Choosing the right sights for your Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 full-size pistol is crucial for accuracy and speed. Whether you're a seasoned competitor, a dedicated self-defense enthusiast, or a law enforcement professional, having sights that suit your needs and shooting style is paramount. This guide will explore some of the best sights available, considering various factors like type, material, and intended use.
Understanding Sight Types
Before diving into specific sight options, let's briefly review the common types available for the M&P 2.0:
1. Three-Dot Sights:
These classic sights feature a front sight with a single dot (usually white, green, or luminous) and two dots on the rear sight. They're simple, reliable, and easy to learn, making them ideal for beginners.
2. Fiber Optic Sights:
These sights utilize bright fiber optic rods, typically housed within the front and/or rear sight. These offer exceptional visibility in various lighting conditions, significantly enhancing target acquisition speed. They are a popular choice for both competition and self-defense.
3. Night Sights:
Night sights incorporate tritium vials or luminescent materials that glow in low-light situations, ensuring reliable aiming even in darkness. They are particularly useful for self-defense and law enforcement applications.
4. Suppressor Height Sights:
If you plan to use your M&P 2.0 with a suppressor, suppressor height sights are necessary to maintain proper sight alignment. These are taller than standard sights to compensate for the added height of the suppressor.
Top Sight Options for the M&P 2.0 Full Size:
This section will highlight several reputable sight manufacturers and some of their top-performing models for the M&P 2.0 full size:
Note: Specific models and availability may change. It's always best to check current listings from the manufacturers or retailers.
1. Trijicon HD XR Night Sights:
Trijicon is a well-known and respected name in the optics industry. Their HD XR night sights offer excellent brightness and durability, making them a top choice for self-defense and tactical applications. The bright, clear tritium vials provide exceptional low-light visibility.
2. Ameriglo Spartan Night Sights:
Ameriglo is another manufacturer known for producing high-quality sights. Their Spartan sights often incorporate a U-notch rear sight and a bold front sight, offering fast target acquisition. Many models are available with tritium inserts for low-light capability.
3. XS Sights:
XS Sights are known for their innovative designs, often focusing on rapid target acquisition. Their Big Dot sights, for example, offer a large, highly visible front sight that helps speed up target acquisition. They also offer various night sight options.
4. Dawson Precision Sights:
Dawson Precision offers a wide variety of high-quality sights, including many options optimized for competitive shooting. Their precision machining and customizable features make them a popular choice among experienced shooters.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Sights:
- Your Shooting Style: Are you a competitive shooter, a self-defense enthusiast, or a law enforcement professional? Different shooting disciplines may benefit from different sight designs.
- Lighting Conditions: Consider the environments where you'll be using your pistol. Night sights are essential for low-light situations.
- Budget: Sight prices can vary significantly. Determine your budget before making a purchase.
- Installation: While many sights are relatively easy to install, some require professional fitting.
Conclusion:
Selecting the best sights for your Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 full-size pistol is a personal decision. By understanding the various types of sights available and considering the factors discussed above, you can choose a set that perfectly matches your needs and enhances your shooting performance. Remember to always consult with a qualified gunsmith if you are unsure about installing the sights yourself.
