Best AR-15 Iron Sights 2024 (MBUS, BUIS, Flip-Up & Offset)

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In a day and age where red dot sights are gaining all the attention and are used as the primary sighting system, why use iron sights at all?

In general, iron sights have been the standard sighting system for eons. It’s been years in the making for red dots to earn trust from the civilian community. Even so, irons will always be seen as an essential piece of gear on top an AR-15, even if it’s as a back-up.

Best AR-15 Iron Sights

In my endeavor to find highly rated sights, I threw in a couple of my own personal, favorite ones.

With my hands-on experience and recommendations, these top iron sights for the AR meet my expectations as a back-up for use with a red dot.

Top AR Iron Sights for 2024

BEST MBUS
Magpul MBUS Sight Set GEN 2 Color Flat Dark Earth Front & Rear Included
BEST BUIS
UTG Super Slim Flip-up Front Sight , Black
BEST BUDGET
Tacticon Flip Up Iron Sights - Includes Front Sight Adjustment Tool - Rapid...
Magpul MBUS Sight Set GEN 2 Color Flat Dark Earth Front & Rear Included
UTG Super Slim Flip-up Front Sight , Black
Tacticon Flip Up Iron Sights - Includes Front Sight Adjustment Tool - Rapid...
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BEST MBUS
Magpul MBUS Sight Set GEN 2 Color Flat Dark Earth Front & Rear Included
Magpul MBUS Sight Set GEN 2 Color Flat Dark Earth Front & Rear Included
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BEST BUIS
UTG Super Slim Flip-up Front Sight , Black
UTG Super Slim Flip-up Front Sight , Black
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BEST BUDGET
Tacticon Flip Up Iron Sights - Includes Front Sight Adjustment Tool - Rapid...
Tacticon Flip Up Iron Sights - Includes Front Sight Adjustment Tool - Rapid...
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Why Trust Us?

After hundreds of hours of hand-testing iron sights in the field and at the range, and thousands more hours researching and writing about them, we feel we earn the title of experts when it comes to optics!

We purchase as many of the optics for our tests as possible, and run them through their paces to make sure they will perform at the range and in the field.

Our combined decades of experience from close-range shooting, to big game hunting and competitions has been integral in putting together this round-up of the best AR-15 iron sights.

Get the inside scoop on how we test optics here.

In general, AR-15 iron sights are primarily for a back-up sighting system. With the popularity and performance improvements of red dot sights, irons serve as a fail-safe. Mounted to co-witness in either the absolute or lower 1/3, irons have legitimate residency on the modern sporting rifle.

But throwing yet another optic on the rail can make things distracting. Enter here, the best flip-up iron sights. The purpose of flip-up sights is to keep them out of sight, out of mind until they’re needed. When they’re needed, all it takes is a push of a button.

MBUS sights mounted on AR-15 with Sig Sauer Romeo 5
MBUS sights mounted on AR-15 with Sig Sauer Romeo 5

Even my own sights are flip-ups, and I personally run them pushed down since I’m always using a red dot. But for the day when I’m screwed in the field (will do everything I can to prevent that), my irons will save my bacon.

BUIS sights collapsed on AR-15s
BUIS sights collapsed on AR-15's

I included my own personal pair of sights for field-testing in this list, and yes, popularity had a large part of my decision in buying them in the first place. There’s a lot of info and troubleshooting online about them, so they deserve a worthy mention.

For all others, these BUIS sights have the right price point, are adjustable, and have consumer support. Let’s sight-in for more details!

5 Best AR-15 Iron Sight Reviews

1. Magpul MBUS Flip-Up Sights – Best MBUS Iron Sights for AR-15

MBUS Flip-Up Sights in Olive Drab Green
MBUS Flip-Up Sights in Olive Drab Green

Magpul is an exalted firearms accessories manufacturer, and their name holds weight. They’re an extremely popular brand for the quality and performance of their gear even though they cost more than alternatives. This was my line of thinking when I also bought these MBUS sights.

Pros:

  • Front sight tool included
  • Lightweight
  • Push-button flip-up sights
  • 1.5” height/2.6” stow length
  • Dual aperture rear sight

Cons:

  • Polymer material

The MBUS sights are made of lightweight, scratch-resistant polymer, and with the current rave of metal sights, the plastic construction may be a drawback. However, I haven’t run into a single issue with its build integrity ranging from use in heavy rain and constant tightening, untightening, mounting, and dismounting.

I really like the spring-loaded flip-up sight. Pushing the serrated thumb/finger detent makes it incredulously easy. It doesn’t really matter how you mount that front sight because the wings on the side also release the spring mechanism.

MBUS front sights with Olive Drab Green (left) and Black (right)
MBUS front sights with Olive Drab Green (left) and Black (right)

Installing them is easy but the front sight was a bit of a pain on my handguard rail. It fits tight and takes some effort to maneuver it on. You’ll need a 1/8” hex key to tighten the drive screw, but I just used a huge flathead screwdriver that was probably overkill but it got it done.

MBUS Black Sights on Ruger AR-15 co-witnessed with one of my personal faves, the field-tested Holosun HS510C
MBUS Black Sights on Ruger AR-15 co-witnessed with one of my personal faves, the field-tested Holosun HS510C

Sighting them in is a little rough given the MOA values (yes, you’ll need to do some math), but the ease of adjustability makes up for it. The windage knob offers tool-less adjustments and the front sight comes with a small polymer tool.

Looking through MBUS sights with focus on front sight (left) and side view of sights (right)
Looking through MBUS sights with focus on front sight (left) and side view of sights (right)

They’re on what I would call the mid-range spectrum for cost since just one sight costs the same as a set compared to cheaper alternatives. I’ve bought two sets (each sight separately) – one for my DB AR-15 and one for my Ruger AR-15.

But there is a set deal where you can get the front and rear sight as a pair at a lower price point than buying them separately – wish I knew this before. This is what I will do going forward – yes, I’d buy them again!

Front Sight Available at: Amazon and Optics Planet (use code TTAMERS for 5% off at Optics Planet)
Rear Sight Available at: Amazon and Optics Planet (use code TTAMERS for 5% off at Optics Planet)
Sight Pair Available at:: Amazon and Optics Planet (use code TTAMERS for 5% off at Optics Planet)

2. UTG Super Slim Low-Profile Flip-Up Sights – Best BUIS Backup Iron Sights

UTG Sights: rear sight (left) and front sight (right)
UTG Sights: rear sight (left) and front sight (right)

On average, some of the cheapest brands have top-rated firearm accessories simply due to price. The Low-Profile Flip-Up Sights are no exception. Made from aluminum with dual apertures and the Posi-Lock Design, the UTG sights are fit for AR-15s from recreational to various range applications.

Pros:

  • Price
  • Aluminum
  • Posi-Lock Design
  • Easy to zero
  • Low-profile

Cons:

  • Surface scratches

There are some buyers who aren’t a fan of the metal-on-metal contact, and it’s puzzling. From the get-go, they’re advertised as aircraft-grade aluminum iron sights. Like similar products, they can scratch, and this may happen if you use the wrong adjustment tool for the front sight – hasn’t happened to me. Mine are in pristine condition!

You should also know that a front sight adjustment tool is not included, so you must purchase one separately. I already have one, so it was a non-issue to get them mounted and sighted-in for 50 yards.

UTG Sights: rear sight collapsed (left). Flipped-up and engaged (right)
UTG Sights: rear sight collapsed (left). Flipped-up and engaged (right)

The rear sight has a little stiffness to it, but the resistance is excellent given that it’s finger adjustable. I haven’t had any accidental adjustments yet. Speaking of, the spring-loaded Posi-Lock design and side plunger release do their job fantastically of no unintentional flipping up. Though I personally prefer the push button of the MBUS sights, the side bars work well.

During ownership, they’ve been passed along to law enforcement for sitting on a duty-mounted AR-15. They’ve passed law enforcement range qualifications to 100 yards and have held steady and steadfast during shifts in a patrol car.

Looking through UTG Sights (left). Absolute co-witness in the lower third (right) with the EOTech EXPS3 (right).
Looking through UTG Sights (left). Absolute co-witness in the lower 1/3 with the EOTech EXPS3 (right).

I like that they’re low-profile and take up little space on the rail though I run them collapsed given that I run a red dot 24/7. For the money, they’re the best budget iron sights I’ve put on a rifle from my Diamondback to my FN.

If I were to go with a high-end pair one day, it’ll be the Wilson Combat Pro that deserves to sit on my FN-15 or gift to a LEO. Christmas present, maybe? Either way, gotta save the money honey.

Front Sight Available at: Amazon and Optics Planet (use code TTAMERS for 5% off at Optics Planet)
Rear Sight Available at: Amazon and Optics Planet (use code TTAMERS for 5% off at Optics Planet)

3. Tacticon Armament Flip-Up BUIS Sights - Best Cheap Iron Sights

Tacticon Armament Flip Up Iron Sights - Rear Sight and Front Sight
Tacticon Armament Flip Up Iron Sights - Rear Sight (left) & Front Sight (right) - Image Credit – Tacticon Armament

The Tacticon Armament BUIS sights are by far the most popular AR-15 back-up iron sights across the board. They come as a pair, they’re affordable, and they come with the mounting wrench and front adjustment tool needed to get running them right away.

Pros:

  • Price
  • Full iron sight set
  • Flip-up
  • Aluminum
  • Lifetime warranty

Cons:

  • Unintentional flipping-up

This could be a big, fat, red flag, but some have reported that the sights may unintentionally flip-up during use. Though a consequence of the spring-loaded design during repeated recoil, it can be remedied with some Loctite as some have done. As a legitimate concern, it should be weighed against the pros.

I think that the price is fair for a set given that it comes with all the tools needed to mount and adjust. Since a front sight tool costs on average $10, you’re getting sights that compare to budget models.

YouTube video

They’ve shown to be quite accurate out of the box, though the front sight may be a little stubborn with adjustments. With a dual aperture rear sight, you can use either one as is necessary for the application or ambient conditions.

I reckon that one of the best things about the Tacticon sights is the lifetime warranty. A quick email to the company and replacements are often sent out right away if there are any issues. So, for a budget pair, it’s easy to see why I consider them to be a high value pair.

If you still don’t want to spend as much, a highly recommended second would be the Feyachi BUIS sights. However, you’re still $10 bucks in because it doesn’t come with a front sight tool.

Available at: Amazon and Optics Planet (use code TTAMERS for 5% off at Optics Planet)

4. Ultralight Flip-Up Offset Sights - Best 45-Degree Offset Iron Sights

Ultralight Flip-Up Offset Sights - Front and Rear Sight
Ultralight Flip-Up Offset Sights - Front Sight (left) & Rear Sight (right) - Image Credit: Iorman

The Ultralight Flip-Up Offset Sights are exactly as described. They’re cheap, flip up, and offset. Though they’re in the budget category, they’re very popular and that $20 (approx.) goes a long way. They’re easy to mount, fully adjustable, easy to use, and they’ve held zero for thousands of buyers.

Pros:

  • Price
  • 45-degree offset
  • Flip-up
  • Dual aperture
  • Low-profile

Cons:

  • Polymer

The technical term for the material that the offset sights are made from is polyphenylene sulfide. What I get from that is it’s a type of thermo polymer that also provides its super, light weight.

Accessories of the polymer nature are known to be extremely durable, scratch-resistant, and they won’t rust over time. Though they can break, it seems very few have had them break on its first run to the range.

Since they’re offset (off to the side), you’re not using them to co-witness with a red dot. With them, you can keep your favorite LPVO or competition scope and your sights too. They do flip up and they’re very responsive when doing so.

Though it doesn’t come with a front sight adjustment tool, it does come with the mounting wrench, and I can already tell that they’ll be easy to install. I actually like the simple and clean look of its mounting bars across the rail. It’s not pretentious – just basic in a clean sort of way. Other than perhaps defective sights, sighting them in is easy and they hold zero.

I think the real catch-22 here, given its low price point, is that there is no word about a warranty. If they break or don’t work for you, it’s money down the drain. But it’s a risk that may be worth taking since they’re around $20.

If you’re going to spend some serious coin, the high-end Magpul MBUS Pro Offset Iron Sights would be a killer pair for those willing to splurge.

Available at: Amazon

5. Sniper A2 Front Post Sight - Best Fixed Iron Sights for AR-15

Sniper Front Sight with A2 post
Image Credits - Sniper

The Sniper A2 is a gas block front sight designed for gas blocks that are lower than the upper receiver. It’s a high-profile sight, so it’s taller to accommodate the lost height of the gas block to pair with a rear sight.

Pros:

  • Price
  • A2 front sight
  • High-profile (gas block)
  • Aluminum alloy
  • Entry-level

Cons:

  • Huge knob

The rear sight recommended by the manufacturer is the Sniper Complete Rear Sight. It’s adjustable for both windage and elevation. However, it’s been paired well with carry handle rear sight types.

It's very basic in design, but the knob on the left for mounting tension is just a little bit funny at how big it is. Despite the eyesore, it’s easy to hand-tighten and makes installation easy. I would recommend a little Loctite to secure it just in case.

As far as adjustments go, there’s mixed feelings. The worst reports say it runs out of adjustment without bringing groups up or a standard tool wouldn’t fit between the wings. Most people were able to zero without issue. You will need your own front adjustment tool since one isn’t included, by the way.

Made from aluminum alloy, I think it’s perfect for the gas block. It’s not going to melt down, and there’s a solid feel to its build quality. That’s one thing that everyone agrees on – it’s well-made.

For the very low price point, the Sniper A2 sight does the job. It’s basic, has an old-school appeal, and it functions. Little more is warranted when it’s exactly what buyers want – easy, affordable, and solid.

Available at: Amazon

What to Look for in the Best Iron Sights for AR-15

Iron Sights on an AR-15

Overall, considerations such as budget, special features, and use with a red dot sight will determine what the best iron sights will be for the task ahead. Like any gunsight, there are various configurations, price points, and benefits one can get out of irons.

Below is a quick guide that will give you a starting point on what to look for in your first pair, replacement, or upgrade.

Cost

Assorted AR-15 iron sights

In general, iron sights are relatively cheap when compared to rifle scopes and red dot sights. Budget iron sight sets (front and rear) can be found for $20-$50 (approx.) but can be as expensive as $200. Mid-range sights can range from $50-$150 for an individual sight (front or rear).

Since sights are not made equal, quality will vary. The more expensive sights will have more features and are typically made in America. Cheaper irons are made in China and come at a budget-friendly price point.

Iron SightsPrice Range
Magpul MBUS SightsUnder $50 (each)
UTG Low Profile SightsUnder $30 (each)
Tacticon Armament SightsUnder $50
Ultralight Flip-Up Offset SightsUnder $25
Sniper A2 Front Post Sight (no rear)Under $15
Recommended Iron Sights for AR-15

Fixed VS Flip-Up

Flipped-up iron sights (left) VS collapsed iron sights (right)
Flipped-up iron sights (left) VS collapsed iron sights (right)

On average, flip-up sights are very popular as they can be pushed down for out-of-sight, out-of-mind convenience while they’re not needed. This is a practical solution for those that prefer the absolute co-witness but also don’t like the distracting view of seeing the irons through the red dot.

Though practical, convenient, and very easy to use, it requires more moving components. This may raise concerns about durability when compared to fixed sights.

Fixed sights are always in position and operationally ready. They do not fold down as they are fixed in their design and mounting position. Fixed sights are known for their durability and reliability due to the fact that there are no moving components in regards to its mounting and functionality.

Iron SightsTypeMethod
Magpul MBUS SightsFlip-upPush
UTG Low Profile SightsFlip-upPress (side bar)
Tacticon Armament SightsFlip-upPress (side bar)
Ultralight Flip-Up Offset SightsFlip-upPress (side bar)
Sniper A2 Front Post Sight (no rear)FixedN/A
AR-15 Iron Sights Fixed VS Flip-Up Types

Same Plane VS Gas Block

UTG sights are same plane sights
UTG sights are same plane sights

Most of the time, the front and rear sights are going to be the same height if you expect any sighting-in success and POI accuracy. However, there’s a difference between gas block and same plane sights that determines where the front sight is to be mounted on an AR-15.

Same plane sights mean that both the rear and front sights are the same height when on a flat surface and are assumed to be mounted on the same plane – typically the rail on the upper receiver and a free float handguard.

Same plane sights also include gas block sights with a height that is appropriate for mounting to gas blocks that are at the same height as the receiver.

Gas block sights that are lower than the receiver will require a front sight that is taller to make up for the height difference. With the high-profile front sight, it should match up for use with the standard height rear sight.

Iron SightsType
Magpul MBUS SightsSame plane
UTG Low Profile SightsSame plane
Tacticon Armament SightsSame plane
Ultralight Flip-Up Offset SightsSame plane
Sniper A2 Front Post Sight (no rear)Gas block (lower than upper receiver)
AR-15 Iron Sights Same Plane VS Gas Block Height Types

Installation

MBUS sights
MBUS sights

In general, irons are extremely durable though not indestructible. They’re easy to install on an AR-15. The base is molded to clamp around the rail and a bolt sits in the slot. Tightening the bolt secures the iron sight further to the rail.

The front sight is installed on the rail towards the muzzle end. The rear is installed on the rail closer to the charging handle. A popular position includes the first slots with the rear sight folded down over the charging handle.

Instructions aren’t always included in the package but are nearly always found online in the form of written instructions or a video for the specific model. If torque specs are not included, 15-25 in-lbs is a common rule to follow.

Tools needed for actual installation are either a flathead screwdriver or the right sized Allen wrench. For example, a 1/8” hex key would fit the drive screw to the MBUS sights. Hand-tighten the screw and do another turn to secure. Often a flathead screwdriver will do the job with some mounting tension screws. If you’re using a torque wrench, use the right size bit and set the value.

Adjusting front MBUS sight with included tool
Adjusting front MBUS sight with included tool

The tool needed for front sight adjustment may need to be purchased separately. Using the casing of a spent round may work as an alternative. Most rear sights have tool-less adjustments via a rotating knob or dial.

Iron SightsTool Included
Magpul MBUS SightsFront sight tool
UTG Low Profile SightsMounting Allen wrench
Tacticon Armament SightsFront sight tool & mounting Allen wrench
Ultralight Flip-Up Offset SightsMounting Allen wrench
Sniper A2 Front Post Sight (no rear)None
AR-15 Iron Sights Installation Tools & Torque Specs

Sight-In

Sighting in Iron Sights

Sighting in iron sights can be difficult for those new to using them. The MOA values to adjust are not universal and chasing groups may be the result. Even when using math to figure out what the values are according to various factors like sight radius, it still requires live rounds to confirm zero.

You must also consider what is the best zero distance for an AR-15. Very popular distances are the 36/300 and the 50/200-yard zeros. Though it appears to be two zeros, the first number is the zero distance. The second number is the distance where the trajectory course puts the POI on point (approx.) without having to hold over.

Iron SightsFront/Rear AdjustableFront Sight ToolPrice Range
Magpul MBUS SightsYReal Avid A1/A2Under $10
UTG Low Profile SightsYTACFUN 4/5 prongUnder $10
Tacticon Armament SightsYAim Sports SK/SKSUnder $15
Ultralight Flip-Up Offset SightsYOzark A1/A2Under $15
Sniper A2 Front Post Sight (no rear)Front onlyUltimate Rifle Build 4/5 prongUnder $10
AR-15 Iron Sight Adjustability & Front Sight Tool Recommendations

More on sighting in iron sights is discussed in our How to Zero Iron Sights guide.

Co-Witness

Absolute co-witness with Sig Sauer Romeo 5 and UTG sights
Absolute co-witness with Sig Sauer Romeo 5 and UTG sights

Co-witnessing is how the iron sights can be used as seen through a red dot sight. The most common positions are the absolute co-witness and the lower 1/3 co-witness. However, not all red dot sights are compatible for co-witnessing with iron sights.

AR-15 BUIS sights typically come in standard heights. It is the mounting height of a red dot and any special accessories needed for mounting that will determine the co-witness.

AR-15 Red Dot SightCo-Witness w/Iron SightsPrice Range
Sig Sauer Romeo MSRAbsoluteUnder $100
Holosun HS403BLower 1/3Under $150
Vortex Sparc AR2Absolute & Lower 1/3Under $200
Holosun HS510CLower 1/3Under $350
EOTech EXPS3Lower 1/3Under $700
Recommended AR-15 Red Dots & Co-Witness Height with AR-15 BUIS Sights

Read here for more on Co-Witness Explained.

BUIS VS Red Dot Sight

Back Up Iron Sights (BUIS) VS Red Dot Sights
Back Up Iron Sights (BUIS) VS Red Dot Sights

There is a legitimate trend of running red dot sights alone without any iron sights. This has become a common move because of the reliability and long-lasting battery runtimes of contemporary red dots. Some are doing away with irons altogether for various reasons.

They may have absolute trust in the RDS, or it could be that the busy sight picture with seeing irons through a red dot is too distracting. Though less of an argument, some are even saying that they need to slim down on total gear weight on a rifle… though it could be argued that a flashlight, IR illuminator, or laser could shave significant weight instead.

Perhaps for some with battle or survival (SHTF) rifles intended only for close-range use, running only irons may be the more trustworthy route to follow. However, there are bona fide benefits of using a red dot for speed, target acquisition, and usability in the same applications and distances.

IRONSRED DOT SIGHT
Cost
Long-Range
Durable
Reliable
Easy to Zero
Focus
Accuracy
Speed
Size
No Power Needed
Comparison of Iron Sights VS Red Dot Sights... Point goes to the one that has the edge even if minimal.

Check out our Iron Sights VS Red Dot comparison guide for more in-depth explanations!

Iron Sights Matter Even as a Back-Up

There are scores of sights outfitted for the semi-automatic modern sporting rifle. As such, this isn't an all-inclusive list but a handful of the most popular irons for the AR-15. With affordability and exceptional build quality, there’s no reason to be without irons even when running a red dot.

Iron Sights, AR-15 and Holographic Sight

Apart from those running irons (as the primary sighting system), the rest of us are running them as a back-up. It goes without saying, you’d better know how to use both sighting systems.

Your AR-15 rig is only as strong as your weakest link. Don’t be lazy and let your iron skills get rusty. If you’re going to have them, know how to use them!

Further Reading
Photo of author

Tina Fa'apoi - Expert Optics Tester

Tina is a renowned expert in optics, having written hundreds of articles for Target Tamers over the past eight years and owning an extensive collection of optic's including binoculars, rifle scopes, red dots, spotting scopes and rangefinders. With years of experience in creating instructional videos and field-testing various optics, Tina brings a wealth of practical and theoretical knowledge to the field.

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