First Thoughts on the Hi-Viz LiteWave CompSight Red/Green/White Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight
The Hi-Viz LiteWave CompSight Red/Green/White Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight promises to be a significant upgrade to the standard bead sight found on many shotguns. Hi-Viz is a well-known name in the sight business, and the promise of increased visibility and a quick-change fiber optic system is appealing. Having struggled with acquiring a clear sight picture in low light situations while hunting upland game, I was looking for a cost-effective solution that didn’t involve a full-blown optic.
My shotgun, a trusty 12-gauge I’ve had for years, has a simple brass bead sight. This sight is adequate in bright daylight, but it becomes nearly invisible during early morning or late evening hunts when the light is fading. The Hi-Viz LiteWave CompSight seemed like the perfect solution to improve my target acquisition in those challenging conditions, offering multiple color options for different lighting scenarios. Upon receiving it, the sight felt solid and well-made.
I considered other fiber optic sights, including some from TruGlo and Williams Gun Sight. However, the Hi-Viz LiteWave CompSight stood out due to its reputation for durability and the ability to easily swap out the fiber optic pipes without tools. The $22.99 price tag also made it an attractive option compared to more expensive alternatives. My initial reaction was excitement; I was eager to get it installed and see how much it would improve my shotgun’s sighting capabilities.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hi-Viz LiteWave CompSight Red/Green/White Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Hi-Viz LiteWave CompSight at my local shooting range, specifically focusing on simulating various hunting scenarios. The range has areas shaded by trees, which provided a good approximation of the low-light conditions I often encounter in the field. Installation was straightforward, as my shotgun already had a threaded bead. The sight screwed in easily and felt secure.
The difference compared to the standard bead was immediately noticeable. The fiber optic pipe, particularly the green one, was incredibly bright and easy to pick up, even in the shaded areas. I cycled through the red, green, and white pipes to determine which worked best for me in different lighting conditions. The green was my favorite in overcast settings, while the red seemed best for bright daylight. The white offered a neutral alternative.
There were no issues with the sight coming loose or shifting during the initial shooting session. It significantly improved my ability to quickly acquire a target and maintain a clear sight picture. The only minor issue was that the bright fiber optic initially drew my eye too much, making me focus more on the sight itself than on the target; this took some getting used to.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple trips to the range and a full upland bird hunting season, the Hi-Viz LiteWave CompSight has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear and tear on the steel base. The fiber optic pipes remain bright and haven’t faded or cracked, despite exposure to various weather conditions.
Cleaning the sight is simple; a quick wipe with a cloth removes any dirt or debris. I periodically check the tightness of the sight to ensure it hasn’t loosened. Compared to my previous experience with the standard bead sight, the Hi-Viz LiteWave CompSight is a significant improvement in terms of visibility and ease of use. It has definitely boosted my confidence in low-light hunting situations.
Breaking Down the Features of Hi-Viz LiteWave CompSight Red/Green/White Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight
Specifications
- The Hi-Viz LiteWave CompSight is designed specifically for shotguns. It is intended as a direct replacement for the existing bead sight on vent rib shotguns.
- The sight is constructed from steel. This construction provides durability and resistance to the elements.
- The color is black. This color ensures it blends seamlessly with most shotgun finishes.
- It is compatible with any shotgun that has a vent rib. The sight fits models with threaded beads.
- The design offers increased durability with the brightness and integral LitePipe locking. This system makes replacing the fiber optics a breeze.
The steel construction ensures the sight can withstand the recoil and wear and tear associated with shotgun use. The compatibility with vent rib shotguns makes it a versatile upgrade for a wide range of firearms. The quick-change LitePipe system is a significant advantage, allowing users to easily adapt to changing lighting conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Hi-Viz LiteWave CompSight excels at its primary function: improving target acquisition in various lighting conditions. The bright fiber optic pipes draw the eye quickly and provide a clear aiming point.
The sight’s strengths lie in its simplicity and effectiveness. The easy installation and quick-change fiber optic system are major advantages. A minor weakness is that some users might initially find the bright fiber optic distracting, requiring some adjustment. Overall, the sight meets and exceeds expectations for a simple, cost-effective upgrade.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hi-Viz LiteWave CompSight features a straightforward and functional design. The steel base is sturdy and well-machined.
The weight of the sight is negligible. It adds minimal bulk to the shotgun. The design is user-friendly with no learning curve. The installation is as simple as screwing in a bead sight.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel construction of the Hi-Viz LiteWave CompSight ensures long-term durability. It is built to withstand the rigors of regular use in the field.
Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning with a cloth is all that’s required to keep the sight in good working condition. The replaceable fiber optic pipes mean that even if one breaks, the sight remains functional.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hi-Viz LiteWave CompSight comes with three interchangeable fiber optic pipes: red, green, and white. This offers some degree of customization.
There are no other readily available accessories specifically designed for this sight. However, the primary customization is in choosing the preferred fiber optic color for different shooting scenarios. The Hi-Viz company offers replacement fiber optic pipes in various colors and sizes, although these are generally intended as replacements rather than upgrades.
Pros and Cons of Hi-Viz LiteWave CompSight Red/Green/White Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight
Pros
- Significantly improves target acquisition in low-light conditions.
- Easy to install and requires no gunsmithing.
- Quick-change fiber optic system allows for customization based on lighting.
- Durable steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Affordable price point makes it an accessible upgrade for any shotgun owner.
Cons
- Extremely bright fiber optic pipe can initially be distracting for some users.
- Limited customization options beyond the included fiber optic colors.
Who Should Buy Hi-Viz LiteWave CompSight Red/Green/White Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight?
The Hi-Viz LiteWave CompSight is perfect for hunters, especially upland bird and waterfowl hunters, who often find themselves in low-light shooting situations. It’s also great for recreational shooters who want to improve their accuracy and target acquisition speed.
This product might not be ideal for competitive shooters who require highly precise and adjustable sights. Similarly, those who primarily shoot in bright daylight might not see as much benefit from the fiber optic design. Those who prefer a very low profile sight should also avoid this product.
A must-have modification for this sight is arguably a good quality shotgun sling. This ensures that your firearm is secured correctly when moving between shooting positions. Having the sling secure also ensures you will not damage the sight.
Conclusion on Hi-Viz LiteWave CompSight Red/Green/White Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight
The Hi-Viz LiteWave CompSight Red/Green/White Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight is a worthwhile upgrade for any shotgun owner looking to improve their shooting in less-than-ideal lighting conditions. For the price, it offers a significant boost in visibility and target acquisition speed, making it a valuable addition to any shotgun.
The price of $22.99 is more than justified given the performance and durability of the sight. I would definitely recommend the Hi-Viz LiteWave CompSight to anyone looking for a simple, effective, and affordable way to enhance their shotgun’s sighting capabilities. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference a bright, clear sight picture can make!