GG&G A2 Iron Sight Review

Let’s Dive into GG&G A2 Iron Sight

The GG&G A2 Iron Sight is a back-up iron sight (BUIS) designed for AR-15 platform rifles. GG&G has built a reputation for producing high-quality, durable tactical accessories, and this A2 sight aims to provide a reliable secondary sighting system that can be rapidly deployed when needed. My journey to this sight began with a nagging frustration: electronic optics can fail. Batteries die, lenses get damaged, and electronics malfunction, leaving you with a rifle but no way to accurately aim.

I remember a backcountry hog hunt where my red dot went down after a hard fall. It was a stark reminder that electronics, while advanced, are not infallible. I needed a robust, dependable BUIS, and the GG&G A2 Iron Sight seemed to tick all the boxes. Upon unboxing, the sight felt solid and well-made. The anodized aluminum and phosphated steel gave it a reassuring heft, indicating quality materials and construction.

Compared to other BUIS options, like polymer sights or simpler flip-up designs, the GG&G A2 Iron Sight stood out due to its A2-style aperture and rugged build. I considered Magpul’s MBUS sights for their affordability, and Troy Industries’ folding sights for their sleek design, but ultimately chose the GG&G for its reputation for durability and precise adjustments. My first impression was positive; this wasn’t a flimsy afterthought, but a serious piece of gear designed to withstand harsh conditions and provide reliable performance. I was eager to put it through its paces.

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Real-World Testing: Putting GG&G A2 Iron Sight to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, a dusty, outdoor facility in central Texas. The weather was typical for summer: hot and dry, with a slight breeze kicking up fine dust. I mounted the GG&G A2 Iron Sight on my AR-15 and co-witnessed it with my red dot optic. The flip-up mechanism was smooth and positive, locking securely into place.

Under these conditions, the sight performed admirably. The A2-style aperture provided a clear sight picture, even with the sun glaring off the range surface. Adjusting the windage was easy, thanks to the tactile knob that provided audible clicks. I didn’t need any time to get used to the GG&G A2 Iron Sight. It was intuitive and easy to use right out of the box.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the GG&G A2 Iron Sight has proven to be remarkably durable. It’s been through several range sessions, a weekend-long tactical training course, and even survived a minor mishap when my rifle tipped over in my gun safe. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The anodized finish remains intact, and the flip-up mechanism is still as smooth and reliable as when I first installed it.

Maintenance has been simple: a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use is all it needs. Compared to some other BUIS I’ve used, the GG&G A2 Iron Sight is noticeably more robust and holds its zero consistently, even after repeated deployment and redeployment. It definitely outperforms cheaper, polymer options in terms of durability and overall reliability. I’m confident that if my primary optic fails, the GG&G A2 Iron Sight will provide a dependable backup sighting solution.

Breaking Down the Features of GG&G A2 Iron Sight

Specifications

The GG&G A2 Iron Sight is crafted from 6061 T6 aluminum alloy for the mount body and sight stem, and then Type III hard coat anodized in a non-reflective black mil-spec finish, this ensures combat durability. Steel components are black manganese phosphated per mil-spec, further enhancing corrosion resistance. It weighs just over two ounces, adding minimal weight to your rifle. The sight mounts directly to a Picatinny rail.

The A2-style double peep aperture offers a familiar sight picture, and initial zeroing is achieved via the front sight post. Windage adjustments are made via a tactile knob, with each click providing approximately 0.48 MOA change on an M16A2E4 rifle and about 0.65 MOA on an AR carbine. The inclusion of a spring-assisted locking detent button prevents accidental folding, a critical feature in a BUIS. These specifications are important because they directly impact the sight’s durability, ease of use, and accuracy.

Performance & Functionality

The GG&G A2 Iron Sight performs its job exceptionally well. Accuracy is consistent, and the sight holds its zero even after repeated deployment and redeployment. Its reliability is unquestionable, a testament to its robust construction and thoughtful design.

A significant strength is the locking mechanism. The detent button eliminates any doubt about whether the sight is fully deployed and locked in place. One minor weakness is that initial zeroing relies on adjusting the front sight post. This is standard for AR-15s, but some users may prefer a BUIS with independent elevation adjustment. The GG&G A2 Iron Sight meets and exceeds my expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The GG&G A2 Iron Sight boasts a streamlined and low-profile design. The materials used are high-quality, resulting in a lightweight yet robust sight. The weight of just over two ounces is negligible and doesn’t affect the rifle’s balance.

The tactile windage knob is easily accessible and provides positive clicks, making adjustments quick and precise. There’s virtually no learning curve. The sight is intuitive to use and easy to deploy, even under stress.

Durability & Maintenance

The GG&G A2 Iron Sight is built to last. The combination of anodized aluminum and phosphated steel ensures excellent corrosion resistance and overall durability. The sight can withstand significant abuse without losing zero or functionality.

Maintenance is minimal: a quick cleaning with a cloth and a light coat of oil is all that’s required to keep it in top condition. Repair is unlikely to be necessary given the sight’s robust construction, but GG&G‘s reputation for customer support is excellent should any issues arise.

Accessories and Customization Options

The GG&G A2 Iron Sight itself doesn’t come with any additional accessories. However, it is compatible with aftermarket apertures, such as Trijicon tritium apertures for enhanced low-light visibility or XS Same-Plane Apertures for improved sight picture.

It is a standard Picatinny rail-mounted sight, meaning it will integrate with almost any AR-15 platform and work alongside a wide variety of red dot and holographic optics. There are no significant limitations regarding compatibility with other brands’ accessories.

Pros and Cons of GG&G A2 Iron Sight

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Who Should Buy GG&G A2 Iron Sight?

The GG&G A2 Iron Sight is perfect for:

• Tactical shooters who need a reliable and durable back-up sighting system.
• Law enforcement and military personnel who require rugged and dependable gear.
• Hunters who want a secondary sighting option in case their primary optic fails.

Who should skip this product?

• Casual shooters on a tight budget might find cheaper polymer BUIS options more appealing.
• Those who prefer BUIS with independent elevation adjustment may want to explore other alternatives.

A must-have accessory is a quality front sight adjustment tool for zeroing the rifle. An optional tritium aperture can also enhance low-light visibility.

Conclusion on GG&G A2 Iron Sight

The GG&G A2 Iron Sight is a well-designed and robust back-up iron sight that delivers exceptional reliability and performance. While it may be pricier than some alternatives, its superior construction and thoughtful features justify the cost.

The peace of mind knowing you have a dependable secondary sighting system is invaluable, especially in critical situations. I wholeheartedly recommend the GG&G A2 Iron Sight to anyone seeking a high-quality, durable, and accurate BUIS for their AR-15. Don’t compromise on your back-up sights – invest in the GG&G A2 Iron Sight and be prepared for anything!