EGW Fiber Optic Front Sight 60 Deg .200″ Review

First Thoughts on the EGW Fiber Optic Front Sight 60 Deg .200″

Fiber optic front sights have always been a game-changer for me, especially when transitioning between bright sunlight and shaded areas, a common occurrence in my line of work and recreational shooting. The EGW Fiber Optic Front Sight 60 Deg .200″ from EGW (Evolution Gun Works) immediately piqued my interest with its promise of enhanced visibility and robust construction. Having struggled with fragile fiber optic sights in the past, the EGW’s fully machined tool steel build and unique support system suggested a significant step up in durability.

I needed a more reliable and visible front sight for my 1911. The factory sights were simply not cutting it during low-light training drills. This EGW sight seemed to offer a solution to my aging eyes’ visibility issues.

Upon unboxing, the sight exuded quality. The machining was clean and precise. The weight felt substantial, hinting at the durability promised in the product description. Compared to some cheaper sights I’ve used in the past which were plastic-heavy and flimsy, this felt like a professional-grade piece of equipment. While XS Sights and Dawson Precision offer similar products, I opted for EGW due to their reputation for precision and the unique three-point support system, hoping for superior fiber optic rod retention. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism – excited for the potential, but also hoping it would live up to the hype.

Real-World Testing: Putting EGW Fiber Optic Front Sight 60 Deg .200″ to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the EGW Fiber Optic Front Sight 60 Deg .200″ primarily at an outdoor shooting range, simulating various lighting conditions ranging from bright sunlight to shaded woodland environments. The most telling tests were run during transition drills from a shaded shooting house into direct sunlight, a scenario where traditional iron sights often wash out. The fiber optic rod immediately proved its worth, gathering ambient light and providing a bright, easily acquired focal point.

The difference was night and day compared to the standard iron sights. Acquiring the target in changing light conditions was significantly faster and easier. There was a slight learning curve involved in adjusting my focus solely on the bright front sight, but after a few magazines, it became second nature. After the first day, I found the improvement to be more than satisfactory.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the EGW Fiber Optic Front Sight 60 Deg .200″ has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear or loosening, even after several hundred rounds and multiple holster draws. I have been especially impressed with the fiber optic rod’s retention.

Despite the high round count, the fiber optic rod remains secure, a testament to the sight’s three-point support system. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe with a clean cloth is usually sufficient. This sight significantly outperforms the cheap, plastic-based fiber optic sights I’ve used previously. The EGW sight gives me confidence in its long term durability.

Breaking Down the Features of EGW Fiber Optic Front Sight 60 Deg .200″

Specifications

  • The EGW Fiber Optic Front Sight 60 Deg .200″ is fully machined from tool steel, ensuring superior strength and resistance to wear. The tool steel construction provides a substantial upgrade compared to polymer or cast-metal sights.
  • It features a 60-degree angle cut, which aids in light gathering and provides a crisp, focused sight picture. This angle helps to direct more ambient light onto the fiber optic rod.
  • The sight has a height of .200″, which is a common and versatile size for many handguns, including 1911s. This height provides a good balance for various shooting distances.
  • It is drilled for a fiber optic rod, enhancing visibility in low-light conditions. The fiber optic rod acts as a beacon, greatly improving target acquisition speed.
  • The sight utilizes a unique design where the fiber optic rod is not drilled completely through, providing a cleaner aesthetic. This design also adds extra support to the fiber optic rod.
  • It is supported in three different places, improving the fiber optic rod’s retention and preventing breakage. This three-point support is a key differentiator from other sights.
  • The EGW Fiber Optic Front Sight 60 Deg .200″ is available in various dovetail cuts to fit different firearms. Options include Standard Dovetail, Novak Dovetail, Para Blank, and Kimber Blank.
  • It comes supplied with both a green and a red fiber optic rod, giving the user options based on personal preference and lighting conditions. Having both color options is beneficial in varied environments.

Performance & Functionality

The EGW Fiber Optic Front Sight 60 Deg .200″ performs admirably in its primary function: enhancing sight visibility. The fiber optic rod is exceptionally bright, even in subdued lighting conditions. The sight allows for faster and more accurate target acquisition, particularly in dynamic shooting scenarios.

The EGW sight provides consistent accuracy and dependable performance. I’ve found its only weakness is its extreme brightness in direct sunlight, which can cause a slight halo effect. Overall, the performance significantly exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the EGW Fiber Optic Front Sight 60 Deg .200″ is exceptional. The tool steel construction feels solid and well-made. The sight’s weight is substantial without being cumbersome, adding a sense of stability to the firearm.

The design is simple and functional. The sight is easy to install and requires minimal fitting. There is virtually no learning curve to use the sight effectively.

Durability & Maintenance

The EGW Fiber Optic Front Sight 60 Deg .200″ is built to last. The tool steel construction provides excellent resistance to wear and tear. The sight’s three-point support system for the fiber optic rod significantly reduces the risk of breakage.

Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning with a cloth is generally sufficient to keep the sight in optimal condition. The sight is designed for easy fiber optic rod replacement if needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The EGW Fiber Optic Front Sight 60 Deg .200″ itself is a customization option, replacing the factory front sight. The included green and red fiber optic rods allow for some personalization of the sight picture. The sight is compatible with various handgun models depending on the dovetail cut chosen, but does not offer further customization beyond that.

While the sight itself doesn’t allow for extensive customization, its compatibility with standard dovetail cuts ensures it can be paired with a wide variety of handguns. The user can also experiment with different fiber optic rod colors from third-party manufacturers to further fine-tune the sight picture.

Pros and Cons of EGW Fiber Optic Front Sight 60 Deg .200″

Pros

  • Exceptional Visibility: The fiber optic rod provides a bright and easily acquired sight picture in various lighting conditions.
  • Durable Construction: Fully machined from tool steel for superior strength and longevity.
  • Unique Support System: The three-point support system for the fiber optic rod enhances retention and prevents breakage.
  • Easy Installation: The sight is designed for straightforward installation with minimal fitting required.
  • Multiple Dovetail Options: Available in various dovetail cuts to fit a wide range of handguns.

Cons

  • Can be too bright in direct sunlight, potentially causing a slight halo effect.
  • Limited customization options beyond the included fiber optic rod colors.


Who Should Buy EGW Fiber Optic Front Sight 60 Deg .200″?

The EGW Fiber Optic Front Sight 60 Deg .200″ is perfect for competitive shooters, law enforcement officers, and anyone seeking improved sight visibility in varying lighting conditions. It’s also ideal for those with aging eyes who find traditional iron sights difficult to acquire. This sight is a valuable upgrade for anyone looking to enhance their accuracy and target acquisition speed.

Those who should skip this product might include individuals who primarily shoot in controlled, indoor environments with consistent lighting. Or those who prefer traditional blacked-out iron sights for a minimalist approach. A must-have accessory would be a sight pusher tool for easy and safe installation.

Conclusion on EGW Fiber Optic Front Sight 60 Deg .200″

The EGW Fiber Optic Front Sight 60 Deg .200″ is a high-quality and effective upgrade for any handgun. Its durable construction, exceptional visibility, and unique support system make it a standout product in the crowded market of aftermarket sights. The price of $31.49 is more than justified given the performance and durability.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this product to anyone seeking to improve their shooting accuracy and target acquisition speed. The EGW Fiber Optic Front Sight 60 Deg .200″ has proven to be a reliable and worthwhile investment. Upgrade your sight picture today and experience the difference!


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