XTS Flip-up Rear Sight Review

Table of Contents

Let’s Talk About XTS Flip-up Rear Sight

The XTS Flip-up Rear Sight is a budget-friendly option for those seeking a backup sighting system for their AR-15 or similar platform. Manufactured by XTS, this polymer sight offers a simple, lightweight, and easily deployable solution for situations where your primary optic fails or is otherwise unusable. This review will examine its pros and cons based on my decade of experience with tactical gear.

I was looking for a lightweight and inexpensive backup sight for my range training AR-15. I wanted something that wouldn’t add significant weight or bulk, but would still be reliable enough for occasional use. I’d been burned before on cheap sights that were either impossible to zero or wouldn’t hold zero.

Upon unboxing, the XTS Flip-up Rear Sight felt surprisingly solid for a polymer sight. The material felt reasonably durable, and the flip-up mechanism had a positive lock. The all-black aesthetic is fairly standard.

Compared to more expensive sights like Magpul MBUS or Troy Industries folding sights, the XTS Flip-up Rear Sight is noticeably less refined. I picked the XTS sight because it was considerably less expensive, and the reviews suggested it was “good enough” for backup use. Other options I looked at were the UTG rear sight but I decided against it after seeing it in person and not liking the way it felt.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. It wasn’t high end, but it didn’t feel immediately like it would break. I was hopeful that it would perform adequately for its intended purpose as a backup.

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Real-World Testing: Putting XTS Flip-up Rear Sight to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the XTS Flip-up Rear Sight at an outdoor shooting range on a sunny day with mild wind conditions. It was mounted on my AR-15, zeroed at 50 yards with 5.56 NATO ammunition. The temperature was roughly 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

The XTS Flip-up Rear Sight performed adequately in the dry conditions, and the windage adjustment seemed to function as expected. I found the aperture to be useable, even with my astigmatism. Flipping the sight up and down was pretty easy.

However, I noticed a slight wobble in the sight when deployed. After the first couple of uses, I noticed a few scratches on the polymer body.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several range trips and approximately 500 rounds fired, the XTS Flip-up Rear Sight is still functional. I had to re-tighten the mounting screw after the first few range trips. There is no wobble as long as everything is tightened down.

The polymer material is showing signs of wear, particularly around the edges and pivot points. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a brush and a cloth to remove powder residue. Overall, it has held up better than I expected given the price point.

Compared to my experience with higher-end metal sights, the XTS Flip-up Rear Sight requires more frequent checks to ensure it remains properly secured. While it hasn’t completely failed, it has definitely reinforced my appreciation for the durability and reliability of metal sights.

Breaking Down the Features of XTS Flip-up Rear Sight

Specifications

Manufacturer: XTS
Color: Black
Sight Mounting Orientation: Top Mounted
Sight Position: Rear
Front Sight Color: REAR SIGHT ONLY
Deployable: Yes
Fabric/Material: Polymer
Front Material: Polymer
Height: 2 in
Gun Type: Automatic Rifle
Included Accessories: None
Water Resistance Level: Yes
Illumination Color: None
Hand: Ambidextrous
Mount Type: Picatinny

These specifications indicate a lightweight, polymer-based rear sight designed for AR-15 platforms. The polymer construction makes it resistant to corrosion, while the Picatinny mount ensures compatibility with a wide range of rifles. The lack of illumination makes it unsuitable for low-light situations.

Performance & Functionality

The XTS Flip-up Rear Sight functions primarily as a backup sighting system. It is adequate for short-range engagements and target shooting. The windage adjustment allows for zeroing the sight to your rifle.

Its main strength is its simplicity and low weight. The primary weakness is its polymer construction, which is less durable than metal alternatives. The rear sight meets expectations for a budget-friendly backup sight, but don’t confuse this for a primary sighting system.

Design & Ergonomics

The XTS Flip-up Rear Sight features a low-profile design when folded down, minimizing obstruction of your primary optic. The polymer material keeps the weight down, making it a comfortable addition to your rifle. The sight is easy to deploy and adjust, requiring minimal effort.

The build quality is adequate for the price. The lightweight polymer construction gives it an advantage with weight. The sight has a very minimal learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The polymer construction means the XTS Flip-up Rear Sight will likely not last as long as metal sights under heavy use. However, for occasional use as a backup, it should provide reasonable longevity. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick wipe-down to remove dirt and debris.

Maintenance is minimal. A drop of oil on the pivot points might be needed from time to time.

Accessories and Customization Options

The XTS Flip-up Rear Sight comes with no additional accessories. Customization options are limited, as it is a standalone rear sight. It is compatible with most standard AR-15 front sights and Picatinny rail-mounted accessories.

Because of the polymer material, the XTS Flip-up Rear Sight is not designed to be user-modified. There are not many accessories compatible with the sight.

Pros and Cons of XTS Flip-up Rear Sight

Pros

Low cost makes it accessible for budget-conscious builders.
Lightweight polymer construction adds minimal weight to the rifle.
Simple and easy to deploy, even under stress.
Windage adjustable for zeroing.
Ambidextrous design.

Cons

Polymer construction is less durable than metal sights.
Some users may find that there is misalignment in the deployed position.
Lacks the refinement and precision of higher-end sights like Magpul MBUS or Troy Industries.

Who Should Buy XTS Flip-up Rear Sight?

The XTS Flip-up Rear Sight is perfect for budget-conscious AR-15 owners looking for a lightweight and simple backup sighting system. It is suitable for casual target shooters, recreational plinkers, and anyone who wants a basic backup sight without breaking the bank. The XTS Flip-up Rear Sight is also great for someone who doesn’t anticipate needing iron sights for anything other than emergencies.

This is not for law enforcement, competitive shooters, or anyone who relies heavily on their iron sights in demanding conditions. Those individuals should invest in a higher-quality metal sight from a reputable manufacturer. You should also skip this product if you are bothered by potential misalignments of the sight.

A must-have modification would be a thread locker on the mounting screw to prevent it from loosening over time. A quality front sight is also a must if one is not already present on the user’s rifle.

Conclusion on XTS Flip-up Rear Sight

The XTS Flip-up Rear Sight is an adequate, budget-friendly option for those seeking a basic backup sighting system. While it lacks the durability and refinement of more expensive metal sights, it offers acceptable performance for its intended purpose. Its low cost and lightweight design make it an attractive option for budget-conscious AR-15 owners.

The value proposition is good, considering the price point. This sight offers a functional backup solution without requiring a significant investment. I would recommend the XTS Flip-up Rear Sight to those who understand its limitations and are seeking a low-cost backup option for recreational use.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly backup sight that gets the job done, the XTS Flip-up Rear Sight is worth considering. Just remember to manage your expectations and understand its limitations. Consider purchasing one today!