XS Big Dot Front for Plain Barrel Remington Green/White Outline Tritium Shotgun Sight Review

First Thoughts on the XS Big Dot Front for Plain Barrel Remington Green/White Outline Tritium Shotgun Sight

The XS Big Dot Front for Plain Barrel Remington Green/White Outline Tritium Shotgun Sight promises faster target acquisition, especially in low-light situations. This upgrade from XS Sights seemed like the ideal solution for my defensive shotguns. I was drawn to the reputation of XS Sights for producing high-quality, practical sights.

My primary need was a robust and easily visible front sight for my Remington 870. Standard bead sights are fine in daylight, but in dawn, dusk, or indoors, they become practically useless. I wanted something that would significantly improve my aiming speed and accuracy under various lighting conditions.

The sight arrived well-packaged. My initial impression was that the Big Dot was indeed big – significantly larger than the stock bead. The tritium insert glowed faintly even in a well-lit room, promising excellent visibility in low light. It felt solid and well-made, reassuring me of its potential durability.

I considered several other options, including fiber optic sights and other tritium front sights. However, I chose the XS Big Dot due to its reputation for being incredibly fast to acquire and its simple, no-nonsense design. Other sights seemed more complex or potentially fragile. This one looked like a straightforward, rugged solution. I was excited to install it and put it to the test.

Real-World Testing: Putting XS Big Dot Front for Plain Barrel Remington Green/White Outline Tritium Shotgun Sight to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the XS Big Dot was at my local indoor shooting range. The range offered varying light levels, simulating different scenarios. I tested the sight on my Remington 870 at distances ranging from 7 to 25 yards.

The immediate improvement in target acquisition speed was noticeable. The large, bright dot was incredibly easy to pick up, even under the dim range lighting. I found myself aligning the sight picture much faster than with the original bead. My shot groupings tightened up considerably.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including multiple range trips and a defensive shotgun course, the XS Big Dot has proven to be incredibly durable. There are no signs of wear or damage to the sight, despite the recoil of heavy buckshot loads. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe with a cloth is all it needs.

Compared to my previous experiences with standard bead sights, the Big Dot is a massive improvement. I am much more confident in my ability to quickly and accurately engage targets in any lighting condition. It has exceeded my expectations for a simple, effective shotgun sight upgrade.

Breaking Down the Features of XS Big Dot Front for Plain Barrel Remington Green/White Outline Tritium Shotgun Sight

Specifications

The XS Big Dot Front for Plain Barrel Remington Green/White Outline Tritium Shotgun Sight is constructed from steel for maximum durability. It features a green tritium insert surrounded by a white outline for optimal visibility in all lighting conditions. The sight is designed for plain barrel Remington shotguns with a front bead diameter between 0.120″ and 0.140″.

The tritium insert provides constant illumination without the need for batteries. The sight is a standalone solution, not compatible with rail systems or ghost ring sights. Its steel construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of heavy use and recoil. This simplicity and robustness are critical for a defensive firearm.

Performance & Functionality

The XS Big Dot excels at its primary function: fast target acquisition. The large, highly visible dot is easy to see and align, even in stressful situations. It significantly improves accuracy, particularly at close to medium ranges, which are typical engagement distances for a defensive shotgun.

The only potential weakness is that the large dot may obscure smaller or more distant targets. However, for its intended purpose of close-quarters defense, this is not a significant drawback. The sight meets and exceeds expectations for speed and visibility.

Design & Ergonomics

The XS Big Dot is a simple, no-frills design. Its steel construction gives it a solid, robust feel. While it’s not the most aesthetically pleasing sight, it is incredibly functional. The large dot is easy to see, and the tritium insert provides constant illumination.

The sight is designed to be glued over the existing front bead. Installation requires some skill and may necessitate drilling and tapping the bead hole. The user-friendly aspect is more about speed of acquisition rather than the complexity of initial fitting.

Durability & Maintenance

The XS Big Dot’s steel construction ensures excellent durability. It is designed to withstand the recoil of heavy shotgun loads and the rigors of daily carry. Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe with a cloth is all that’s needed to keep it clean.

This sight is built to last a lifetime. Its simple design and robust materials make it a reliable addition to any defensive shotgun. The long-lasting tritium insert means years of use without needing replacement.

Accessories and Customization Options

The XS Big Dot is a standalone front sight and does not require any additional accessories. There are no further customization options for this particular product. Its intended use is as a direct replacement for the factory front bead.

However, depending on the end-user, the shotgun itself can be customized with other accessories such as weapon lights and slings. The XS Big Dot complements such additions without interfering with their function.

Pros and Cons of XS Big Dot Front for Plain Barrel Remington Green/White Outline Tritium Shotgun Sight

Who Should Buy XS Big Dot Front for Plain Barrel Remington Green/White Outline Tritium Shotgun Sight?

The XS Big Dot Front for Plain Barrel Remington Green/White Outline Tritium Shotgun Sight is perfect for anyone using a Remington shotgun for home defense or personal protection. It is especially beneficial for those who may need to use their shotgun in low-light conditions. This sight is also ideal for individuals who prioritize speed and ease of use over pinpoint accuracy at longer distances.

This sight might not be suitable for competitive shooters or hunters who require precise aiming at small targets or at extended ranges. Those individuals may prefer a sight with a smaller dot or adjustable settings. Additionally, individuals who are not comfortable with basic gunsmithing tasks may want to have a professional install this sight.

A weapon light is a must-have accessory to compliment the XS Big Dot, for positive target identification. A quality sling is also recommended for ease of carry.

Conclusion on XS Big Dot Front for Plain Barrel Remington Green/White Outline Tritium Shotgun Sight

The XS Big Dot Front for Plain Barrel Remington Green/White Outline Tritium Shotgun Sight is a highly effective and durable upgrade for any Remington shotgun used for defensive purposes. Its fast target acquisition and excellent low-light visibility make it a valuable asset in stressful situations. While installation may require some skill, the benefits far outweigh the challenges.

At a price of $63.90, the XS Big Dot offers excellent value for the money. It’s a worthwhile investment that can significantly improve your shotgun’s performance. I would wholeheartedly recommend this sight to anyone looking to enhance the capabilities of their defensive shotgun.

If you value speed, reliability, and low-light performance, the XS Big Dot Front for Plain Barrel Remington Green/White Outline Tritium Shotgun Sight is the perfect addition to your Remington. Get yours today and experience the difference it makes!