First Thoughts on the XS Sights R3D For Glock Suppressor/RMR Height 42/43 Night Sights
When it comes to upgrading a Glock, sights are often the first thing that comes to mind, especially for anyone looking to improve low-light performance or run a red dot. The XS Sights R3D For Glock Suppressor/RMR Height 42/43 Night Sights immediately caught my attention because they promised both tritium illumination and the height needed to clear a suppressor and co-witness with a red dot. This combination of features is critical for a versatile handgun setup, and XS Sights has a solid reputation for quality.
I’ve always prioritized clear and reliable sights, especially on my concealed carry Glock 43. The factory sights were… adequate. However, I recently decided to add a micro red dot and a suppressor to the firearm for home defense purposes, so the factory sights had to go.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the robust feel of the sights and the crispness of the tritium vials. They appeared very well made. The steel was nicely machined and the finish was clean.
I had been considering Trijicon Bright & Tough suppressor height sights and the Ameriglo GL-429 as alternatives. The XS Sights won out due to the advertised photoluminescent Glow Dot and the overall sight picture design. I was hoping for a faster target acquisition in various lighting conditions.
My initial excitement was high. These sights seemed to offer everything I needed: night vision, suppressor clearance, and red dot compatibility. It was a promising start.
Real-World Testing: Putting XS Sights R3D For Glock Suppressor/RMR Height 42/43 Night Sights to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the XS Sights R3D For Glock Suppressor/RMR Height 42/43 Night Sights was an outdoor shooting range, under varied lighting conditions. I also brought my suppressor along with the Trijicon RMR I planned to run. Installation was straightforward, requiring a sight pusher tool, but easily done with my existing equipment.
The high-contrast front sight immediately proved its worth, popping against targets even in bright sunlight. In the fading evening light, the tritium vials became prominent, providing a clear and distinct sight picture. I was particularly impressed with how well the sights co-witnessed through the RMR window.
I was pleasantly surprised by the ease of use. The sight picture felt natural and intuitive right from the start. I experienced no issues with the sights during the first range session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including weekly range trips and a defensive handgun course, the XS Sights R3D For Glock Suppressor/RMR Height 42/43 Night Sights have held up remarkably well. There are no visible signs of wear or degradation. The tritium vials still glow brightly, and the finish remains intact.
The sights have proven to be incredibly durable. They’ve withstood hundreds of rounds of ammunition and repeated holster draws without any loosening or shifting.
Maintenance has been minimal, only requiring an occasional wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth. These sights significantly outperform the factory Glock sights I was previously using. The XS Sights are a worthwhile upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of XS Sights R3D For Glock Suppressor/RMR Height 42/43 Night Sights
Specifications
The XS Sights R3D For Glock Suppressor/RMR Height 42/43 Night Sights are designed specifically for Glock 42 and 43 pistols. These sights feature a traditional 3-dot tritium configuration for low-light visibility. The tritium front sight incorporates a photoluminescent orange or green Glow Dot.
The rear sight is blacked out with two tritium vials to provide a clear and unobstructed sight picture. This ensures focus remains on the front sight. The sight height is specifically designed to co-witness with red dot optics like the Trijicon RMR and clear suppressors.
These sights are CNC machined from durable steel. They have a 10-year warranty and a 30-day satisfaction guarantee from XS Sights. They are also compatible with standard holster options for the Glock 42 and 43.
Performance & Functionality
The XS Sights R3D For Glock Suppressor/RMR Height 42/43 Night Sights excel in their primary function: providing a clear and reliable sight picture in all lighting conditions. The tritium vials offer excellent low-light visibility, while the Glow Dot enhances daytime visibility.
The suppressor height allows for seamless co-witnessing with red dot optics, making them ideal for pistols equipped with an RMR or similar sight. The only improvement I would suggest is perhaps offering different color options for the rear tritium vials. The green can be a bit much for some users.
Overall, the sights meet and exceed my expectations. Their performance is truly excellent.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is exceptional, with the sights feeling solid and well-made. The materials used inspire confidence in their durability. The sight profile is slim and doesn’t interfere with holster fit.
The sight design is user-friendly, requiring no special skills to use effectively. The XS Sights R3D sights are ergonomically well thought-out.
Durability & Maintenance
Given their steel construction and robust finish, these sights should last for many years with proper care. I anticipate they will easily outlast the tritium vials themselves.
Maintenance is straightforward. A simple cleaning with a brush and a light coat of oil is all that’s needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The XS Sights R3D For Glock Suppressor/RMR Height 42/43 Night Sights are designed to integrate seamlessly with existing Glock accessories. There aren’t any included accessories beyond the sights themselves. However, they pair perfectly with red dot optics like the Trijicon RMR, Holosun 507c, and Vortex Viper.
The sights are fully compatible with various holster types designed for the Glock 42 and 43. There are no additional customization options directly offered by XS Sights for this product, but the aftermarket compatibility is excellent.
Pros and Cons of XS Sights R3D For Glock Suppressor/RMR Height 42/43 Night Sights
Pros
- Exceptional low-light visibility: The tritium vials provide a bright and clear sight picture in dark conditions.
- Co-witnesses perfectly with red dot optics: Ideal for those running an RMR or similar sight.
- Durable steel construction: Ensures longevity and reliability.
- High-contrast front sight: Enables rapid target acquisition in various lighting conditions.
- Easy to install and use: No specialized skills required.
Cons
- Rear tritium vials can be somewhat distracting for some users.
- The tritium vials lifespan is finite and will eventually require replacement.
Who Should Buy XS Sights R3D For Glock Suppressor/RMR Height 42/43 Night Sights?
The XS Sights R3D For Glock Suppressor/RMR Height 42/43 Night Sights are perfect for Glock 42/43 owners looking to upgrade their sights for improved low-light performance and red dot compatibility. They are also an excellent choice for concealed carry users. Anyone prioritizing clear and reliable sighting in all conditions would benefit from this upgrade.
Those who prefer simpler, non-tritium sights should skip this product. Someone uninterested in red dot optics also might not need the suppressor height. A good holster is a must-have accessory.
Conclusion on XS Sights R3D For Glock Suppressor/RMR Height 42/43 Night Sights
The XS Sights R3D For Glock Suppressor/RMR Height 42/43 Night Sights are a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking to enhance the capabilities of their Glock 42 or 43. The price of $114.99 is justified by the quality, performance, and durability of these sights.
I wholeheartedly recommend them. They offer a significant improvement over stock sights. Upgrade your Glock today with the XS Sights R3D.