Let’s Talk About Meprolight MEPRO FUBS – Self-Illuminated Folding Back-Up Rifle Sights
The Meprolight MEPRO FUBS – Self-Illuminated Folding Back-Up Rifle Sights are designed to provide a reliable secondary sighting system for rifles. Manufactured by Meprolight, these sights feature tritium illumination for visibility in low-light conditions, a folding design for unobstructed use of primary optics, and easy Picatinny rail mounting. They promise quick deployment and robust construction, aiming to offer peace of mind when primary optics fail.
My journey to finding these sights started with a close call on a hog hunt. My optic’s battery died right as a sounder of hogs emerged from the brush. I was left scrambling for a solution, realizing the critical importance of having a dependable backup sighting system.
Upon unboxing the Meprolight MEPRO FUBS, my initial impression was one of practical, albeit somewhat utilitarian, design. The fiberglass reinforced polymer body felt sturdy, but not particularly refined. The tritium vials glowed faintly in ambient light, suggesting they would be more effective in true darkness.
I considered several alternatives, including Magpul MBUS Pro sights and Trijicon Bright & Tough night sights. I chose the Meprolight MEPRO FUBS due to their tritium illumination, which I hoped would provide a consistent aiming point regardless of battery life or ambient light, offering a distinct advantage over fiber optic or electronically illuminated backups. I wanted something that just works, no batteries required.
My first impression was mixed; while the build seemed robust enough for backup duty, the polymer felt a little less premium than I expected for the price point. I was eager to test their actual performance under realistic conditions, hoping their practical functionality would outweigh any initial reservations about the materials.
Real-World Testing: Putting Meprolight MEPRO FUBS – Self-Illuminated Folding Back-Up Rifle Sights to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Meprolight MEPRO FUBS was at an outdoor shooting range, under typical daylight conditions. I zeroed them at 50 yards, confirming basic functionality. The sights were co-witnessed with a red dot optic.
I also tested them in low-light conditions at dusk, and inside a darkened building. The tritium illumination became significantly more noticeable. The sights proved usable in near-complete darkness.
The initial setup was straightforward. Adjusting the front sight elevation was tool-less, as advertised, making zeroing simple. I did find the folding mechanism a bit stiff initially, but it loosened up after a few deployments.
My biggest concern after the first use was the sight picture. The large rear aperture, while facilitating quick target acquisition, felt less precise than I would prefer for longer-range shots. The green tritium dots, while visible, weren’t as bright as I’d hoped.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Meprolight MEPRO FUBS have held up well in terms of durability. There are no significant signs of wear and tear, despite exposure to various weather conditions and regular handling. The folding mechanism continues to function reliably, although it still requires a deliberate effort to deploy and stow.
Cleaning is simple. A quick wipe with a cloth is usually sufficient to remove dust and debris. I haven’t needed to use any specialized cleaning products.
Compared to other backup sights I’ve used, like basic A2-style iron sights, the Meprolight MEPRO FUBS offer a significant advantage in low-light visibility. However, they don’t offer the same level of precision as higher-end adjustable iron sights or magnified optics. Their primary strength is their simple, dependable functionality as a backup in situations where other sighting systems fail. While they are better than nothing, they are not going to replace my optic anytime soon.
Breaking Down the Features of Meprolight MEPRO FUBS – Self-Illuminated Folding Back-Up Rifle Sights
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Meprolight
- Front Sight Color: Green
- Rear Sight Color: Green
- Gun Model: Universal
- Color: Black
- Fabric/Material: Polymer, Fiberglass
- Attachment Type: Picatinny
- Illumination Type: Tritium
- Gun Type: Rifle
- Mount Type: Picatinny
These specifications define the Meprolight MEPRO FUBS as a lightweight, universally compatible backup sighting system for rifles. The polymer and fiberglass construction balances durability with weight savings. The tritium illumination ensures visibility without relying on batteries.
Performance & Functionality
The Meprolight MEPRO FUBS perform their intended role as backup sights adequately. They are easy to deploy and offer a usable sight picture in various lighting conditions. Their strengths lie in their simplicity and reliability.
A key weakness is the limited adjustability of the rear sight. Also, the tritium, while functional, isn’t exceptionally bright, especially in dimly lit environments rather than complete darkness.
The Meprolight MEPRO FUBS meet expectations for a basic, durable backup sighting system. However, they don’t exceed expectations in terms of precision or brightness.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is acceptable for a product in this price range. The materials feel durable enough for field use. The folding mechanism works reliably.
The design is relatively user-friendly, with a tool-less front sight adjustment. However, the large rear aperture might not appeal to shooters who prefer a more precise sight picture.
Durability & Maintenance
The polymer and fiberglass construction suggests decent long-term durability. The Meprolight warranty inspires confidence.
Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a cloth is sufficient to keep the sights functioning properly.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Meprolight MEPRO FUBS are designed as a complete sighting system, with limited customization options. They mount directly to any MIL-STD 1913 Picatinny rail.
They are compatible with various optics and accessories that can be mounted on the same rail. However, they don’t offer any specific customization features beyond the adjustable front sight post. The sights simply are what they are.
Pros and Cons of Meprolight MEPRO FUBS – Self-Illuminated Folding Back-Up Rifle Sights
Pros
- Tritium illumination provides always-on visibility in low-light conditions.
- Durable polymer and fiberglass construction for reliable field use.
- Tool-less front sight adjustment allows for easy zeroing.
- Folding design ensures compatibility with primary optics.
- Easy to install on any MIL-STD 1913 Picatinny rail.
Cons
- The tritium is not exceptionally bright, especially in partially lit environments.
- Large rear aperture prioritizes speed over precision.
- Limited adjustability in the rear sight.
Who Should Buy Meprolight MEPRO FUBS – Self-Illuminated Folding Back-Up Rifle Sights?
The Meprolight MEPRO FUBS are perfect for recreational shooters and hunters who prioritize having a reliable, always-ready backup sighting system. They are especially suitable for those who use rifles in low-light conditions.
This product is not ideal for competitive shooters or those who require extremely precise sighting solutions. Anyone expecting high-end performance or extensive customization options should consider alternatives.
A bore sight laser would make initial zeroing quicker and easier. Also, a quality gun cleaning kit will help maintain the sights and rifle.
Conclusion on Meprolight MEPRO FUBS – Self-Illuminated Folding Back-Up Rifle Sights
The Meprolight MEPRO FUBS – Self-Illuminated Folding Back-Up Rifle Sights offer a practical and reliable solution for those seeking a secondary sighting system for their rifles. They provide the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have a functional aiming point, even when your primary optic fails or the lighting is poor.
At around $109, the price is reasonable for what you get: a durable, tritium-illuminated backup sight. However, don’t expect match-grade performance or cutting-edge features.
I would recommend the Meprolight MEPRO FUBS to anyone looking for a no-nonsense, always-ready backup sighting system that won’t break the bank. If you are looking for a dependable backup solution, give the Meprolight MEPRO FUBS a try. You might be surprised at the difference it makes in your confidence and preparedness.