The carry handle rear sight, a classic feature of many AR-15 style rifles and other military-inspired firearms, holds a special place in the hearts of shooters. More than just a sighting mechanism, it represents a piece of history and offers a unique shooting experience. This comprehensive guide delves into the history, functionality, advantages, disadvantages, and modern alternatives of the carry handle rear sight.
A Blast from the Past: The History of the Carry Handle Rear Sight
The carry handle rear sight's design emerged from military necessity. Integrated into the upper receiver, it provides a robust and integral sighting solution. This design, famously seen on the M16 and M4 carbines, offered a convenient way to carry the rifle while keeping the sights protected. Its sturdy construction ensured durability in harsh conditions, a crucial factor for military applications. This historical significance contributes to its enduring popularity among both collectors and practical shooters.
How the Carry Handle Rear Sight Works
The carry handle rear sight typically features an adjustable aperture (rear sight) that allows for windage and elevation adjustments. These adjustments are crucial for zeroing the rifle to ensure accuracy at various distances. The aperture size can sometimes be changed, offering flexibility for different shooting conditions and preferences. When paired with a front sight post, the carry handle rear sight provides a clear and relatively simple aiming system.
Understanding Windage and Elevation Adjustments
- Windage: This adjustment corrects for left-to-right shot groupings. Adjusting the windage knob moves the rear sight laterally, aligning the point of impact with the point of aim.
- Elevation: This adjustment corrects for vertical shot groupings. Adjusting the elevation knob raises or lowers the rear sight, compensating for the bullet's drop at different ranges.
Advantages of Using a Carry Handle Rear Sight
While often considered "old school," the carry handle rear sight still boasts several advantages:
- Sturdiness and Durability: Its integral design contributes to its exceptional robustness, withstanding significant recoil and harsh conditions.
- Built-in Protection: The handle itself protects the rear sight from damage, making it ideal for field use.
- No-nonsense Simplicity: The sighting system is straightforward, requiring minimal adjustments for competent shooters.
- Authenticity: For many, the carry handle rear sight represents a connection to military history and a classic firearm aesthetic.
Disadvantages of the Carry Handle Rear Sight
Despite its strengths, the carry handle rear sight has limitations:
- Limited Eye Relief: Compared to other sighting systems, the carry handle rear sight often offers limited eye relief, which can be uncomfortable for some shooters.
- Weight: It adds weight to the firearm, potentially affecting maneuverability.
- Interference with Optics: The carry handle itself prevents the mounting of most optics directly onto the upper receiver. This is the primary reason many shooters opt for alternative sighting solutions.
- Height Over Bore: The higher sight plane can make for an awkward cheek weld for some shooters.
Modern Alternatives and Upgrades
The limitations of the carry handle rear sight have led to the development of numerous alternatives, including:
- Flattop Receivers: These receivers allow for the mounting of various optics, offering greater versatility.
- Low-Profile Gas Blocks: For users who want to retain the classic look, these allow for a lower profile sight picture.
- Flip-Up Sights: These sights offer a compact and easily deployable backup sighting solution.
- Red Dot Sights: These offer improved target acquisition and low light performance.
- Iron Sights with Different Sight Radiuses: These offer improved sighting experience.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Accuracy
The carry handle rear sight remains a significant part of firearm history and continues to appeal to enthusiasts who appreciate its robustness and classic design. While modern alternatives offer increased versatility and potential improvements in accuracy, the carry handle rear sight holds its own as a durable and reliable sighting solution. The choice between the classic carry handle and modern alternatives ultimately depends on the shooter's individual preferences and intended use. Understanding both the advantages and disadvantages helps in making an informed decision.
