Short answer: Open sights (also called iron sights) are the simple, inexpensive, and standard sighting method on most handguns. Details
- Type: Open sights, a basic iron sight arrangement with a front sight post and a rear sight notch.
- Why they’re common: they require no batteries or optics, are durable, and inexpensive to manufacture and replace.
- Alternatives for context:
- Iron sights (open sights) vs. red dot or holographic optics: optics are more expensive and rely on batteries; they offer faster target acquisition for some shooters but add cost and potential failure modes.
- Telescopic or aperture (peep) sights: less common on standard handguns; typically found in specialized or target-focused setups.
- Practical note: For beginners, iron/open sights are ideal for learning fundamental aiming and recoil control before moving to aftermarket optics.
If you’d like, I can tailor this to your handgun model or intended use (self- defense, target shooting, or competition) and suggest budget-friendly iron sight options.
