to go, unlike your motivation to hit the gym
  • Makes you a better shooter, even if it hurts your ego at first

  • The Not-So-Good Stuff:

  • Slower than that greased-up deaf guy from Family Guy
  • Limited range (but let's be honest, are you really gonna hit that beer can at 500 yards?)
  • Learning curve steeper than my credit card bill after a gun show
  • How to Not Suck at Iron Sights

  • Line 'em up: The first step is proper sight alignment Front sight in the middle of the rear sight. It's like making a sandwich - if the ingredients aren't lined up, it's gonna be a mess.
  • Front sight focus: Keep that front sight clearer than your conscience. The target can be blurry - it's not a photo shoot.
  • Adjust for mother nature: Wind pushing left? Adjust right. It's like leaning into a strong wind, but with bullets.
  • Zero in: Get your sights dialed in at 50/200 meters. It's like calibrating your bathroom scale - you gotta know where you're starting from (even if you don't like the number).
  • Pimping Your Iron Sights (Because Why Not?)

    Wanna upgrade? Here's the down-low:

    1. Front Sight Posts: Get one that's steadier than your hands after your third cup of coffee.
    2. Rear Sight Apertures: Look for ones that adjust easier than your attitude after a good range day.
    3. Optic-Friendly Options: Because sometimes you want a little modern optics for your M4, M4A1 or M16.

    Just remember, upgrading your sights is like adding flames to your car - looks cool, but won't make you Vin Diesel.

    The Bottom Line

    Listen, at the end of the day, iron sights are like that reliable old friend who's always there for you. Sure, they might not be as flashy as your new buddies Red Dot and Holographic, but they'll never let you down.

    Whether you're rocking an M4, M4A1, or sweet sixteen (M16, that is), good iron sights are like a sturdy pair of boots - not sexy, but damn useful when the shit hits the fan.

    So next time you're at the range, give those iron sights some love. Your wallet will thank you, and hey, you might just become a better shot in the process. Now get out there and make those targets fear you!

    P.S. If anyone asks, tell 'em iron sights are vintage. Hipsters love that stuff.

    ARTICLE WRITTEN BY MATT RICE, OWNER OPERATOR OF OZARK ARMAMENT