The XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 19 Suppressor Height Orange Made a Bold First Impression
After a decade in the outdoor and tactical gear realm, I’ve become pretty discerning about my equipment. When I first laid eyes on the XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 19 Suppressor Height Orange, I was intrigued by XS Sights’s promise of a brighter, stronger, and more easily installed sighting system. As someone who values preparedness, especially in low-light scenarios, the R3D 2.0 seemed like a worthy upgrade for my trusty Glock 19.
My aging eyes needed a solution for quicker target acquisition in varying light conditions. The promise of high-contrast colors and a tritium lamp, coupled with suppressor height, sealed the deal.
The packaging was standard, but the sights themselves felt substantial and well-made upon unboxing. The BlackNitride finish looked exceptionally durable. Compared to the standard polymer sights that came with my Glock, and even a set of TruGlo fiber optic sights I’d used previously, the XS R3D 2.0 exuded a quality I hadn’t quite experienced before.
I chose these sights over similar offerings from Trijicon and Ameriglo primarily due to the combination of the high-visibility orange front sight and the reputation of XS Sights for ruggedness. My initial excitement stemmed from the potential for improved speed and accuracy in defensive shooting scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 19 Suppressor Height Orange to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range trip with the XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 19 Suppressor Height Orange involved a series of drills, including rapid target acquisition, transitions between targets, and low-light shooting simulations. I tested the sights at distances ranging from 7 to 25 yards. The weather was overcast, providing a good test of the sights’ performance in less-than-ideal conditions.
The high-contrast orange front sight immediately proved its worth. I found target acquisition to be significantly faster compared to the factory sights. There was a slight learning curve adjusting to the wider rear notch, but after a few magazines, it felt natural and intuitive.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the XS R3D 2.0 sights have proven to be remarkably durable. I’ve put roughly 1500 rounds through my Glock 19 since installing them. The BlackNitride finish shows no signs of wear.
Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick wipe with a silicone cloth after each range session. Compared to my experience with fiber optic sights, which can sometimes require careful cleaning to maintain their brightness, the R3D 2.0 sights are virtually maintenance-free. They have consistently outperformed my expectations in terms of both durability and visibility.
Breaking Down the Features of XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 19 Suppressor Height Orange
Specifications
The XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 19 Suppressor Height Orange boasts several key specifications. These sights are designed for Glock 17, 19, 22, 23, 24, 26, 27, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, and 36 models, providing broad compatibility. The suppressor height is specifically designed for use with suppressed pistols or those equipped with red dot sights.
The front sight features a high-contrast orange outline and a green tritium lamp for low-light visibility. The rear sight also features a green tritium lamp and a serrated surface to reduce glare. They are constructed from CNC machined steel for exceptional durability, finished with a BlackNitride coating for corrosion resistance.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the sights’ performance in various shooting scenarios. The suppressor height ensures a clear sight picture even with a suppressor attached. The high-contrast front sight and tritium lamps guarantee visibility in both bright and low-light conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 19 Suppressor Height Orange excels in both speed and accuracy. Target acquisition is noticeably faster thanks to the bright orange front sight. The wider rear notch allows for a more generous sight picture, making it easier to align the sights quickly.
In terms of weaknesses, some shooters might find the wider rear notch less precise for long-distance shooting. However, for its intended purpose – defensive shooting at close to medium ranges – it performs admirably. These sights meet and, in many ways, exceed my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the XS R3D 2.0 sights is exceptional. The CNC machined steel construction feels robust and durable. The weight is negligible, adding no noticeable bulk to the pistol.
The serrated rear sight effectively reduces glare, and the rear sight ledge allows for one-handed slide manipulations. Installation, while requiring a sight pusher tool, is straightforward for anyone familiar with Glock maintenance. There is a slight learning curve associated with the sight picture, however, once mastered, they are extremely user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the CNC machined steel construction and the BlackNitride finish, these sights are built to last. The XS Sights’s 12-year warranty on the tritium lamps speaks volumes about their confidence in the product. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning.
Even with heavy use and exposure to harsh conditions, the XS R3D 2.0 sights show no signs of wear or corrosion. I fully expect these sights to outlast the pistol they’re mounted on.
Accessories and Customization Options
The XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 19 Suppressor Height Orange doesn’t come with any additional accessories. However, because it’s designed for suppressor height, it pairs perfectly with popular red dot sights like the Trijicon RMR & SRO, Holosun 507c series, and Vortex Viper, especially on factory MOS pistols. The suppressor height is also beneficial when using a suppressor.
While these sights themselves don’t offer extensive customization options beyond the choice of front sight color (orange in this case), their design facilitates seamless integration with other aftermarket components.
Pros and Cons of XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 19 Suppressor Height Orange
Pros
- Significantly Faster Target Acquisition: The high-contrast orange front sight makes target acquisition incredibly quick and easy.
- Excellent Low-Light Performance: The tritium lamps provide ample illumination in low-light or no-light conditions.
- Durable Construction: The CNC machined steel and BlackNitride finish ensure long-lasting durability and corrosion resistance.
- Suppressor Height Compatibility: Perfect for use with suppressors or red dot sights on MOS pistols.
- Rear Sight Ledge for One-Handed Manipulations: The rear sight ledge facilitates easy slide manipulation in emergency situations.
Cons
- Wider Rear Notch May Reduce Long-Range Precision: Some shooters might find the wider rear notch less precise for long-distance shooting.
- Sight Pusher Tool Required for Installation: Professional installation is recommended if you don’t have a sight pusher tool.
Who Should Buy XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 19 Suppressor Height Orange?
The XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 19 Suppressor Height Orange is perfect for anyone who prioritizes speed and visibility in defensive shooting scenarios. This includes law enforcement officers, concealed carry holders, and competitive shooters. Those who own a Glock 19 or other compatible Glock model equipped with a suppressor or red dot sight will also greatly benefit from these sights.
If you primarily engage in long-range target shooting and require extreme precision, you might want to consider a sight system with a narrower rear notch. Additionally, if you are uncomfortable with installing sights yourself and unwilling to pay for professional installation, this product might not be the best fit. A sight pusher tool is almost essential for safe and effective installation.
A must-have accessory is a quality sight pusher tool. Also, consider investing in a red dot sight if you want to fully leverage the suppressor height.
Conclusion on XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 19 Suppressor Height Orange
The XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 19 Suppressor Height Orange represents a significant upgrade over standard Glock sights. The combination of high-visibility front sight, tritium lamps, and durable construction makes it an excellent choice for anyone seeking improved performance in defensive shooting scenarios. At a price of $129.99, the value proposition is strong, especially considering the quality and features offered.
I would absolutely recommend the XS R3D 2.0 sights to anyone looking to enhance their Glock 19’s capabilities. These sights provide a noticeable improvement in speed, visibility, and overall confidence. If you value preparedness and want to be ready for any situation, the XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 19 Suppressor Height Orange is a worthwhile investment. Upgrade your Glock today and experience the difference!
