What Makes Meprolight MPO-DS Back Up Tritium Night Sight, – 1 out of 5 models Stand Out?
The Meprolight MPO-DS Back Up Tritium Night Sight, – 1 out of 5 models offers Glock owners a compelling solution for low-light shooting scenarios. Manufactured by Meprolight, a trusted name in tritium-illuminated sights, this product promises always-ready visibility without relying on batteries, coupled with a clean sight picture. The combination of blackout rear sights and a low-profile tritium front sight aims to deliver both daytime clarity and nighttime performance, making it a seemingly versatile addition to any Glock pistol.
I’ve spent years dealing with various sighting systems, and reliability in low-light conditions is paramount. My old Glock sights were functional, but lacked the instant readiness of tritium. I needed a solution that wouldn’t fail if my weapon-mounted light went down.
My initial impression upon unboxing the Meprolight MPO-DS was positive. The sights felt robust and well-made. The black-out rear sight finish appeared even and non-reflective, while the tritium vial in the front sight glowed with a noticeable intensity.
I considered Trijicon HDs and Ameriglo Spartans, both excellent choices. However, I wanted a dedicated back-up system that wouldn’t wash out under bright light conditions or distract from the primary optic, hence the blacked-out rears of the Meprolight. The lower price point also factored into my decision.
I was excited to install them and see how they performed in real-world conditions. The promise of instant, battery-free illumination was definitely appealing.
Real-World Testing: Putting Meprolight MPO-DS Back Up Tritium Night Sight, – 1 out of 5 models to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Meprolight MPO-DS at my local indoor range, simulating various lighting conditions. I also took them out to a nighttime training session with some colleagues. The range offered both bright and dim areas, allowing me to assess the sights’ performance in contrasting environments.
In daylight, the black-out rear sights provided a clean, unobstructed view of the target and the front sight. At night, the tritium vial illuminated the front sight clearly and brightly. In damp conditions, grip was maintained without any issues.
The sights were surprisingly easy to use, even without prior experience with black-out rear sights. After a few practice rounds, target acquisition became quick and intuitive. The only minor issue was adjusting to the different sight picture, as the Meprolight sits slightly lower than my old factory sights.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Meprolight MPO-DS sights continue to perform reliably. There are no signs of wear or tear, and the tritium vial remains bright. I cleaned them regularly using a soft brush and solvent.
The sights have proven incredibly durable. They have withstood hundreds of rounds of practice, as well as regular cleaning and handling. Compared to my previous experiences with fiber optic sights, which can be fragile, the Meprolight sights are significantly more robust.
Breaking Down the Features of Meprolight MPO-DS Back Up Tritium Night Sight, – 1 out of 5 models
Specifications
The Meprolight MPO-DS Back Up Tritium Night Sight, – 1 out of 5 models boasts several key specifications:
- Specifically designed as a co-witness back up for Glocks. This means they are designed to work well in conjunction with a red dot optic.
- Black-Out Rear Sights: These minimize distractions during the day and focus the eye on the front sight.
- Low-Profile Tritium Front Sight: This provides constant illumination for low-light shooting without being bulky.
- Metal Construction: Ensures durability and longevity.
- Tritium Illumination: Powered by tritium, offering battery-free, always-on visibility.
These specifications are important because they contribute to the sight’s overall functionality and reliability. The co-witness design makes it excellent as a secondary system. The black-out rears are critical for preventing light flare or distraction, especially when using other aiming devices. The tritium provides instant illumination in low-light environments, a critical advantage in tactical situations.
Performance & Functionality
The Meprolight MPO-DS excels in its intended role as a back-up sighting system. Accuracy is maintained out to 25 yards, even in low light. The simple, uncluttered sight picture makes target acquisition fast and easy.
The main strength of the Meprolight is its reliability. It works regardless of lighting conditions, and does not rely on batteries or external power sources. A potential weakness is that the tritium does dim slightly over time (years), although it should maintain usable illumination for many years.
The Meprolight MPO-DS meets my expectations and provides a reliable and practical solution for low-light shooting. The tritium glows brightly and provides clear target visibility.
Design & Ergonomics
The Meprolight MPO-DS features a low-profile design that doesn’t snag or interfere with holstering. The metal construction feels solid and durable. The sights are comfortable to use and don’t cause any discomfort or irritation.
The sight is user-friendly, with no complicated adjustments or settings. Installation is simple and straightforward.
Durability & Maintenance
The Meprolight MPO-DS is built to last. The rugged metal construction can withstand heavy use and harsh conditions. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a soft brush and solvent.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Meprolight MPO-DS doesn’t require any additional accessories. The sights are designed to be a complete solution. It’s compatible with most standard Glock holsters and accessories. The sight’s low profile ensures it won’t interfere with common modifications such as extended slide releases or magazine wells.
Pros and Cons of Meprolight MPO-DS Back Up Tritium Night Sight, – 1 out of 5 models
Pros
- Always-on Tritium Illumination: Provides instant visibility in low-light conditions without batteries.
- Black-Out Rear Sights: Minimize distractions and focus the eye on the front sight.
- Durable Metal Construction: Ensures longevity and reliability.
- Easy Installation: Can be easily installed by a gunsmith, or even by many users.
- Co-Witness Design: Works seamlessly with red dot optics.
Cons
- Tritium brightness diminishes over time (though slowly).
- Sight picture may take some getting used to for users accustomed to traditional three-dot sights.
Who Should Buy Meprolight MPO-DS Back Up Tritium Night Sight, – 1 out of 5 models?
The Meprolight MPO-DS is perfect for: Law enforcement, concealed carry holders, and anyone who needs a reliable back-up sighting system for their Glock pistol. It’s also well-suited for home defense or tactical applications where low-light visibility is essential.
Who should skip this product? Shooters who prefer fiber optic sights, or those who require adjustable sights for precision shooting at long ranges. People who dislike the look of tritium sights will also want to seek other options.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A proper sight pusher tool is highly recommended for installation, but no other modifications are needed.
Conclusion on Meprolight MPO-DS Back Up Tritium Night Sight, – 1 out of 5 models
The Meprolight MPO-DS Back Up Tritium Night Sight, – 1 out of 5 models offers a compelling combination of reliability, simplicity, and performance. The price is justified, considering the quality and features provided.
I would personally recommend the Meprolight MPO-DS to anyone looking for a dependable back-up sighting system for their Glock. The always-on tritium illumination and black-out rear sights provide a clear and functional sight picture in any lighting condition. If you value reliability and simplicity, the Meprolight MPO-DS is an excellent choice. Equip your Glock with Meprolight and be prepared for anything!