We all want to outfit our rifles with the best and most technologically advanced optics systems. They can indeed make life easier and improve our shooting. However, like any system, even the most basic fixed-magnification optical scopes can be damaged.
Every rifle should be complete with iron sights. In the case of rifles that have optical systems, offset iron sights offer a great solution. We looked at the offerings in the market, and these are our choices for the best-offset iron sights.
The best-offset iron sights should be rugged and dependable. The best materials should be used in the construction of any backup sight. Adjustments for windage and elevation are critical. Your backup offset iron sights may be the difference between a successful hunt or a crushing disappointment.
In looking at offset iron sights, we established several criteria that we believe to be essential in your choice. Understanding the basics of offset sights, how they are mounted, and how to correctly use them is part of making an informed decision. We look at these essential components as well as the performance and ease of use of these sights.
In this article, we’re breaking down:
- The advantages and disadvantages of popular materials used to make offset iron sights.
- What features you should consider when deciding on offset iron sights for your needs.
- Our top recommendations in each category.
What Should You Look for in an Offset Iron Sight?
Adding offset iron sights to your rifle is a matter of redundancy. Optical sights are prone to failure, as is any device. It pays to have a set of backup sights on your rifle system to facilitate rapid and easy transitions between your optical sight and your iron sight. Putting a set of iron sights canted at 45 degrees is a great choice. However, there are a few critical factors you should be aware of when choosing an offset iron sight for your rifle:
1. Construction and Materials
New materials and new manufacturing options have radically changed the construction of offset backup sights. There are basically three choices for materials when shopping for a set of rapid transition offset sights:
- Steel: This is the heaviest option, but is probably the most durable
- Aluminum in various alloys: New alloys give strength approaching steel at a much lighter weight
- Polymer: Lightweight, but not as durable as aluminum or steel
There are excellent choices for backup sights in each of these three categories of materials. Each type has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
2. Sight Picture
What you see as you look through your rifle’s front and the rear sight is important, even on your backup sights. There are many options for offset backup sights for front and rear sight configurations.
One thing to consider is how easy it is to make a rapid transition from your optical sight to your backup sights. The configuration of the rear sight and the front sight can make a huge difference in this process.
3. Fixed or Folding Offset Iron Sights
Many top-quality offset sight systems will fold down closer to your rifle to minimize snagging and prevent damage. For many shooters, this is a welcome option. However, the folding mechanism can be a weak spot. Many shooters who use their 45-degree canted sights as a normal part of their shooting routine prefer fixed offset sights that are less prone to damage or failure.
Our Picks for the Best Offset Iron Sights
There are thousands of different options when choosing a set of offset iron sights. We have looked at many of these rapid-transition iron sight options. The offset sights in our list represent what we believe to have the best in features, materials, and construction.
Best Overall Aluminum Offset Iron Sights – Ozark Armament 45 Degree Offset Backup Iron Sight
Ozark Armaments offset iron sights are our choice for the average shooter or hunter who wants the protection of a set of backup iron sights on their rifle. Ozark Armament has a reputation for bringing quality rifle accessories to the market at reasonable prices. For those who cannot justify the expense of buying what is considered Tier 1 accessories, Ozark Armament backup iron sights are our choice.
These rapid transition sights from Ozark Armament include features that you may not expect to find with most offset sights, regardless of the price. These features are a welcome addition to your rifle without compromising your budget for the casual shooter or hunter.
Features
- All-aluminum construction using aircraft-grade aluminum ensures durability and longevity.
- CNC machined to tight tolerances gives you the best accuracy.
- The rear sight and front sight post are designed for rapid transition sight acquisition.
- Installs easily using one set screw per mount and the included hex wrench.
- Easily adjustable for windage and elevation on the rear sight.
- Flip the rear sight aperture for different options to suit your needs. A pinhole sight for accuracy and a CQB aperture for rapid transition and quick target acquisition.
- The front sight post features a standard A2 design.
We think that these offset iron sights from Ozark Armament are a great value for shooters looking for a backup option on their rifle.
Pros and Cons
Like all products, there are a few things that we would change to make these offset iron sights a bit better.
These offset iron sights from Ozark Armament have served us well on several different rifles. We like the low-profile design that keeps protrusions to a minimum, reducing snags. The flip-up mechanism is well-made for long use with minimal problems. However, we’d prefer to see more security when it comes to mounting them.
Pros
- Quick and easy transitions from primary optical sight to backup sights.
- Durable construction and high-quality materials
- Easy to adjust windage and elevation all on the rear sight
- Well-built with no sharp edges or machining burrs
- Low profile when folded to minimize snagging and damage when transporting your rifle
Cons
- The windage and elevation adjustments don’t have any markings to indicate the sight position
- The single screw on the mount is a concern. We prefer that two set screws be used for added security.
Last update on 2022-03-22 at 16:42 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Our Final Words
These Ozark Armament Offset Iron Sights are a great choice for most shooters. You may never need to resort to these offset iron sights, but if the need arises, they will be there, just in case.
We would not want to depend on these Ozark Mount offset iron sights in a combat situation. If you are law enforcement or headed into combat, we suggest you find a set of canted iron sights meant for those conditions.
Best Overall Steel Backup Iron Sights – Magpul MBUS Pro Offset Front and Rear Flip-Up Backup Sights
You’re probably not surprised that I chose the Magpul MBUS Pro offset iron sights as my pick for the best overall steel backup iron sights. When quality and service are critical factors, going with a company with that kind of reputation is a solid choice. You do have to pay for this level of quality, which makes the Magpul MBUS Pro steel sights a bit more expensive than most other choices.
When you pay a bit more, you can reasonably expect a bit more for your money. Magpul doesn’t disappoint in this category. The MBUS Pro canted iron sights deliver the features you expect from a premium shooting accessories manufacturer. Here is what you’ll find:
Features
Alt image text: mbus pro offset iron sights at a 45 degree angle
- All-steel construction
- Case hardened and finished with Melonite QPQ for a finish that will last a lifetime and beyond
- Windage adjustment on the rear sight and elevation adjustment on the front sight needs no tools.
- Adjustments feature positive detents for quick and accurate indexing of your windage and elevation adjustments
- Dual rear aperture for precision shooting or close-in quick target acquisition
- Made in the USA
- Compatible with any MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny/STANAG 4694 rail
You can rest assured that if you choose to mount these Magpul MBUS Pro flip-up canted rear sights on your rifle, your backup sights will function as advertised. These offset rear sights are suitable for any application, from casual hunting or sport shooting to full-on combat or law enforcement applications.
Pros and Cons
I have used Magpul accessories for years on a variety of rifles. I like the engineering and thought put into these Magpul MBUS Pro offset iron sights. Of course, nothing is perfect. We always think a few things should be different on any product we use.
I have no problem regularly recommending these offset iron sights from Magpul to law enforcement personnel. For the casual shooter who wants steel sights, the price may seem a bit daunting, but you won’t regret the investment in your rifle.
Pros
- The slim design creates a minimal impact on your rifle when these sights are mounted
- Quick and easy deployment from the down position to the up position even when wearing gloves
- Quick elevation and windage adjustments with no tools
- Solid steel construction and excellent finish make these a once in a lifetime purchase
- Dual aperture rear sight allows precision shooting or quick target acquisition for close-quarters combat situations
Cons
- The single mounting screw is always a concern
- These Magpul offset iron sights are a bit pricey
Last update on 2022-03-22 at 18:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Our Final Words
If steel is your choice, you won’t find a better set of offset backup iron sights than the Magpul MBUS Pro sights. I have installed many of these Magpul MBUS offset iron sights on rifles used regularly as patrol rifles for law enforcement personnel. These backup iron sights get my thumbs up as the best flip-up offset iron sights.
Best Overall Polymer Offset Iron Sights – Sniper Grunt Front and Rear Combo Offset Polymer Sight
I must admit that I am not a fan of polymer sights. In my opinion, this material is just not suited for fitting to a rifle where it is subject to being snagged or stressed. My experience has been that offset sights made of polymer, no matter how well constructed, aren’t as durable or dependable as metal sights.
However, some shooters see the weight benefits of polymer sights as a justification for the less durable nature of these sights. If polymer sights are your choice, you should consider the polymer offset iron sights from Sniper Grunt. From the features standpoint, we must admit that Sniper Grunt has hit the mark. Check out the options included with the Sniper Grint Front and Rear Combo Offset polymer sights:
Features
Alt image text: polymer fixed sights for target shooting with a tactical rifle
- Molded from lightweight and durable polymers
- Available in several colors
- Adjustable windage and elevation controls on the rear sight
- Dual aperture allows a quick change from a small aperture to a larger aperture
- Fits most MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny/STANAG 4694 rail
- Lightweight
These polymer sights from Sniper Grunt will perform well for most shooters as backup sights that are seldom used. These sights are not Tier 1 equipment, and I wouldn’t trust them in critical situations. However, as backups, these offset sights give you that second option if your primary optical system fails.
Pros and Cons
Aside from my obvious distrust of polymer, the biggest advantage of polymer is that it’s lightweight. And, when the polymer construction is performed correctly, the results can be good. The performance of polymer-framed pistols is a testament to the strength of the material. The big issue is the polymer material used and the quality of the molding process employed.
Aside from this consideration, polymer offset iron sights have many of the same pros and cons.
Pros
- Lightweight materials have advantages when excess weight is a concern
- Polymer sights are generally cheaper than other metal offset sights
- Polymer is immune to rust and other types of corrosion, making them a good choice for extreme environments.
- Different colors of the polymer may be available to make customizing your rifle easier
Cons
- Unless the molding process is well done, the offset sight accuracy and durability may suffer
- These polymer sights may not be as accurate as a metal sight
Last update on 2022-03-22 at 18:52 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Our Final Words
The choice between mounting metal or polymer offset iron sights is personal. If you are not involved in life-or-death situations where you must be able to depend on your rifle and equipment, a polymer offset backup sight may serve you very well. However, polymer may not be the best choice if you are known to be hard on your equipment.
Best Budget Offset Iron Sights – Feyachi 45 Degree Offset Iron Sights
You may still be considering the worth of investing in expensive offset iron sights, especially if you’ve yet to test out shooting with offset iron sights and their 45-degree canted position. In that case, you may be wise to invest in a budget option for offset iron sights.
Feyachi is not yet a well-known maker of rifle accessories. However, in their short time in the market, they have built an impressive reputation for good quality accessories at reasonable prices. We will admit that these are imported from China and can suffer from the same sort of inconsistencies that often plague other Chinese imports. Despite their origin, we have found Feyachi products to be a cut above most Chinese brands.
Many of the features Feyachi includes in their offset iron sights are what you would expect from much more expensive accessories:
Features
- Flip-up low-profile design keeps these sights close to your rifle and out of the way.
- Push-button spring-loaded flip-up mechanism is easy to operate, quick and dependable.
- Ambi-dexterous design allows these sights to be mounted for left-handed and right-handed shooters.
- Mounts to a standard Picatinny rail or to a weaver mount.
- Fully adjustable for windage and elevation. A tool is required to adjust the front sight for elevation.
- Manufactured using aircraft-grade aluminum with a matte black anodized finish for long wear.
- Two rear aperture options for precision shooting or CQB quick target applications.
These Feyachi canted iron sights are an economical way to decide whether you need or like offset iron sights on your rifle. These are reasonably dependable and accurate sights that will give you a good test option for your rifle. If you don’t need offset iron sights on a regular basis, these Feyachi sights may just fit the bill for your rifle.
Pros and Cons
As you would expect, one of the biggest questions about these Feyachi offset iron sights is their origin. However, we have found that these backup iron sights offer reasonable quality and dependability in relation to their price.
Pros
- A budget-friendly option for backup iron sights for your rifle
- Very low-profile design when folded makes these Feyachi sights a good choice for those who move or carry their rifle slung
- Push button flip-up spring-loaded mechanism is solid and easy to operate, even with gloved hands
- Unique design allows the sights to be used on either side of the rifle.
Cons
- Chinese manufacturing can sometimes be spotty on quality control
- Single screw mount can be hard to keep fixed and secure
Last update on 2022-03-22 at 18:52 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Our Final Words
These are great sights for rifles that don’t get a lot of use. These are not professional grade equipment, but they are not intended for airsoft rifle applications.
I have a set of these Feyachi iron sights mounted on an AR-15 pistol that usually rides in a mount behind the backseat in my pickup truck. They endure the bumps and knocks and after several years continue to operate perfectly.
The Ultimate in Offset Backup Iron Sights – Troy Industries, Inc. – AR-15 45 Degree Offset Sight Set
My son is a law enforcement officer, and he asked me to build him a new patrol rifle for his patrol vehicle. When it came to the decision about backup iron sights for this rifle, there was no question in my mind about the choice. Knowing that my son could encounter a situation where these offset canted iron sights might be used in a life-and-death situation, I chose Troy Industries Offset sights.
Troy Industries is popular among both professional shooters and avid competitive shooters. The quality and dependability of Troy Industries are well known. Looking at the features that Troy Industries include with their backup iron sight sets tells the tale of why these are often the choice of professional shooters for their backup sights.
Features
- HK Style front sight protects the sight post and provides quick and easy sight acquisition
- T-6061 Aluminum construction for dependability, durability, and longevity
- Quick and easy deployment with the Troy Industries spring-loaded flip-up mechanism
- High-quality CNC machining means tight tolerances for excellent accuracy
- Mounts easily to a standard Mil-spec Picatinny rail
- Dual apertures flip easily to switch between precision aiming and quick acquisition CQB shooting
- Unquestioned support from Troy Industries with a lifetime warranty on all accessory products
Troy canted offset sights are used by military and law enforcement personnel across the globe. Many professional competitors depend on Troy Industries’ offset sights on a regular basis. You won’t go wrong investing in Troy Industries offset backup sights.
Pros and Cons
Nothing is perfect, and there are things about even the ultimate products that some people feel could change. Troy Industries backup iron sights are no different. Looking at the pros and cons we found about these sights can give you an understanding of these factors.
Pros
- Extremely high-quality materials and machining offers excellent quality and dependability
- HK front sight configuration offers great protection for your sight post as well as giving a much easier to use than a standard M4 front sight post
- Easy to adjust for windage and elevation with positive clicks on each adjustment
- High quality T-6061 aluminum material is strong and resistant to corrosion
Cons
- Single screw mounting system is a weak point in our opinion
- Depending on where you mount the sight, the sight base may interfere with an AR-15 charging handle.
- Expensive
Last update on 2022-03-22 at 18:52 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Our Final Words
If using the best possible equipment on your rifle is your goal, Troy Industries Flip-up offset sights should be your choice. These sights are not cheap, but when your life may depend on your backups, it may pay to have the best. These are our recommendations for law enforcement and other professionals who often find themselves in challenging and tense situations.
Backup Offset Iron Sights – Something to Consider
I always encourage anyone to have backups. The old survival adage that says “One is none, two is one” applies here as well. Optics fail or break, and you can find yourself facing disappointment during a hunt for a lack of rifle sights.
Offset iron sights are relatively inexpensive and can give you confidence knowing that you have a second option on your rifle. Our recommendation is that every rifle should have a set of backup iron sights.
