Let’s Dive into Mission First Tactical Polymer Flip Up Front Sights w/ Windage Adjustment
The Mission First Tactical Polymer Flip Up Front Sights w/ Windage Adjustment are a budget-friendly aiming solution for AR-platform rifles, offering a lightweight and durable alternative to heavier metal sights. Manufactured by Mission First Tactical, these sights promise to deliver reliable performance without breaking the bank, featuring a low-profile design and windage adjustability. As someone who’s spent years tinkering with various AR setups, I was intrigued by the potential of these polymer sights and eager to see if they could hold their own against more expensive options.
I decided to try these sights because I was looking for a set of lightweight back-up iron sights (BUIS) for my AR-15 build. I wanted something reliable and durable, but didn’t want to add a lot of weight to the rifle. Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by how light these sights are. The polymer construction feels surprisingly robust, and the flip-up mechanism operates smoothly with a positive lock.
Compared to Magpul MBUS sights, which are the common standard, the Mission First Tactical sights seemed slightly less bulky, but comparable in material quality. I chose these over some all-metal budget options, hoping the polymer would be more resistant to scratches and less prone to rusting. My initial excitement was cautiously optimistic, wondering if the polymer construction would truly stand the test of hard use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mission First Tactical Polymer Flip Up Front Sights w/ Windage Adjustment to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Mission First Tactical Polymer Flip Up Front Sights w/ Windage Adjustment at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was dry and sunny, ideal for sighting in a new set of iron sights. Installation was straightforward, attaching securely to my AR-15’s Picatinny rail with the included hardware.
The windage adjustment was easy to use, allowing me to quickly zero the front sight with minimal fuss. After about 20 rounds, the sights were dialed in, and I was consistently hitting center mass at 50 yards. I was pleasantly surprised by how well these lightweight polymer sights performed during my initial range session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Mission First Tactical Polymer Flip Up Front Sights w/ Windage Adjustment have held up remarkably well. I’ve taken my AR-15 equipped with these sights on several hog hunts and training exercises. The sights have been exposed to mud, rain, and extreme temperatures without any noticeable degradation in performance.
There are a few minor scratches on the polymer, but no signs of cracking or structural damage. Maintenance is simple, requiring only an occasional wipe down with a cloth and a bit of CLP. Compared to some of my older metal BUIS, these polymer sights have proven to be far less prone to rust. Overall, I’m impressed with the durability and reliability of these Mission First Tactical sights, especially considering their price point.
Breaking Down the Features of Mission First Tactical Polymer Flip Up Front Sights w/ Windage Adjustment
Specifications
- Material: The Mission First Tactical Polymer Flip Up Front Sights w/ Windage Adjustment are constructed from a specially developed Military Grade reinforced, super tough polyamide. This material choice contributes to the sight’s light weight and impact resistance.
- Weight: The front sight weighs only .5oz. This minimal weight ensures it won’t significantly impact the overall balance of the rifle.
- Height: The sight stands at .879 inches tall. This height provides a clear sight picture without being overly obstructive.
- Adjustment: The front sight features full elevation adjustment (tool required) and adjustable windage. This allows for precise zeroing and compensation for environmental factors.
- Mounting: The sight is designed for top mounting on AR-15 platforms. It uses a standard Picatinny rail attachment system.
- Color: Available in Scorched Dark Earth. This color option allows for aesthetic matching with various rifle builds.
- Compatibility: Accepts any standard front post blade. Provides flexibility in customizing the sight to individual preferences.
Performance & Functionality
The Mission First Tactical Polymer Flip Up Front Sights w/ Windage Adjustment perform their primary function admirably, providing a reliable aiming point for AR-platform rifles. The windage adjustment allows for precise zeroing, ensuring accurate shot placement. The flip-up mechanism is smooth and locks securely in both the up and down positions.
The sights excel as a lightweight and durable back-up aiming solution. The polymer construction is resistant to impacts and environmental factors, making them suitable for rugged use. The only area for potential improvement would be offering tool-less elevation adjustment.
Design & Ergonomics
The Mission First Tactical Polymer Flip Up Front Sights w/ Windage Adjustment feature a low-profile, snag-resistant design. This ensures they won’t interfere with other accessories or get caught on gear. The polymer construction keeps the weight to a minimum, enhancing the rifle’s overall handling.
The sights are user-friendly, with a simple flip-up mechanism and easily accessible windage adjustment. The low profile when folded down is a definite plus.
Durability & Maintenance
The polymer construction of these sights contributes to their impressive durability. They’ve withstood exposure to various weather conditions and impacts without showing signs of significant wear. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
Given their robust construction and simple design, these sights should last for years with proper care. The use of polymer also eliminates the risk of rust, a common issue with metal sights.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mission First Tactical Polymer Flip Up Front Sights w/ Windage Adjustment are designed to work with standard AR-15 accessories. They readily accept any standard front post blade, allowing for customization of the sight picture. While no specific accessories are included beyond the mounting hardware, the sights are compatible with most AR-15 Picatinny rail systems.
The ability to swap out the front post provides a degree of customization for shooters who prefer different blade styles or fiber optic inserts. The compatibility with standard AR-15 rails ensures seamless integration with existing setups.
Pros and Cons of Mission First Tactical Polymer Flip Up Front Sights w/ Windage Adjustment
Pros
- Lightweight and durable polymer construction
- Adjustable windage for precise zeroing
- Low-profile, snag-resistant design
- Affordable price point
- Compatible with standard AR-15 front sight posts
Cons
- Elevation adjustment requires a tool
- Polymer may not be as durable as steel in extreme conditions
Who Should Buy Mission First Tactical Polymer Flip Up Front Sights w/ Windage Adjustment?
The Mission First Tactical Polymer Flip Up Front Sights w/ Windage Adjustment are perfect for budget-conscious AR-15 owners seeking a lightweight and reliable back-up iron sight solution. They are well-suited for recreational shooters, hunters, and those building lightweight AR platforms. Anyone prioritizing weight savings and affordability will find these sights to be a great value.
Those who should skip this product are shooters who require the absolute maximum durability and prefer all-metal sights. Also, those needing quick, tool-less elevation adjustments would need to look elsewhere. A must-have accessory would be a front sight adjustment tool, unless you already have one for your AR.
Conclusion on Mission First Tactical Polymer Flip Up Front Sights w/ Windage Adjustment
The Mission First Tactical Polymer Flip Up Front Sights w/ Windage Adjustment are a solid and affordable option for anyone needing a lightweight and reliable set of back-up iron sights. The polymer construction is surprisingly durable, and the windage adjustment allows for precise zeroing. While they may not be as bombproof as all-metal sights, they offer an excellent balance of performance, weight, and cost.
At a price of $39.99, these sights represent a fantastic value proposition. They provide a functional and durable aiming solution without breaking the bank. I would absolutely recommend these sights to anyone looking for a budget-friendly upgrade or a lightweight BUIS option. If you’re looking to add reliable back-up sights to your AR-15 without adding unnecessary weight or expense, give the Mission First Tactical Polymer Flip Up Front Sights w/ Windage Adjustment a try; you might be surprised at how well they perform.