Best Pistol Sights For Any Handgun- 2022 Picks

Even with 20/20 vision, you can still find yourself squinting to see targets. Whether you’re trying to line up a shot during the day or at night, a pistol sight makes it easier to hit the target. Specifically, we recommend finding a night sight for your pistol and guess what – it isn’t hard. You can find the accessories online and in gun stores. What is a little harder is deciding which one is right for you… But we can help.

IMAGEPRODUCT 
  • Best overall
  • The glass lens is fully multi-coated for clear target alignment in any condition
  • You’ll appreciate the lightweight and durable aluminum alloy construction
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  • A lightweight and compact design prevents the sight from interfering with the pistol’s balance
  • The multicoated lens eliminates glare and improves vision at night
  • It’s easy to mount to almost any type of pistol, along with rifles and shotguns
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  • Tritium illumination for low-light shooting
  • Durable, water, and shockproof metal construction
  • Large front red dot for easy sighting of targets
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  • Best value for the money
  • The durable metal construction is designed to last for years
  • It’s compatible with most pistols and doesn’t require modifications
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  • Best AR pistol sights
  • It comes with a long-lasting battery for extended night shooting
  • Three modes for a flashlight, laser, or both
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  • Best fiber optic pistol sights
  • Provides clear lines of sight in bright and dim light
  • Sturdy and long-lasting metal construction
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What Purpose Does a Pistol Sight Serve? 

To help you use the pistol to sight things, duh! Why do you need a pistol sight? The small accessory has three purposes that all make you a better shooter.

Find Targets Faster 

Sight alignment is something you learn in a shooting class. It’s when you line up the front and rear sights. When the sights are aligned, the bullet should go precisely where it is aimed. The sight shortens the amount of time it takes to bring a target into focus.

Improve Distance Shooting 

You can have perfect eyesight and still have problems with distance shooting. This is when you need a red dot sight. The sight not only magnifies the target, making it appear closer. The small red sighting dot indicates exactly where you want to aim your shot.

Better Equipped to Deal with Threats 

Anyone that uses their pistol for security understands that there’s rarely time to line up a perfect shot. When a threat is present, things are moving quickly. A pistol sight quickly lines up with the target so you can make the shot.

What to Look For When Buying a Pistol Sight 

Whether you want to line up targets faster, improve long-distance shots, or see better at night, you need a pistol sight. However, the gun accessories aren’t created equal and not all are designed for the same intended use. Here are a few things to look for in a pistol sight.

Durability 

Pistol sights are either made from plastic or metal. If your pistol comes with a sight, it’s probably plastic. The material is inexpensive and lightweight. The downside is plastic pistol sights only last for a few rounds. Even reholstering the pistol can wear the sight down.

Metal pistol sights are priced higher, but it’s worth the expense. They’re durable, stable, and can last for years with care.

Visibility 

Anyone that uses their pistol in low-light should consider a tritium front sight. The material glows slightly in the dark without any charging from your flashlight. The material will glow for up to 10 years, before slowly going dim.

Phosphorous pistol sights come at a lower price point. However, the material only glows after it’s exposed to bright light for a few minutes.

Adjustable Front and Rear Sights 

You don’t make the same shots every time, so you need a pistol sight that adjusts with the target. Look for sights that are easy to adjust. You don’t want to waste time adjusting the sight when you should be taking the shot.

 

Matches your pistol brand and model

Obviously, you need to make sure that you’re buying pistol sights for your particular brand and model of pistol. While a good gunsmith could technically make it work for a lot of money, you aren’t going to make Glock 19 sights fit a Glock 43 or a Sig P365 or your HK. You need to choose the right model for your pistol.

Review of the Best Pistol Sights

A pistol sight that works great for your buddy may not be the best choice for you. Everyone aims and fires at targets differently. It’s why you want to look at the sight’s specifications before mounting it on your pistol. Check out red dots, night sights, different profile sights, whatever you can think of we’ll give you our thoughts. Then you choose!

Top Pick

Vortex Venom 1×26.5mm Red Dot Sight

PROS

CONS

What Recent Buyers Report

Consumers agree the red dot sight is compatible with most pistols, including Glock, PS90, and 9mm ARs. The sight arrives well-packaged, without damage. It’s also easy to install, though you need an Allen wrench for a Glock. The sight is also easy to align and zero in on targets, helping to improve accuracy on and off the shooting range.

Why It Stands Out to Us

With 10 brightness settings, you can use the red dot scope in any lighting. It’s also a breeze to adjust the sight without changing your position. The power and brightness controls are on the left side for quick and easy access. Changing the battery only takes seconds. You don’t have to remove the sight. The battery slides out when it’s still mounted on your pistol. It also boasts a durable construction that can handle most recoil shock.

Bottom Line

Not only is the red dot sight affordable, but it’s also durable. You won’t have to replace the sight every few months. It’s easy to mount and adjust, making it a great choice for beginners. It also comes with multiple settings so you can use the sight during the day and at night.

Burris FastFire III Red Dot Reflex Sight

PROS

CONS

What Recent Buyers Report

Along with easy mounting on all types of pistols, the red dot sight is also a breeze to adjust as needed. It automatically adjusts brightness levels, so you only need to concentrate on the target. The battery cover does tend to come off. However, making sure it’s securely tightened easily resolves the problem.

Why It Stands Out to Us

It’s a versatile pistol sight that fits on most firearms. The red dot sight is also designed for fast, accurate shots, that makes it a great option as a 1911 sight too. It automatically adjusts for brightness. You can also fine-tune the adjustments manually. It boasts a durable metal construction that lasts for years. The lightweight sight is also water and shockproof.

Bottom Line

Whether you like to use different types of pistols or want a sight that helps improve speed and accuracy, this one delivers. It’s compatible with most pistols, and it’s also easy to install with either a Burris or Picatinny mount. What sets it apart is the multiple brightness levels that ensure clear targets in any lighting.

Trijicon HD Night Sight Set for Glock

PROS

CONS

What Recent Buyers Report

The night scope does improve visibility in low light. It’s lightweight, durable, and boasts a large, bright red dot. Consumers agree using the sight improves accuracy, however, they also wish it were easier to adjust. It’s also an added expense to have a gunsmith install the sight on your Glock.

Why It Stands Out to Us

Not only does the night sight fit most Glock pistols, but it also improves accuracy in low light. The bright three-dot front sight improves visibility and aligns seamlessly with the rear sight. Durability isn’t an issue. The sight is made from metal and is both shock and waterproof. The coating on the lens adds extra protection for years of use.

Bottom Line

You do need professional help mounting the sight, and this costs extra. However, it’s worth it if you do a lot of shooting in transient light. The front and rear sights line up easily. The front sight also displays a tall blade that focuses your line of sight.

Best Budget Option

Meprolight Tru-Dot Night Sights for Glock Handguns and Pistols

 

PROS

CONS

What Recent Buyers Report

Consumers have noted a few issues with the affordable pistol sight. It is difficult to install, and the self-illuminating sight doesn’t always light up a target. Even with the occasional problems, the night sight can improve accuracy. Its durable construction can withstand rain and repeated recoils.

Why It Stands Out to Us

The night sight is maintenance-free. You also don’t need to modify your pistol to install the sight. Since the tritium doesn’t require charging for illumination, the sight is ready to go whenever needed. Three dots on the front sight ensure you can quickly focus on a target, improving both your speed and accuracy.

Bottom Line

The night sight isn’t perfect, but you get a lot for its affordable price. It’s durable, designed for use in all weather, and won’t throw off your pistol’s balance. You may have a few problems with installation due to the tiny screws. However, you don’t need to make any changes to the pistol’s body to use it with the night sight.

Best AR Pistol Sights

Meprolight Tru-Dot Night Sights for Glock Handguns and Pistols

PROS

CONS

What Recent Buyers Report

The affordable price combined with the bright laser sight flashlight combo is a bonus consumers agree on. It’s also simple to install with a Picatinny mount. The laser sight helps improve accuracy at short-range targets, and the flashlight is a bonus.

Why It Stands Out to Us

With a 170 lumens output, you won’t have any problems making short-distance shots. You also get up to 11 hours of battery life, when you only use the laser. It shortens to 1.5 hours when you turn the flashlight on. It is a downside, but the laser emits more than enough light. It boasts a durable construction, along with an affordable price. Best of all, it’s easy to adjust as needed.

Bottom Line

This is a bright laser light pistol sight. It also comes with a flashlight that you can use alone or combined with the laser. Its durable construction ensures that it can handle recoils and repeated holstering.

Best Fiber Optic Pistol Sights

TruGlo Brite-Site Tritium Fiber Optic TFO Handgun Night Sights

PROS

CONS

What Recent Buyers Report

The patented technology included in the sight is impressive. It can handle any light situation, and it’s something consumers appreciate. The front sight is bigger than some comparable models, but it doesn’t affect balance or block your view.

Why It Stands Out to Us

It’s the TFO technology that makes the pistol sight stand out. It smoothly transitions as the light changes. The three green dots brilliantly illuminate the target. The metal construction is CNC designed to ensure durability.

Bottom Line

It is a larger front sight, but this is easily overlooked. The tritium green dots automatically draw your eye to the target. It’s weather-resistant and durable, making it ideal for almost any shooting scenario.

 

Perks of Getting a New Pistol Sight 

With a new pistol sight, you immediately notice a few perks. You can line up targets faster and your shots are more accurate. For target shoots, speed and accuracy are key. It also applies to individuals that carry a pistol for security.

Your night shooting also improves, and this is always a bonus. With several models to choose from, you can easily find the perfect pistol scope.

Conclusion 

Your pistol may come with a front and rear sight, but it won’t be long before you’re looking for a replacement. With the right pistol sight, you can improve speed and accuracy regardless of the lighting. Before you grab the first metal night sight, make sure it fits your pistol and shooting style.

People Also Ask 

When you’re considering getting a new pistol sight, questions are common. Especially when you’re deciding between red dot or laser.

Are red dot sights on pistols worth it? 

Red dot sights are worth mounting on a pistol. It marks the target which really helps in improving accuracy. Your time to target acquisition will be faster with a red dot when compared with iron sights or even night sights – that is only after you train, though.

Which is better red dot or laser? 

For at home indoors… Laser sights are better. The sights are brighter and often come with additional features like flashlights.

Joseph Fox

Joseph Fox

Joseph Fox writes on a variety of topics ranging from reloading ammunition to gun cleaning. He has been featured on various publications like thetruthaboutguns, Sofrep & many more. Joseph is also the founder of Gunloading, where he reviews different types of reloading & firearm products available on the market.