Introduction
Iron sights are parts of a device used to aid in finding a target. They are commonly found in shooting devices like firearms and crossbows and pointing instruments like telescopes. Iron sights usually consist of two parts: a front sight and a rear sight. Aligning them lets the handler or shooter find their target.
Military firearms are usually equipped with aperture iron sights. They often come with adjustment features for height and wind factors. Firearms used by civilians and police use simpler, open iron sights.
How to Use Iron Sights
Safety always comes first. Handle firearms with care whether or not you think they are loaded with bullets. Practice in a safe area where you won’t accidentally hurt anyone or anything.
Refer to your instruction manual for proper care, handling and use of the firearm. If there are any prohibitions stick to it. Buy snap craps for firearm if the manual recommends you do not fire it empty.
With many firearms like semi-automatic pistols, the model is the same. The front sight that looks like a short blade and the rear sight that looks like a block with a cut down the center. The top of the front sight or blade and the top of the rear sight or block are the same height.
To aim at a target down range, make sure the cut in the middle is in line with the top surface of both ends of the block. The post and the top of the blocks will all look the same height from here.
You can tell you are right on target by making the following test:
When you aim the firearm at your target, the tops of the iron sights must be on the middle horizontal plane of the target. The third post or focus point will be dead center. This is the “bull’s eye.”
Without taking your eyes off the target, deliberately press the trigger. It will take practice and a lot of finger control to be able to stay on target as you fire off.
Getting right on target is more difficult with a small firearm – a pistol – than a long firearm like a rifle. This is due to the length of the iron sights and the barrel. There is more room for error and movement with big arms. Rifles are also more adjustable.
Keep practicing with your firearm. With focus, discipline and much training you will soon be making those bullseye shots with little to no effort. It will feel second nature.
