​Iron Sights for Shotguns: Enhancing Accuracy and Precision

Posted by Matt Rice on Feb 21st 2023

​Iron Sights for Shotguns: Enhancing Accuracy and Precision

Iron Sights for Shotguns: Enhancing Accuracy and Precision

As a gun enthusiast, you know that shooting accuracy is critical. Aiming and firing accurately can make the difference between a successful shot and a missed opportunity.  Our experience tells us that this is particularly important in situations such as hunting or self-defense where every shot counts. When it comes to shotguns, iron sights can significantly improve your accuracy and precision. If you're in the market for the best shotgun iron sights, look no further than Ozark Armament.

Why Iron Sights for Shotguns are Essential

Iron sights are  crucial for shooting accuracy, particularly in low-light situations where electronic sights may not be reliable. They are simple devices that allow you to align your eye with the target, and they can be used with or without optics. Iron sights have been used for centuries and are still popular today because of their reliability and simplicity.

When it comes to shotguns, we've found that iron sights can be particularly helpful. Shotguns typically have a wide and short barrel that can make it challenging to aim precisely. Iron sights offer a precise aiming point and can help you line up your shot accurately, particularly for long-range shooting. This is why iron sights are popular with hunters and in self-defense situations.

Iron Sight vs Bead Sight

Many shotguns come equipped with a bead sight, which is a small metal or plastic bead at the end of the shotgun's barrel. While bead sights can be helpful for aiming, they are not as accurate or reliable as iron sights. Bead sights can easily become obscured or damaged, particularly in low-light situations.

Iron Sight vs Pump-Action Rifle Sight

Some shotgun owners may opt for a pump-action rifle sight for their shotgun. While these sights may be effective in some situations, our tests have shown that they are not specifically designed for shotguns and may not provide the same level of accuracy as iron sights.

Types of Iron Sights for Shotguns

There are several types of iron sights available for shotguns, including rear sights, front sights, and combination sets.

Rear Sights: Rear sights are mounted on the shotgun's receiver and are used to align the shooter's eye with the target. They typically have a peep or aperture that provides a precise aiming point. Rear sights can be adjustable or fixed, and they can be designed for use with or without optics.

Front Sights: Front sights are mounted on the shotgun's barrel and are used to provide a reference point for aiming. They can be a simple post or blade or can have a bead or fiber optic insert to increase visibility. Like rear sights, front sights can be adjustable or fixed, and they can be designed for use with or without optics.

Combination Sets: Combination sets include both front and rear sights and are designed to work together to provide a precise aiming point. They are typically adjustable and can be used with or without optics.

Choosing the Right Iron Sights for Your Shotgun

Choosing the right iron sights for your shotgun is critical to improving your accuracy and precision.  We've found from testing these out, it's important to consider several factors when selecting your iron sights, including:

Shotgun Type: Different shotguns have different mounting systems, and not all iron sights are compatible with all shotgun types. Be sure to select an iron sight that is compatible with your shotgun.

Shooting Purpose: Different iron sights can be designed for different shooting purposes, such as hunting or self-defense. Be sure to select an iron sight that is suitable for your intended shooting purpose.

Material: Iron sights can be made from a variety of materials, including aluminum, steel, and polymer. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages, so be sure to select an iron sight that is made from a material that meets your needs.

Size: The size of the iron sight can affect how accurately you can aim. Be sure to select an iron sight that is appropriately sized for your shotgun and shooting needs.

Ozark Armament's Best Iron Sights for Shotguns

Ozark Armament offers a variety of iron sights for shotguns, designed to provide accuracy and reliability in any shooting situation. Our selection includes rear sights, front sights, and combination sets, all made from high-quality materials and designed for easy installation.

Our shotgun iron sights are compatible with popular shotgun models such as Browning, Weatherby, and Remington 870. Ozark Armament's iron sights are designed to fit the Picatinny rail system, which is commonly used for mounting accessories on firearms.

One of our most popular products is our Flip Up BUIS, which are made from high-quality aluminum and are designed for easy installation. After countless hours of using this product we've determined they are effective with or without optics, and they can provide a precise aiming point even in low-light conditions.

Installing Iron Sights on Shotguns

Through our practical knowledge, we've found installing iron sights on shotguns can be a simple process, particularly with the right tools and equipment. If you're not familiar with firearm maintenance and installation, it's best to seek the assistance of a professional gunsmith.

To install iron sights on a shotgun, you will need several tools, including a torque wrench, screwdriver, and gunsmithing hammer. Follow these general steps to install your iron sights:

Remove the existing sight: The existing sight on your shotgun may need to be removed before you can install your new iron sight. You may need to remove screws or pins to remove the old sight.

Install the iron sight: Place the new iron sight onto the mounting system and secure it in place using screws or pins. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper installation.

Align the iron sight: Once the iron sight is installed, you will need to align it with your shotgun. Adjust the sight's windage and elevation as needed to ensure accurate aiming.

Test the sight: Before using your shotgun with the new iron sights, be sure to test it to ensure it is accurate and reliable. You may need to make additional adjustments before using it in the field.

Ozark Armament's iron sights are designed for easy installation and can be a great addition to any shotgun.


FAQs

  • Why are iron sights important for shotguns? Iron sights offer a precise aiming point and can help you line up your shot accurately, particularly for long-range shooting. This is why iron sights are popular with hunters and in self-defense situations.
  • How do iron sights compare to bead sights? Bead sights are not as accurate or reliable as iron sights. Bead sights can easily become obscured or damaged, particularly in low-light situations.
  • How do I choose the right iron sights for my shotgun? Consider factors such as shotgun type, shooting purpose, material, and size when selecting iron sights for your shotgun. Make sure to choose iron sights that are compatible with your shotgun and meet your needs.
  • Can I install iron sights on my shotgun by myself? If you're not familiar with firearm maintenance and installation, it's best to seek the assistance of a professional gunsmith. Installing iron sights on shotguns can be a simple process, particularly with the right tools and equipment.
  • What types of iron sights does Ozark Armament offer for shotguns? Ozark Armament offers a variety of iron sights for shotguns, including rear sights, front sights, and combination sets. They are compatible with popular shotgun models such as Browning, Weatherby, and Remington 870, and are designed to fit the Picatinny rail system.

Conclusion

If you're looking to improve your shotgun's accuracy and precision, consider adding iron sights to your setup. Iron sights are a simple and reliable way to improve your accuracy, particularly in low-light conditions. Ozark Armament offers a variety of iron sights for shotguns, designed to fit a variety of shotgun types and shooting purposes. Visit our selection of iron sights today and take your shotgun shooting to the next level.

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.

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