GUN SIGHTS

Gun sights are how you aim — the iron sights and backup sights that put rounds on target, whether as a primary aiming system or a reliable backup to an optic. From classic AR-15 A2 sights to ghost-ring shotgun sights, flip-up backup iron sights (BUIS), and pistol sights, the right sights are fundamental to accuracy. This category covers iron and backup sights for rifles, shotguns, and handguns, and how to choose. For red-dot optics, see our Trijicon RMR selection.

Tatted Tacticals stocks gun sights from quality makers — fixed and flip-up iron sights, AR-15 sight sets, shotgun bead and ghost-ring sights, and pistol sights.

Types of Iron Sights

Iron sights come in several forms. Post-and-aperture (peep) sights, like the AR-15’s classic A2 setup, use a front post centered in a rear aperture for precise rifle aiming. Ghost-ring sights use a large rear ring for fast target acquisition, popular on defensive shotguns. Notch-and-post sights are standard on most handguns. And flip-up backup iron sights (BUIS) fold down out of the way when an optic is mounted, then deploy instantly if the optic fails — a smart insurance policy on any optic-equipped rifle.

Choosing and Zeroing Sights

Match the sight to the gun and role: precise aperture sights for rifle accuracy, fast ghost rings or red dots for defense, and quality notch sights for pistols. On an AR-15, many shooters run a primary optic with flip-up BUIS as backup. Whatever you choose, proper zeroing is essential — adjust windage and elevation until point of aim matches point of impact at your chosen distance, then confirm. Good sight alignment and sight picture are the foundation of marksmanship. Pair sights with a quality AR-15 build. Safe-handling and marksmanship guidance is available from the NSSF.

Buying Gun Sights

Sights are accessories, not firearms, and ship directly without an FFL. Review our state restrictions for any local rules, and always follow the four rules of firearms safety when sighting in and handling your firearm.

Gun Sights — Frequently Asked Questions

What is an iron sight?

An iron sight is a non-magnified aiming device using physical reference points — typically a front post or bead aligned with a rear notch or aperture — rather than electronics or glass. Iron sights are simple, rugged, and battery-free, serving as primary sights or as backups to optics. Aligning the front and rear sights on the target creates the sight picture used to aim accurately.

What are the different types of iron sights?

The main types are post-and-aperture (peep) sights, like the AR-15 A2, which align a front post in a rear ring for precision; ghost-ring sights with a large fast rear aperture, popular on shotguns; notch-and-post sights standard on handguns; and flip-up backup iron sights (BUIS) that fold down when an optic is mounted. Each suits different firearms and shooting styles.

What are backup iron sights (BUIS)?

Backup iron sights are flip-up sights that fold down out of the line of sight when a primary optic is mounted, then deploy instantly if the optic fails or runs out of battery. They’re a smart insurance policy on any optic-equipped rifle, ensuring you can still aim if electronics fail. Many AR-15 shooters run a red dot or scope with BUIS as backup.

How do you zero iron sights?

Zeroing means adjusting your sights so point of aim matches point of impact at a set distance. Fire a group, then adjust windage (left-right) and elevation (up-down) to move your impacts to the aiming point, and confirm with another group. Most sights adjust in clicks corresponding to a measured movement at distance. Proper zeroing at your chosen range is essential for accurate shooting.

Can you buy gun sights online?

Yes. In most U.S. states you can buy iron sights, backup sights, and pistol sights online and have them shipped directly to your door, since sights are accessories rather than firearms. Confirm any local restrictions before ordering. Sights are an easy, important upgrade for any firearm, whether as a primary aiming system or backup to an optic.