Williams Gun Sight Marlin 336 WGRS Fire Sight Peep Set Review

Let’s Talk About Williams Gun Sight Marlin 336 WGRS Fire Sight Peep Set

The Williams Gun Sight Marlin 336 WGRS Fire Sight Peep Set promises to be an upgrade for your trusty lever-action rifle. Marketed by Williams Gun Sight as a user-friendly, no-drill-required sighting system, it combines a vibrant fiber optic front sight with a classic peep-style rear. This setup aims to provide improved visibility and accuracy, particularly in low-light conditions, a common challenge for many lever-action enthusiasts.

I’ve always been a fan of peep sights for their speed and clarity, especially on lever guns. My old Marlin 336, while reliable, always felt held back by its factory buckhorn sights, which were difficult to align quickly and offered a blurry sight picture. The promise of enhanced low-light performance with the Williams Gun Sight Marlin 336 WGRS Fire Sight Peep Set piqued my interest, as much of my hunting occurs during dawn and dusk.

Upon unboxing the Williams Gun Sight Marlin 336 WGRS Fire Sight Peep Set, I was initially pleased with the sight’s solid feel. The metal construction suggested durability, and the bright red fiber optic front sight was immediately eye-catching. However, closer inspection revealed some concerns about the finish quality and the small, slotted set screws.

I considered other peep sight options, including those from Skinner Sights, known for their robust construction and classic aesthetics. Ultimately, I chose the Williams Gun Sight Marlin 336 WGRS Fire Sight Peep Set because of its lower price point and the integrated fiber optic front sight, which promised better visibility in low light compared to a traditional post. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping the Williams Gun Sight offering could deliver on its promises without sacrificing quality and durability.

First impressions were mixed. The fiber optic front sight was indeed bright and easy to see, but the overall build quality felt somewhat lacking, especially compared to higher-end options I’ve used in the past. My excitement was tempered by a nagging feeling that I might have compromised on quality for the sake of cost.

Real-World Testing: Putting Williams Gun Sight Marlin 336 WGRS Fire Sight Peep Set to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Williams Gun Sight Marlin 336 WGRS Fire Sight Peep Set at my local shooting range, a well-maintained outdoor facility. The weather was sunny and clear, offering optimal conditions for sighting in the new system.

The Williams Gun Sight Marlin 336 WGRS Fire Sight Peep Set was easy to install, only requiring a punch and mallet to remove the factory rear sight. Initial adjustments were also straightforward, using the set screws to dial in elevation and windage. However, even during this initial sighting, the aforementioned set screws started to show wear.

After the first few shots, the improvement over the factory sights was immediately noticeable. The peep sight allowed for faster target acquisition, and the fiber optic front sight was far easier to see than the original brass bead. However, the soft metal set screws were a persistent concern, as they began to strip under minimal torque, confirming some of my initial worries.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, primarily during hunting season, the Williams Gun Sight Marlin 336 WGRS Fire Sight Peep Set has held up reasonably well, but not without some caveats. The aluminum construction of the rear sight has proven surprisingly durable against the elements, showing no signs of rust or corrosion.

However, the finish on the rear sight has started to wear in areas of high contact, such as where my cheek rests against the stock. The biggest issue remains the soft metal set screws, which have required replacement with higher-quality alternatives to maintain proper sight alignment.

Compared to my previous experiences with iron sights, the Williams Gun Sight Marlin 336 WGRS Fire Sight Peep Set offers a significant improvement in target acquisition speed and low-light visibility. However, the build quality and durability fall short of premium options, requiring some compromises and aftermarket upgrades.

Breaking Down the Features of Williams Gun Sight Marlin 336 WGRS Fire Sight Peep Set

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Williams Gun Sight is a well-known brand in the firearms accessory market, specializing in iron sights and related products.
• Front Sight Color: The front sight features a bright Red fiber optic insert, designed to enhance visibility in various lighting conditions.
• Rear Sight Color: The rear peep sight is finished in a matte Black color, intended to reduce glare and provide a clear sight picture.
• Gun Make: This sight set is specifically designed for Marlin lever-action rifles.
• Gun Model: The Williams Gun Sight Marlin 336 WGRS Fire Sight Peep Set is primarily intended for the Marlin Model 336, a popular lever-action rifle.
• Color: The overall color scheme is Red and Black.
• Fabric/Material: The sight components are constructed from Metal, primarily an aluminum alloy for the rear sight and steel for the front sight.
• Front Material: The front sight is made of Metal, specifically steel, for durability and heat resistance.
• Illumination Type: The front sight utilizes Fiber Optics, which gather ambient light to create a bright and easily visible aiming point.
• Gun Type: This sight set is designed for Rifles, specifically lever-action rifles.
• Weather Resistance: The Williams Gun Sight Marlin 336 WGRS Fire Sight Peep Set boasts good Weather Resistance due to its metal construction and protective finish.
• Mount Type: The rear sight is mounted using a Dovetail system, requiring no drilling or tapping for installation.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the sight’s performance, durability, and ease of use. The fiber optic front sight enhances visibility, while the metal construction ensures weather resistance and longevity. The dovetail mount allows for easy installation without permanent modifications to the rifle.

Performance & Functionality

The Williams Gun Sight Marlin 336 WGRS Fire Sight Peep Set significantly improves target acquisition speed and low-light visibility compared to the factory sights. The peep sight design allows for faster alignment and a clearer sight picture, while the fiber optic front sight stands out even in dim conditions.

However, the soft metal set screws used for adjustment are a significant weakness, prone to stripping and requiring replacement. While the sight set generally meets expectations for a budget-friendly upgrade, the durability of the hardware is a concern.

Design & Ergonomics

The Williams Gun Sight Marlin 336 WGRS Fire Sight Peep Set features a streamlined design that complements the classic look of the Marlin 336. The aluminum alloy rear sight is lightweight and comfortable against the cheek, while the steel front sight provides a durable and stable platform for the fiber optic insert.

The sight set is relatively user-friendly, requiring no specialized tools for installation or adjustment. However, the small size of the set screws can make them difficult to manipulate, especially in the field.

Durability & Maintenance

The aluminum alloy rear sight is durable and corrosion-resistant, but the finish can wear over time. The steel front sight is robust and able to withstand the heat and recoil of repeated firing.

Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris. However, the soft metal set screws are a weak point that may require periodic replacement.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Williams Gun Sight Marlin 336 WGRS Fire Sight Peep Set doesn’t come with many accessories, primarily consisting of the front and rear sight components and the necessary mounting hardware. Customization options are limited, but the front sight is compatible with aftermarket fiber optic inserts.

The rear sight can be adjusted for elevation and windage, allowing for precise zeroing. The dovetail mount also allows for easy replacement with other aftermarket peep sights if desired.

Pros and Cons of Williams Gun Sight Marlin 336 WGRS Fire Sight Peep Set

Who Should Buy Williams Gun Sight Marlin 336 WGRS Fire Sight Peep Set?

The Williams Gun Sight Marlin 336 WGRS Fire Sight Peep Set is perfect for hunters and recreational shooters looking to upgrade their Marlin 336’s iron sights without breaking the bank. It’s also a good option for those who frequently hunt in low-light conditions, where the fiber optic front sight provides a significant advantage.

Those seeking the highest level of durability and precision should skip this product and consider higher-end options from brands like Skinner Sights. Additionally, those who are not comfortable replacing small parts or performing basic maintenance may find the soft metal set screws to be a frustrating issue.

A must-have modification is to replace the included set screws with higher quality replacements from a local hardware store or online retailer.

Conclusion on Williams Gun Sight Marlin 336 WGRS Fire Sight Peep Set

The Williams Gun Sight Marlin 336 WGRS Fire Sight Peep Set offers a worthwhile upgrade for Marlin 336 owners seeking improved target acquisition and low-light visibility. The sight set is easy to install and provides a noticeable improvement over the factory sights.

However, the low quality of the included set screws is a significant drawback, requiring replacement for optimal performance and durability. While the price is justified by the improved functionality, buyers should be aware of the potential need for aftermarket hardware.

I would personally recommend the Williams Gun Sight Marlin 336 WGRS Fire Sight Peep Set to those on a budget who are willing to replace the set screws. It provides a significant performance boost at an affordable price, but be prepared to spend a few extra dollars on better hardware. Upgrade your Marlin 336 today and experience the difference!