Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight Review

A Close Look at the Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight

As an equipment specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience across diverse environments, I’ve learned to appreciate well-executed, reliable gear. My AR platform rifle, a trusted tool for a variety of applications, recently needed a more robust backup sighting solution. After experiencing a frustrating electronic optic failure during a critical training exercise, the necessity for a dependable mechanical sighting system became crystal clear. This led me to explore options for backup iron sights that wouldn’t compromise the rifle’s primary function but would offer peace of mind. I ultimately landed on the Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight, drawn by its reputation for solid construction and its intended purpose as a dependable secondary aiming device.

The immediate impression upon unboxing this set was one of understated quality. The Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight feels substantial without being overly heavy. Machining appears precise, and the Type III hard coat anodizing offers a durable, non-reflective finish that I’ve come to expect from quality firearm accessories. While I considered some lower-cost, polymer-based flip-up sights, my experience has taught me that for critical applications like backup sights, the added cost for robust metal construction is a worthwhile investment. This sight set promises a level of integrity that reassures me.

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight took place on a familiar indoor range, a controlled environment perfect for zeroing and initial function checks. The mounting process was straightforward, attaching easily to the Picatinny rail sections on my rifle’s upper receiver. I found the installation process intuitive, with the stainless steel clamp providing a secure grip on the rail.

The user feedback I’d seen mentioned these sights weren’t spring-assisted, and that proved true. Deployment is a manual process; you physically flip the sights up into their operational position. This characteristic means they won’t inadvertently pop up but also requires a deliberate action to bring them into play.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several weeks of range visits and some light field use, the Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight has proven its mettle. The sights have maintained their zero through a variety of shooting drills, including rapid fire sequences and extended sessions. Their solid construction has endured the bumps and jolts inherent in moving between locations and general handling.

Maintenance has been minimal. A quick wipe-down with a dry cloth is usually all that’s needed to keep them free of dust and carbon residue. I haven’t experienced any stiffness or degradation in their locking mechanisms, which remain firm in both stowed and deployed positions. Compared to some cheaper alternatives I’ve used in the past, these Samsons offer a noticeable step up in overall reliability and tactile feedback.

Breaking Down the Features of Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight

Specifications

The Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight is constructed from 6061-T6 aluminum, a standard in the aerospace and firearms industries known for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio. This material choice contributes to the overall durability without adding unnecessary bulk. The sights feature a Type III Class 2 hard coat anodizing, providing superior corrosion and abrasion resistance, which is crucial for gear that might be exposed to the elements.

These backup sights are designed for top-mounted deployment on any 1913 Picatinny rail, ensuring compatibility with a vast array of AR platform rifles and other firearms. The rear sight aperture is a single .160-inch diameter, a thoughtful choice for a backup system. This size is small enough for decent accuracy at typical engagement distances but remains large enough to offer a usable sight picture in less-than-ideal lighting conditions.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of primary function, the Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight performs admirably. Zeroing was a straightforward process. The rear sight offers just over 0.5 MOA per click for windage adjustment, allowing for precise corrections. This level of adjustability, combined with the ability to accept all aftermarket front sight post replacements with MIL-SPEC dimensions, makes sighting in predictable and repeatable.

The locking mechanism for both the deployed and folded positions is a key functional strength. Both sights snap firmly into place, providing a stable platform and preventing any unwanted movement. The solid mounting system, coupled with the robust construction, ensures that once zeroed, these sights are going to stay on-zero, a critical factor for any sighting system, especially a backup.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight is dictated by its role as a secondary sighting solution. They are intentionally low-profile when folded, minimizing snagging hazards and maintaining the primary optic’s line of sight. The M4 co-witness height is a significant ergonomic advantage, aligning perfectly with standard AR-15 sights when deployed, providing a familiar and efficient aiming point.

The sights are made from aluminum, specifically T-6061 aluminum for the front sight, reinforcing their durable nature. The finish is a non-illuminated, black Type III hard coat anodizing, which is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, reducing glare and increasing longevity. Precision laser engraving is used for markings, adding a touch of class and ensuring durability.

Durability & Maintenance

The Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight is built for durability, evident in its construction and finish. The 6061-T6 aluminum body, combined with the hard coat anodizing, suggests a long service life even under demanding conditions. The stainless steel clamp used for mounting further adds to its resilience against corrosion and wear.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. Due to their non-illuminated nature and robust build, there are no complex electronics or delicate parts to worry about. A light application of lubricant on the pivot points occasionally, and keeping them clean from debris, is all that’s needed. I have experienced no issues with stiffness or wear after considerable use, indicating a high standard of manufacturing.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight set comes with what is described as “Standard” included accessories, which in this case primarily means the sights themselves. However, a significant “accessory” in the functional sense is their compatibility with aftermarket components. As noted, the front sight post is designed to accept all aftermarket front sight post replacements with MIL-SPEC dimensions.

This allows for a high degree of personalization, whether you prefer a tritium-insert post for low-light visibility or a different post profile for specific aiming needs. The rear sight’s aperture size is fixed, but its windage adjustment offers the primary means of fine-tuning the sight picture. The ambidextrous nature of their operation means they are equally functional for right-handed and left-handed shooters.

Pros and Cons of Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight

Who Should Buy Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight?

The Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight is an excellent choice for AR platform owners who prioritize reliability and robust mechanical function in a backup sighting system. This includes:

• Serious shooters and trainers: Those who value dependable gear for range practice and tactical training where optic failure is a real possibility.
• Responsible gun owners: Individuals who understand the importance of having a reliable secondary aiming method for their firearm.
• Users seeking a no-frills, durable solution: Anyone who wants a simple, effective, and long-lasting backup sight without unnecessary complexity.

However, this product might not be the best fit for:

• Users requiring instant, spring-loaded deployment: If you need sights that pop up with a touch, these will require a different approach.
• Those prioritizing low-light or night vision capabilities out-of-the-box: While the front post is customizable, the base rear sight is non-illuminated.

For those choosing this system, I would recommend considering an aftermarket front sight post with a tritium insert if you anticipate frequent low-light use.

Conclusion on Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight

The Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight delivers exactly what it promises: a dependable, robust, and precisely engineered backup sighting solution for the AR platform. Its 6061-T6 aluminum construction and high-quality hard coat anodizing speak to a product built for longevity and performance in demanding environments. The M4 co-witness height is spot-on, and the .5 MOA per click windage adjustment allows for accurate zeroing.

At a price point of $132.09, these sights offer exceptional value for the peace of mind they provide. While the manual deployment might not appeal to everyone, its inherent security against accidental activation is a significant benefit for many. The ability to customize the front sight post further enhances their utility.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Samson True Back Up Top Mounted Deployable Front and Rear Sight to anyone seeking a reliable, durable, and well-crafted backup iron sight system. They represent a smart investment for maintaining combat readiness and ensuring you always have a viable aiming option, regardless of your primary optic’s status.