The Hiviz S&W Sub 3″ J-Frame Pinned Front Sight Fits Sub Made a Bold First Impression
The Hiviz S&W Sub 3″ J-Frame Pinned Front Sight Fits Sub promises to upgrade the sight picture on Smith & Wesson’s classic J-frame revolvers, specifically those with sub-3″ barrels and pinned front sights. This simple upgrade can drastically improve target acquisition in various lighting conditions, a crucial factor for concealed carry and personal defense. Hiviz is known for their bright, easily visible fiber optic sights, and this offering aims to bring that advantage to the compact J-frame platform.
My aging eyes were struggling with the factory sights on my trusty S&W Model 642. The small, fixed sights were proving difficult to pick up quickly, especially in low light. I needed a solution that provided a brighter, clearer sight picture without requiring expensive gunsmithing or permanent modifications.
Upon opening the package, the Hiviz sight immediately impressed me with its vibrant color and seemingly robust construction. The resin overmolded litepipe, available in either red or green, appeared significantly brighter than the factory sight. The overall build quality seemed solid, promising decent durability despite its relatively lightweight construction.
While I haven’t tried every aftermarket J-frame sight, I did consider the XS Sights Big Dot. I chose the Hiviz due to its simpler installation process and the more traditional sight picture it offered. My initial reaction was optimistic; this seemed like a well-designed and affordable upgrade.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hiviz S&W Sub 3″ J-Frame Pinned Front Sight Fits Sub to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Hiviz S&W Sub 3″ J-Frame Pinned Front Sight Fits Sub primarily at an indoor shooting range. I also included some dry-fire practice at home in various lighting conditions. The range provided a controlled environment to assess its accuracy and ease of use.
The improvement in target acquisition was immediately noticeable. The bright fiber optic sight stood out clearly against the target, even under the somewhat dim lighting of the range. The vibrant red color of the litepipe made it easy to quickly align the front sight with the rear notch.
Installation required some minor fitting. The sight is intentionally left un-drilled to allow for precise fitting to the existing pin location on individual firearms. This involved carefully filing the sight base to achieve a snug fit.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions and consistent dry-fire practice over a few months, the Hiviz sight has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of cracking or fading on the litepipe, and the sight remains securely pinned in place. The brightness is consistent.
The only noticeable wear is some minor cosmetic scuffing on the sight base from holster use. Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe with a clean cloth is usually sufficient. Compared to the original, barely visible factory sight, the Hiviz is a significant improvement. It allows for faster and more accurate shots, particularly in less-than-ideal lighting.
Breaking Down the Features of Hiviz S&W Sub 3″ J-Frame Pinned Front Sight Fits Sub
Specifications
- S&W J-Frame Compatibility: Designed specifically for sub-3″ barrel J-frame revolvers with pinned front sights. It’s important to verify your revolver has a pinned front sight before purchasing.
- Resin Overmolded Litepipe: Features a highly visible fiber optic litepipe, available in either red or green. This significantly enhances sight acquisition in various lighting conditions.
- Un-drilled Sight Base: The sight is not pre-drilled, requiring custom fitting to the firearm’s existing pin location. This allows for a precise and secure installation.
- Height: Stands .150″ from the barrel, providing a standard sight height for consistent point-of-impact. Ensure this height is compatible with your preferred ammunition.
- Material: Constructed from durable materials designed to withstand recoil and normal wear and tear. The resin overmolding protects the fiber optic element.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the sight’s visibility, ease of installation, and overall reliability. The un-drilled base, while requiring more effort during installation, allows for a custom fit that maximizes stability and accuracy.
Performance & Functionality
The Hiviz S&W Sub 3″ J-Frame Pinned Front Sight Fits Sub excels at its primary function: improving sight visibility. The bright fiber optic gathers ambient light, creating a clear and easily seen aiming point. This is especially beneficial for shooters with aging eyes or those who frequently practice or carry in low-light environments.
The primary strength is the dramatic improvement in sight acquisition speed. A potential weakness lies in the installation process, which requires careful fitting and some basic gunsmithing skills. It does meet my expectations for an affordable, effective sight upgrade for my J-frame.
Design & Ergonomics
The sight is designed to be low-profile and snag-free, making it suitable for concealed carry. The resin overmolding provides a comfortable and secure gripping surface. While the sight requires some initial fitting, the installation process is relatively straightforward and requires no permanent modifications to the firearm.
Durability & Maintenance
The materials used in the Hiviz sight appear to be quite durable, capable of withstanding the recoil of a J-frame. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth is all that’s required to maintain the sight’s appearance and functionality. The litepipe is protected from direct impact by the resin overmolding.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hiviz S&W Sub 3″ J-Frame Pinned Front Sight Fits Sub is primarily a standalone upgrade. No additional accessories are included, but the sight is compatible with most standard J-frame holsters. While the fiber optic is available in red or green, there are no further customization options for the sight itself.
Pros and Cons of Hiviz S&W Sub 3″ J-Frame Pinned Front Sight Fits Sub
Pros
- Dramatically improved sight visibility, especially in low light.
- Relatively simple installation process (though fitting is required).
- Affordable upgrade compared to other sight options.
- Durable construction capable of withstanding recoil.
- Enhanced target acquisition speed.
Cons
- Requires fitting and drilling, which may be intimidating for some users.
- No included tools or instructions for installation.
- Limited customization options beyond red or green litepipe color.
Who Should Buy Hiviz S&W Sub 3″ J-Frame Pinned Front Sight Fits Sub?
Perfect for: J-frame owners looking for an affordable and effective way to improve their sight picture, especially those who carry for self-defense. It’s also well-suited for shooters with aging eyes who struggle with traditional iron sights. Shooters who practice frequently in low-light conditions will also benefit greatly from this upgrade.
Who should skip this product? Those who are uncomfortable with basic gunsmithing tasks, or those seeking a drop-in, no-fitting-required solution. Individuals who prefer night sights or other specialized sight systems may also find this product lacking.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A set of small files and a pin punch are essential for proper installation. Gunsmithing tools are also recommended, a bench vise can be helpful.
Conclusion on Hiviz S&W Sub 3″ J-Frame Pinned Front Sight Fits Sub
The Hiviz S&W Sub 3″ J-Frame Pinned Front Sight Fits Sub is a worthwhile upgrade for any J-frame owner struggling with their factory sights. The dramatic improvement in sight visibility makes a noticeable difference in target acquisition speed and accuracy. While the fitting process requires some effort and basic tools, the end result is a secure and effective sight upgrade.
At $37.49, the price is more than justified by the improved performance and enhanced confidence it provides. I would definitely recommend this product to any J-frame owner looking for an affordable and effective way to improve their shooting experience. If you’re ready to see your sights clearly again, give the Hiviz a try!