Backup Iron Sights For Glock G43X/G48 Review

The Backup Iron Sights For Glock G43X/G48 Made a Bold First Impression

As a seasoned tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless sighting systems come and go. When I first heard about the Backup Iron Sights For Glock G43X/G48 from Forward Controls Design (FCD) in collaboration with Ameriglo, my interest was immediately piqued. These sights promised a solution tailored specifically for the popular Glock 43X and 48 platforms, with a focus on co-witnessing with the Trijicon RMRcc and minimizing snagging.

My journey to these sights started with a personal need. I had recently equipped my G43X with an RMRcc for concealed carry, but felt uneasy relying solely on the optic. A robust set of backup iron sights was essential for peace of mind, ensuring I could still aim effectively should the red dot fail.

Unboxing the Backup Iron Sights For Glock G43X/G48, I was immediately struck by their solid construction. The steel sights felt robust and well-machined, hinting at durability and reliability. The black finish was even and professional, blending seamlessly with the Glock’s aesthetics.

Compared to other aftermarket sights I’ve used (like those from Trijicon and XS Sights), the Backup Iron Sights For Glock G43X/G48 distinguished themselves with their specific design considerations for the G43X/48 and RMRcc co-witness. I chose these over the others, because this was specifically engineered for the slim frame Glocks, and to co-witness with the optic I had already chosen.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. These sights looked promising, but the true test would be how they performed in real-world scenarios.

Real-World Testing: Putting Backup Iron Sights For Glock G43X/48 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my local outdoor range under bright, sunny conditions. I mounted the Backup Iron Sights For Glock G43X/G48 onto my G43X using a sight pusher tool (a must-have for any Glock owner). Installation was straightforward, although some minor fitting might be required depending on the individual Glock’s tolerances.

The sights performed admirably, providing a clear and usable sight picture through the RMRcc. The lower 1/3 co-witness was spot-on, as advertised, allowing me to focus on the red dot without obstruction while still having the irons readily available. Even in bright sunlight, the tritium front sight was easily visible.

There were no immediate issues or surprises after the first range session. The Backup Iron Sights For Glock G43X/G48 did what they were designed to do.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of carry and range use, the Backup Iron Sights For Glock G43X/G48 have proven to be exceptionally reliable. I’ve subjected them to a variety of conditions, from dusty outdoor ranges to humid concealed carry scenarios. The sights have held up remarkably well.

There are no significant signs of wear and tear, with the finish remaining intact and the tritium vial still glowing brightly. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a brush and solvent to remove any accumulated debris. I found that using a Q-Tip inside the rears sight channel kept things clear.

Compared to previous backup iron sight experiences, the Backup Iron Sights For Glock G43X/48 stands out for its robust construction and thoughtful design. I am very happy with their choice.

Breaking Down the Features of Backup Iron Sights For Glock G43X/48

Specifications

The Backup Iron Sights For Glock G43X/G48 boast several key specifications:

  • Front sight height: 0.450″. This allows it to co-witness.
  • Rear sight height: 0.554″. This allows it to co-witness.
  • Specifically designed for Glock G43X and G48 pistols. This ensures proper fit and function.
  • Lower 1/3 co-witness with Trijicon RMRcc when used with Forward Controls Design OPF-G43X/43, RMRcc mounting plate. The co-witness height is crucial for usability with a red dot.
  • Tritium front sight. This enables visibility in low-light conditions.
  • Rear sight is horizontally serrated. This minimizes glare and provides a clear sight picture.
  • Front sight back strap angle is steeper (25 degrees on the serrated, non-tritium front sight, 20 degrees on non-serrated, tritium front sight). This mitigates snagging during draws from concealment.
  • Front sight’s top corners are softened. This further reduces snagging potential.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the sights’ performance and usability. The co-witness height, tritium front sight, and snag-resistant design all contribute to a more effective and reliable sighting system.

Performance & Functionality

The Backup Iron Sights For Glock G43X/G48 perform their job admirably, providing a reliable and accurate backup sighting system. The sight picture is clear and easy to acquire, even under stress. The lower 1/3 co-witness with the RMRcc is perfect.

The strengths of these sights lie in their robust construction, snag-free design, and clear sight picture. I would prefer a blacked out rear sight. They meet and exceed my expectations for a backup iron sight system.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent, with the steel construction feeling solid and durable. The sights are lightweight and do not add noticeable bulk to the pistol. They are comfortable to use and do not cause any discomfort during extended shooting sessions.

The Backup Iron Sights For Glock G43X/G48 are user-friendly, requiring minimal adjustment after installation. The snag-free design is a significant advantage for concealed carry.

Durability & Maintenance

The Backup Iron Sights For Glock G43X/G48 are built to last, with their steel construction ensuring excellent durability. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning. They are a great choice.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Backup Iron Sights For Glock G43X/G48 do not come with any accessories. However, they are designed to work seamlessly with the Forward Controls Design OPF-G43X/43, RMRcc mounting plate, enabling a secure and reliable co-witness setup.

The sights are compatible with standard Glock sight tools, making installation relatively straightforward. There isn’t much customizability for the sights themselves, but a user can easily swap out the RMRcc for other compatible optics.

Pros and Cons of Backup Iron Sights For Glock G43X/G48

Pros

  • Specifically designed for Glock G43X/48.
  • Lower 1/3 co-witness with Trijicon RMRcc (when used with appropriate mounting plate).
  • Snag-free design for concealed carry.
  • Durable steel construction.
  • Tritium front sight for low-light visibility.

Cons

  • Relatively high price point compared to basic iron sights.
  • Requires a sight pusher tool for installation.


Who Should Buy Backup Iron Sights For Glock G43X/G48?

The Backup Iron Sights For Glock G43X/G48 are perfect for:

  • Concealed carriers who rely on a red dot sight but want a reliable backup.
  • Glock G43X/48 owners seeking a high-quality, snag-free sighting system.
  • Individuals prioritizing a clear sight picture and low-light visibility.

Those who should skip this product:

  • Individuals on a very tight budget.
  • Those who prefer simpler, non-tritium iron sights.

A must-have accessory is the Forward Controls Design OPF-G43X/43, RMRcc mounting plate for proper co-witnessing.

Conclusion on Backup Iron Sights For Glock G43X/G48

The Backup Iron Sights For Glock G43X/G48 are an excellent investment for Glock 43X and 48 owners seeking a reliable and snag-free backup sighting system. The co-witnessing capability with the Trijicon RMRcc, durable construction, and tritium front sight make these sights a valuable addition to any concealed carry setup.

The price is justified by the quality and features offered. I would personally recommend these sights to anyone looking to enhance the reliability and functionality of their Glock G43X or 48. If you are looking to give your optic-equipped slim-frame Glock the redundancy it needs, the Backup Iron Sights For Glock G43X/G48 are an excellent choice.


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