First Thoughts on the MFT Extreme Duty Front Metal Back Up Sight
The MFT Extreme Duty Front Metal Back Up Sight promises rugged reliability in a low-profile package, a crucial element for any serious shooter. MFT, or Mission First Tactical, aims to deliver exactly that with this sight. It strips away unnecessary components and focuses on a durable, functional design. I was intrigued to see if it lived up to the hype.
My need for a robust backup sight stemmed from a recent training exercise where my primary optic failed spectacularly. I needed a backup that wouldn’t add bulk or complexity to my rifle. More importantly, it had to withstand abuse. My search led me to the MFT Extreme Duty Front Metal Back Up Sight.
Unboxing the sight, I was immediately struck by its minimalist design. The all-metal construction felt solid and reassuringly weighty. The finish appeared durable and ready for some hard use.
Compared to similar backup sights like the Magpul MBUS Pro or the Troy Industries Folding BattleSights, the MFT sight stood out due to its simplicity and lack of reliance on springs and detents. I chose this model because I was seeking a solution that minimized potential failure points. This set it apart from competitors.
My first impression was positive. I was excited to test its robustness and see if its simple design translated to dependable performance in the field. It certainly looked like it meant business.
Real-World Testing: Putting MFT Extreme Duty Front Metal Back Up Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the MFT Extreme Duty Front Metal Back Up Sight at my local shooting range. This gave me a controlled environment to assess its initial performance. The weather was slightly overcast, with a light drizzle, offering a mild challenge to visibility.
The sight proved easy to deploy and adjust. I appreciated the positive clicks on the elevation adjustment of the front sight post, which is also threaded for AK pattern posts. No tools were needed beyond a standard AK sight adjustment tool. Zeroing was straightforward, and I quickly achieved accurate groupings at 50 yards.
I encountered no immediate issues. It was a welcome surprise to see how intuitive the sight was, even in damp conditions. I was initially concerned about the lack of a detent to hold the sight in its upright position. This concern faded as I used it more.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the MFT Extreme Duty Front Metal Back Up Sight has proven to be impressively durable. It has endured multiple range trips, a carbine course, and even a weekend camping trip where it was exposed to dirt and light rain. So far, it has held zero consistently.
There are minimal signs of wear and tear. The finish has held up well, with only minor scratches in the high-friction areas. The sight remains firmly in place on the rail and shows no signs of loosening.
Maintenance is incredibly simple. I’ve only needed to wipe it down with a clean cloth after each range session. Its straightforward design means there are no small parts to get gummed up with dirt or debris. It outperforms my expectations, especially considering its price point.
Breaking Down the Features of MFT Extreme Duty Front Metal Back Up Sight
Specifications
The MFT Extreme Duty Front Metal Back Up Sight is constructed from mil-spec hard anodized aluminum. It offers exceptional durability and resistance to corrosion. The sight weighs approximately 1.3 ounces, adding minimal weight to the rifle.
The sight is designed to be low-profile when folded down. It tucks neatly under most optics and accessories, preventing snagging. It utilizes a standard A2 front sight post, adjustable for elevation and threaded for AK pattern posts allowing for common replacement options. The lack of detents and springs is a deliberate design choice to enhance reliability.
These specifications are crucial because they contribute to the sight’s overall robustness and usability. The metal construction ensures it can withstand harsh conditions. The low profile keeps it out of the way when not in use. The absence of springs and detents eliminates common failure points.
Performance & Functionality
The MFT Extreme Duty Front Metal Back Up Sight performs its primary job admirably: it provides a reliable aiming point when the primary optic fails. Its accuracy is comparable to other iron sights. Its simplicity ensures it functions reliably under stress.
Its greatest strength lies in its ruggedness. The absence of small, easily breakable parts makes it incredibly dependable. Its primary weakness is the lack of adjustability for windage. This will need to be done at the rear sight.
It meets my expectations for a backup sight. The ruggedness is high and it is built to withstand the abuse that is so common in the outdoor and tactical environment.
Design & Ergonomics
The sight boasts a clean, uncluttered design. The all-metal construction exudes quality and confidence. The sight is easy to manipulate, even with gloved hands.
The sight is intuitive to use and requires no special training or tools for basic operation. The elevation adjustment is precise and offers tactile feedback. The AK pattern threading for the front sight post is a unique feature that could appeal to users who want customization.
Durability & Maintenance
The MFT Extreme Duty Front Metal Back Up Sight is built to last. Its robust construction and minimal moving parts suggest it will endure years of hard use. It is resistant to corrosion and impact damage.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a brush and a solvent is all that’s needed to keep it in top condition. The absence of intricate mechanisms minimizes the risk of malfunctions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The MFT Extreme Duty Front Metal Back Up Sight doesn’t come with any additional accessories beyond the standard A2 front sight post. However, the threaded front sight post accepts AK pattern replacements, allowing for customization with different post styles and colors. This will allow the end user to match their style or to acquire the optimal level of visibility and/or contrast for their specific mission.
The sight is designed to be compatible with any Picatinny rail system. It will work alongside a wide range of optics and other accessories. The ability to swap out the front sight post for an AK-style variant is a unique and welcome feature.
Pros and Cons of MFT Extreme Duty Front Metal Back Up Sight
Pros
- Incredibly durable due to its simple, all-metal design.
- Low-profile, minimizing snagging on gear.
- Easy to deploy and adjust, even with gloves.
- Accepts AK pattern front sight posts for customization.
- Affordable price point compared to other premium backup sights.
Cons
- Lacks windage adjustment on the front sight itself.
- Minimalist design may not appeal to users seeking more features.
Who Should Buy MFT Extreme Duty Front Metal Back Up Sight?
The MFT Extreme Duty Front Metal Back Up Sight is perfect for shooters who prioritize reliability and simplicity. This includes law enforcement officers, military personnel, and serious recreational shooters who need a dependable backup sighting system. It is also well suited for those who prefer a low-profile setup that minimizes weight and bulk.
This sight is not ideal for users who want extensive adjustability or advanced features. Those who require windage adjustments on the front sight post may prefer other options. Shooters heavily invested in tritium or fiber optic sights might also find this too basic.
A must-have accessory would be an AK sight adjustment tool for precise elevation adjustments. Consider adding a rear back up sight that has adjustable windage.
Conclusion on MFT Extreme Duty Front Metal Back Up Sight
The MFT Extreme Duty Front Metal Back Up Sight offers exceptional value for its price. It delivers rugged reliability and a low-profile design in a package that is easy to deploy and maintain. The sight strips away unnecessary features, focusing on what matters most. Dependable performance when your primary optic fails.
At $72.49, the price is more than justified. You are paying for a sight that is built to last and can withstand the rigors of demanding use. The all-metal construction and simplified design inspire confidence.
I would definitely recommend the MFT Extreme Duty Front Metal Back Up Sight to anyone seeking a reliable and affordable backup sighting system. If you value simplicity and durability, this sight is a solid investment. Consider adding this sight to your next build, or replacing your current sight. You will not be disappointed.