Let’s Dive into GG&G Spring Actuated A2 Top Mounted Deployable Iron Sight
The GG&G Spring Actuated A2 Top Mounted Deployable Iron Sight is a backup iron sight (BUIS) designed for AR-15 platform rifles, offering a rapid, spring-assisted deployment with a robust A2-style aperture. GG&G Tactical aims to provide a reliable and easily-operated BUIS that eliminates accidental lowering, a common concern with some flip-up sights. I first encountered this sight while searching for a more dependable backup sighting system than the folding polymer sights I’d been using, seeking something more robust and faster to deploy under stress.
My frustration with flimsy, easily-bumped polymer sights led me to the GG&G offering. Unboxing the GG&G Spring Actuated A2 Top Mounted Deployable Iron Sight, my first impression was of solid, purposeful construction. The weight, a little over 2.4 ounces, felt appropriate for a metal BUIS, conveying a sense of durability that my previous polymer sights lacked.
Compared to Magpul MBUS Pro sights, the GG&G sight stood out with its spring-actuated deployment, eliminating manual flipping, and the A2-style aperture felt immediately familiar. I also considered the Daniel Defense A1.5 Fixed Rear Sight, but I wanted the option to easily stow the sight when using optics, and the GG&G’s deployable design offered that flexibility. My initial excitement stemmed from the promise of quick deployment and a rock-solid lockup, addressing my main concerns with other BUIS options.
Real-World Testing: Putting GG&G Spring Actuated A2 Top Mounted Deployable Iron Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the GG&G Spring Actuated A2 Top Mounted Deployable Iron Sight at an outdoor shooting range, under sunny, clear conditions. The ease of deployment was immediately apparent; a simple push of the button snapped the sight into its upright and locked position. I appreciated the solid feel of the locked-up sight, a significant improvement over the looser feeling of some other flip-up sights I’ve used.
Performance in sunny conditions was excellent, the standard A2 aperture providing a clear sight picture. There were no issues with glare or reflections. The sight functioned flawlessly from the get-go; I didn’t require any adjustment period to get used to its operation.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including multiple range trips and a weekend-long carbine course, the GG&G Spring Actuated A2 Top Mounted Deployable Iron Sight has proven remarkably durable. There are no signs of wear and tear beyond some minor cosmetic scuffs on the anodized finish. The spring mechanism remains strong and reliable, consistently deploying and locking the sight with authority.
Maintenance is minimal; I simply wipe it down with a lightly oiled cloth after each range session. Compared to my previous experiences with polymer sights that would sometimes shift zero or feel loose, the GG&G sight has been a significant upgrade in both reliability and confidence. The GG&G sight definitely outperforms my previous back-up iron sight, specifically in robustness and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of GG&G Spring Actuated A2 Top Mounted Deployable Iron Sight
Specifications
- The GG&G Spring Actuated A2 Top Mounted Deployable Iron Sight is constructed from 6061-T6 aluminum alloy with a Type III hard coat anodized finish and black manganese phosphated steel components. This material selection provides both strength and corrosion resistance, important for a component that may be exposed to harsh conditions.
- It weighs approximately 2.4 ounces, adding minimal weight to the rifle. This ensures that it doesn’t significantly impact the weapon’s balance.
- The sight is designed for top mounting on Picatinny rails and utilizes a standard A2-style double peep aperture. The mount is a Picatinny rail mount.
- It features full windage adjustment with a tactile grip windage knob, offering precise adjustments without tools. One click equates to roughly 0.48 MOA on an M16A2E4 and 0.65 MOA on an AR carbine.
- Options include a tritium aperture for enhanced low-light visibility, or an XS Same-Plane aperture for improved accuracy. The availability of options allows users to tailor the sight to their specific needs.
Performance & Functionality
The GG&G Spring Actuated A2 Top Mounted Deployable Iron Sight excels at providing a rapid and reliable backup sighting system. Its spring-actuated deployment is significantly faster than manually flipping a sight. The sight locks firmly into place, eliminating concerns about accidental folding.
The windage adjustments are precise and repeatable, allowing for easy zeroing. The sight does exactly what it should do. A potential area for improvement is the height; while low-profile, it might interfere with some larger objective lenses.
Design & Ergonomics
The GG&G Spring Actuated A2 Top Mounted Deployable Iron Sight has a robust but compact design. The 6061-T6 aluminum and mil-spec anodizing contribute to its durability and resistance to scratches and corrosion. The tactile windage knob is easily manipulated, even with gloved hands.
The push-button deployment is intuitive and requires minimal effort, even under stress. There is a slight learning curve to the push-button deployment.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its construction from 6061-T6 aluminum and steel, and the mil-spec anodized finish, the GG&G Spring Actuated A2 Top Mounted Deployable Iron Sight is built to last. Regular cleaning with a lightly oiled cloth is sufficient for maintenance. The robust construction ensures a long service life with minimal upkeep.
Repair is unlikely to be needed, but the simple design would likely allow for easy replacement of individual components if necessary. The robust construction ensures a long service life with minimal upkeep.
Accessories and Customization Options
The GG&G Spring Actuated A2 Top Mounted Deployable Iron Sight itself doesn’t require any additional accessories for basic functionality. However, GG&G offers optional tritium or XS Same-Plane apertures for enhanced visibility or accuracy. The sight is compatible with any standard AR-15 front sight post, allowing users to customize their front sight.
While no specific accessories are required, the optional apertures and front sight compatibility offer ample customization opportunities. The sight is compatible with most AR-15 platforms.
Pros and Cons of GG&G Spring Actuated A2 Top Mounted Deployable Iron Sight
Pros
- Spring-Actuated Deployment: Provides rapid deployment with a simple push of a button.
- Rock-Solid Lockup: Locks securely in the upright position, eliminating accidental folding.
- Durable Construction: Built from 6061-T6 aluminum and steel with a mil-spec anodized finish for long-lasting reliability.
- Precise Windage Adjustments: The tactile windage knob allows for easy and accurate zeroing.
- Familiar A2 Aperture: Uses a standard A2-style double peep aperture for a familiar sight picture.
Cons
- Height may interfere with some large objective lenses, though unlikely.
- Price is higher than some polymer BUIS options.
Who Should Buy GG&G Spring Actuated A2 Top Mounted Deployable Iron Sight?
The GG&G Spring Actuated A2 Top Mounted Deployable Iron Sight is perfect for: tactical shooters, law enforcement professionals, and anyone who needs a dependable and rapidly deployable backup sighting system on their AR-15. It is also ideal for shooters who prefer the familiar A2-style aperture.
This product may not be ideal for budget-conscious builders looking for the cheapest possible BUIS solution. Shooters prioritizing ultra-lightweight builds might also consider lighter polymer options. A must-have accessory is a quality AR-15 front sight adjustment tool.
Conclusion on GG&G Spring Actuated A2 Top Mounted Deployable Iron Sight
The GG&G Spring Actuated A2 Top Mounted Deployable Iron Sight is a robust, reliable, and rapidly deployable backup iron sight that delivers on its promises. While the price is higher than some alternatives, the durability, spring-actuated deployment, and rock-solid lockup justify the investment for serious shooters. The GG&G Spring Actuated A2 Top Mounted Deployable Iron Sight is an exceptional BUIS.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the GG&G Spring Actuated A2 Top Mounted Deployable Iron Sight to anyone seeking a dependable and quickly accessible backup sighting system for their AR-15. If you need a BUIS that you can trust your life to, look no further. Upgrade your AR-15 with the GG&G Spring Actuated A2 Top Mounted Deployable Iron Sight and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have a reliable backup when you need it most!