In the world of modern sporting rifles, a reliable set of iron sights is the foundation of marksmanship. While optics have become incredibly popular, a quality backup iron sight (BUIS) or a dedicated fixed sight setup ensures your rifle remains functional no matter what. They are the essential, no-nonsense component that every serious AR15 owner should have properly zeroed and ready to deploy.
Choosing the right set, however, can be a challenge with the vast array of options available. Do you need lightweight polymer flip-ups, bombproof steel sights, or streamlined fixed sights? This guide breaks down nine of the best AR15 iron sights on the market, from trusted industry leaders to specialized offerings, to help you find the perfect set for your rifle and your mission.
Our Top Picks for AR15 Iron Sights
- Magpul MBUS PRO Steel Backup Sights
- Magpul MBUS PRO Offset Steel Backup Sights
- Magpul MBUS 3 Front & Rear Sight Set
- Troy Industries BattleSight, Rear Folding Sight
- DD Fixed Front/Rear Sight Combo
- Midwest Gloves Combat Rifle Rear Sight
- Magpul Industries MBUS Generation II Sight Set
- Ozark Armament A2 Rear Sight
- Scalarworks Peak /01 Fixed Iron Sight Set
Magpul MBUS PRO Steel Backup Sights
For shooters who demand maximum durability, the Magpul MBUS PRO sights are a top-tier choice. Constructed entirely from steel, these flip-up sights are built to withstand extreme conditions and hard use. Their low-profile design ensures they stay out of the way when folded, making them an excellent backup option for rifles equipped with primary optics.
The sights feature a robust mounting system and precise, tool-adjustable windage and elevation controls. The sleek, minimalist sight picture allows for fast target acquisition while maintaining a high degree of accuracy. If you need a set of backup sights that you can trust to hold zero and perform reliably, the MBUS PRO set is a professional-grade solution.
Magpul MBUS PRO Offset Steel Backup Sights
When your primary optic is a magnified scope, having a set of offset iron sights provides an immediate solution for close-range engagements. This Magpul MBUS PRO offset front sight is engineered for this exact purpose. Its all-steel construction and 45-degree mounting angle allow you to quickly cant your rifle and acquire a sight picture without changing your head position.
The sight post is case-hardened and finished with a durable Melonite QPQ coating for exceptional resistance to wear and corrosion. It also offers a selectable front post width, allowing you to choose between a .040-inch match post for precision or a .060-inch standard post for maximum visibility and speed. This is a critical component for a versatile, multi-role rifle.
Magpul MBUS 3 Front & Rear Sight Set
The Magpul MBUS 3 sight set represents the latest evolution in polymer backup sights. These sights maintain the lightweight and resilient characteristics of their predecessors while introducing user-requested improvements. The spring-loaded design allows for tool-less, ambidextrous deployment with the simple push of a button, ensuring they can be activated quickly from either side.
This set features an enhanced front sight post with dual-width options and a tool-less elevation adjustment wheel. The rear sight incorporates a rapid-select aperture system, letting you easily switch between a small aperture for precision and a large aperture for close-quarters speed. For a balance of performance, weight, and value, the MBUS 3 is an outstanding choice.
Troy Industries BattleSight
The Troy Industries BattleSight is a favorite among professionals for its ruggedness and innovative design. This rear folding sight features the distinctive Di-Optic aperture, which uses a fiber-optic element to create a highly visible ring around the sight opening. This design significantly enhances sight alignment and speeds up target acquisition in various lighting conditions.
Built with a robust folding mechanism and precise click-adjustable knobs, the Troy BattleSight is made to last. It locks securely in both the up and down positions, providing a reliable and repeatable performance. If you are looking for a feature-rich rear sight that gives you a tangible edge in sight picture clarity, this model is a strong contender.
DD Fixed Front/Rear Sight Combo
For a no-frills, always-ready sighting solution, the Daniel Defense (DD) Fixed Sight Combo is hard to beat. These sights feature a one-piece, streamlined design that is both incredibly strong and lightweight. Unlike flip-up sights, they are always in position, eliminating any potential for failure in a deployment mechanism.
The simple slotted screw attachment provides a solid and direct mount to your Picatinny rail. This fixed design is ideal for a dedicated iron-sight rifle or for shooters who prefer the absolute reliability of a non-folding unit. The low-profile yet highly durable construction makes these a go-to option for a rugged and dependable setup.
Midwest Gloves Combat Rifle Rear Sight
The Midwest Gloves Combat Rifle Rear Sight offers a simple and effective solution for completing your rifle’s iron sight system. This sight is designed to provide a standard A2-style sight picture, a familiar and proven configuration for many shooters. Its robust construction is built to handle the recoil and rigors of regular use.
As a standalone rear sight, it pairs perfectly with a standard front sight post to create a functional and cost-effective iron sight setup. It provides the essential windage and elevation adjustments needed for a precise zero. This is a practical choice for builders looking for a no-nonsense rear sight.
Magpul Industries MBUS Generation II Sight Set
The Magpul MBUS Gen II is arguably the most popular polymer backup sight on the market, and for good reason. Its impact-resistant polymer construction provides a significant weight saving over steel sights without sacrificing durability. The spring-loaded design allows the sights to flip up quickly and also fold down unobstructively when not in use.
These sights are intuitively designed with dual-aperture rears and easy-to-use adjustments. The detent and spring pressure keep the sights firmly in the upright position during use but allow them to safely fold down upon impact. For a reliable, lightweight, and affordable backup sight set, the MBUS Gen II remains a benchmark in the industry.
Ozark Armament A2 Rear Sight
The Ozark Armament A2 Rear Sight brings classic, fixed-sight reliability to your modern AR15 platform. Constructed from heavy-duty metal, this sight is built for a lifetime of use. It mimics the traditional A2-style rear sight found on military rifles, offering a familiar and effective two-aperture system for both close-range and precision shooting.
Fully adjustable for windage and elevation, this sight provides a perfect co-witness with standard-height front sight posts and optics. The tight tolerances ensure a secure fit on any Picatinny rail. If you appreciate the simplicity and constant readiness of a fixed rear sight, this model offers excellent value and robust performance.
Scalarworks Peak /01 Fixed Iron Sight Set
For those seeking the pinnacle of design and performance, the Scalarworks Peak /01 Fixed Iron Sight Set is a premium option. These sights are renowned for their innovative use of materials and precision machining. The unique design is both incredibly lightweight and exceptionally strong, providing a rock-solid sighting platform.
The Peak sights feature a distinctive sight picture with a wide field of view and thin, crisp sight posts that allow for both rapid acquisition and precise shot placement. Their low-profile, fixed design ensures they are always ready and eliminates any moving parts that could fail. This set represents a top-of-the-line investment for the discerning shooter who wants the absolute best.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best AR15 Iron Sights
When I’m looking for a new set of iron sights for my AR15, I don’t just grab the first pair I see. There are a few key factors that determine whether they’ll be a reliable partner on the range or a constant source of frustration. My first consideration is always the sight picture. I prefer a crisp, clean aperture that doesn’t obstruct my view of the target. For the front sight, I look for a post that is distinct but not too thick, as a skinny post allows for more precise shots at distance, while a wider post can be faster up close.
Next, I think about construction and materials. This isn’t an area where I want to cut corners. I look for sights machined from sturdy materials like aircraft-grade aluminum or steel, and I always check for a hardcoat anodized finish. This kind of build quality means they can take a beating, resist corrosion, and hold zero through rough handling. I also pay close attention to the adjustment mechanisms. The best AR15 iron sights have positive, tactile clicks for windage and elevation that are easy to manipulate, even with gloves on. I hate mushy adjustments that leave me guessing.
Another big decision is fixed vs. flip-up. My choice here depends entirely on my setup. If my rifle has a flat-top receiver and I’m running an optic, flip-up sights are non-negotiable. They lie flat until I need them, acting as a perfect backup. I make sure they deploy quickly and lock solidly into place. If my rifle is a dedicated iron-sight gun, or if I just prefer the simplicity, I go with fixed sights. They are generally more robust and offer a consistent, always-ready sight picture. For a classic M16-style build, fixed sights are the only way to go.
Finally, I consider the specific features. Does the rear sight have multiple aperture sizes? A smaller “precision” aperture is great for slow, accurate fire, while a larger “ghost ring” aperture is faster for close-quarters. I also look at the tool required for adjustments. While I keep an Allen key in my range bag, I have a soft spot for sights that can be adjusted with a cartridge tip or my finger, which is just one less thing to worry about. By weighing these factors—sight picture, durability, type, and features—I can find a set of iron sights that I can trust completely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are iron sights still relevant with the popularity of red dots and LPVOs?
Absolutely. In my opinion, every AR15 should have a set of iron sights, even if you primarily use an optic. Electronics can fail, batteries die, and lenses can get damaged. Iron sights are a purely mechanical, utterly reliable backup system. They also force you to learn and practice the fundamentals of marksmanship, which makes you a better shooter overall, even when you’re using a magnified scope or a red dot. For a truly dependable rifle, a good set of backup iron sights is essential.
What is the difference between a front sight post and a front sight aperture?
This comes down to the design philosophy. A front sight post, like the classic military-style A2 post, is a simple vertical blade. It’s what most of us picture when we think of iron sights. It’s fast to acquire and works well for a variety of targets. A front sight aperture, sometimes called a “hooded” front sight, is a circle with a small post or bead in the center. This design can offer a more precise sight picture for target shooting. For general use, the standard front sight post is perfectly capable and is the most common type you’ll find.
Should I get fixed or flip-up backup iron sights?
This depends on your setup. If your AR15 has a fixed front sight post (like on an FSB-equipped M4-style rifle), you only need a flip-up rear sight to co-witness with your optic. If you have a completely flat-top rail system, you’ll want a matched set of flip-up front and rear sights. I only recommend fixed sights for rifles that are dedicated to iron-sight use or for classic builds where aesthetics are a priority. For a modern, optics-ready rifle, flip-up sights are the practical choice as they stay out of the way until you need them.
What does “co-witness” mean?
Co-witnessing is when your iron sights and your red dot sight are aligned to the same point of aim. There are two main types. An “absolute co-witness” means the red dot sits directly on top of your front sight post when you look through your iron sights. A “lower 1/3 co-witness” means the red dot appears in the upper third of your optic’s window, so your iron sight picture is unobstructed until you need it. I personally prefer a lower 1/3 co-witness because it keeps my primary optic’s view cleaner, but both are effective. When selecting from the many options for the 9 Best AR15 Iron Sights [2025 Reviews] | A Practical Guide, it’s good to know which co-witness height the sights are designed for.
How do I zero my AR15 iron sights?
Zeroing is the process of aligning your point of aim with your point of impact at a specific distance. For a standard 5.56mm AR15, a 50-yard zero or a 36-yard zero are both very popular and effective. I start at a closer range, like 25 yards, to get on paper. I fire a small group of shots, then adjust my rear sight. Remember the phrase: “FRONT follow, REAR reverse.” If your shots are impacting to the left, you move your rear sight aperture to the LEFT. If your shots are impacting low, you move your rear sight ELEVATION knob in the direction marked “UP.” Once I’m centered at a close range, I move out to my desired zero distance and make finer adjustments.