First Thoughts on the Strike Industries S&W Handgun Suppressor Height Iron Sight Set
The Strike Industries S&W Handgun Suppressor Height Iron Sight Set promises an elevated sight picture crucial for those running slide-mounted red dots or suppressors on their Smith & Wesson M&P pistols. Strike Industries aims to provide a budget-friendly solution without sacrificing durability, crafted from SUS630 hardened stainless steel and designed for an absolute co-witness.
I’ve always struggled with finding reliable iron sights that properly co-witness with my red dot. The standard height sights are just too low to be usable as a backup.
Upon unboxing, the sights felt solid and well-machined. The black finish was even and seemed durable. My initial impression was that these sights are much more robust than others in the same price range. I was eager to see if the design truly facilitated natural light for sight alignment.
Compared to the Trijicon Bright & Tough Suppressor Sights, which are significantly more expensive, the Strike Industries offering seemed like a compelling value proposition. I also considered the AmeriGlo GL-429 set, but ultimately chose the Strike Industries set based on the positive reviews regarding co-witness height and the aggressive texturing designed to reduce glare. My initial excitement was high, hoping this set would solve my co-witnessing woes without breaking the bank.
Real-World Testing: Putting Strike Industries S&W Handgun Suppressor Height Iron Sight Set to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Strike Industries S&W Handgun Suppressor Height Iron Sight Set at my local indoor range, mounted on my S&W M&P 2.0 9mm with a Holosun 507C red dot. The range offered a variety of distances from 7 to 25 yards.
Even in the controlled lighting of the indoor range, the benefit of the light-channeling design was immediately noticeable. The sights aligned quickly and naturally, especially when transitioning from the red dot to the iron sights. There were no hiccups during my first range session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Strike Industries S&W Handgun Suppressor Height Iron Sight Set has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even after numerous holster draws and re-holstering.
Cleaning is a breeze; a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth keeps them looking and functioning perfectly. They’ve proven to be a reliable backup to my red dot. Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper aftermarket sights that often loosened or shifted, these have remained rock solid.
Breaking Down the Features of Strike Industries S&W Handgun Suppressor Height Iron Sight Set
Specifications
- Material: SUS630 Hardened Stainless Steel ensures exceptional durability and resistance to corrosion. This is important for sights that are exposed to the elements and the rigors of daily carry.
- Color: Black provides a low-profile, non-reflective finish. It avoids drawing unnecessary attention.
- Firearm Type: Smith & Wesson M&P/M&P 2.0 guarantees compatibility with a wide range of popular S&W pistols. This ensures a seamless installation.
- Suppressor Height: Offers the necessary elevation for co-witnessing with red dots and clearing suppressors. This is essential for maintaining a usable backup sighting system.
- Price: $32.95 positions these sights as a budget-friendly option. This allows shooters to upgrade their sighting system without breaking the bank.
Performance & Functionality
The Strike Industries S&W Handgun Suppressor Height Iron Sight Set performs admirably in its intended role. They provide a clear and usable backup sight picture.
The sights offer quick target acquisition. Sight alignment is facilitated by the light-channeling design. However, the lack of contrasting colors on the front sight might be a drawback for some users in low-light conditions. Overall, they meet expectations for a backup iron sight system.
Design & Ergonomics
The sights are well-designed and feel substantial in hand, thanks to the SUS630 stainless steel construction. The aggressively textured rear sight effectively minimizes glare. The overall design is functional. It avoids unnecessary bulk that could snag on clothing or gear.
Installation is straightforward, requiring only basic tools and knowledge of handgun disassembly. The learning curve is minimal, making them accessible to both novice and experienced shooters.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from SUS630 hardened stainless steel, these sights are built to last. The black finish is resistant to scratches and wear.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris. Their robust construction ensures a long service life.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Strike Industries S&W Handgun Suppressor Height Iron Sight Set does not come with any additional accessories. However, the front sight is designed to be easily painted.
This allows users to customize the color for improved visibility or personal preference, including the option to use glow-in-the-dark paint. They are compatible with most standard sight pushers designed for S&W M&P pistols.
Pros and Cons of Strike Industries S&W Handgun Suppressor Height Iron Sight Set
Pros
- Exceptional Value: Offers suppressor height sights at a very competitive price point.
- Durable Construction: Made from SUS630 hardened stainless steel for longevity and reliability.
- Co-Witness Compatibility: Designed for absolute co-witness with slide-mounted red dot optics.
- Glare Reduction: Features steps in the rear of both sights to minimize unwanted glare and reflections.
- Customizable Front Sight: The front sight can be painted to the user’s color preference for enhanced visibility.
Cons
- Plain Black Finish: The all-black finish may not be ideal for low-light situations without customization.
- No Tritium Inserts: Lacks tritium inserts for enhanced visibility in extremely dark environments.
Who Should Buy Strike Industries S&W Handgun Suppressor Height Iron Sight Set?
These sights are perfect for S&W M&P and M&P 2.0 owners who are running a slide-mounted red dot and desire a reliable, affordable co-witnessing backup sight system. They are also ideal for those who use suppressors on their handguns and need the elevated sight picture to clear the suppressor body.
Those who prioritize maximum visibility in all lighting conditions, especially extremely dark environments, might consider sights with tritium inserts. Anyone unwilling to customize their front sight with paint should also explore other options.
Must-have accessories include a sight pusher tool for easy installation. Paint or glow-in-the-dark paint can be used to enhance the front sight visibility.
Conclusion on Strike Industries S&W Handgun Suppressor Height Iron Sight Set
The Strike Industries S&W Handgun Suppressor Height Iron Sight Set provides a compelling combination of affordability, durability, and functionality. The SUS630 stainless steel construction ensures longevity.
The design facilitates quick and natural sight alignment. At $32.95, the price is more than justified for the features and performance offered.
I would definitely recommend this sight set to anyone seeking a budget-friendly upgrade to their S&W M&P pistol for co-witnessing with a red dot or clearing a suppressor. Upgrade your sights today for a reliable backup and improved shooting experience!