Let’s Dive into HiViz PM1002 – Competition Sight
For years, I’ve been tweaking and optimizing my shotguns for various shooting disciplines, from busting clays to chasing upland game. Sight acquisition speed and clarity are crucial in those fast-paced scenarios, and the HiViz PM1002 – Competition Sight promised a significant upgrade over the standard bead sights. Manufactured by HiViz, this sight system boasts multiple interchangeable LitePipes in various colors and diameters, offering customized visibility in any lighting condition.
I’d been struggling with consistently acquiring a clear sight picture in low-light conditions during late-season pheasant hunts. The factory bead sight on my Benelli just wasn’t cutting it. I needed something brighter, more visible, and adaptable to changing light.
Unboxing the HiViz PM1002 – Competition Sight revealed a well-organized kit. The variety of LitePipes and mounting screws immediately impressed me. The sight base itself felt sturdy and well-machined.
I considered other fiber optic sights, including models from TruGlo and Williams Gun Sight, but the HiViz PM1002 – Competition Sight‘s versatility and positive user reviews swayed me. The ability to swap LitePipes and the included screw assortment made it a safer bet for fitting my specific shotgun. I was excited to see if this sight would live up to the hype and improve my shooting performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting HiViz PM1002 – Competition Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test took place at my local shooting range during a sunny afternoon. Installation on my Benelli Supernova was straightforward, thanks to the included screw assortment. The green LitePipe provided excellent visibility against the dark backdrop of the target berm.
The difference was immediately noticeable. Sight acquisition was faster and more precise than with the original bead. I ran through several rounds of trap and skeet, and my scores improved noticeably.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use across various hunting seasons and clay shooting events, the HiViz PM1002 – Competition Sight has proven its worth. It has held up well against the rigors of field use, showing minimal signs of wear and tear. I have used it in heavy rain during duck season with no issues.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe-down with a clean cloth keeps the LitePipes clear and bright. The sight continues to perform flawlessly. Compared to the factory bead, the HiViz PM1002 – Competition Sight offers a dramatic improvement in visibility and target acquisition speed.
Breaking Down the Features of HiViz PM1002 – Competition Sight
Specifications
The HiViz PM1002 – Competition Sight boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance:
- Compatibility: Fits most vent-ribbed shotguns with removable front beads. This ensures broad compatibility across various shotgun models.
- Included Screws: Comes with five screws (3-56″; 5-40″; 6-48″; 3mm x .5; 3mm x .6). These varying thread sizes ensure compatibility with a wide range of shotgun ribs.
- LitePipes: Includes eight LitePipes in varied colors (Green, Red, White) and diameters. Different colored pipes allow for customized visibility in different lighting conditions. Varying diameters help create desired brightness.
- Material: The front sight is made of Fiber Optic. This material gathers and amplifies ambient light, creating a bright, easily visible aiming point.
- Color: Available in Black. Black keeps the user from being distracted by colors from the optic itself.
These specifications matter because they allow for customization, ease of installation, and improved visibility. The variety of LitePipes allows shooters to tailor the sight to their specific needs and preferences. The included screws ensure a secure and hassle-free installation on most shotguns.
Performance & Functionality
The HiViz PM1002 – Competition Sight excels in its primary function: enhancing sight acquisition and accuracy. It does its job by making the front sight more visible to the user. The bright fiber optic LitePipes stand out against any background, making it easier to focus on the target.
The main strength is the modularity. Changing LitePipes takes only a few seconds. A minor weakness is the screw head slot, which is easily damaged if you don’t use a hollow ground screw driver blade.
The HiViz PM1002 – Competition Sight exceeds my expectations. It has significantly improved my shooting performance in various conditions.
Design & Ergonomics
The HiViz PM1002 – Competition Sight features a simple, yet effective design. The sight base is compact and unobtrusive. The weight is negligible, and the overall feel is solid and well-made.
The sight is user-friendly with a minimal learning curve. Swapping LitePipes is intuitive, and the installation process is straightforward.
Durability & Maintenance
The HiViz PM1002 – Competition Sight is built to last. The fiber optic is robust and the sight base is made of strong polymer. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal. Keeping the LitePipes clean is all that is needed to keep the optic bright.
Accessories and Customization Options
The HiViz PM1002 – Competition Sight comes with everything needed for installation and customization.
- Eight LitePipes: Included are multiple colors and diameters to customize the sight picture.
- Five Mounting Screws: These screws accommodate a variety of shotgun rib sizes.
- Carrying Case: Provides a safe storage of the sight and accessories.
- Key: Helps assist with installation.
The sight is compatible with a wide range of shotguns, but no other major accessories need to be added. The LitePipes are a great option to ensure the HiViz PM1002 – Competition Sight meets the user’s needs.
Pros and Cons of HiViz PM1002 – Competition Sight
Pros
- Significantly enhances sight visibility, especially in low-light conditions. The bright fiber optic LitePipes make target acquisition faster and more precise.
- Highly customizable with interchangeable LitePipes in various colors and diameters. Shooters can tailor the sight picture to their specific needs and preferences.
- Easy to install with a variety of included mounting screws. No gunsmithing required, making it a user-friendly upgrade.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance. The sight is built to withstand the rigors of field use.
- Great value for the price, offering a noticeable improvement over standard bead sights. An inexpensive upgrade that will make a huge difference.
Cons
- Screw head slot is easily damaged if you don’t use a hollow ground screw driver blade. Requires careful installation to avoid damaging the screw head.
- While a wide assortment is provided, there are always some less common rib sizes that it won’t fit perfectly. Ensure compatibility with your shotgun rib before purchasing.
Who Should Buy HiViz PM1002 – Competition Sight?
The HiViz PM1002 – Competition Sight is perfect for:
- Competitive shooters who need fast and accurate sight acquisition.
- Hunters who often face low-light conditions, such as waterfowl hunters or upland bird hunters in dense cover.
- Sporting clay enthusiasts looking to improve their scores.
- Anyone who wants an affordable and easy-to-install upgrade for their shotgun sight.
This product might not be ideal for:
- Shooters who prefer traditional bead sights.
- Individuals who are unwilling to make small modifications.
- Those who need a night-vision compatible sight.
A must-have accessory is a hollow-ground screwdriver set to avoid damaging the screw heads during installation.
Conclusion on HiViz PM1002 – Competition Sight
The HiViz PM1002 – Competition Sight is a game-changer for shotgun shooters seeking improved visibility and faster target acquisition. Its modular design, ease of installation, and durable construction make it an excellent value for the price. The bright fiber optic LitePipes provide a clear and distinct sight picture in various lighting conditions.
The price is more than justified by the improved performance and versatility it offers. I personally recommend it to anyone looking to upgrade their shotgun sight.
If you’re ready to take your shotgun shooting to the next level, invest in the HiViz PM1002 – Competition Sight and experience the difference for yourself!