Yankee Hill Machine Flip Front and Rear Sights Set Review

First Impressions of Yankee Hill Machine Flip Front and Rear Sights Set

The Yankee Hill Machine Flip Front and Rear Sights Set promises durable, reliable iron sights that quickly deploy and stay locked in place. As someone who’s relied on iron sights in various tactical and hunting scenarios for over a decade, I was eager to test their performance and see if they lived up to the hype. Having backup iron sights on a primary weapon is essential in my opinion, especially when running optics that could fail.

My journey to the Yankee Hill Machine Flip Front and Rear Sights Set started with a need for a robust, low-profile backup sight system. I was looking for something that wouldn’t interfere with my primary optic but could be quickly deployed if needed. I had previously used some polymer sights that didn’t hold up to the rigors of serious range time, and I knew steel was the only way to go.

Upon unboxing the Yankee Hill Machine Flip Front and Rear Sights Set, I immediately noticed the solid, all-steel construction. The sights felt substantial in hand, and the black finish appeared durable and evenly applied. The quick-release thumb screws seemed well-made and promised easy installation, a welcome change from some of the more finicky mounting systems I’ve encountered.

I considered a few other options, including similar flip-up sets from Magpul and Troy Industries. I ultimately chose the Yankee Hill Machine Flip Front and Rear Sights Set based on its all-steel construction and the positive reviews regarding its durability. It was also priced competitively, making it an attractive choice.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The Yankee Hill Machine Flip Front and Rear Sights Set certainly looked the part, but I knew the real test would come on the range. I hoped these sights would provide the reliability and accuracy I needed in a backup sighting system.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Yankee Hill Machine Flip Front and Rear Sights Set to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Yankee Hill Machine Flip Front and Rear Sights Set at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was sunny and mild, ideal conditions for sighting in a new set of irons. I mounted the sights on my AR-15, and the installation process was indeed quick and easy, thanks to the thumb screws.

The sights flipped up with a satisfying click, locking firmly into place. I spent about an hour zeroing the sights at 50 yards. The adjustments were positive and precise, allowing me to dial in my groups without any issues. No wiggle or looseness was observed.

After zeroing, I ran several drills, practicing quick transitions from my primary optic to the iron sights. The sights deployed quickly and easily every time, and I had no problems acquiring a clear sight picture. There were no noticeable issues or surprises during my first range session.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Yankee Hill Machine Flip Front and Rear Sights Set has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my AR-15. I’ve used them in various conditions, including a couple of rainy range days and a dusty carbine course. The sights have held zero consistently, even after being subjected to rough handling and exposure to the elements.

I haven’t noticed any signs of significant wear and tear. The finish still looks good, and the flip-up mechanism remains smooth and reliable. These sights have held up to a fair bit of abuse and still perform flawlessly.

Maintenance has been minimal. I simply wipe them down with a lightly oiled cloth after each range session to prevent rust. I have yet to disassemble or deeply clean the sights.

Compared to my previous polymer sights, the Yankee Hill Machine Flip Front and Rear Sights Set is a significant upgrade. They are much more durable, hold zero better, and inspire greater confidence. I’ve been impressed with their overall performance and reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Yankee Hill Machine Flip Front and Rear Sights Set

Specifications

The Yankee Hill Machine Flip Front and Rear Sights Set is designed for use on AR-15 platforms and any weapon system that uses a Picatinny rail. They are constructed entirely of steel, offering superior durability compared to polymer alternatives. This robustness is key for withstanding recoil and rough handling.

The sights weigh approximately 6 ounces as a set, adding minimal weight to the rifle. This is important for maintaining a balanced feel and preventing unnecessary fatigue during extended use. The lightweight design doesn’t compromise their ruggedness.

The sights mount directly to any Picatinny rail using included thumb screws, providing a secure and stable attachment. This ensures the sights won’t shift or loosen during use. Easy and secure mounting is critical for reliable performance.

The Yankee Hill Machine Flip Front and Rear Sights Set accepts standard AR sight posts and hardware (included), allowing for easy customization and replacement. This gives users flexibility in choosing their preferred front sight post. Compatibility with standard AR parts enhances user customization.

The sights are designed to co-witness with standard M16-M4 front sights and all front sights manufactured by Yankee Hill Machine. This allows users to maintain a consistent cheek weld and sight picture when transitioning between optics and iron sights. Co-witnessing provides a seamless transition between sighting systems.

Performance & Functionality

The Yankee Hill Machine Flip Front and Rear Sights Set performs exceptionally well in its role as a backup sighting system. The sights deploy quickly and easily with the push of a button, locking securely into place. Speed and ease of deployment are crucial in high-stress situations.

The all-steel construction provides excellent durability and ensures the sights hold zero even after repeated use and exposure to harsh conditions. Reliability is paramount for any backup sighting system. The adjustment knobs are easy to manipulate, allowing for precise zeroing.

One minor weakness is that the rear aperture is not adjustable for different distances. However, this is a common characteristic of many fixed iron sights, and it doesn’t significantly detract from their overall performance. Overall, the sights meet and exceed expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Yankee Hill Machine Flip Front and Rear Sights Set features a low-profile design that doesn’t interfere with primary optics. This allows users to maintain a clear field of view. The slim design keeps the sights out of the way when not in use.

The all-steel construction feels solid and durable, inspiring confidence in their ability to withstand abuse. The sights are comfortable to use, and the sight picture is clear and easy to acquire. Robust construction and ease of use enhance the overall shooting experience.

There is no significant learning curve associated with the Yankee Hill Machine Flip Front and Rear Sights Set. The flip-up mechanism is intuitive, and the sight adjustments are straightforward. Even novice shooters can quickly learn to use these sights effectively.

Durability & Maintenance

The all-steel construction of the Yankee Hill Machine Flip Front and Rear Sights Set ensures they will last for many years with proper care. The sights are resistant to rust and corrosion, and the finish is durable enough to withstand scratches and abrasions. These sights are built to endure.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. Disassembly for deep cleaning is not typically necessary. Regular wiping with a lightly oiled cloth should be sufficient to keep them in good working order.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Yankee Hill Machine Flip Front and Rear Sights Set comes with all the necessary hardware for mounting, including thumb screws and a front sight adjustment tool. The sights are compatible with any standard AR-15 front sight post, allowing for customization. Standard compatibility is a plus.

There are no specific accessories designed specifically for this sight set, but they are compatible with a wide range of aftermarket AR-15 parts and accessories. Users can easily customize their rifle to suit their individual needs and preferences.

Pros and Cons of Yankee Hill Machine Flip Front and Rear Sights Set

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Yankee Hill Machine Flip Front and Rear Sights Set?

The Yankee Hill Machine Flip Front and Rear Sights Set is perfect for anyone who needs a reliable and durable backup sighting system for their AR-15 or other Picatinny rail-equipped weapon. This includes tactical shooters, law enforcement professionals, and serious recreational shooters who demand the highest level of performance from their equipment. The durable steel design also makes it great for hunters in harsh conditions or environments.

This sight set may not be ideal for budget-conscious shooters who are willing to sacrifice durability for affordability. There are cheaper polymer options available, although these may not hold up to the same level of abuse. Also those very concerned about weight on their rifle may prefer a lighter polymer option.

A must-have accessory for these sights is a quality front sight adjustment tool, although one is included. Also consider a red dot optic for primary aiming, and the Yankee Hill Machine Flip Front and Rear Sights Set as backup.

Conclusion on Yankee Hill Machine Flip Front and Rear Sights Set

The Yankee Hill Machine Flip Front and Rear Sights Set is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a durable, reliable, and easy-to-use backup sighting system. The all-steel construction provides superior durability compared to polymer alternatives, and the quick-release thumb screws make installation a breeze. The sights deploy quickly and easily, locking securely into place, and they co-witness with standard M16/M4 front sights.

At $155.99, the Yankee Hill Machine Flip Front and Rear Sights Set represents a solid value for the money. While there are cheaper options available, they often sacrifice durability and reliability. The Yankee Hill Machine Flip Front and Rear Sights Set is an investment in quality and performance.

I would definitely recommend the Yankee Hill Machine Flip Front and Rear Sights Set to anyone looking for a top-notch backup sighting system. These sights are built to last and will provide years of reliable service. Upgrade your AR-15 with the Yankee Hill Machine Flip Front and Rear Sights Set today and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have a dependable backup sighting system.