Choosing the right sights for your Glock can significantly impact your accuracy and shooting performance. Understanding sight height is crucial for proper zeroing and consistent shot placement. This guide provides a comprehensive Glock sight height chart and explains the importance of selecting the correct height for your specific needs and firearm configuration.
Understanding Glock Sight Height
Sight height refers to the distance between the top of the rear sight and the bore (barrel) of your Glock. This measurement directly influences your point of impact (POI) relative to your point of aim (POA). A higher sight height results in a higher POI at a given distance, while a lower sight height produces a lower POI. Different sight heights are necessary to compensate for various factors, including:
- Barrel Length: Longer barrels generally require higher sights to maintain proper zero.
- Caliber: Larger calibers, which often have higher recoil, may benefit from adjustments in sight height.
- Red Dot Optics: Using red dot sights necessitates taller sights to co-witness the iron sights with the red dot.
Glock Sight Height Chart (Approximate Values)
Please note that these are approximate values and can vary slightly depending on the specific Glock model and manufacturer of the sights. Always consult your firearm's manual and the sight manufacturer's specifications for precise measurements.
| Glock Model | Sight Height (inches) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Glock 17/22/31/34/35 | 0.280 - 0.300 | Standard height for most configurations |
| Glock 19/23/26/27/32/33/39/42/43/46/47 | 0.280 - 0.300 | Standard height; some aftermarket sights might differ slightly |
| Glock 48/43X | 0.280 - 0.300 | Standard height; some aftermarket sights might differ slightly |
| Glock Sub-Compact Models (e.g., 26, 43) | Often use lower sights | Due to shorter barrels |
| Glock Compacts (e.g., 19, 23) | May use standard or slightly lower sights | Depending on the setup and preferences |
| Glock with Red Dot Sight | 0.350 - 0.500+ | Varies depending on the red dot height |
Important Considerations:
- Aftermarket Sights: Numerous aftermarket sights are available, offering various heights and features. Carefully check the specifications of any aftermarket sights before purchasing to ensure compatibility.
- Co-witnessing: For red dot sights, "lower 1/3 co-witness" is a common configuration, meaning the iron sights are visible slightly below the red dot. This provides a backup sighting system if the red dot fails. Higher co-witness is also possible depending on the red dot height and desired configuration.
- Zeroing: Proper zeroing of your sights is critical for accuracy. This process involves adjusting the sights to align your POI with your POA at a specific distance.
Selecting the Right Sight Height for Your Glock
The choice of sight height depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the following factors:
- Intended Use: Are you using the Glock for self-defense, competition, or recreational shooting?
- Optics: Do you plan to use a red dot sight or other optic?
- Shooting Distance: What are your typical shooting distances?
- Personal Preference: Some shooters prefer a higher sight height for quicker target acquisition, while others prefer a lower height for better precision.
Conclusion
This Glock sight height chart provides a starting point for selecting the appropriate sights for your firearm. Remember, always consult your firearm's manual and the manufacturer's specifications for accurate information. Proper sight selection and zeroing are essential for achieving optimal accuracy and performance with your Glock. Careful consideration of the factors outlined above will ensure you choose the right sights for your specific needs and shooting style.
