XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 43 ORANGE Review

The XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 43 ORANGE Made a Bold First Impression

As someone who’s spent over a decade immersed in the world of tactical gear and firearms, I’ve seen countless sighting systems come and go. But the XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 43 ORANGE from XS Sights immediately grabbed my attention with its promise of enhanced visibility and rapid target acquisition. Could this relatively affordable upgrade deliver on its claims of improved defensive preparedness?

My decision to try the XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 43 ORANGE stemmed from a growing frustration with the stock sights on my trusty Glock 43. While perfectly serviceable in optimal lighting, they struggled in low-light conditions, a common scenario in both self-defense and practical shooting situations. I was looking for a straightforward, reliable upgrade that would significantly improve my ability to quickly and accurately acquire a sight picture in challenging environments.

Unboxing the XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 43 ORANGE was a pleasant surprise. The CNC machined steel construction felt robust and well-made, exuding a sense of quality that instilled confidence. The vibrant orange front sight outline immediately caught my eye, contrasting sharply with the matte black finish of the rear sight.

I considered other options, including Trijicon HD XR and Ameriglo GL-429. Ultimately, I chose the XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 43 ORANGE because I was intrigued by the combination of tritium illumination and the high-visibility orange front sight. The promise of a simple installation process and XS Sights’ reputation for quality also factored into my decision.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The sights looked fantastic, and the build quality appeared to be top-notch. I was eager to get them installed and see how they performed in real-world conditions.

Real-World Testing: Putting XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 43 ORANGE to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 43 ORANGE was my local indoor shooting range. I wanted to assess the sight’s performance in a controlled environment with varying lighting conditions. The range offered both brightly lit bays and dimly lit scenarios, perfect for evaluating the tritium illumination and overall visibility.

The most noticeable improvement was the speed at which I could acquire a sight picture, especially in low-light situations. The bright orange front sight practically jumped out, allowing me to quickly align the sights and get on target. Even in brighter conditions, the high-contrast front sight offered a significant advantage over the stock sights.

Installation was relatively straightforward, although requiring a sight pusher tool for optimal results. A hammer and punch would work in a pinch, but I don’t recommend it for achieving precision. After installation, I found that the sights were slightly off, requiring a bit of lateral adjustment using the same sight pusher tool.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 43 ORANGE has proven to be a reliable and durable upgrade. I’ve used them in various shooting scenarios, from casual range sessions to practical pistol competitions. The sights have consistently performed well, maintaining their zero and showing no signs of wear and tear.

The BlackNitride finish has held up exceptionally well, resisting scratches and corrosion even after repeated exposure to sweat and cleaning solvents. The tritium lamps continue to glow brightly in low-light conditions, providing a clear and consistent aiming point. Cleaning is a breeze, requiring nothing more than a quick wipe down with a clean cloth.

Compared to my previous experience with other aftermarket sights, the XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 43 ORANGE stands out for its exceptional balance of visibility, durability, and ease of use. They are not the cheapest option on the market, but the improved performance and reliability justify the investment. They inspire confidence.

Breaking Down the Features of XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 43 ORANGE

Specifications

The XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 43 ORANGE is specifically designed as a drop-in replacement for the factory sights on the Glock 43. They feature a traditional notch and post configuration with significant enhancements for improved visibility and durability. The set includes both front and rear sights.

Key specifications include:

• Front Sight: Features a green tritium lamp surrounded by a high-contrast orange outline. This combination provides excellent visibility in both bright and low-light conditions.
• Rear Sight: The rear sight houses a green tritium lamp with black PVC rings to enhance visibility and an anti-reflective lens. It has a serrated face to reduce glare.
• Material: Both front and rear sights are CNC machined from steel, ensuring strength and durability. The black Nitride finish provides excellent wear and corrosion resistance.
• Warranty: XS Sights offers a 12-year warranty on the tritium lamps, demonstrating their confidence in the product’s longevity. They also offer a 30-day satisfaction guarantee.
• Holster Compatibility: Designed to fit standard holster options, meaning you won’t need a new holster.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the sight’s performance and overall user experience. The tritium lamps provide a constant aiming point in low-light conditions, while the high-contrast orange outline ensures rapid target acquisition in daylight. The durable steel construction and protective finish guarantee long-lasting reliability, even under demanding conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 43 ORANGE excels at its primary job: providing a clear, consistent, and highly visible sight picture in various lighting conditions. Accuracy is excellent, allowing for precise shot placement at typical self-defense distances. Reliability has been flawless, with the sights maintaining their zero and showing no signs of degradation.

The sight’s strengths lie in its exceptional visibility and ease of use. The bright orange front sight is incredibly easy to acquire, even under stress. The serrated rear sight effectively reduces glare, further enhancing visibility in bright sunlight. The tritium lamps provide a clear aiming point in low-light conditions without being overly distracting.

One minor weakness is that the tritium lamps are not adjustable. The brightness is fixed. However, in my experience, the factory brightness level is well-suited for most situations.

The XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 43 ORANGE definitely exceeds my expectations for an aftermarket sight. They are a significant improvement over the factory sights on my Glock 43, offering enhanced visibility, durability, and overall performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 43 ORANGE features a clean and functional design that complements the Glock 43’s aesthetics. The CNC machined steel construction feels solid and well-made. The sights are lightweight and do not significantly alter the balance of the pistol.

The sights are relatively easy to install, although professional installation is recommended for optimal results. The high-contrast orange front sight makes acquiring the target quick and intuitive. The rear sight ledge enables one-handed slide manipulations, which can be useful in emergency situations.

There is a very slight learning curve associated with using any new sight. The XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 43 ORANGE is intuitive and easy to master with just a few range sessions.

Durability & Maintenance

Thanks to its robust CNC machined steel construction and BlackNitride finish, the XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 43 ORANGE is built to last. After several months of regular use, the sights show no signs of wear and tear. I expect them to provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only a quick wipe down with a clean cloth. The BlackNitride finish is resistant to most cleaning solvents, making it easy to keep the sights looking their best.

Accessories and Customization Options

The XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 43 ORANGE is primarily a stand-alone product designed to replace the factory sights. It does not offer extensive customization options.

However, the sights are compatible with standard Glock 43 holsters. Because of their dimensions, you shouldn’t need to purchase a new holster.

Pros and Cons of XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 43 ORANGE

Who Should Buy XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 43 ORANGE?

The XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 43 ORANGE is perfect for:

• Concealed carry holders: The enhanced visibility and rapid target acquisition are essential for self-defense situations.
• Law enforcement officers: Improved performance in low-light conditions can be crucial for duty weapons.
• Competitive shooters: The sights provide a clear advantage in speed and accuracy, making them ideal for practical shooting competitions.

Those who should skip this product:

• Users on an extremely tight budget. Cheaper alternatives exist, but the XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 43 ORANGE offers superior quality and performance.
• Those who prefer adjustable sights. The tritium lamps on the XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 43 ORANGE are not adjustable.

Must-have accessories or modifications:

• A sight pusher tool for proper installation and adjustment.
• A high-quality holster designed for concealed carry.

Conclusion on XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 43 ORANGE

The XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 43 ORANGE is an outstanding upgrade for any Glock 43 owner looking to enhance their pistol’s visibility and improve target acquisition speed. The combination of tritium illumination, a high-contrast orange front sight, and durable steel construction makes these sights a reliable and effective addition to any defensive firearm.

The price is justified by the significant improvement in performance and the overall quality of the product. While cheaper alternatives exist, they lack the durability and enhanced visibility offered by the XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 43 ORANGE.

I wholeheartedly recommend the XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 43 ORANGE to anyone seeking a top-tier aftermarket sight for their Glock 43. Upgrade your Glock 43 with the XS R3D 2.0 FOR GLOCK 43 ORANGE and experience the difference that enhanced visibility and rapid target acquisition can make. It’s an investment in your safety and shooting performance that you won’t regret.