How the Guntec USA AR-15 EZ Sights Thin Profile Polymer Back Up Iron Sight Set Surprised Me
As an experienced gear and equipment specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience across diverse environments, I’ve seen my fair share of AR-15 accessories. When I first came across the Guntec USA AR-15 EZ Sights Thin Profile Polymer Back Up Iron Sight Set, I was intrigued by its promise of lightweight, quick-install, and easy-to-manipulate functionality. My AR platform build was in need of a reliable and unobtrusive backup sighting system, and the thin profile polymer construction suggested it might be a good fit. I considered some more robust metal alternatives, but the appeal of a polymer set that could keep the overall weight down was compelling. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of cautious optimism; the design looked functional, but the material choice warranted a closer look.
Real-World Testing: Putting Guntec USA AR-15 EZ Sights Thin Profile Polymer Back Up Iron Sight Set to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place on a sunny afternoon at the local outdoor range. I mounted the Guntec USA AR-15 EZ Sights Thin Profile Polymer Back Up Iron Sight Set onto the Picatinny rail of my AR-15, which was already equipped with a primary optic. The installation was straightforward, fitting snugly onto the rail with no excessive force required. I performed a basic zero at 25 yards, and this is where the first quirks began to appear. The front sight adjustment required a tool, and the standard Ruger and Magpul adjustment tools I typically use didn’t quite seat properly.
This meant a slower-than-anticipated initial sight-in process. I found myself meticulously working with the available tool until I could make fine adjustments to the front post’s elevation. The rear sight also presented a challenge; when attempting to zero, I had to crank the windage adjustment all the way to the right to achieve any semblance of a centered point of impact. This extreme adjustment left me wondering about the sight’s internal tolerances and overall precision.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the following several weeks, I incorporated these backup sights into my regular training regimen. This involved multiple range days, some impromptu drills in my backyard (where legal), and general handling of the rifle. I wanted to see how the polymer construction would hold up under typical use, including occasional bumps and the rigors of being deployed and stowed repeatedly.
During this period, the “spring-assisted” nature of the flip-up mechanism became a point of contention. Unlike fully spring-loaded sights that pop up with a firm flick, these required a deliberate push to deploy and a push to fold back down. While this prevented accidental folding during firing, it also lacked the satisfying snap of a more robust system.
Regarding durability, the Guntec USA AR-15 EZ Sights Thin Profile Polymer Back Up Iron Sight Set showed some minor scuffing on the polymer surfaces from being handled and coming into contact with other gear. However, there were no cracks or structural compromises evident. Cleaning was simple, as expected with polymer sights, requiring just a quick wipe down with a cloth. Compared to previous budget-friendly polymer sights I’ve used, these felt a bit less robust, particularly the adjustment mechanisms.
Breaking Down the Features of Guntec USA AR-15 EZ Sights Thin Profile Polymer Back Up Iron Sight Set
Specifications
The Guntec USA AR-15 EZ Sights Thin Profile Polymer Back Up Iron Sight Set are constructed from Zytel Polymer, a material known for its strength and light weight. This set is designed for the AR-15 platform, fitting any flattop receiver with a Picatinny rail. Both front and rear sights are top mounted and are deployable with a push button lock to prevent accidental folding. The rear sight features a dual rear aperture option for different shooting distances. These sights are non-illuminated and designed for same-plane (rail height) application, aiming for rapid acquisition and precision. The ambidextrous nature of the design means they are equally usable by right- and left-handed shooters.
The Zytel Polymer construction is a key specification, contributing significantly to the lightweight nature of these sights, which is a major selling point for AR-15 builds where every ounce can count. The Picatinny attachment type ensures broad compatibility across many modern rifles and carbines. The push button lock is a crucial safety feature, preventing the sights from collapsing under recoil or during vigorous movement, which is a common failure point in lesser designs. The dual rear aperture provides a practical benefit, allowing for flexibility depending on the shooting scenario – a smaller aperture for precision at longer ranges and a larger one for faster target acquisition at closer distances.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of their primary job – providing a sighting solution – the Guntec USA AR-15 EZ Sights Thin Profile Polymer Back Up Iron Sight Set perform adequately, but with notable caveats. The rapid acquisition aspect is present; the low profile and aperture design do allow for relatively quick sight picture formation. However, the precision aspect is where these sights falter, largely due to the issues I encountered with the adjustment mechanisms.
The primary weakness lies in the accuracy of the adjustments. The difficulty in finding proper adjustment tools for the front post and the extreme range of motion needed for the rear sight’s windage suggest potential limitations in manufacturing tolerances. While they can get you on target, achieving precise, repeatable zeroing proved more challenging than with many other backup iron sight options on the market. They do meet expectations for a backup sighting system in a pinch, but they fall short of exceeding expectations for reliable, fine-tuned accuracy.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Guntec USA AR-15 EZ Sights Thin Profile Polymer Back Up Iron Sight Set is undeniably low profile, which is a significant advantage when running a primary optic. They sit very close to the rail, minimizing any potential snag points or interference with other accessories. The Zytel Polymer Composite feels durable enough for its intended purpose, though it doesn’t possess the same reassuring solidity as machined aluminum or steel sights.
Ergonomically, the push-button deployment is functional, though not as snappy as some users might prefer. The dual rear aperture is a well-thought-out design element, offering versatility. However, the lack of tactile feedback or clear indexing on the windage and elevation adjustments on the rear sight is a minor annoyance. The steel internals mentioned in the specifications are a good addition, providing some internal strength where it counts, but the external polymer housing is still the primary contact point.
Durability & Maintenance
From a durability standpoint, the Guntec USA AR-15 EZ Sights Thin Profile Polymer Back Up Iron Sight Set seems to be designed for light to moderate use. The Zytel Polymer is resilient to impacts, but prolonged exposure to harsh elements or extreme forces might test its limits. I observed minor cosmetic wear during my testing period, which is to be expected with polymer components.
Maintenance is straightforward; they are easy to wipe down and keep clean. There are no intricate mechanisms to lubricate beyond the basic pivot points, which are largely protected within the housing. The main concern for long-term durability would likely be the internal adjustment mechanisms and the detent that holds the sights in their deployed position, as these are often the first areas to show wear in polymer sighting systems.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Guntec USA AR-15 EZ Sights Thin Profile Polymer Back Up Iron Sight Set arrives as a complete set with both front and rear sights. There are no additional accessories included, and beyond ensuring a proper fit on a Picatinny rail, there are no significant customization options for the sights themselves. Compatibility with standard AR-15 sight adjustment tools was problematic in my experience, which is a notable limitation. The push button lock mechanism is a fixed design element.
Pros and Cons of Guntec USA AR-15 EZ Sights Thin Profile Polymer Back Up Iron Sight Set
Pros
- Low Profile Design: These sights sit very close to the rail, which is ideal for users running primary optics and wanting to minimize snag points.
- Lightweight: Constructed from Zytel Polymer, they add minimal weight to the rifle, which is a significant advantage for certain build philosophies.
- Quick Install: The Picatinny attachment mechanism makes for a fast and easy mounting process on any compatible rail system.
- Push Button Lock: The mechanism securely locks the sights in the deployed position, preventing accidental folding during use.
- Dual Rear Aperture: Offers flexibility for different shooting ranges and conditions, catering to both precision and rapid acquisition needs.
Cons
- Adjustment Tool Compatibility: Standard AR-15 sight adjustment tools may not fit properly, making zeroing a frustrating experience.
- Limited Adjustment Precision: The rear sight’s windage adjustment required extreme travel to achieve zero, indicating potential issues with manufacturing tolerances or a narrow usable range.
- Spring-Assisted Deployment: Not fully spring-loaded, requiring a deliberate push to deploy and stow, which some users may find less intuitive or satisfying than fully automatic flip-up sights.
- Material Perception: While polymer is lightweight, it might not offer the same perceived robustness or durability as metal sights for some users.
- Price vs. Performance: Considering the adjustment issues, the price point of $61.99 might be considered steep for the level of precision and ease of use offered compared to some competitors.
Who Should Buy Guntec USA AR-15 EZ Sights Thin Profile Polymer Back Up Iron Sight Set?
The Guntec USA AR-15 EZ Sights Thin Profile Polymer Back Up Iron Sight Set might be suitable for a shooter who prioritizes a low profile and lightweight backup sighting solution above all else. If you are building an AR-15 where weight is a critical factor, or if you primarily run a robust red dot or magnified optic and these sights are purely for emergency redundancy, they could serve a purpose. They are best suited for users who don’t anticipate needing to frequently adjust their zero or who are willing to work around potential tooling and adjustment challenges.
However, serious riflemen who demand precise zeroing capabilities and a high degree of confidence in their backup sighting system might want to look elsewhere. Those who prefer the tactile feedback and assuredness of metal construction, or who frequently switch between different zero points, should probably skip this product. If you’re looking for a simple, no-fuss emergency backup and aren’t overly concerned with the finer points of adjustment precision, these might be an option. For most users, investing a bit more in sights with more reliable adjustment mechanisms and better tool compatibility would likely be a wiser choice.
Conclusion on Guntec USA AR-15 EZ Sights Thin Profile Polymer Back Up Iron Sight Set
The Guntec USA AR-15 EZ Sights Thin Profile Polymer Back Up Iron Sight Set present a mixed bag of features and performance. Their low profile and lightweight design are definite strengths, making them an attractive option for certain AR-15 builds where minimizing bulk is paramount. The Zytel Polymer construction contributes to this, and the push button lock adds a necessary layer of security to prevent accidental deployment.
However, the practical experience of zeroing these sights revealed significant shortcomings. The difficulty in finding compatible adjustment tools and the extreme range of motion required for windage adjustment point to a compromise in manufacturing precision that directly impacts their reliability for accurate shooting. For the price of $61.99, one expects a more straightforward and precise sighting experience. While they can function as a basic backup, they fall short of providing the confidence and ease of use that many users require from their sighting systems. I would recommend these sights only to those who prioritize extreme low profile and minimal weight above all else and are prepared to potentially wrestle with the adjustment mechanisms. For most users seeking reliable backup iron sights, exploring other options with better-documented performance and adjustment capabilities would be a more prudent investment.