Best AR-15 Backup Sights (BUIS) for Reliability & Durability

Discover the best Backup Sights BUIS for short.

AR-15 Rifle optics are great, but they aren’t foolproof. Batteries die, scopes malfunction, and in tough conditions, a trusty set of backup iron sights (BUIS) can save the day. In this article, we’ll guide you through some of the best BUIS options for your AR-15, ensuring you’re always ready for action, no matter what happens to your optics.

Why Backup Iron Sights Matter

Imagine this: you’re in the middle of a crucial moment, and your red dot sight’s batteries die, or worse, your scope takes a tumble and loses zero. In these moments, a pair of backup iron sights can step in and keep you operational. Even in today’s tech-driven shooting world, BUIS are an essential piece of kit for any serious AR15 rifle owner.

Let’s take a look at the top backup iron sights you can rely on.

Editor’s Pick: Magpul MBUS 3 Flip-Up Sights

Price: $68.99 – $75.99 at Brownells.

Magpul’s MBUS 3 sights are an industry staple, and for good reason. Made from lightweight polymer, these sights are built to withstand heavy use. Their low-profile design ensures they stay out of your way when not in use, while their spring-loaded system allows for quick deployment when you need them.

The MBUS 3 includes easy tool-less adjustments for both elevation (front) and windage (rear), making them highly practical for any shooter. If you’re looking for a solid, durable pair of BUIS that won’t break the bank, the Magpul MBUS 3 is a go-to option.

Pros:

• Lightweight and durable
• Quick and easy deployment
• Tool-less adjustments for windage and elevation

Cons:

• Polymer construction may not appeal to everyone

Live Inventory Price Checker

	Magpul MBUS 3 Flip Up Rear Sight - Flat Dark Earth - Tan	Sportsman's Warehouse	$ 56.99
	Magpul MBUS 3 Flip Up Front Sight - Flat Dark Earth - Tan	Sportsman's Warehouse	$ 37.99
	Magpul MBUS 3 Flip Up Rear Sight - Black - Black	Sportsman's Warehouse	$ 56.99

Affordable Option: FAB Defense Flip-Up Sights

Price: $60 – $96.00 at Battle Hawk Armory.

For those looking for an affordable alternative, FAB Defense’s Flip-Up Backup Sights are a great option. These polymer sights come straight from the Israeli Defense Forces’ contractors, offering military-grade reliability at a budget-friendly price.

Unlike the Magpul sights, the FAB Defense sights don’t have an internal spring-loaded system. While this means manual deployment, it also reduces the risk of accidentally flipping them up during regular use.

Pros:

• Budget-friendly
• Simple manual deployment
• Reliable design from military suppliers

Cons:

• No spring-loaded system for quick deployment

Live Inventory Price Checker

	FAB Defense Flip-Up Sight Set - Front/Rear for Quick Target Acquisition - FX-FRBSOSB	Palmetto State Armory	$ 119.99
	FAB Defense Flip-Up Sight Set - Front/Rear for Quick Target Acquisition - FX-FRBSOSB	Palmetto State Armory	$ 119.99
	Fab Defense FXFRBS Front / Rear Flip Up Sights - Black - Black	Sportsman's Warehouse	$ 96.99

Lowest Profile: Troy Micro HK-Style Flip-Up Sights

Price: $140 to $230 at Palmetto State Armory.

If you prefer metal sights for added durability and a low-profile design, Troy’s Micro HK-Style sights are a fantastic option. Made from rugged metal, these sights offer superior durability while staying compact. Their HK-style aperture provides a clean sight picture and is ideal for shooters who want minimal interference in their field of view.

Troy sights are particularly great if you’re running a raised rail system, as they allow for more precise adjustments to fit your specific setup.

Pros:

• Compact, low-profile design
• Rugged metal construction
• Clean sight picture

Cons:

• More expensive than polymer options

Live Inventory Price Checker

	Troy Industries HK Style Folding Tritium Front Sight	GunMag Warehouse	$ 155.99 $ 144.99
	Troy Industries HK-Style Folding Front Sight	GunMag Warehouse	$ 107.99 $ 99.99
	Troy Industries HK Style Fixed Front Sight	GunMag Warehouse	$ 59.99 $ 49.99
	Troy Industries 45-Degree Offset HK-Style Front and Rear Sight Set	GunMag Warehouse	$ 257.99 $ 234.99

Best Metal Sights: Magpul MBUS Pro Backup Sights

Price: $140 to $180 at Ammunition Depot.

For those who want the absolute best in durability, Magpul’s MBUS Pro series is an excellent choice. Made entirely of steel, these sights are designed to withstand the toughest conditions. Like the MBUS 3, they feature easy tool-less adjustments and a low-profile design, but the all-steel construction takes their durability to the next level.

If you need sights that can handle anything you throw at them, the MBUS Pro is the way to go.

Pros:

• All-steel construction
• Easy tool-less adjustments
• Durable and reliable

Cons:

• Higher price point

Live Inventory Price Checker

	Magpul MBUS PRO Sight Rear Black	GrabAGun	$ 82.59
	Magpul MBUS Pro LR Adjustable Rear Sight Black	GrabAGun	$ 95.89
	Magpul MBUS Pro LR Adjustable Sight - Rear	Rainier Arms	$ 132.95
	Magpul MBUS Pro Rear Flip Sight Black	Monstrum	$ 104.95

Affordable Offset Option: VOTATU V3 Fiber Optic Offset Backup Sights

Price: $23 to $43 at Amazon.

Offset sights are a great solution for those who run a magnified optic and need a quick way to engage targets up close. VOTATU V3 sights offer an affordable pair of offset iron sights made from 7075 aluminum, ensuring durability without adding too much weight. These offset Backup Sights sights allow for seamless transitions between long-range and close-up shots.

Pros:

• Inexpensive
• Durable aluminum construction
• Compact design fits under most optics

Cons:

• Limited range of use compared to traditional BUIS

Final Thoughts

Backup iron sights may seem like an afterthought in today’s optics-driven world, but they serve a vital role in keeping your AR-15 functional when you need it most. Whether you’re looking for an affordable option or the toughest sights on the market, the options we’ve covered today will keep you prepared for anything.

If you’re ready to upgrade your AR-15 with reliable Backup Iron Sights, consider any of the options we’ve discussed. And remember, BUIS are only as good as your ability to use them, so make sure you take the time to zero them in properly!

Do you run BUIS on your AR-15? Let us know in the comments below!

Read Related: Midwest Industries MI-CBUIS Fixed Combat BUIS Review