​Shooting Long Range with Iron Sights: A Complete Guide

Posted by Matt Rice on Feb 21st 2023

​Shooting Long Range with Iron Sights: A Complete Guide

Shooting Long Range with Iron Sights: A Complete Guide

Are you looking to improve your long-range shooting skills with iron sights? Iron sights long range shooting can be a challenge, but I can tell you from first hand experience it is also incredibly rewarding. The feeling of hitting a target from hundreds of yards away using only iron sights is hard to beat. At OZARK ARMAMENT, we specialize in providing high-quality iron sights to help you achieve your long-range shooting goals. In this complete guide, we will share everything you need to know about shooting long range with iron sights.

The Basics of Long-Range Shooting with Iron Sights

Iron sights have been a popular choice for hunters for decades, and it's easy to see why. Shooting with iron sights is a classic, nostalgic experience that offers a more tactile shooting experience. While long-range sights have their advantages, iron sights offer a more challenging experience that many hunters prefer. However, it's important to understand the limitations of iron sights, particularly when shooting at longer ranges.

When shooting long range with iron sights, our experience tells us it's important to understand the fundamentals of marksmanship. This includes proper body positioning, breathing, and aiming. To shoot long range with iron sights, you need to make sure your body is positioned correctly. This means standing with your feet shoulder-width apart, your body slightly leaned forward, and your weight evenly distributed. You should also focus on your breathing, taking deep breaths and exhaling slowly to help steady your aim.

When it comes to aiming, shooting long range with iron sights requires a different approach than shooting at shorter ranges. To hit targets from long distances, you need to learn to adjust your aim for distance and windage. This means aligning the front and rear sights, and then adjusting for windage and elevation using the markings on the sights. With practice, you will develop a feel for how to aim to compensate for wind and distance and ultimately become  accurate with iron sights.

Iron Sight vs Long Range Sight

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When it comes to shooting long range, many hunters and shooters opt for long-range sights. Long-range sights offer advantages like increased magnification, range estimation, and bullet drop compensation. However, hunting with iron sights offer a more challenging and tactile shooting experience that many hunters prefer.

We've found that one advantage of iron sights is that they are generally faster and more intuitive to use than long-range sights. With iron sights, you can quickly acquire your target and adjust your aim as needed. Additionally, iron sights are generally more durable and can withstand the rigors of hunting and shooting better than many long-range sights.

Iron Sight vs Single-Shot Rifle Sight

When it comes to shooting long range with iron sights, it's also worth considering the benefits of single-shot rifle sights. Single-shot rifle sights offer a simple and straightforward shooting experience that many hunters and shooters prefer. They are also generally less expensive than iron sights, making them a great option for those on a budget.

However, single-shot rifle sights have their limitations when it comes to long-range shooting. They offer limited magnification and range estimation capabilities, which can make hitting targets at longer ranges more difficult. Additionally, single-shot rifle sights are generally not as durable as iron sights and may not hold up as well over time. As sights continued to develop over the years, the use of iron sights VS a single Long Range Sight increased due to their effectiveness & consistency.

Shooting Long Range with Iron Sights

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One of the most common questions hunters and shooters have about shooting long range with iron sights is how far they can shoot. The answer depends on a variety of factors, including the type of firearm, the ammunition used, and the shooter's skill level. However, with practice and the right equipment, it's possible to shoot long range with iron sights.

Iron sights can be effective at distances of up to 200 yards, though hitting targets at this distance requires a high level of skill and experience. Hitting targets at 600 yards with iron sights is even more challenging and requires a deep understanding of windage and elevation adjustments. While some experienced shooters can hit targets at 500 yards or more with iron sights, it's important to remember that long-range shooting with iron sights is a difficult task that requires patience, skill, and practice.

When shooting long range with iron sights, it's important to choose the right equipment. Here at OZARK ARMAMENT we offer a range of high-quality iron sights that are designed specifically for long-range shooting. Our sights are made from milled aircraft-grade aluminum, and are fully adjustable for windage and elevation. We also feature a low profile, and can be flipped down and out of the way when not in use. We've spent countless hours field testing with our OZARK ARMAMENT iron sights, you can be confident in your equipment when you're after long rang iron sights.

The Longest Shot with Iron Sights

Have you ever wondered what the longest shot with iron sights is? While it's difficult to confirm the accuracy of many claims, there is an official Guinness World Record holder. Ernie Jimenez used an unmodified K31 Swiss 7.5x55mm Swiss rifle to set the official record for the longest open sight shot. He aimed at a 36" pink buffalo target 2240 yards away and managed to strike it four times using 190 grain Sierra Match King rounds firing at 2470 fps. It's an incredible feat that takes dozens of shots to accomplish, but Ernie's success is a testament to the skill and dedication required for long-range shooting with iron sights.

While most hunters and shooters will never attempt shots at these extreme distances, it's worth remembering that long-range shooting with iron sights is a challenging and rewarding experience. With the right equipment and a commitment to practice and skill development, it's possible to hit targets at impressive distances using only iron sights.

Wrapping up

Our research indicates that shooting long range with iron sights is a challenging and rewarding experience that requires skill, practice, and the right equipment. At OZARK ARMAMENT, we are committed to providing our customers with high-quality options such as low profile iron sights that are designed specifically for long-range shooting. Whether you're an experienced shooter or just getting started, our iron sights can help you achieve your long-range shooting goals.

We've determined through our experience that understanding the basics of marksmanship, choosing the right iron sights, and practicing regularly, you can improve your long-range shooting skills with iron sights. While iron sights have their limitations, they offer a classic and tactile shooting experience that many hunters and shooters prefer. So why not give iron sights a try and see how far you can push your shooting skills? With OZARK ARMAMENT by your side, you can be confident in your equipment and your abilities as a shooter.

FAQs:

What is the Guinness World Record for the longest open sight shot with iron sights?

Ernie Jimenez holds the official Guinness World Record for the longest open sight shot. He aimed at a 36" pink buffalo target 2240 yards away and managed to strike it four times using an unmodified K31 Swiss 7.5x55mm Swiss rifle.

How far can you shoot with iron sights?

Iron sights can be effective at distances of up to 200 yards, but hitting targets at 500 or 600 yards requires a deep understanding of windage and elevation adjustments.

What are the advantages of iron sights vs long-range sights?

Iron sights are generally faster and more intuitive to use than long-range sights. They are also more durable and can withstand the rigors of hunting and shooting better than many long-range sights.

What are single-shot rifle sights?

Single-shot rifle sights offer a simple and straightforward shooting experience that many hunters and shooters prefer. However, they have limited magnification and range estimation capabilities, which can make hitting targets at longer ranges more difficult.

How can I improve my long-range shooting skills with iron sights?

To improve your long-range shooting skills with iron sights, it's important to understand the fundamentals of marksmanship and to choose the right equipment. OZARK ARMAMENT offers a range of high-quality iron sights that are designed specifically for long-range shooting.

Why should I use iron sights for long range shooting?

Shooting long range with iron sights is a rewarding experience because it requires skill, practice, and a deep understanding of windage and elevation adjustments. It also offers a classic and tactile shooting experience that many hunters and shooters prefer.

Can iron sights be used for hunting?

Yes, iron sights have been a popular choice for hunters for decades. They offer a more challenging shooting experience and can be more durable than many long-range sights.

Article Written By Matt Rice, Owner Operator of OZARK ARMAMENT