Let’s Dive into HiViz Illuminated S&W 617 Front Night Sight
The HiViz Illuminated S&W 617 Front Night Sight promises enhanced visibility in low-light conditions for Smith & Wesson 617 revolver owners. This aftermarket sight aims to improve accuracy and target acquisition, making it a valuable upgrade for both recreational shooters and those seeking a tactical advantage. HiViz, known for their fiber optic sights, brings their expertise to the revolver platform with this offering.
Years of plinking with my S&W 617 led to a glaring realization: my aging eyes struggled with the factory front sight, especially in twilight or overcast conditions. I needed a solution that enhanced visibility without compromising the revolver’s classic feel. That’s why I landed on the HiViz Illuminated S&W 617 Front Night Sight.
The sight arrived in a simple, no-frills package. Immediately, I noticed the bright green fiber optic insert, promising excellent light gathering capabilities. The sight body appeared robust and well-machined. It instilled confidence.
Compared to Trijicon night sights (known for tritium illumination) or even painted fiber optic options, I chose this HiViz sight for its simplicity and reliance on ambient light amplification. I was looking for a balance of performance and ease of use, hoping it would deliver. My initial thought was positive.
I was eager to test its performance. I had heard good things about HiViz sights in general and was optimistic that it would live up to its claims of improved visibility and accuracy. Only time and testing would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting HiViz Illuminated S&W 617 Front Night Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range trip with the HiViz Illuminated S&W 617 Front Night Sight was at my local outdoor range on an overcast afternoon. I wanted to simulate less-than-ideal lighting conditions. I focused on target acquisition at various distances.
The fiber optic sight immediately proved its worth, offering a brighter and clearer sight picture compared to the factory sight. Even under the dull sky, the green dot stood out vibrantly. Target acquisition became faster and more intuitive, a clear advantage over the original.
Installation was straightforward. The sight fit perfectly into the existing dovetail slot with only minor tapping with a nylon punch. No gunsmithing was required. I was shooting tighter groups almost immediately.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the HiViz Illuminated S&W 617 Front Night Sight continues to perform admirably. I’ve put hundreds of rounds downrange. The sight shows no signs of loosening or degradation.
The fiber optic insert remains bright and vibrant. Cleaning is simple. A quick wipe with a soft cloth keeps it free of dust and debris. Its durability has exceeded expectations.
Compared to other aftermarket sights I’ve used on other revolvers, this HiViz offering stands out for its balance of brightness, ease of installation, and robust construction. It has significantly improved my shooting experience. I find it superior.
Breaking Down the Features of HiViz Illuminated S&W 617 Front Night Sight
Specifications
- The HiViz Illuminated S&W 617 Front Night Sight is specifically designed for the Smith & Wesson Model 617 L-Frame revolver. This ensures a proper fit and optimal performance.
- The sight features a bright green fiber optic insert, resin overmolded, for enhanced visibility in various lighting conditions. This provides a clear and easily acquired sight picture, improving accuracy.
- The installed sight height is .165 inches, which maintains the proper relationship with the factory rear sight. This ensures that the revolver shoots to point-of-aim at common distances.
- The finish is matte, reducing glare and providing a clean, professional look. This minimizes distractions and maximizes the sight’s effectiveness.
- Installation is designed to be user-friendly, typically requiring no gunsmithing. This allows most users to install the sight themselves, saving time and money.
Performance & Functionality
The HiViz Illuminated S&W 617 Front Night Sight dramatically improves target acquisition speed. It enhances accuracy in low-light situations. The bright green fiber optic stands out clearly against various backgrounds, aiding in quick and precise aiming.
The sight excels in both daylight and low-light scenarios. However, in complete darkness, it relies on ambient light, so it will not glow like a tritium sight. It is excellent in dusk or dawn conditions.
The sight meets and exceeds expectations for a fiber optic front sight. It offers a significant improvement over the factory sight. It is now my go-to for my 617.
Design & Ergonomics
The HiViz sight boasts a robust and durable design. It utilizes high-quality materials that feel solid and well-made. The sight is lightweight and does not significantly alter the balance of the revolver.
The design is user-friendly, allowing for easy installation and a comfortable sight picture. No special tools are needed for most installations. The sight’s profile is relatively low, making it holster-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The HiViz Illuminated S&W 617 Front Night Sight is built to withstand the rigors of regular shooting. The fiber optic insert is protected by a durable resin overmold, preventing damage from impact or solvents. The overmold is resilient.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a soft cloth. No special lubricants or treatments are necessary. The sight is a breeze to keep clean.
Accessories and Customization Options
The HiViz Illuminated S&W 617 Front Night Sight is primarily a standalone upgrade, designed to replace the factory front sight. There aren’t many customization options directly related to the sight itself.
The sight is compatible with most standard holsters designed for the S&W 617. This ensures that users can continue to use their existing gear without modification. Check your holster fit!
Users can pair the HiViz front sight with various aftermarket rear sights for further customization. However, the HiViz sight works well with the factory rear, as well. I did not feel the need to change the rear.
Pros and Cons of HiViz Illuminated S&W 617 Front Night Sight
Pros
- Significantly enhanced visibility in low-light conditions. The bright green fiber optic provides a clear and easily acquired sight picture.
- Improved accuracy and target acquisition speed. The sight helps shooters acquire targets faster and more accurately, leading to tighter groupings.
- Easy to install, typically requiring no gunsmithing. Most users can install the sight themselves, saving time and money.
- Durable and robust construction. The sight is built to withstand the rigors of regular shooting and is protected by a durable resin overmold.
- Affordable upgrade that offers significant performance benefits. The sight provides a cost-effective way to improve the performance of a Smith & Wesson 617 revolver.
Cons
- Not as effective in complete darkness as tritium night sights. The sight relies on ambient light, so it will not glow in total darkness.
- Fiber optic insert could be susceptible to damage if not properly cared for. While protected by the resin overmold, the fiber optic could be damaged by harsh chemicals or impacts.
Who Should Buy HiViz Illuminated S&W 617 Front Night Sight?
The HiViz Illuminated S&W 617 Front Night Sight is perfect for recreational shooters, competitive shooters, and anyone who uses their Smith & Wesson 617 revolver for target practice or plinking. It is also beneficial for those with aging eyes, who may struggle with the factory sight in low-light conditions. It greatly improved my accuracy.
Individuals who primarily shoot in complete darkness or require a night sight that glows continuously should skip this product. They should consider tritium night sights instead. If your ambient light is always non-existent, look elsewhere.
A high-quality gun cleaning kit is a must-have accessory to ensure the sight and revolver are properly maintained. A good holster designed for the S&W 617 is also essential for safe and convenient carry. Don’t forget eye and ear protection.
Conclusion on HiViz Illuminated S&W 617 Front Night Sight
The HiViz Illuminated S&W 617 Front Night Sight is an excellent aftermarket upgrade that delivers on its promise of enhanced visibility and improved accuracy. It is easy to install, durable, and offers a significant performance boost over the factory sight. It is now a permanent fixture on my 617.
At a price of $49.79, the HiViz sight represents excellent value for the money. The performance benefits far outweigh the cost. The price is easily justifiable.
I would highly recommend the HiViz Illuminated S&W 617 Front Night Sight to anyone looking to improve the performance of their Smith & Wesson 617 revolver. It’s a worthwhile upgrade that will enhance your shooting experience. Upgrade your sight today!