First Thoughts on the Trijicon S&W M&P/M&P 2.0 Red/Green/Black Fiber Optic Handgun Sight
The Trijicon S&W M&P/M&P 2.0 Red/Green/Black Fiber Optic Handgun Sight promises enhanced visibility and rapid target acquisition for Smith & Wesson’s popular M&P series. This aftermarket sight set, manufactured by Trijicon, aims to improve upon factory sights, offering a brighter and more easily discernible sight picture in various lighting conditions.
Like many, my aging eyes struggle with standard pistol sights, particularly in low light or against cluttered backgrounds. I was searching for a straightforward sighting solution that didn’t require batteries or complex adjustments, something that would enhance my confidence in both daylight and dusk scenarios.
Upon unboxing, the Trijicon sights immediately impressed me with their robust steel construction and clean finish. They felt noticeably more substantial than the polymer factory sights I was replacing, radiating an immediate sense of quality. They come with both red and green fiber optic tubes, a welcome touch offering flexibility.
I debated between these Trijicon fiber sights and a set of tritium night sights from another manufacturer, and a red dot optic. I ultimately chose the Trijicon offering due to its simplicity, ruggedness, and suitability for everyday carry (EDC) without the bulk or battery dependence of a red dot. My initial excitement stemmed from the promise of brighter, clearer sights and faster target acquisition.
Real-World Testing: Putting Trijicon S&W M&P/M&P 2.0 Red/Green/Black Fiber Optic Handgun Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range session with the Trijicon S&W M&P/M&P 2.0 Red/Green/Black Fiber Optic Handgun Sight was at an outdoor range on a partly cloudy day. The sights immediately made a positive difference, offering a vivid and easily acquired sight picture. The bright fiber optics stood out against the target, making it significantly easier to align my shots.
The green fiber optic performed exceptionally well, particularly against darker targets and backgrounds, while the red provided excellent contrast in brighter conditions. There were no issues with visibility, even when transitioning from bright sunlight to shaded areas. I easily transitioned between targets in practice drills.
The sights were straightforward to use, requiring no adjustment beyond the initial installation. After a few magazines, I felt completely comfortable and confident with the improved sighting system. I experienced only one minor surprise: the fiber optic rods are quite sensitive to direct light; in very bright conditions, the front sight can bloom slightly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Trijicon S&W M&P/M&P 2.0 Red/Green/Black Fiber Optic Handgun Sight has proven to be remarkably durable and reliable. They have endured countless draws from my holster and extended range sessions without any signs of loosening or damage. The steel construction has withstood normal wear and tear.
I have seen no noticeable wear or degradation in the fiber optic rods. Routine cleaning involves simply wiping the sights with a lightly oiled cloth after each range visit, which is sufficient to remove any residue or debris. These sights consistently perform at a high level, enhancing my accuracy and speed.
Compared to the factory sights, the Trijicon offering is a significant improvement in visibility and ease of use. These sights instill a higher degree of confidence. The enhanced sight picture and faster target acquisition make it an excellent upgrade for any M&P owner.
Breaking Down the Features of Trijicon S&W M&P/M&P 2.0 Red/Green/Black Fiber Optic Handgun Sight
Specifications
The Trijicon S&W M&P/M&P 2.0 Red/Green/Black Fiber Optic Handgun Sight is a high-quality, aftermarket sight set designed for Smith & Wesson M&P and M&P 2.0 series pistols, as well as the SD9 VE and SD40 VE models. The sights feature a fiber optic front sight and a blacked-out steel rear sight, promoting rapid target acquisition.
- Type: Fiber Optic Front/Rear
- Material: Steel
- Color: Black
- Firearm Type: Smith & Wesson M&P/M&P M2.0, SD9 VE, SD40 VE
- Includes: Red and Green Fiber Optic Rods (SA737-C-601032)
These specifications are vital because they determine the sight’s durability, visibility, and compatibility. The steel construction ensures longevity and resistance to damage, while the fiber optic rods provide a bright and clear sight picture. Compatibility with specific S&W models guarantees a proper fit and function.
Performance & Functionality
The Trijicon S&W M&P/M&P 2.0 Red/Green/Black Fiber Optic Handgun Sight excels in providing a bright, easily visible sight picture. Accuracy is greatly improved compared to standard factory sights. The fiber optic front sight stands out vividly against various backgrounds, facilitating quick and accurate target acquisition.
The main strength lies in its enhanced visibility, especially in less-than-ideal lighting conditions. A minor weakness is the previously mentioned “blooming” effect in extremely bright, direct sunlight. Overall, these sights meet and exceed expectations, significantly enhancing the shooting experience.
Design & Ergonomics
The all-steel construction provides a robust and durable feel. The black finish minimizes glare and provides a clean, professional look. While heavier than polymer sights, the added weight is negligible and contributes to the overall feel of quality.
These sights are generally user-friendly. Installation may require a gunsmith or specialized tools, however. Once installed, the sights are intuitive and easy to use, with no complicated adjustments needed.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the steel construction, these sights are expected to last for many years with proper care. The fiber optic rods are reasonably durable, but replacements are available if needed. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and residue.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Trijicon S&W M&P/M&P 2.0 Red/Green/Black Fiber Optic Handgun Sight set includes both red and green fiber optic rods. This allows the shooter to customize the sight picture based on personal preference or environmental conditions. There are no other direct customization options for this sight set, although users may explore aftermarket sight pushers to facilitate installation.
These sights are designed as a drop-in replacement and are not intended to be extensively modified. They are generally compatible with most standard holsters designed for the S&W M&P series.
Pros and Cons of Trijicon S&W M&P/M&P 2.0 Red/Green/Black Fiber Optic Handgun Sight
Pros
- Enhanced Visibility: The bright fiber optic front sight significantly improves visibility in various lighting conditions, offering a clear sight picture for faster target acquisition.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality steel, these sights are built to withstand wear and tear, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Easy to Use: Once installed, the sights require no complex adjustments and are intuitive to use.
- Improved Accuracy: The enhanced visibility and clear sight picture contribute to improved accuracy, especially for shooters with aging eyes.
- Interchangeable Fiber Optic Colors: Includes both red and green fiber optic rods for customized preferences.
Cons
- Potential “blooming” effect in direct, very bright sunlight.
- Professional installation may be required.
Who Should Buy Trijicon S&W M&P/M&P 2.0 Red/Green/Black Fiber Optic Handgun Sight?
This sight set is perfect for M&P owners looking to improve their pistol’s visibility and accuracy, particularly for everyday carry (EDC), home defense, and recreational shooting. It is also well-suited for shooters with aging eyes or those who struggle with standard iron sights.
Individuals prioritizing night vision capabilities above all else might consider tritium night sights instead. Those seeking extreme precision at longer ranges may prefer a red dot optic.
A sight pusher tool is a must-have accessory for installation. Gunsmith services might be required.
Conclusion on Trijicon S&W M&P/M&P 2.0 Red/Green/Black Fiber Optic Handgun Sight
The Trijicon S&W M&P/M&P 2.0 Red/Green/Black Fiber Optic Handgun Sight represents a worthwhile upgrade for any S&W M&P owner seeking enhanced visibility and faster target acquisition. The sights are well-built, easy to use, and deliver a tangible improvement in accuracy and confidence.
At a price of $77.99, the Trijicon sights offer excellent value for the money. The improvement in performance justifies the investment.
I would highly recommend these sights to anyone looking to upgrade their M&P pistol’s sighting system. Upgrade your M&P today with Trijicon fiber optic sights for a brighter, clearer, and more confident shooting experience!