Let’s Talk About Strike Industries Sidewinder BUIS II Offset Deployable Iron Sight
Back-up iron sights (BUIS) are essential for any serious shooter, and the Strike Industries Sidewinder BUIS II Offset Deployable Iron Sight aims to deliver a reliable and versatile solution. Strike Industries has a reputation for innovative and robust designs, and these sights promise tool-less adjustments and the ability to function as both a 45-degree offset and traditional in-line sight. These features immediately grabbed my attention, as I’ve always sought flexible and dependable BUIS for my AR platform.
I’ve been running magnified optics on my AR for years, but I wanted a rapid transition option for close-quarters engagements. My primary optic is fantastic at medium range, but switching to iron sights quickly in a dynamic situation seemed like a smart move. I was looking for a streamlined, robust, and easily adjustable back-up sighting system that wouldn’t add unnecessary bulk or complexity to my rifle.
Unboxing the Strike Industries Sidewinder BUIS II, I was immediately impressed with the feel of the steel and aluminum construction. They felt solid, well-machined, and lightweight – not flimsy or cheap. The finish was clean and appeared durable.
Compared to Magpul MBUS Pro offset sights and the Troy Industries folding battle sights, the Strike Industries offering stood out due to its tool-less adjustment and dual functionality. I had considered the Magpul sights for their low profile, and the Troy sights for their bomb-proof reputation, but the Sidewinder’s tool-less adjustments were a major selling point. This feature promised quick and easy zeroing in the field without needing to fumble with small tools.
My first impression was excitement tempered with a bit of skepticism about the tool-less adjustment system. I was excited about the potential ease of use but concerned about whether the system would hold zero under recoil. I was eager to get these sights on my rifle and head to the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Strike Industries Sidewinder BUIS II Offset Deployable Iron Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Strike Industries Sidewinder BUIS II at my local shooting range during a training session focused on transitioning between optics and iron sights. The weather was mild and dry, making for ideal shooting conditions. I mounted the sights on my AR-15 with a Trijicon ACOG, placing them at the 45-degree offset position.
The initial setup was straightforward, but getting the sights properly zeroed required some patience due to the sensitivity of the tool-less adjustments. Once dialed in, the sights proved to be surprisingly accurate at close to medium ranges (out to 50 yards). Deployment was quick and intuitive, making transitions from the ACOG smooth and efficient.
The biggest surprise was how well the tool-less dials worked. I was expecting some slop or movement, but the adjustments felt precise and held their position even after several magazines of rapid fire. However, the front sight needing to be pressed into the inline position instead of snapping in place was concerning.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range trips and a few hundred rounds downrange, the Strike Industries Sidewinder BUIS II sights have held up remarkably well. There are no signs of loosening or shifting. The finish shows minimal wear, even after being exposed to some light rain and handling in and out of my rifle case.
The aluminum and steel construction has proven to be durable, with no signs of bending or damage. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth is all they require. I previously used fixed iron sights, and the Strike Industries sights offer a significant advantage in terms of versatility and ease of adjustment. These are significantly better than older, non-adjustable iron sights.
Breaking Down the Features of Strike Industries Sidewinder BUIS II Offset Deployable Iron Sight
Specifications
The Strike Industries Sidewinder BUIS II Offset Deployable Iron Sight boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance. They are constructed from a combination of steel and aircraft aluminum for durability and weight reduction. The sights are designed for offset mounting on Picatinny rails and provide both front and rear sighting options.
The sights are deployable, offering a low-profile when not in use. Most notably, the sights feature tool-less dial adjustments for windage and elevation, a significant advantage for on-the-fly zeroing. They are designed to withstand the recoil of 5.56 and larger calibers.
These specifications matter because they directly influence the sights’ usability and reliability. The tool-less adjustments allow for quick corrections in the field, while the material choices ensure they can withstand the rigors of tactical use.
Performance & Functionality
The Strike Industries Sidewinder BUIS II performs its intended function admirably, providing a reliable back-up sighting system. Accuracy is good once the sights are properly zeroed, and the tool-less adjustments make fine-tuning relatively easy. The sights deploy quickly and securely, making transitions from a primary optic seamless.
The main strength is the ease of adjustment. The primary weakness is the front sight design.
The sights met my expectations for a back-up system. They are not meant to replace a primary optic, but they provide a dependable alternative in case of optic failure or close-quarters situations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Strike Industries Sidewinder BUIS II features a sleek, low-profile design that integrates well with most AR-15 platforms. The combination of steel and aluminum provides a good balance of durability and weight. The sights are comfortable to use and don’t interfere with the handling of the rifle.
The tool-less dials are well-placed and easy to manipulate, even with gloved hands. There is a slight learning curve associated with zeroing due to the sensitivity of the adjustment dials.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel and aluminum construction of the Strike Industries Sidewinder BUIS II suggests they will last for many years with proper care. The finish appears to be durable and resistant to scratches and corrosion. Maintenance is straightforward; regular cleaning with a bore brush and light oil is all that is needed.
I expect these sights to provide reliable service for the foreseeable future. Their robust construction and simple design suggest they should withstand years of use and abuse.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Strike Industries Sidewinder BUIS II Offset Deployable Iron Sight does not come with many accessories, as it’s a self-contained unit. However, they are compatible with any AR-15 platform that has Picatinny rails.
They can be paired with various optics, including red dots, holographic sights, and magnified scopes. The 45-degree offset allows the user to maintain their primary optic while having a quick-transition option for close-quarters engagements.
Pros and Cons of Strike Industries Sidewinder BUIS II Offset Deployable Iron Sight
Pros
- Tool-less adjustments for windage and elevation allow for quick and easy zeroing in the field.
- Durable steel and aluminum construction ensures the sights can withstand the rigors of tactical use.
- Low-profile design minimizes interference with the primary optic and overall handling of the rifle.
- Quick deployment allows for seamless transitions between optics and iron sights.
- Versatile 45-degree offset allows for rapid target acquisition at close range.
Cons
- The front sight detent not working is concerning.
- The tool-less adjustments, while convenient, are very sensitive and require patience during initial zeroing.
Who Should Buy Strike Industries Sidewinder BUIS II Offset Deployable Iron Sight?
The Strike Industries Sidewinder BUIS II is perfect for:
- Tactical shooters who need a reliable back-up sighting system.
- Competitive shooters who value quick transitions between optics and iron sights.
- Hunters who want a lightweight and durable sighting system for their AR-15.
Those who should skip this product:
- Shooters who prefer traditional iron sights and do not need the 45-degree offset.
- Shooters who require extreme precision at long ranges, as these sights are primarily intended for close to medium-range engagements.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality optic to pair with these back-up sights.
Conclusion on Strike Industries Sidewinder BUIS II Offset Deployable Iron Sight
The Strike Industries Sidewinder BUIS II Offset Deployable Iron Sight is a well-designed and versatile back-up sighting system for AR-15 platforms. The tool-less adjustments and durable construction make it a standout option for tactical shooters, competitive shooters, and hunters alike. While the tool-less adjustment dials can be sensitive during initial zeroing, the convenience and reliability they offer in the field are well worth the effort.
At $176.95, the price is justified by the quality of materials, innovative design, and overall performance. Yes, I would personally recommend the Strike Industries Sidewinder BUIS II to anyone looking for a dependable and flexible back-up sighting system.
Upgrade your AR-15 today with the Strike Industries Sidewinder BUIS II and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have a reliable back-up sighting system ready for any situation!