Are you looking to improve your accuracy and shooting experience with your AR15 rifle platform?

Drawing from my own firsthand experience, Installing a scope and iron sights combo can greatly enhance your shooting capabilities.

While iron sights are reliable and durable, a scope can offer better accuracy and range, especially for long-range shooting.

By combining both iron sights and a scope, you can transition between both sighting systems quickly and easily, making it a versatile setup for all your shooting needs.

Step by Step Guide to Combining Iron Sights & an Optic

In this guide, I'll provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to install both iron sights and a scope on your AR15 rifle platform. 

I'll also offer some guidance on choosing the right type of scope for your needs and how to avoid common installation mistakes. 

When installing a scope and iron sights, you may run into some challenges if you have a fixed front sight post (FSP), which can obstruct the view of a low magnification scope. 

However, don't worry - I'll cover how to overcome this with proper co-witnessing techniques. So let's get started and take your shooting to the next level.

Tools Required

To do the job right, you need to have the right tools for the job. Here's a list of tools you'll want:

Allen wrenches

Screwdrivers

Torque wrench

Bore sighter

AR15 vice block

Anti-seize lubricant

Installing Iron Sights

Step 1: Remove any existing accessories on the upper receiver of the  AR15 rifle platform, including any optics or other sighting systems.

Step 2: Mount the AR15 vice block onto the upper receiver of the rifle platform. This will secure the rifle platform and prevent any damage during installation.

Step 3: Attach the front sight post to the front of the gas block. Use the Allen wrench to secure the front sight post to the gas block. Make sure it is tightly secured and aligned.

Step 4: Attach the rear sight to the upper receiver of the rifle platform. Use the Allen wrench to secure the rear sight to the upper receiver. Make sure it is tightly secured and aligned.

Step 5:Once the iron sights are installed, use the bore sighter to align the sights. This will help you zero in the iron sights for  improved accuracy.

Step 6: Apply anti-seize lubricant to the iron sights to prevent corrosion and damage.

Installing a Scope

Step 1: Remove any existing accessories on the upper receiver of the AR15 rifle platform, including any optics or other sighting systems.

Step 2: Mount the AR15 vice block onto the upper receiver of the rifle platform. This will secure the rifle platform and prevent any damage during installation.

Step 3: Install the scope mount onto the upper receiver of the rifle platform. Use the torque wrench to secure the scope mount to the upper receiver. Make sure it is tightly secured.

Step 4: Install the scope rings onto the scope mount. Use the torque wrench to secure the scope rings to the scope mount. Make sure they are tightly secured.

Step 5: Install the scope onto the scope rings. Use the torque wrench to secure the scope to the scope rings. Make sure it is tightly secured.

Step 6: Once the scope is installed, use the bore sighter to align the scope. This will help you zero in the scope for improved accuracy.

Step 7: Apply anti-seize lubricant to the scope and scope rings to prevent corrosion and damage.

Combining Iron Sights and a Scope

Based on our observations at Ozark, combining iron sights and a scope can greatly improve just about anyone's shooting experience.

Here's the simple step-by-step guide on how to install both on your AR15 rifle platform:

Step 1: Install the iron sights following the instructions outlined above.

Step 2: Install the scope following the instructions outlined above.

Step 3: Use the iron sights for short-range shooting and the scope for long-range shooting. This will allow you to quickly transition between both sighting systems for improved

Deciding Whether You Want Absolute or 1/3 Co-Witness

Co-witnessing refers to the alignment of your iron sights with your red dot sights. 

When installing a red dot sight and backup iron sights on your AR15 rifle platform, you will need to decide between absolute or 1/3 co-witness.

Absolute co-witness is the most popular option among gun enthusiasts and military personnel. 

This is because it allows for a consistent sight picture, regardless of whether you are using the iron sights or the red dot sight. 

With an absolute co-witness, you can quickly transition between the iron sights and the red dot sight without having to adjust your shooting stance or head position.

On the other hand, 1/3 co-witness is also a popular option, particularly among long-range shooters. 

It allows for a more comfortable shooting position, as the iron sights do not obstruct the view of the target through the red dot sight. 

However, it may take longer to transition between the iron sights and the red dot sight, as you may need to adjust your shooting position and head position.

Ultimately, the decision between an absolute or 1/3 co-witness will depend on your personal preference and shooting style. 

If you are unsure which option is right for you, consult with an experienced buddy or try out both options before making a decision.  My experience has shown me that many times this simply comes to down to preference.

To learn more about the difference between absolute and 1/3 co-witness, check out our guide on Absolute VS Lower 1/3 Co-witness.

Tips & Tricks

Installing a AR15 iron sights and scope can sometimes be a challenging process. 

Even with the best instructions and tools, you may encounter some common issues. 

Here are some troubleshooting tips to help you address these issues and achieve optimal shooting performance:

Issue: Scope is not level or aligned properly. 

Solution: Ensure the scope is properly seated in the rings and that the rings are tightly secured to the rail. You can use a level to ensure the scope is level and adjust the windage and elevation turrets as needed to align the reticle with the target.

Issue: Iron sights are not aligned properly. 

Solution: Use a bore sighter or laser bore sighter to align the iron sights OR adjust the front and rear sights using the adjustment screws until they are properly aligned.

Issue: Scope or iron sights are loose. 

Solution: Check that all screws and mounting hardware are properly tightened. Use a torque wrench to ensure the proper torque settings are met.

Issue: Scope is blurry or not clear. 

Solution: Adjust the eyepiece until the reticle is in sharp focus. If the image is still blurry, check to make sure the scope is mounted properly and that the rings are tightly secured to the rail.

Issue: Iron sights are obstructing the view of the scope. 

Solution: You can adjust the height of the scope rings or use a different mount to raise the height of the scope. Alternatively, you may need to adjust your shooting position or head position to avoid the iron sights obstructing your view.

By following these troubleshooting tips, you can avoid common issues during the installation process and ensure that your scope and iron sights are properly installed for optimal shooting performance. 

Remember to take your time, use the proper tools, and seek help from a experienced shooter if needed or feel free to reach out to us at support@ozarkarmament.com.

Final Thoughts

Installing a scope and iron sights on your AR15 rifle platform can be accomplished with ease when following the steps outlined in our guide and utilizing the proper tools.

It's important to ensure proper installation and alignment of both accessories in order to achieve the desired level of accuracy. 

To improve accuracy, take the time to zero in your iron sights and scope, and make sure they are properly secured and leveled on the gun.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, our team is here to help you make an informed decision and answer any questions you may have. 

So, don't be shy, drop us a line at support@ozarkarmament.com and we'll be more than happy to help you out.

FAQs

What tools do I need to install a scope and iron sights on my AR15 rifle platform? You will need Allen wrenches, screwdrivers, a torque wrench, a bore sighter, an AR15 vice block, and anti-seize lubricant.

What is the difference between an absolute and 1/3 co-witness? An absolute co-witness means that the iron sights and the center of the optic are at the same height. A 1/3 co-witness means that the iron sights are mounted lower than the center of the optic.

Which co-witness option is most popular among gun enthusiasts and military personnel? The most popular option is an absolute co-witness based on our customer's feedback.

How do I zero in a scope? To zero in a scope, use a bore sighter to align the reticle with the barrel, and then adjust the windage and elevation turrets to fine-tune the zero.

What is an anti-seize lubricant used for during installation? Anti-seize lubricant is used to prevent corrosion and damage to the mounting hardware.

Can I combine iron sights and scope on my AR15 rifle platform? Yes, combining iron sights and scope can greatly improve your accuracy and shooting experience.

What is the most popular type of optic for the AR15 rifle platform? The most popular type of optic is the red dot sight, according to our customers purchasing history.

Article Written By Matt Rice, Owner Operator of OZARK ARMAMENT 

Matt Rice is the founder and owner operator of OZARK ARMAMENT. He started the company in 2016 with a vision to bring quality, affordable firearm accessories to every person who wants to improve their shooting experience. With his dedication to providing old-school customer service and his attention to detail in the development and manufacturing of gear, Matt has helped OZARK ARMAMENT become a respected name in the firearm accessories industry.