What Makes the HiViz Shotgun Tri-Viz Combo Sight Click?
The HiViz Shotgun Tri-Viz Combo Sight promises a significant upgrade to a traditional shotgun’s sighting system. HiViz, known for their bright and durable fiber optic sights, aims to improve target acquisition speed and accuracy with this front and rear combo sight. The promise of easy installation and enhanced visibility has drawn considerable attention, especially from hunters and sport shooters looking to improve their shotgun performance.
My aging eyes have made it increasingly difficult to acquire a clear sight picture with the standard bead sight on my trusty 12-gauge. I needed a solution that would allow me to quickly and confidently target game, even in low-light conditions. The HiViz Shotgun Tri-Viz Combo Sight, with its fiber optic technology, seemed like the perfect remedy.
The kit arrived in a simple, no-frills package. The sights themselves appeared well-made, with bright green fiber optic inserts and a sturdy magnetic base. My initial thought was that installation would be a breeze, but I did wonder about the long-term hold of the magnetic base under heavy recoil.
I considered other fiber optic sights like those from TruGlo and Williams Gun Sight Company. I ultimately chose the HiViz Shotgun Tri-Viz Combo Sight due to its combination of front and rear sights, aiming for a more complete and intuitive sighting system. I was hoping for a noticeable improvement in my shooting accuracy and speed.
First impressions were cautiously optimistic. The bright green fiber optics were undeniably eye-catching, and the triangular shape of the rear sight seemed promising for quick target acquisition. I was eager to get to the range and see if the HiViz Shotgun Tri-Viz Combo Sight lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting HiViz Shotgun Tri-Viz Combo Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the HiViz Shotgun Tri-Viz Combo Sight was at my local shooting range, testing it on my Mossberg 500. I ran a variety of birdshot and target loads through the shotgun, focusing on acquiring targets quickly and consistently. The weather was clear and sunny, providing optimal light conditions for the fiber optics to shine.
The sights were easy to acquire, even with my aging eyes. The bright green fiber optics stood out against the dark background of the target range, making it significantly easier to align my shots. I noticed a definite improvement in my reaction time and target acquisition speed compared to the original bead sight.
The biggest initial issue was the rear sight shifting slightly after a few rounds. Even though the base is magnetic, the felt recoil did cause a little bit of movement.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the HiViz Shotgun Tri-Viz Combo Sight has proven to be a mixed bag. The enhanced visibility of the fiber optics remains a significant advantage, but the magnetic base requires frequent adjustments. I primarily use the shotgun for trap shooting now, but I did take it on a dove hunting trip.
The front sight has remained securely in place, but the rear sight continues to shift position slightly under heavy recoil. This necessitates constant monitoring and adjustments to maintain accuracy. The plastic material shows some minor scratches and scuffs from handling and cleaning, but the fiber optics themselves remain bright and undamaged.
Compared to my previous experience with only a front bead sight, the HiViz Shotgun Tri-Viz Combo Sight offers a substantial improvement in target acquisition speed. The rear sight, despite its shifting issue, aids in aligning shots more accurately. I still feel like it’s a good sight, but a better mounting system needs to be available.
Breaking Down the Features of HiViz Shotgun Tri-Viz Combo Sight
Specifications
The HiViz Shotgun Tri-Viz Combo Sight is designed to enhance target acquisition for shotgun users. It features both a front and rear sight, each utilizing fiber optic technology for increased visibility. The front sight is designed to fit vent ribs ranging from 1/4″ to 3/8″.
The magnetic base is intended for easy installation and removal. The front sight uses a round fiber optic, while the rear sight uses a triangular fiber optic design. Both front and rear sights are a bright green color.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the sight’s ease of installation, visibility, and potential for accurate shooting. The fiber optic technology enhances visibility in various lighting conditions. The magnetic base allows for quick attachment, but it also presents concerns about its stability under recoil.
Performance & Functionality
The HiViz Shotgun Tri-Viz Combo Sight improves a shooter’s ability to acquire targets quickly, especially in less-than-ideal lighting conditions. The bright green fiber optics are highly visible and easy to focus on. The triangular rear sight is designed to guide the eye and create a clear sight picture.
The main strength of this sight is its enhanced visibility. However, the inconsistent hold of the magnetic base is a significant weakness. The sights meet my expectations for increased visibility, but they fall short in terms of secure and reliable mounting.
Design & Ergonomics
The HiViz Shotgun Tri-Viz Combo Sight features a simple, functional design. The plastic construction keeps the sight lightweight, but it does raise concerns about long-term durability. The bright green fiber optics are the standout design element, enhancing visibility and drawing the shooter’s eye.
The sight is relatively user-friendly, requiring no specialized tools for installation. There is minimal learning curve associated with using the sights. The rear sight can snag on clothing.
Durability & Maintenance
The longevity of the HiViz Shotgun Tri-Viz Combo Sight is questionable due to the plastic construction and magnetic base. While the fiber optics are durable, the plastic housings are prone to scratches and potential cracking. Frequent adjustments to the rear sight can also contribute to wear and tear on the magnetic base.
The sights are easy to clean with a soft cloth and mild cleaning solution. No specialized maintenance or repair is typically required. The magnetic base can rust if exposed to water and high moisture.
Accessories and Customization Options
The HiViz Shotgun Tri-Viz Combo Sight comes as a complete set with both front and rear sights. There are no included accessories or additional customization options offered by HiViz for this particular model. However, users may choose to add aftermarket adhesive pads to the magnetic base to enhance its holding power.
The HiViz Shotgun Tri-Viz Combo Sight is designed as a standalone sighting system, so it is not generally compatible with other aftermarket sights or accessories. Some users have had success with adding a stronger adhesive to the magnetic base.
Pros and Cons of HiViz Shotgun Tri-Viz Combo Sight
Pros
- Significantly enhances visibility in various lighting conditions due to the fiber optic technology.
- Easy to install and remove thanks to the magnetic base.
- Improves target acquisition speed, aiding in faster reaction times for hunting and sport shooting.
- Provides a more complete sighting system with both front and rear sights, increasing accuracy compared to traditional bead sights.
- Affordable upgrade option for shotguns without requiring gunsmithing.
Cons
- The magnetic base of the rear sight does not provide a secure hold under heavy recoil, requiring frequent adjustments.
- The plastic construction raises concerns about long-term durability.
Who Should Buy HiViz Shotgun Tri-Viz Combo Sight?
The HiViz Shotgun Tri-Viz Combo Sight is perfect for hunters who struggle with traditional bead sights, particularly in low-light conditions. It can be an excellent addition for recreational shooters looking for a quick and affordable way to improve their shotgun’s sighting system. It is also ideal for shooters with aging eyes that have trouble focusing on standard sights.
This product may not be suitable for competitive shooters who require a highly precise and permanently mounted sighting system. Those who frequently use high-recoil loads might also find the magnetic base inadequate. A better option may be to go straight for a red dot optic.
Must-have accessories or modifications for the HiViz Shotgun Tri-Viz Combo Sight might include a stronger adhesive pad for the rear sight’s magnetic base.
Conclusion on HiViz Shotgun Tri-Viz Combo Sight
The HiViz Shotgun Tri-Viz Combo Sight offers a noticeable improvement in target acquisition speed and visibility, making it a worthwhile upgrade for many shotgun users. The fiber optic technology performs as advertised, providing a bright and clear sight picture. However, the magnetic base on the rear sight is a significant drawback, requiring frequent adjustments and raising durability concerns.
At a price of $45.39, the HiViz Shotgun Tri-Viz Combo Sight offers a decent value proposition for those seeking an affordable and easily installed sighting solution. The benefits of enhanced visibility outweigh the drawbacks of the magnetic base for many casual shooters and hunters. I do wish it was more stable, but I still like it for the price.
I would recommend the HiViz Shotgun Tri-Viz Combo Sight with reservations. If you are aware of the potential issues with the magnetic base and willing to make occasional adjustments, it can be a valuable addition to your shotgun. Consider giving the HiViz Shotgun Tri-Viz Combo Sight a try and experience the improved visibility for yourself!