The One Thing I Didn’t Expect from the Strike Industries Polymer Backup Sights
The search for reliable, low-profile backup sights can be a bit of a rabbit hole, especially when you’re trying to balance cost with durability and functionality. My personal experience with optics, particularly those that sit high on a rifle platform, often leaves a gap where traditional iron sights just don’t fit comfortably. This led me to investigate the Strike Industries Polymer Backup Sights, a product that promised a compact solution with an intriguing secondary feature. I had previously used a few other brands, but none quite hit the mark for my specific needs. Upon first impression, the construction felt surprisingly robust for a polymer offering, with a noticeable heft in the steel mounting tab that reassured me. The initial thought was: could these really offer something beyond just being a basic flip-up sight? A quick glance at the design suggested a potential that went beyond the typical BUIS.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Strike Industries Polymer Backup Sights** to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for these sights was my personal AR-15 build, specifically paired with a low-power variable optic (LPVO) that occupied a significant portion of the rail space. The goal was to see how these sights integrated without creating an obstruction, and more importantly, if they could offer any viable secondary aiming solution. Installation was straightforward, clamping onto the Picatinny rail with a satisfying, secure feel. The manual flip mechanism felt deliberate, not flimsy, and I appreciated that they didn’t pop up accidentally. Even with a light coating of dust from a weekend range trip, their operation remained smooth.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of periodic use, including a few extended range days and general handling around the workshop, these sights have proven their worth. They have held their zero perfectly, and the detents for flipping them up and down remain strong, preventing unwanted movement. I’ve found myself relying on them more than I initially anticipated, especially when quickly transitioning between shooting positions or when a rapid visual check of the immediate surroundings is needed. Cleaning is as simple as a quick wipe-down, and their polymer construction means I don’t fret about rust or significant corrosion, even when stored in less-than-ideal conditions. Compared to some older, more expensive metal BUIS I’ve used, these Strike Industries units are surprisingly resilient and far more forgiving in terms of weight and snag potential.
Breaking Down the Features of **Strike Industries Polymer Backup Sights**
Specifications
The Strike Industries Polymer Backup Sights are constructed from SI Polymer Extreme, a material designed for both lightweight durability and resistance to the rigors of field use. Each sight features a steel mounting tab and insert, which provides a strong, reliable lock onto any standard Picatinny rail. The rear sight is particularly noteworthy, offering dual apertures: a larger, 4.70mm (0.19″) aperture for faster target acquisition and low-light conditions, and a smaller, 1.75mm (0.07″) aperture for increased accuracy at longer distances. Elevation for the front sight is adjusted tool-less, and windage for the rear sight is managed via an easy-to-use knob. The overall design is intentionally low-profile, intended to remain unobtrusive when not in use.
The dual aperture system on the rear sight is a significant feature, allowing users to adapt their aiming point based on the situation. The larger aperture is excellent for quick, close-range engagements where speed is paramount. Conversely, the smaller aperture tightens the sight radius for more precise aiming when accuracy is the priority. The tool-less adjustments for both sights are a major convenience, allowing for rapid zeroing and re-zeroing without fumbling for tools, which is invaluable in dynamic environments or during rapid setup.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of these sights – to provide a backup aiming solution – is performed admirably. When flipped up, they offer a clean sight picture that works well with most optic setups, including those that co-witness. The height is designed to pair effectively with the front sight post, creating a usable sight radius. What truly sets these apart, however, is the secondary set of sights integrated into the folded-down position. These low-profile, pistol-style sights offer an unexpected bonus, providing a rudimentary aiming point even when the primary flip-up sights are down.
This dual-layer approach to sighting is incredibly practical. While the primary flip-up sights are robust and functional, the hidden backup sights are the real game-changer for certain applications. They align surprisingly well with the crosshairs of many LPVOs when those optics are flipped down, offering a surprisingly viable emergency aiming solution that doesn’t require removing your primary optic. This is a feature that genuinely exceeded my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Strike Industries Polymer Backup Sights boast a low-profile and low-snag design, which is crucial for maintaining a clear line of sight over optics and preventing items from catching on the rifle. The SI Polymer Extreme material feels substantial, not brittle, and the integration of the steel mounting components speaks to a thoughtful design approach. The manual deployment mechanism, while not spring-loaded, is easy to operate with a thumb or finger, providing positive control. The serrated surfaces on the rear sight are effective at reducing glare, a small but appreciated detail.
The absence of an internal spring for deployment is a deliberate design choice that prevents accidental deployment, a feature many users will find beneficial. This manual operation ensures the sights only deploy when you intend them to. While the polymer construction keeps the weight down, the use of steel in critical areas like the mounting tab ensures strength where it’s needed most.
Durability & Maintenance
These sights are built with durability in mind, using SI Polymer Extreme material designed to withstand significant abuse. The steel mounting tab and insert are key components that reinforce the sight’s attachment to the firearm. In my experience, they have shown no signs of cracking, deformation, or performance degradation despite being handled, mounted, and occasionally bumped. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove debris.
The manual deployment system, while lacking the spring-loaded “pop” of some competitors, contributes to their long-term reliability. There are fewer moving parts to fail or wear out. The design does not appear to have any inherent weak points that would suggest premature failure under normal operational stress.
Accessories and Customization Options
The primary customization for these sights involves the front sight post, which can be painted to the user’s color preference for enhanced visibility. While no other significant accessories are included or directly compatible in a traditional sense, the core functionality of the sights themselves is highly adaptable. The dual apertures on the rear sight serve as a form of built-in customization, allowing users to choose their preferred sighting method.
The design is intended to be paired with its counterpart, meaning these sights are optimized to work together. While they can be mounted on any standard Picatinny rail, their height is specifically calibrated to work as a set.
Pros and Cons of **Strike Industries Polymer Backup Sights**
Pros
- Extremely low-profile design that sits flush when folded down, minimizing snagging and ensuring clearance for optics.
- Built-in, pistol-style backup sights when folded down offer a unique and surprisingly useful secondary aiming capability.
- Tool-less adjustments for both windage (rear) and elevation (front) make zeroing quick and convenient.
- Durable SI Polymer Extreme material paired with steel mounting tabs and inserts for robust construction.
- Affordable price point makes them an accessible upgrade or backup option.
- Manual deployment prevents accidental activation, adding a layer of user control.
- Dual apertures on the rear sight cater to different shooting scenarios, from rapid acquisition to precise aiming.
Cons
- The height is slightly taller than standard A2 sights, meaning they are best used as a matched set and may not co-witness perfectly with all optic setups without some adjustment.
- The rear “pistol” sight notch, when folded down, can be quite wide and may be less useful on standard carbine-length ARs due to the limited sight radius; it’s more effective on shorter platforms or with specific optic mounting configurations.
- While durable, they are still polymer and may not withstand extreme impacts as well as all-metal sights, though they are robust for their intended purpose.
- The manual flip-up mechanism does not have the same “snap” as spring-loaded sights, requiring a deliberate push to deploy.
Who Should Buy **Strike Industries Polymer Backup Sights**?
The Strike Industries Polymer Backup Sights are an excellent choice for AR platform owners looking for a cost-effective, low-profile backup sighting solution. They are particularly well-suited for shooters who utilize magnified optics or LPVOs and want an unobtrusive secondary aiming system that doesn’t require removing their primary optic. Home defense users, competition shooters seeking an affordable backup, and individuals building a lightweight rifle will find these sights highly beneficial.
Conversely, those who absolutely require the most robust, all-metal construction for extreme duty applications, or who need a perfectly precise A2-height co-witness with every possible optic might want to explore other options. Anyone prioritizing a spring-loaded “snap” deployment over a deliberate manual flip might also find them less ideal. For an affordable upgrade that adds unique functionality, these are hard to beat.
Conclusion on **Strike Industries Polymer Backup Sights**
The Strike Industries Polymer Backup Sights punch well above their weight class, offering a feature set that belies their affordable price tag. The combination of a durable polymer construction, steel reinforcement, and ingenious dual-purpose design makes them a standout option in the crowded backup sight market. While not without minor ergonomic considerations regarding their folded-down “pistol” sights on a standard carbine, their primary function as low-profile, easily adjustable flip-up sights is excellent. The added bonus of a secondary sighting system when folded down is a genuine innovation that adds significant value. For anyone seeking a practical, budget-friendly, and surprisingly versatile backup sight solution for their AR platform, I wholeheartedly recommend giving these a try. They offer a compelling balance of performance, durability, and unique functionality that is difficult to match at this price point.