1911 Sights

[JW3Percent]

I have a Smith and Wesson Pro 1911 that came with Novak Fiber optic sights. On my last trip to the range, the front sight just broke off between shots. The pistol is about 6 months old with about 200 rounds through it, and it has not been bumped, banged, or otherwise mistreated.

So why am I starting a thread about it? I just want to ask a few questions.

1) Is this indicative of Novak's quality?

2) How do the forum members feel about Novak's sights?

3) Should I get a replacement front sight or replace the whole setup?

4) Are fiber optic sights touted to be better than tritium sights?

This is in no way meant to slam the Novak brand. I just don't know much about their products. All my previous pistols were "tactical" style, and I stuck with OE or Trijicon sights

Please discuss

[quietguy]

Novaks stuff is generally pretty good quality. I have Novak 3 dot or tritiums on several handguns, and really like them.

I believe your issue is pretty common with FO sights. The issue seems to be how to make easily replaceable FO cylinders, but still make them durable enough to use.

Personally, I don't care for FO sights. I have a magnetic shotgun bead that works pretty well in low light conditions, but it tends to wash out in bright sunlight.

[Guest spoolie]

Joe, I think I have extras at the house...call me and we can talk replacement sights.

[Dave Shooter]

I have a Smith and Wesson Pro 1911 that came with Novak Fiber optic sights. On my last trip to the range, the front sight just broke off between shots. The pistol is about 6 months old with about 200 rounds through it, and it has not been bumped, banged, or otherwise mistreated.

So why am I starting a thread about it? I just want to ask a few questions.

1) Is this indicative of Novak's quality?

2) How do the forum members feel about Novak's sights?

3) Should I get a replacement front sight or replace the whole setup?

4) Are fiber optic sights touted to be better than tritium sights?

This is in no way meant to slam the Novak brand. I just don't know much about their products. All my previous pistols were "tactical" style, and I stuck with OE or Trijicon sights

Did the actual sight body break or just the fiber optic?

If the metal broke Novak might replace it under customer service. If it was just the fiber, it's easily replaced. You cut some a little long and use a lighter to melt the ends.

Fiber optic sights are very popular with action shooting competitors (USPSA, IDPA, 3 gun, etc.) Since they depend on ambient light to work they won't do much for you in truly low light environment, unlike tritium. Fiber optic does show up much better than tritium on a sunlit range. You can get front sights with both tritium and fiber; can't remember the manufacturer at the moment.

[deerslayer]

You can get front sights with both tritium and fiber; can't remember the manufacturer at the moment.

TruGlo TFOs, may or may not fit the Pro 1911. Some of the Smiths have a goofball proprietary front dovetail.

To the OP, unless your eyes are starting to go, I would ditch the FO and put a plain black front on it, unless you want tritium.

Edited September 30, 2011 by deerslayer