XS F8 NIGHT SIGHT S&W M&P FULL/CMPCT Review

The XS F8 NIGHT SIGHT S&W M&P FULL/CMPCT Made a Bold First Impression

Night sights are a critical upgrade for any defensive handgun, especially for those of us who prioritize low-light performance. For years, I’ve trusted XS Sights products on various firearms, so the XS F8 NIGHT SIGHT S&W M&P FULL/CMPCT immediately piqued my interest when I began looking for new sights for my Smith & Wesson M&P. Its purported blend of rapid target acquisition and enhanced visibility seemed promising.

My aging eyes aren’t what they used to be, and my factory M&P sights were simply not cutting it in diminished lighting conditions. This was particularly noticeable during evening range sessions and tactical training scenarios. I needed sights that were both easy to acquire quickly and offered exceptional clarity in low light.

Upon unboxing the XS F8 NIGHT SIGHT S&W M&P FULL/CMPCT, I was immediately impressed by the robust construction and clean lines. The green tritium vials promised excellent nighttime visibility. The bright orange outline around the front sight was noticeably vivid. Compared to the Trijicon HD XR and the Ameriglo Pro-IDOT, the XS F8 seemed to offer a more intuitive sight picture for rapid target acquisition, especially in daylight.

I was cautiously optimistic. The sight picture looked fantastic in the box, and the build quality seemed solid, but the real test would be on the range, under pressure, and in varying lighting conditions. Could the XS F8 NIGHT SIGHT S&W M&P FULL/CMPCT live up to its promise?

Real-World Testing: Putting XS F8 NIGHT SIGHT S&W M&P FULL/CMPCT to the Test

First Use Experience

My first range session with the XS F8 NIGHT SIGHT S&W M&P FULL/CMPCT was enlightening. I installed the sights on my M&P 9mm and headed to an outdoor range. My initial testing focused on rapid target acquisition drills at varying distances.

The high-contrast front sight proved to be a game-changer. Acquiring the front sight in bright daylight was effortless. The orange outline grabbed my attention instantly. During a low-light simulation, the tritium vials glowed brightly, providing a clear and distinct sight picture. There were no issues with visibility, even in near-total darkness.

The XS F8 sights required minimal adjustment. I was consistently hitting center mass from 7 to 15 yards. I did experience a slight learning curve adjusting to the “Figure 8” sight alignment. However, after about 50 rounds, it became second nature.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the XS F8 NIGHT SIGHT S&W M&P FULL/CMPCT has proven to be remarkably durable and reliable. I’ve put several hundred rounds through my M&P with these sights installed, and they’ve held zero without any issues. They’ve also been subjected to the rigors of daily carry, enduring the inevitable bumps and scrapes without showing any significant signs of wear.

The Melonite finish on the sight body has held up incredibly well, resisting scratches and corrosion. Cleaning is a breeze. A quick wipe with a silicone cloth keeps them looking pristine. Compared to my previous experiences with other night sights that lost their brightness over time, the XS F8’s tritium vials still glow as brightly as the day I installed them.

These sights have far exceeded my expectations. They have provided a consistently clear and reliable sight picture in every condition I’ve encountered. I am confident in their ability to perform when I need them most.

Breaking Down the Features of XS F8 NIGHT SIGHT S&W M&P FULL/CMPCT

Specifications

The XS F8 NIGHT SIGHT S&W M&P FULL/CMPCT is specifically designed for Smith & Wesson M&P Full Size and Compact pistols. It features a green tritium lamp in both the front and rear sights. The front sight boasts a high-visibility orange outline for rapid target acquisition.

The rear sight is also equipped with a green tritium lamp, creating a “Figure 8” sight picture in low-light conditions. The sights are constructed from durable steel with a Melonite finish for enhanced corrosion resistance. These are standard height sights.

These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The tritium lamps ensure excellent visibility in low-light conditions. The high-contrast front sight facilitates rapid target acquisition in daylight. The durable construction and Melonite finish guarantee long-lasting performance, even under harsh conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The XS F8 NIGHT SIGHT S&W M&P FULL/CMPCT performs exceptionally well in a variety of shooting scenarios. Its primary strength lies in its ability to provide a clear and distinct sight picture, regardless of the ambient lighting conditions. The high-contrast front sight allows for quick and intuitive target acquisition, while the tritium lamps ensure reliable visibility in low light.

One area for improvement might be the rear sight notch width. Some shooters may find it slightly narrow for optimal daylight shooting. Overall, the XS F8 NIGHT SIGHT S&W M&P FULL/CMPCT meets and exceeds my expectations, delivering consistent and reliable performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The XS F8 NIGHT SIGHT S&W M&P FULL/CMPCT boasts a sleek and functional design. Its streamlined profile minimizes snagging during draws. The sight’s weight is negligible, so it doesn’t affect the balance of the pistol.

The sight’s intuitive design makes it user-friendly. No significant learning curve is required.

Durability & Maintenance

The XS F8 NIGHT SIGHT S&W M&P FULL/CMPCT is built to last. Its durable steel construction and Melonite finish ensure resistance to wear, tear, and corrosion. The tritium lamps are warrantied for 10 years, providing long-term reliability.

Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe with a silicone cloth is all that’s needed to keep the sights clean and functioning properly.

Accessories and Customization Options

The XS F8 NIGHT SIGHT S&W M&P FULL/CMPCT does not require any additional accessories for basic functionality. However, some users may prefer to add a fiber optic front sight for even greater visibility in bright daylight. The sights are compatible with most standard holsters designed for the S&W M&P platform.

Pros and Cons of XS F8 NIGHT SIGHT S&W M&P FULL/CMPCT

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Who Should Buy XS F8 NIGHT SIGHT S&W M&P FULL/CMPCT?

The XS F8 NIGHT SIGHT S&W M&P FULL/CMPCT is perfect for law enforcement officers, concealed carry holders, and home defense enthusiasts who prioritize low-light performance. These sights are also an excellent upgrade for competitive shooters seeking a faster and more intuitive sight picture.

This product may not be ideal for individuals who primarily shoot in well-lit environments and are accustomed to traditional three-dot sights. A must-have modification is to use a sight pusher tool when installing this set of sights.

Conclusion on XS F8 NIGHT SIGHT S&W M&P FULL/CMPCT

The XS F8 NIGHT SIGHT S&W M&P FULL/CMPCT is a worthwhile upgrade for any S&W M&P owner seeking enhanced visibility and rapid target acquisition. At $109.99, the price is justified by the quality, performance, and durability of these sights.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the XS F8 NIGHT SIGHT S&W M&P FULL/CMPCT to anyone looking to improve their low-light shooting capabilities. Upgrade your M&P today and experience the difference firsthand!

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