Let’s Dive into HiViz Tombuster II Shotgun Sight
The HiViz Tombuster II Shotgun Sight promises to elevate your turkey hunting game with its illuminated front and rear sights. Marketed by HiViz as an adjustable, bright sight option for vent-ribbed shotguns, it aims to provide better visibility in low-light conditions. I was intrigued by the promise of improved target acquisition in the dense, shaded woods where turkeys love to hide.
My aging eyes needed some assistance in lining up those early morning shots. The factory bead on my trusty 12-gauge just wasn’t cutting it anymore. I considered other fiber optic sights from TruGlo and Williams Gun Sight, but the HiViz Tombuster II Shotgun Sight’s combination of front and rear adjustability, along with the interchangeable LitePipes, seemed like the most versatile option for fine-tuning my setup.
Upon unboxing, I noticed the sights were lightweight, primarily constructed of polymer with metal screws. The fiber optic inserts were vibrant, but the plastic mounts did raise a slight concern about long-term durability. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The brightness was impressive, but the plastic components left me wondering if they could withstand the rigors of the turkey woods.
Real-World Testing: Putting HiViz Tombuster II Shotgun Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test took place on a familiar shooting range nestled in the Appalachian foothills. I mounted the HiViz Tombuster II Shotgun Sight on my Remington 870 and patterned several loads of turkey shot at 30 yards. The bright sights were immediately noticeable, making target acquisition faster than with the standard bead. However, the plastic rear sight mount did exhibit some flex when making adjustments.
The wet conditions of that day highlighted a potential issue with the plastic mounts. They became slippery, making precise adjustments more difficult. I also found that the orange LitePipe in the front sight wasn’t as visible against the dark backdrop of the woods as I had hoped.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of turkey hunting in various conditions, the HiViz Tombuster II Shotgun Sight held up reasonably well. The fiber optic elements remained bright and functional. I did notice some wear on the edges of the plastic rear sight, likely from brushing against branches and brush during my hunts.
Cleaning was simple, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth. Compared to my previous setup, which involved struggling to see the dull bead in low light, the HiViz Tombuster II Shotgun Sight offered a significant improvement in visibility. However, the slight bending of the plastic mounts remained a concern, impacting the long-term accuracy and consistency of my shots.
Breaking Down the Features of HiViz Tombuster II Shotgun Sight
Specifications
The HiViz Tombuster II Shotgun Sight is designed as a front and rear turkey sight set. It fits most vent-ribbed shotguns with a removable front bead, accommodating ribs from 1/4″ to 7/16″ wide. It features a two-dot, fully adjustable rear sight and a round fiber optic LitePipe front sight. The available color combinations are Red/Green and Green/Orange, providing options to suit different lighting conditions and personal preferences.
- Manufacturer: HiViz.
- Color Options: Red/Green, Green/Orange.
- Size: One Size.
- Gun Type: Shotgun.
- Beam Color: Green, Orange.
- Finish: Matte.
- Adjustability: Adjustable.
These specifications are crucial because they determine the sight’s compatibility with your shotgun and its effectiveness in different environments. The adjustability allows you to fine-tune your point of impact. The interchangeable LitePipes offer versatility for varying light conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The HiViz Tombuster II Shotgun Sight performs adequately in its intended role. It provides enhanced visibility and faster target acquisition compared to traditional bead sights. However, the plastic mounts introduce a degree of inconsistency.
The strengths lie in the bright fiber optic elements and the adjustable rear sight. The weakness is the flimsiness of the plastic mounts, which can bend and shift under pressure. It meets the basic expectation of providing a brighter sight picture but falls short of delivering the rock-solid consistency needed for precision shooting.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the HiViz Tombuster II Shotgun Sight is straightforward and functional. The materials, primarily polymer, keep the weight down. The ergonomics are acceptable, although the plastic mounts feel less premium than metal alternatives.
The sight is relatively user-friendly, requiring minimal gunsmithing skills to install. The adjustability of the rear sight allows for precise zeroing.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability of the HiViz Tombuster II Shotgun Sight is a mixed bag. The fiber optic elements are robust and should last for many seasons. The plastic mounts, however, are the weak link.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris. Repairing the plastic mounts, if they break, would likely require replacing the entire sight set.
Accessories and Customization Options
The HiViz Tombuster II Shotgun Sight comes with interchangeable green and orange LitePipes for the front sight. This allows you to customize the sight picture based on your preferences and the prevailing lighting conditions. While there are no specific HiViz accessories designed for this sight, the universal vent-rib mount means it should be compatible with other aftermarket shotgun accessories.
Pros and Cons of HiViz Tombuster II Shotgun Sight
Pros
- Enhanced Visibility: Bright fiber optic sights significantly improve target acquisition in low-light conditions.
- Adjustable Rear Sight: Allows for precise zeroing and fine-tuning of your point of impact.
- Interchangeable LitePipes: Green and orange options provide versatility for different lighting scenarios.
- Easy Installation: Simple to install with minimal gunsmithing skills.
- Affordable Price: Provides a significant upgrade over standard bead sights without breaking the bank.
Cons
- Plastic Mounts: Flimsy plastic construction introduces inconsistencies and potential durability issues.
- Mount Flex: The plastic rear sight mount exhibits noticeable flex, impacting accuracy.
- Durability Concerns: The plastic components may not withstand the rigors of heavy use in the field.
Who Should Buy HiViz Tombuster II Shotgun Sight?
The HiViz Tombuster II Shotgun Sight is perfect for budget-conscious turkey hunters seeking improved visibility in low-light conditions. It’s also a good option for those with aging eyes who struggle to see traditional bead sights. This is an appropriate choice for recreational shooters and hunters who prioritize affordability and ease of installation over ultimate durability.
Those who should skip this product include serious hunters who demand maximum reliability and consistency from their equipment. Also, skip this item if you hunt in particularly harsh conditions where durability is paramount. If that’s you, you’re better off investing in a more robust metal sight system.
A must-have modification would be to carefully reinforce the plastic mounts with epoxy or a similar adhesive to improve their rigidity.
Conclusion on HiViz Tombuster II Shotgun Sight
The HiViz Tombuster II Shotgun Sight offers a noticeable improvement in visibility for turkey hunting at an affordable price. The bright fiber optic elements and adjustable rear sight are definite advantages. However, the flimsy plastic mounts introduce some compromises in terms of durability and consistency.
The price is justified for those seeking a simple upgrade to their shotgun’s sight picture. I would personally recommend it as an entry-level option for recreational hunters. Just be aware of its limitations and potential durability issues.
If you’re looking to bag that elusive gobbler this season, the HiViz Tombuster II Shotgun Sight might give you the edge you need – just don’t expect it to be bulletproof!