Is the Strike Industries GridLok Front & Rear Sights All Talk?
When you’re building a rifle, the small components often make the biggest difference in function and feel. I was looking for a reliable set of backup sights for a new build, something that wouldn’t break the bank but also wouldn’t be a liability when I needed them most. The Strike Industries GridLok Front & Rear Sights caught my eye with their modularity and purported ease of use on M-LOK handguards. My previous experiences with budget sights often involved flimsy construction and frustrating adjustments, so I was eager to see if this offering from Strike Industries could deliver on its promises. I had been trying to integrate a more streamlined approach to accessory mounting on my rifle, and the GridLok system seemed like a promising solution. It wasn’t a perfect first impression; the weight felt substantial, hinting at solid construction, but also making me wonder about potential bulk. I’d briefly considered some other popular flip-up sight sets, but their fixed mounting systems felt less versatile for my M-LOK setup. A sense of cautious optimism washed over me as I prepared to put these sights through their paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Strike Industries GridLok Front & Rear Sights to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place on the range during a crisp autumn afternoon. I attached the sights to a rifle equipped with an M-LOK handguard, noting the satisfying click as they locked into place. The Strike Industries GridLok Front & Rear Sights performed admirably under consistent firing, with no noticeable shift or loss of zero even after several magazines. They remained functional and retained their zero through a day of rapid fire and deliberate slow fire.
After this initial range day, I spent several weeks with the rifle as a general-purpose platform, which involved moving it between my workshop and outdoor training areas. The sights endured minor bumps and scrapes without issue, proving themselves resilient to the typical wear and tear of field use. Their operation remained smooth and consistent.
Ease of use was a highlight; deploying and retracting the sights was a fluid one-handed operation, requiring minimal effort. The adjustment mechanisms on both the front and rear sights were also surprisingly tactile and positive, making fine-tuning a breeze. I experienced no unexpected quirks or frustrating issues during this initial period, which was a refreshing change from some past experiences.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the course of the next few months, these sights became a permanent fixture on my primary rifle. They’ve accompanied me on numerous range visits, dusty outdoor carbine courses, and even a few less-than-ideal weather days. Through it all, the GridLok sights have continued to hold their zero with impressive tenacity, even after being roughly handled.
Durability has been excellent so far; despite being exposed to fine dust and the occasional light mist, there are no signs of degradation. The Strike Industries GridLok Front & Rear Sights show minimal wear, with only faint scuff marks on the anodized finish. The detents for flipping them up and down remain strong and positive, showing no signs of loosening.
Maintenance has been practically non-existent. A quick wipe-down with a cloth to remove dust and debris is all that’s needed. The aluminum construction resists corrosion, and the internal mechanisms seem well-protected. Compared to some budget iron sights I’ve used previously, these offer a significantly more robust and reliable experience.
Breaking Down the Features of Strike Industries GridLok Front & Rear Sights
Specifications
The Strike Industries GridLok Front & Rear Sights are precision CNC milled from rugged 6061 aluminum, ensuring a durable and lightweight construction. Each sight is designed for M-LOK mounting, offering a secure and quick-detachable solution. The front sight has an integrated A2-style post, adjustable for elevation, while the rear sight features dual apertures for windage and elevation adjustments. The overall height is approximately 61.65 mm, with a width of 46.2 mm and a diameter of 1.6 inches. These specifications are crucial for ensuring proper sight picture and alignment, especially under pressure. Compared to bulkier alternatives, these sights offer a more streamlined profile, which is beneficial for weapons manipulation.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of core function, these sights excel at providing a rapid and accurate sighting solution. The quick rail detach feature is genuinely useful, allowing for swift removal when optics are preferred or when transitioning to a different setup. The QD Locking Lever with its tightness adjustment ensures a rock-solid lockup, preventing any unwanted movement once secured.
The RailLok mounting system is a standout feature, capable of accommodating both Picatinny 1913 and M-LOK accessories. This offers significant versatility for users with different handguard setups. The integrated front sight is robust, and the ability to remove the front top rail to accommodate an A2 sight setup is a clever design choice for those who prefer that classic configuration.
Design & Ergonomics
The semi-matte finish on the aluminum body provides a subtle grip and a professional aesthetic that complements most firearm finishes. The overall build quality feels substantial, with no loose parts or rattling. The sights deploy with a positive spring-loaded action, and the adjustment knobs are firm yet easy to manipulate.
Ergonomically, the GridLok sights are well-designed. They sit relatively low profile when stowed, minimizing snagging hazards. The deployment mechanism is intuitive and easily actuated with a single finger. The alignment set screws are a thoughtful addition, allowing for precise centering on the firearm platform before final tightening.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from 6061 aluminum, these sights are built to withstand the rigors of consistent use. Strike Industries clearly prioritized durability in their design. The anodized finish has proven resistant to scratching and chipping, even with regular handling and exposure to the elements.
Maintenance is remarkably simple. Occasional cleaning with a soft cloth and perhaps a light application of a rust inhibitor to the adjustment mechanisms is all that’s required. There are no complex parts to wear out, and the overall design suggests a long service life. The internal rail clearance of 40.5mm is noted, which is significant if you plan to use accessories like the SI OPPRESSOR.
Accessories and Customization Options
The primary accessory benefit of the Strike Industries GridLok Front & Rear Sights lies in their M-LOK and Picatinny rail compatibility. This allows for easy integration with a wide array of aftermarket accessories. The modular nature of the handguard system they attach to means you can customize your setup extensively.
The ability to remove the integrated front sight and top rail offers a degree of customization for users who want to achieve a specific aesthetic or functional profile, particularly for those aiming for an A2 style setup. The integrated QD mount on the handguard itself (though not directly on the sights) further enhances accessory options.
Pros and Cons of Strike Industries GridLok Front & Rear Sights
Pros
- Quick rail detach mechanism allows for rapid deployment and removal.
- Robust 6061 aluminum construction ensures excellent durability.
- RailLok mounting system accommodates both Picatinny 1913 and M-LOK accessories.
- Alignment set screws facilitate precise centering on the firearm.
- Modular design with the option to remove the integrated front sight and top rail.
- QD Locking Lever with tightness adjustment provides a secure lockup.
Cons
- Slightly heavier than some ultra-lightweight plastic or polymer sight options.
- The initial setup, while straightforward, requires attention to properly torque the M-LOK system.
- Price point is mid-range, meaning it’s not the cheapest option available.
Who Should Buy Strike Industries GridLok Front & Rear Sights?
The Strike Industries GridLok Front & Rear Sights are an excellent choice for individuals building or upgrading rifles with M-LOK handguards who value modularity and robust construction. They are ideal for range shooters, competition participants, and any firearm enthusiast looking for reliable backup sights that integrate seamlessly with modern accessory systems. Those who frequently swap between optic setups or require the flexibility to mount various accessories directly to their handguard will find these particularly beneficial.
However, users seeking the absolute lightest weight option or those on an extremely tight budget might want to explore other alternatives. If your rifle platform does not utilize M-LOK or Picatinny rails, this specific sight system will not be compatible. Essential complementary items would include an M-LOK compatible handguard and potentially a torque wrench for proper installation of the M-LOK hardware.
Conclusion on Strike Industries GridLok Front & Rear Sights
The Strike Industries GridLok Front & Rear Sights deliver on their promise of robust construction, user-friendly design, and versatile mounting options. They offer a solid and reliable sighting solution that feels built to last, and the quick-detach functionality combined with the adaptable RailLok system makes them a practical choice for many rifle builds. For their price point, the quality of materials and the thoughtful engineering present a compelling value proposition. I can confidently recommend these sights to anyone looking for a dependable and adaptable addition to their M-LOK equipped firearm.