Let’s Talk About Midwest Industries Combat Rifle Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight
Iron sights: a classic, reliable, and often overlooked component in the modern world of red dots and LPVOs. But for those of us who understand the importance of redundancy and a clean sight picture, they’re indispensable. That’s why I recently picked up the Midwest Industries Combat Rifle Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight, hoping to find a backup sighting system that was both rugged and unobtrusive. Midwest Industries has a reputation for building quality AR accessories, so I had high expectations for this particular set.
As someone who’s spent over a decade in the outdoors and tactical gear realm, I’ve seen countless iterations of backup iron sights. I needed something that wouldn’t snag, would hold zero under duress, and wouldn’t break the bank. The low profile design and all-metal construction advertised for this set piqued my interest.
Opening the package, I was immediately impressed by the solid feel of the sights. They felt hefty, but not overly so, suggesting a good balance between durability and weight. The phosphate finished ordnance grade steel components looked robust, and the 6061 aluminum base felt equally well-made.
I considered Magpul MBUS Pro sights and the Troy Industries folding sights, but opted for the Midwest Industries offering due to the positive user feedback emphasizing its slim profile and robust construction at a competitive price point. The decision ultimately came down to balancing cost, durability, and aesthetics.
My initial excitement was high; the Midwest Industries Combat Rifle Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight seemed like it could be the perfect addition to my AR platform, providing a reliable backup without compromising the primary optic’s performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Midwest Industries Combat Rifle Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Midwest Industries Combat Rifle Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight was at a local shooting range. I mounted them on my AR-15, zeroed them at 50 yards, and ran through various drills, including rapid target acquisition and transitions between the red dot and the iron sights. The range conditions were typical – sunny with a slight breeze.
The sights deployed quickly and locked into place with a satisfying click. Acquiring a sight picture was intuitive, and the adjustments for windage and elevation were precise and responsive. I appreciated the dual aperture on the rear sight, allowing for both close-quarters and longer-range engagements.
There were no immediate issues during the initial range session, which instilled confidence in the product’s design and functionality. The sights performed flawlessly, co-witnessing perfectly with my red dot optic.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Midwest Industries Combat Rifle Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight have proven to be exceptionally durable. They’ve been subjected to various conditions, from dry and dusty environments to wet and muddy training sessions.
The sights show no signs of wear and tear, and the finish has held up remarkably well. I’ve even accidentally bumped them against hard surfaces without any noticeable damage. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a cloth and some CLP is all that’s needed.
Compared to other backup iron sights I’ve used in the past, the Midwest Industries set stands out in terms of its ruggedness and reliability. They consistently hold zero and provide a clear and accurate sight picture, outperforming some of the more budget-friendly options I’ve experimented with over the years.
Breaking Down the Features of Midwest Industries Combat Rifle Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight
Specifications
The Midwest Industries Combat Rifle Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight boasts several key specifications that contribute to its overall performance. Constructed with ordnance grade phosphate finished steel sights and a hard coated 6061 aluminum base, they offer a robust yet lightweight design. The sights are designed for top mounting on Picatinny rails and are compatible with M16, M4, and AR-15 platforms.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the sight’s ability to withstand the rigors of field use. The steel construction ensures durability, while the aluminum base keeps the weight manageable. The Picatinny mount allows for easy installation and compatibility with a wide range of firearms.
Performance & Functionality
The Midwest Industries Combat Rifle Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight excels in its primary function: providing a reliable backup sighting system. The sights deploy quickly and lock securely into place, offering a clear and accurate sight picture. Windage and elevation adjustments are precise, allowing for easy zeroing.
One of the strengths of this set is its low profile when folded down. This minimizes obstruction of the primary optic’s field of view. A minor weakness might be the lack of tool-less adjustment, requiring a small tool for precise zeroing. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a backup iron sight.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with high-quality materials and precise machining. The weight is well-balanced, adding minimal bulk to the rifle. The sights are comfortable to use, with a clear and intuitive sight picture.
The design is user-friendly, with a simple and effective deployment mechanism. The low profile minimizes snagging, making it ideal for tactical applications. There’s virtually no learning curve; anyone familiar with AR-15 platforms will find these sights easy to install and use.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the quality of materials and construction, the Midwest Industries Combat Rifle Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight are built to last. With proper care and maintenance, they should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The durable finish resists corrosion and wear, ensuring long-term performance. There are no small, easily lost parts, simplifying maintenance in the field.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Midwest Industries Combat Rifle Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight are primarily intended as standalone backup sights, but are inherently compatible with a range of AR-15 accessories. They can be co-witnessed with various red dot optics, and their Picatinny mount ensures compatibility with a wide array of rail systems.
While the sights themselves don’t offer extensive customization options, their compatibility with standard AR-15 platforms means they can be paired with different front sight posts or aftermarket aperture rings, if desired. They work well with magnifiers, easily clearing space when stowed.
Pros and Cons of Midwest Industries Combat Rifle Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight
Pros
- Extremely low profile when folded, minimizing obstruction of primary optic.
- Robust construction using ordnance grade steel and aluminum, ensuring durability.
- Reliable deployment mechanism with positive locking detents.
- Clear and accurate sight picture with dual aperture rear sight.
- Competitive price point compared to other high-quality backup iron sights.
Cons
- Requires tools for windage and elevation adjustments.
- Some users may prefer a tool-less adjustment system.
Who Should Buy Midwest Industries Combat Rifle Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight?
The Midwest Industries Combat Rifle Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight are perfect for AR-15 owners who prioritize reliability and a clean sight picture. This includes tactical shooters, law enforcement professionals, and anyone who wants a dependable backup sighting system.
Those who prioritize tool-less adjustments or are on an extremely tight budget might want to explore other options. However, for those seeking a balance of quality, durability, and affordability, these sights are an excellent choice.
Must-have accessories include a small tool for windage and elevation adjustments and a quality CLP for cleaning and lubrication. Consider a front sight adjustment tool if you plan to swap out the front sight post.
Conclusion on Midwest Industries Combat Rifle Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight
In summary, the Midwest Industries Combat Rifle Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight are a well-designed and well-executed backup sighting system. They offer a compelling combination of durability, reliability, and a low-profile design.
The price is justified given the quality of materials and construction, making them a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about their AR-15 platform. I would personally recommend these sights to anyone looking for a dependable and unobtrusive backup sighting system.
Don’t compromise on your backup sights; invest in the Midwest Industries Combat Rifle Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight and gain the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have a reliable sighting system ready when you need it most.