First Thoughts on the Hi-Viz MPB-TAC Snap On Front Green/Red LitePipe Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight
The Hi-Viz MPB-TAC Snap On Front Green/Red LitePipe Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight promises a simple yet effective upgrade to your plain-barreled shotgun, offering improved visibility in various lighting conditions. Hi-Viz is a reputable name in the sight industry, and this particular model caught my eye with its easy snap-on installation and the inclusion of multiple colored LitePipes. For a price of $15.99, it seemed like a low-risk way to enhance my shotgun’s aiming capabilities, especially for quick target acquisition in less-than-ideal lighting.
I’ve always struggled with the rudimentary bead sight on my old 12-gauge. Hunting in dense woods often meant losing the sight picture against a dark background. I was looking for a straightforward, no-gunsmithing-required solution to improve visibility and target acquisition speed.
Upon opening the package, I was immediately impressed by the brightness of the included LitePipes. The sight itself felt lightweight but surprisingly sturdy for a snap-on design. It’s constructed of what appears to be a durable polymer.
I considered a few other options, including magnetic sights and those requiring adhesive. Ultimately, the Hi-Viz model’s promise of a simple snap-on installation without permanent modification swayed my decision. The interchangeable LitePipes were also a major selling point.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The sight seemed well-made and the LitePipes were impressively bright, but I remained skeptical about its long-term durability and how well it would hold up under recoil. I was excited to test it out in the field, but also prepared to be disappointed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hi-Viz MPB-TAC Snap On Front Green/Red LitePipe Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local shooting range. I was primarily patterning my shotgun with various loads in preparation for dove season. The weather was partly cloudy, providing a mix of bright sunlight and overcast conditions.
The Hi-Viz MPB-TAC Snap On Front Green/Red LitePipe Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight significantly improved my sight picture in both lighting scenarios. The bright green LitePipe stood out clearly against the target, making target acquisition much faster than with the standard bead sight. The installation process was truly as simple as snapping the sight onto the barrel, requiring no tools or adjustments.
However, after about 20 rounds of 12-gauge shells, the sight started to shift slightly forward on the barrel. This required me to occasionally readjust it, which was a minor inconvenience but definitely worth noting.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including a dove hunt and a few more range sessions, the Hi-Viz sight has held up reasonably well. The polymer construction shows no signs of cracking or damage, despite repeated exposure to recoil. The LitePipes remain bright and haven’t faded.
The tendency to shift forward under heavy recoil persists, though it’s manageable with occasional readjustment. Cleaning is simple; I just wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use. Compared to the stock bead sight, the Hi-Viz offers a significant improvement in visibility and target acquisition speed, but the need for periodic readjustment prevents it from being a truly exceptional upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of Hi-Viz MPB-TAC Snap On Front Green/Red LitePipe Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight
Specifications
Type: Fiber Optic Bead. This indicates a simple, easy-to-see sight picture enhanced by fiber optic light gathering.
Color: Black. The black color ensures it blends with most shotgun finishes and doesn’t create unnecessary distractions.
Firearm Type: Shotgun 12/16/20 Gauge. This sight is designed to be versatile, fitting common shotgun gauges.
Base: Snap On. This is the key feature, allowing for easy, tool-free installation.
The snap-on base makes it appealing for users who do not want to permanently alter their firearm. The fiber optic bead is bright, helping with target acquisition in various lighting conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Hi-Viz MPB-TAC Snap On Front Green/Red LitePipe Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight is to improve sight visibility and target acquisition speed. It performs this job admirably, especially in low-light conditions. The interchangeable LitePipes offer flexibility depending on the environment.
The main weakness is its tendency to shift under heavy recoil, requiring occasional readjustment. It does meet expectations for a $15.99 sight, providing a noticeable upgrade over a standard bead sight.
Design & Ergonomics
The sight is lightweight and unobtrusive, adding minimal weight to the shotgun. The snap-on design is user-friendly, requiring no tools for installation. There’s virtually no learning curve; it’s immediately intuitive to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The polymer construction appears durable enough for regular use. The LitePipes seem robust and are easily replaceable if needed. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hi-Viz MPB-TAC Snap On Front Green/Red LitePipe Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight includes four LitePipes: two green and two red. This allows the user to choose their preferred color based on lighting conditions and personal preference. There are no other included accessories or customization options beyond the LitePipes. It is not designed for compatibility with other aftermarket accessories.
Pros and Cons of Hi-Viz MPB-TAC Snap On Front Green/Red LitePipe Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight
Pros
- Improved sight visibility, especially in low light.
- Easy snap-on installation – no gunsmithing required. This makes it incredibly accessible to all shotgun owners.
- Includes multiple colored LitePipes for varying conditions.
- Great value for the price. At $15.99, it’s an affordable upgrade.
- Lightweight and unobtrusive design.
Cons
- Tendency to shift forward under heavy recoil.
- Limited customization options beyond the included LitePipes.
Who Should Buy Hi-Viz MPB-TAC Snap On Front Green/Red LitePipe Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight?
The Hi-Viz MPB-TAC Snap On Front Green/Red LitePipe Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight is perfect for casual shooters and hunters looking for an affordable and easy way to improve their shotgun’s sight picture. It’s particularly beneficial for those who frequently hunt in wooded areas or low-light conditions. This is an excellent upgrade for new shotgun owners.
This product might not be ideal for competitive shooters or those who require a rock-solid, permanently mounted sight. Someone looking for a truly customizable sight should also look elsewhere.
A must-have accessory would be some electrical tape. This can be used to wrap around the shotgun barrel where the Hi-Viz sight attaches, which will create a tighter fit.
Conclusion on Hi-Viz MPB-TAC Snap On Front Green/Red LitePipe Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight
The Hi-Viz MPB-TAC Snap On Front Green/Red LitePipe Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight offers a noticeable improvement in sight visibility and target acquisition for a minimal investment. While the tendency to shift under recoil is a minor drawback, the easy installation and improved sight picture make it a worthwhile upgrade for many shotgun owners. The $15.99 price is certainly justified by the performance gains.
I would personally recommend this sight to anyone looking for an affordable and easy way to enhance their plain-barreled shotgun. For a quick and easy improvement in your aiming capabilities, give the Hi-Viz MPB-TAC Snap On Front Green/Red LitePipe Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight a try!