Co-witnessing a red dot sight means aligning your iron sights with your red dot optic, allowing you to use either sighting system if one malfunctions or if the battery in your red dot dies. This setup offers redundancy and versatility, crucial for various shooting disciplines and self-defense situations. This guide will break down the process and considerations for successfully co-witnessing your red dot.
Understanding Co-Witnessing
Co-witnessing involves mounting your red dot sight in a way that allows you to see both the red dot and your firearm's iron sights simultaneously. There are two main types:
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Absolute Co-witness: The red dot is perfectly centered within the iron sights' front and rear sight post. This provides the clearest, most unobstructed view of both systems.
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Lower 1/3 Co-witness: The red dot sits slightly lower than the iron sights' top edge. This allows for a full sight picture with the iron sights, even if the red dot is turned off or malfunctioning. This is generally preferred for defensive use, ensuring your iron sights aren't obscured.
Choosing the Right Mount
The key to successful co-witnessing lies in selecting the appropriate height mount for your red dot sight and firearm. Mount height is measured in terms of how high the red dot sits above the receiver. Incorrect height will lead to either an obscured sight picture or a significant misalignment.
Manufacturers often specify the type of co-witness (absolute or lower 1/3) a particular mount offers. Consult your red dot sight and firearm's documentation to determine the optimal mount height for your specific setup. Improperly selecting a mount can result in an unusable or unsafe configuration.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mount:
- Firearm Type: Different firearms (pistols, rifles, shotguns) will require different mount heights.
- Red Dot Sight Model: The size and design of the red dot optic influence the necessary mount height.
- Desired Co-witness Type: Decide whether you prefer absolute or lower 1/3 co-witnessing. Lower 1/3 is generally preferred for its added utility.
The Mounting Process
Once you have the correct mount, the mounting process itself is generally straightforward. This typically involves:
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Securely mounting the base: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for attaching the mount base to your firearm's rail. Ensure it's properly torqued to prevent shifting or loosening during use.
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Attaching the red dot: Carefully attach the red dot sight to the mounted base. Again, follow the manufacturer's instructions precisely. Pay close attention to any torque specifications.
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Verification: Once mounted, sight down your firearm and verify the alignment of your iron sights and the red dot. Adjust as necessary to achieve the desired co-witness.
Zeroing Your Sights
After mounting, you must zero your firearm with both the red dot and iron sights individually. This process involves firing several shots at different ranges and adjusting the sights to ensure accuracy.
It's crucial to zero both sighting systems independently to ensure you have a reliable backup if one system fails.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
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Obstructed Sight Picture: If your iron sights are obscured by the red dot, you've likely chosen the wrong mount height. Use a taller or shorter mount as needed.
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Inconsistent Point of Impact: If there is a significant difference between the point of impact for your red dot and iron sights, you'll need to adjust your sights individually to correct the issue.
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Loose Mount: Ensure all screws are properly tightened to the manufacturer's specifications. A loose mount can lead to inaccurate shots and potential damage.
Conclusion
Co-witnessing a red dot sight offers a valuable redundancy and enhances your shooting capabilities. By carefully selecting the correct mount and following the proper mounting and zeroing procedures, you can achieve a reliable and versatile sighting system. Remember always to consult the manufacturer's instructions for both your firearm and red dot optic to avoid any mistakes and ensure safe firearm handling practices.
