The XS DXW II Standard Dot for Glock Gen1-5 Tritium Handgun Sight Made a Bold First Impression
Night sights are a critical upgrade for any defensive handgun, especially for those of us who take seriously the responsibility of personal and home defense. The XS DXW II Standard Dot for Glock Gen1-5 Tritium Handgun Sight promises enhanced visibility in all lighting conditions, a crucial feature when milliseconds matter. I’ve spent years squinting at subpar sights in low-light scenarios, and I was eager to see if these lived up to the hype.
My aging eyes were the primary driver behind this purchase. The factory sights on my Glock 19 Gen 4 were proving difficult to acquire quickly and accurately, particularly in dim indoor lighting and during dusk. I considered a few options, including fiber optic sights and other tritium options, but the XS Sights reputation for quality and the DXW II’s focus on front sight acquisition drew me in. Initial unboxing revealed a robust-looking set of sights with a bright, easily visible front dot.
Compared to Trijicon HDs and Ameriglo Bolds, the XS DXW II seemed to offer a simpler, more direct approach. Those other sights are excellent, but I liked the uncluttered sight picture of the XS system. My first impression was excitement – they looked well-made, felt solid, and I couldn’t wait to install them and head to the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting XS DXW II Standard Dot for Glock Gen1-5 Tritium Handgun Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing occurred at an indoor range, followed by drills in a low-light scenario at a private outdoor range. The indoor range provided a controlled environment to assess the sight’s accuracy and ease of acquisition under standard lighting. The low-light drills really allowed me to put the tritium to the test.
The difference was immediately noticeable; the bright front dot jumped out, making target acquisition significantly faster than with the factory sights. Even with simulated malfunctions and rapid firing drills, I was able to maintain a clear sight picture. There was a very slight learning curve to adapting to the V-notch rear, but it was quickly overcome.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the XS DXW II Standard Dot sights have held up remarkably well. I’ve put approximately 1,000 rounds downrange with these sights installed. The tritium remains bright, and there are no signs of fading.
The sights have proven incredibly durable, with no noticeable wear or shifting despite regular holster use and the occasional bump. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe with a cloth and some gun cleaner keeps them in top condition. Compared to my previous experiences with other sights, these XS Sights have exceeded my expectations in both performance and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of XS DXW II Standard Dot for Glock Gen1-5 Tritium Handgun Sight
Specifications
- Type: Tritium Night Sights for Glock Gen1-5. The XS DXW II Standard Dot sights are designed to fit all Glock generations 1 through 5, making them a versatile upgrade.
- Configuration: Standard Dot Front, V-notch Rear. This configuration facilitates rapid front sight acquisition, which is ideal for defensive shooting scenarios.
- Material: Steel. The steel construction provides excellent durability, ensuring the sights can withstand the rigors of regular use and recoil.
- Visibility: Tritium illumination. The tritium lamps provide consistent illumination in low-light conditions, crucial for nighttime or indoor environments.
- Compatibility: Glock factory cut and RMR. This allows for co-witnessing with red dot sights like the RMR, further enhancing the versatility of the system.
These specifications translate into a reliable and effective sighting system. The steel construction ensures durability, while the tritium illumination offers exceptional visibility in low-light situations. The RMR compatibility is a significant advantage for those looking to run a red dot optic.
Performance & Functionality
The XS DXW II Standard Dot for Glock Gen1-5 Tritium Handgun Sight excels at its primary function: providing a clear and easily acquired sight picture in all lighting conditions. Accuracy is excellent; I was able to consistently achieve tight groupings at various distances.
The bright front dot and V-notch rear work together to naturally draw the eye to the front sight, facilitating faster target acquisition. The only minor weakness is that the wide V-notch might require slight adjustment for precision shots at longer ranges, but this is easily learned with practice. Overall, these sights meet and exceed my expectations for defensive handgun sights.
Design & Ergonomics
The XS DXW II features a simple, no-nonsense design. The steel construction feels solid and durable. The sights are well-machined and fit snugly into the Glock’s dovetail slots.
The V-notch rear sight, while requiring a short adjustment period, is comfortable and intuitive to use. There is a slight learning curve, but the improved speed and clarity are well worth it.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the steel construction and tritium illumination, these sights are built to last. After months of use, I haven’t observed any signs of degradation or damage. The tritium vials are well-protected.
Maintenance is straightforward; a quick wipe with a gun cloth is usually sufficient to keep them clean. I anticipate these sights will last for many years with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The XS DXW II Standard Dot sights do not come with a wide range of accessories, as they are a self-contained sighting system. However, their compatibility with Glock factory cuts and RMR footprints opens up a world of customization possibilities.
Users can easily co-witness these sights with a variety of red dot optics, further enhancing the versatility of their Glock. The XS sights also work well with various holster types, providing compatibility across a wide range of carry options.
Pros and Cons of XS DXW II Standard Dot for Glock Gen1-5 Tritium Handgun Sight
Pros
- Enhanced Visibility: The bright tritium front dot offers exceptional visibility in all lighting conditions, significantly improving target acquisition speed.
- Durable Construction: The steel construction ensures the sights can withstand the rigors of regular use and recoil.
- RMR Compatibility: The ability to co-witness with red dot optics expands the sight’s versatility and provides additional sighting options.
- Simple and Effective Design: The straightforward design and V-notch rear sight make these sights easy to use and highly effective for defensive shooting.
- Easy Installation: The XS DXW II Standard Dot sights are relatively easy to install, especially for those with prior experience in sight replacement.
Cons
- V-Notch Learning Curve: The V-notch rear sight may require a short adjustment period for users accustomed to traditional notch sights.
- Price: While not the most expensive option on the market, the XS DXW II sights are a premium product and may be out of reach for budget-conscious buyers.
Who Should Buy XS DXW II Standard Dot for Glock Gen1-5 Tritium Handgun Sight?
The XS DXW II Standard Dot for Glock Gen1-5 Tritium Handgun Sight is perfect for individuals who prioritize self-defense and home protection. This includes concealed carry permit holders, law enforcement officers, and anyone who wants to upgrade their Glock’s sighting system for improved performance in low-light conditions. This is also a great choice for shooters who plan on adding a red dot to their Glock.
This product may not be ideal for competitive shooters focused on extreme precision at long ranges, as the V-notch rear sight is optimized for rapid target acquisition rather than pinpoint accuracy. Those who prefer traditional three-dot sight configurations may also want to explore other options. A quality Glock tool and possibly a sight pusher tool may be beneficial for the installation process.
Conclusion on XS DXW II Standard Dot for Glock Gen1-5 Tritium Handgun Sight
The XS DXW II Standard Dot for Glock Gen1-5 Tritium Handgun Sight is an exceptional upgrade that significantly enhances the performance and usability of any Glock pistol. The improved visibility, durable construction, and RMR compatibility make it a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about defensive shooting.
While the price may be a barrier for some, the enhanced capabilities and increased confidence that these sights provide justify the cost. I wholeheartedly recommend the XS DXW II sights to anyone looking to improve their Glock’s performance in low-light situations. Upgrade your Glock today and experience the difference a quality sighting system can make!