First Impressions of Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Rear Sight
The Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Rear Sight promises a streamlined and durable backup sighting solution for AR-15 platforms. Marketed as a no-nonsense, single-aperture sight designed for quick deployment and reliable zero retention, it aims to provide peace of mind in situations where primary optics fail. With over a decade of experience building and using AR-pattern rifles, I’ve seen backup sights run the gamut from fantastic to frustratingly unreliable; I am hoping this offering from Samson lands squarely in the former category.
I was initially drawn to this sight due to its top-mounted design. My current rifle configuration makes mounting on the side rails cumbersome, and the top rail seemed like a natural fit, especially if my optic mount fails. The promise of a robust aluminum construction and a straightforward, single-aperture design also appealed to my desire for simplicity and reliability in a backup system.
Upon unboxing, the sight felt solid and well-made. The black anodized finish was even and clean, and the deployment mechanism operated smoothly, clicking firmly into both the stowed and deployed positions. Its weight felt appropriate for its size, not flimsy, but not overly heavy either, which is crucial for maintaining rifle balance. Compared to some other backup sights I’ve used, like the Magpul MBUS, the Samson felt noticeably more substantial, although it also forgoes the dual aperture option available on the Magpul. I chose this over other offerings because of the slim design for a top mounted back up sight.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The build quality appeared excellent, but I had reservations about the single aperture and ease of windage adjustment, as noted in existing user feedback. It remains to be seen whether the Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Rear Sight will live up to its promises on the range and in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Rear Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Rear Sight at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was mild and dry, providing ideal conditions for initial zeroing and functionality checks. After mounting it on my AR-15’s top Picatinny rail, I immediately began the process of sighting it in at 50 yards.
The sight deployed smoothly and locked into position with a reassuring click. However, I immediately noticed that the windage adjustment was extremely sensitive. It was far too easy to accidentally nudge the windage knob while deploying the sight, confirming the user feedback I had previously read. Despite this initial concern, once zeroed, the sight proved to be reasonably accurate at 50 yards, delivering consistent groupings within a 2-inch diameter.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, including multiple range trips and a carbine course, the Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Rear Sight has presented some definite strengths, but also some significant weaknesses. The durable aluminum construction has held up well to the rigors of being mounted on a working rifle, showing no signs of wear or damage, even after being bumped and scraped during drills. Cleaning has been simple, requiring only a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth.
However, the previously noted issues with the windage adjustment have persisted and become a constant source of frustration. It is far too easy to unintentionally alter the windage setting, requiring frequent re-zeroing. While the sight itself is durable, this lack of windage adjustment stability undermines its reliability as a backup sighting system. Comparing it to my experience with other backup sights, like the rock-solid Troy Industries folding sights, the Samson falls short in terms of overall reliability and user confidence.
Breaking Down the Features of Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Rear Sight
Specifications
The Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Rear Sight is designed for AR-15 platform rifles and attaches to any standard 1913 Picatinny rail. It is constructed from durable 6061-T6 aluminum with a Type III Class 2 hard coat anodized finish. The sight features a single .160 aperture, a stainless steel clamp, and windage adjustment increments of just over 0.5 MOA per click, with a perfect M4 co-witness height.
- Material: 6061-T6 Aluminum
- Finish: Type III Class 2 Hard Coat Anodizing
- Aperture Size: .160″
- Mounting System: 1913 Picatinny Rail
- Windage Adjustment: Just over 0.5 MOA per click
These specifications, particularly the aluminum construction and hard coat anodized finish, are important because they contribute to the sight’s overall durability and resistance to corrosion and wear. The single aperture design, while simplifying the sight picture, limits its versatility in different lighting conditions. The M4 co-witness height allows the sight to be used in conjunction with many popular optics.
Performance & Functionality
The Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Rear Sight’s primary function is to provide a reliable backup sighting system in the event of optic failure. In terms of basic accuracy, the sight performs adequately, allowing for reasonably precise shots at typical engagement distances for an AR-15. However, the ease with which the windage adjustment can be unintentionally altered severely detracts from its overall performance.
A significant strength is the sight’s low profile when folded, minimizing interference with primary optics. The single aperture design is both a strength and a weakness; it simplifies the sight picture, making it easier to acquire a target quickly, but it also limits the sight’s effectiveness in low-light situations where a larger aperture would be preferable. Ultimately, the inconsistent windage adjustment undermines the sight’s intended function as a reliable backup.
Design & Ergonomics
The Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Rear Sight features a streamlined and low-profile design that integrates well with AR-15 platforms. The aluminum construction provides a solid and durable feel, while the black anodized finish gives it a professional and aesthetically pleasing appearance. The sight is relatively lightweight, adding minimal bulk to the rifle.
The deployment mechanism is easy to operate, even with gloved hands. The low-profile design ensures that the sight does not interfere with the operation of the charging handle or other accessories mounted on the rifle. However, the overly sensitive windage adjustment is a major ergonomic flaw, making it difficult to maintain a consistent zero.
Durability & Maintenance
The Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Rear Sight is constructed from high-quality materials and is built to withstand the rigors of regular use. The aluminum construction and hard coat anodized finish provide excellent resistance to corrosion and wear. After several weeks of use, the sight shows no signs of significant wear or damage.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth to remove dirt and debris. The sight’s robust construction suggests that it will last for many years with proper care. However, the long-term durability of the windage adjustment mechanism remains a concern due to its inherent instability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Rear Sight does not come with any specific accessories. As a standalone rear sight, its customization options are limited. However, it is designed to be compatible with any standard AR-15 front sight.
The sight’s M4 co-witness height allows it to be used in conjunction with a variety of red dot sights and other optics. While the sight itself cannot be customized, its compatibility with other AR-15 components provides a degree of flexibility in terms of overall rifle configuration.
Pros and Cons of Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Rear Sight
Pros
- Durable aluminum construction with a hard coat anodized finish.
- Low profile design that minimizes interference with primary optics.
- Easy to deploy and locks securely in both the stowed and deployed positions.
- Perfect (M4) co-witness height for use with red dot sights.
- Aesthetically pleasing design that integrates well with AR-15 platforms.
Cons
- Overly sensitive windage adjustment that is easily unintentionally altered.
- Single aperture design limits versatility in different lighting conditions.
- Higher price point compared to some other backup sight options.
Who Should Buy Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Rear Sight?
The Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Rear Sight is best suited for AR-15 owners who prioritize a low-profile, top-mounted backup sighting system and are willing to exercise extreme caution when deploying the sight to avoid inadvertently adjusting the windage. It might be a good option for competitive shooters who value a streamlined setup and are meticulous about maintaining their zero. It would work for home defense, with the understanding of its limitations.
Those who require a more robust and reliable backup sight with a stable windage adjustment should skip this product. Also, individuals who frequently operate in low-light conditions and require a larger aperture for enhanced visibility should consider alternative options with dual aperture settings. A must-have modification would be to add some kind of locking mechanism to the windage adjustment.
Conclusion on Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Rear Sight
The Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Rear Sight offers a durable and aesthetically pleasing backup sighting solution for AR-15 platforms. However, its overly sensitive windage adjustment is a significant flaw that undermines its reliability and overall value. While the sight is well-made and easy to deploy, the constant need to re-zero due to accidental windage adjustments makes it a frustrating and ultimately unreliable option.
At a price of $71.10, the Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Rear Sight is not necessarily a justified purchase, considering its shortcomings. While the build quality is excellent, the functional issues outweigh the benefits, making it difficult to recommend. I would personally not recommend this sight until the windage adjustment issue is addressed.
Consider exploring other backup sight options from reputable manufacturers like Troy Industries or Magpul before committing to the Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Rear Sight.