First Impressions of XS Sight Systems Express Tritium Rear AK Sight
The AK platform, with its rugged reliability and historical significance, deserves quality upgrades that enhance its functionality without sacrificing its inherent character. Enter the XS Sight Systems Express Tritium Rear AK Sight, a component promising improved target acquisition in low-light conditions. As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience, I’ve seen countless AK upgrades, and I approached this one with cautious optimism, hoping it would deliver on its promise of enhanced visibility.
My journey to the XS Sight Systems Express Tritium Rear AK Sight began with a simple need: to improve the low-light shooting capabilities of my AK-pattern rifle. I wanted a sight system that offered rapid target acquisition in dimly lit environments without the need for electronic devices. Upon unboxing, the sight appeared robust, machined from what felt like high-quality steel with a matte black finish. The tritium insert was immediately noticeable, though its initial brightness raised some questions that would later be answered on the range.
Initially, I was considering other options like aftermarket peep sights with fiber optic inserts, but ultimately chose the XS Sight Systems Express Tritium Rear AK Sight for its simplicity and potential for improved low-light performance. I was excited about the prospect of enhanced aiming capabilities in dusk or dawn scenarios, but also a little skeptical about whether the tritium would be bright enough for truly dark environments, especially given the user feedback I saw. I was eager to get it installed and test it out.
Real-World Testing: Putting XS Sight Systems Express Tritium Rear AK Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the XS Sight Systems Express Tritium Rear AK Sight on my AKM variant and headed to an outdoor shooting range to put it through its paces. The initial testing involved shooting at various distances under different lighting conditions, from bright daylight to dusk. In daylight, the sight functioned adequately, offering a clear sight picture for target acquisition.
As the sun began to set, the tritium insert started to become more noticeable, providing a subtle aiming point in the fading light. However, the level of illumination provided by the tritium was less intense than I had anticipated based on other tritium sights I’ve used; this was disappointing. Acquired targets were readily achieved at 50 and 100 yards.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, including multiple range trips and a tactical training course, the XS Sight Systems Express Tritium Rear AK Sight has proven to be reasonably durable. There are a few minor scuff marks on the matte black finish from handling and range use, but nothing that affects the sight’s function. Cleaning and maintaining the sight is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth is all that’s needed to keep it in good condition.
While the sight is functionally adequate, it hasn’t significantly outperformed my previous sighting system in practical shooting scenarios. The low-light performance, while present, is not as impressive as I had hoped, making it a marginal improvement overall. Compared to fiber optic front sights, the tritium, especially in an indoor low-light setting, appears dim.
Breaking Down the Features of XS Sight Systems Express Tritium Rear AK Sight
Specifications
The XS Sight Systems Express Tritium Rear AK Sight is designed as a direct replacement for the standard AKM rear sight, and can fit AK-47 variants too. It’s crafted from durable steel with a matte black finish for corrosion resistance, ensuring longevity even under harsh conditions. The sight features a green tritium insert for enhanced low-light visibility, aiding in rapid target acquisition.
- Manufacturer: XS Sight Systems
- Rear Sight Color: Green
- Color: Matte Black
- Fabric/Material: Steel
- Gun Make: Kalashnikov
- Illumination Type: Tritium
- Gun Type: Rifle
- Included Accessories: Blue Threadlocker, Red Threadlocker
The steel construction ensures it can withstand the recoil and abuse associated with AK platforms. The tritium illumination, while not overly bright, offers a consistent aiming point in low-light conditions, which is especially critical for tactical and defensive applications. The included threadlocker helps ensure secure installation and prevents loosening during use.
Performance & Functionality
The XS Sight Systems Express Tritium Rear AK Sight performs adequately, providing a clear sight picture in most lighting conditions. However, the tritium illumination is where it falls short of expectations, being less bright than other tritium sights I’ve used. Its primary strength lies in its robust construction and ease of installation.
The sight meets basic expectations for a rear iron sight, but the diminished tritium brightness is a notable weakness. It does offer a minor improvement over standard iron sights in low-light conditions, but not to the extent that it justifies a significant upgrade for most users. Compared to a standard rear leaf sight, the XS provides faster target acquisition.
Design & Ergonomics
The XS Sight Systems Express Tritium Rear AK Sight boasts a simple, functional design that integrates seamlessly with the AK platform. Its low-profile design doesn’t interfere with handling or ergonomics. Installation is straightforward, requiring only basic tools and gunsmithing knowledge.
The sight is user-friendly, with no learning curve for those familiar with AK-pattern rifles. The steel construction provides a solid feel, and the matte black finish minimizes glare. The windage adjustment moves smoothly, however the leaf does wiggle if nudged laterally.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from steel, the XS Sight Systems Express Tritium Rear AK Sight is designed to withstand the rigors of regular use. The matte black finish provides some resistance to corrosion and wear. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication to keep it in good working order.
Given its robust construction, the sight is expected to last for many years with proper care. The tritium insert has a limited lifespan, but should provide adequate illumination for at least a decade.
Accessories and Customization Options
The XS Sight Systems Express Tritium Rear AK Sight comes with blue and red threadlocker for secure installation. While it doesn’t directly interface with other accessories, it can be used in conjunction with various front sight options, including those with tritium or fiber optic inserts. It’s compatible with any AK-pattern rifle for which it is designed.
While there aren’t specific customization options for this particular sight, its compatibility with various front sight posts allows for some personalization. Using a brighter tritium front sight post along with this rear sight could potentially improve overall low-light performance.
Pros and Cons of XS Sight Systems Express Tritium Rear AK Sight
Pros
- Durable steel construction ensures longevity and reliability.
- Simple and easy to install, requiring minimal gunsmithing knowledge.
- Provides a clear sight picture in most lighting conditions.
- Subtle tritium insert aids in low-light target acquisition.
- Direct replacement for the standard AKM rear sight.
Cons
- Tritium illumination is less bright than expected, limiting its effectiveness in very dark environments.
- Marginal improvement over standard iron sights, especially for the price.
Who Should Buy XS Sight Systems Express Tritium Rear AK Sight?
The XS Sight Systems Express Tritium Rear AK Sight is perfect for AK owners looking for a simple, durable upgrade to their iron sights, particularly those who occasionally shoot in low-light conditions. It’s suitable for tactical shooters, home defense enthusiasts, and anyone who wants a reliable backup sighting system.
Those who need a truly bright low-light aiming solution should skip this product and consider alternative options such as red dot sights or magnified optics with illumination. If you want the best possible night time visibility with iron sights, this product is underwhelming. A must-have accessory would be a matching, high-quality tritium front sight post to maximize the potential of the sighting system.
Conclusion on XS Sight Systems Express Tritium Rear AK Sight
The XS Sight Systems Express Tritium Rear AK Sight offers a durable and straightforward upgrade for AK-pattern rifles. While the tritium illumination is not as bright as expected, it does provide a subtle aiming point in low-light conditions. The price of $99.99 is somewhat justified by the sight’s robust steel construction and ease of installation, but the marginal improvement in low-light performance may not be worth it for everyone.
While not a game-changing upgrade, it’s a solid option for those seeking a simple and reliable iron sight with a hint of low-light capability. I would recommend it to AK enthusiasts who prioritize simplicity and durability over maximum low-light performance, but with the caveat that they temper their expectations regarding tritium brightness. If you’re looking to upgrade your AK, consider the XS Sight Systems Express Tritium Rear AK Sight, but be sure to pair it with a brighter tritium front sight for the best results.