Understanding the Factory Installed Sight
Common Drawbacks and Gripes
The KelTec Sub 2000. The very name likely conjures images of a compact, folding carbine, a firearm celebrated for its portability and adaptability. This pistol-caliber carbine has garnered a loyal following among shooters for its versatility, from recreational plinking to home defense scenarios. One critical element that directly impacts the shooting experience and overall performance of your Sub 2000 is the rear sight. This guide delves into the intricacies of the *KelTec Sub 2000 rear sight*, offering a comprehensive overview, examining common issues, exploring upgrade options, providing installation guidance, and outlining essential maintenance tips.
The KelTec Sub 2000’s popularity stems from a combination of factors. Its ability to fold in half for easy storage and transport is a major draw, as is its compatibility with magazines from popular handguns, like Glock. This modularity allows shooters to share ammunition and magazines with their sidearms, enhancing convenience and reducing logistical burdens. It’s a firearm that caters to various needs, making it a staple in many gun owners’ collections. However, to truly unlock the Sub 2000’s potential, the sights, especially the *KelTec Sub 2000 rear sight*, must be up to the task.
The rear sight of a firearm is a critical component, crucial for achieving accurate shot placement. Working in conjunction with the front sight, the rear sight provides the shooter with the necessary alignment to aim effectively. A poorly designed or inadequate rear sight can lead to frustration, missed shots, and a generally unsatisfactory shooting experience. This is where understanding the stock *KelTec Sub 2000 rear sight* and its potential upgrades becomes crucial.
Understanding the Factory Installed Sight
The standard, or factory-installed, *KelTec Sub 2000 rear sight* typically consists of a basic, open aperture sight. It’s constructed from durable materials, often polymer or metal, and serves as a functional component for aiming. The sight picture presents a relatively simple alignment. The shooter aligns the front sight post within the aperture of the rear sight, allowing them to target their aim.
The stock *KelTec Sub 2000 rear sight* is, by its nature, a cost-effective solution, emphasizing practicality and ease of use over advanced features. Its simplicity offers certain advantages, like an uncomplicated design, which can be advantageous for beginners, promoting easy learning and use. However, this design approach comes with inherent limitations that can impact performance.
Common Drawbacks and Gripes
While functional, the standard *KelTec Sub 2000 rear sight* isn’t without its critics. One common complaint surrounds adjustability. Many shooters find it challenging to precisely adjust the windage and elevation to compensate for bullet drop and wind drift effectively. Fine-tuning the sight can be a slow and imprecise process, potentially affecting accuracy, especially at longer ranges. The inherent limitations in the design restrict precise alignment capabilities.
Durability is also a consideration. The materials used in the stock *KelTec Sub 2000 rear sight*, while functional, may not be the most robust. Depending on the model year and the specific material, some shooters have reported issues with the sight’s potential to be damaged or broken, particularly after repeated use or through harsh handling. In addition to this, polymer sights can be prone to degradation when exposed to certain solvents or high temperatures, potentially leading to sight failure.
Visibility can present a challenge under various lighting conditions. The basic aperture sight picture may not be optimal in low-light environments, making it difficult to quickly and accurately acquire the target. This shortcoming can hinder target acquisition speed, especially in situations where rapid engagement is necessary, for instance in self-defense scenarios. This is another aspect that underscores the necessity for upgrades.
These shortcomings, ranging from adjustment difficulties to possible durability issues and visibility challenges, highlight the potential benefits of upgrading the *KelTec Sub 2000 rear sight*. A better sight can boost your shooting performance and contribute to a more enjoyable and efficient shooting experience.
Upgrading Your Aiming System: Exploring Choices
Considering the drawbacks of the stock setup, many Sub 2000 owners seek ways to enhance their rifle’s accuracy and overall usability. Thankfully, several aftermarket options for the *KelTec Sub 2000 rear sight* are available, offering different benefits to suit varying needs and preferences. Selecting the right rear sight depends heavily on the owner’s intended use and what they want to achieve with their firearm.
Aftermarket Enhancements
*Upgraded Adjustable Sights:* A popular and often highly beneficial upgrade is to replace the factory sight with an adjustable rear sight. These sights typically offer precise click adjustments for both elevation and windage. This added precision allows for fine-tuning of the point of impact, correcting for bullet drop at various distances and compensating for wind conditions. Many of these designs include features such as improved sight picture and greater durability.
The availability of a broad range of options presents a great opportunity for customization. However, the choice of adjustable sights brings some considerations. Typically, aftermarket sights are more expensive than the factory sight, and certain designs might be more complex, requiring more skill and precision to install and adjust. However, the improvement in accuracy and the ability to adapt to different shooting scenarios usually outweigh these concerns.
Various reputable manufacturers offer adjustable rear sights specifically designed for the *KelTec Sub 2000*. The options available vary in features, materials, and price points. Reviewing consumer feedback and reading professional reviews helps narrow down options.
*Enhanced Sight Systems:* Another popular upgrade involves the use of sights that enhance visibility, particularly in low-light conditions. Fiber optic rear sights often incorporate glowing, highly visible fiber optic rods that capture ambient light and direct it to the shooter’s eye. This significantly improves the visibility of the sight picture, aiding in faster target acquisition.
Fiber optic sights are advantageous in many situations. The bright, easily visible dots are particularly helpful in indoor environments or during dawn and dusk. The increased visibility can be a distinct advantage for self-defense scenarios. However, fiber optic sights are usually more fragile, and the fiber optic rods can be damaged. This consideration must be weighted against the potential for improved visibility.
When considering fiber optic sights, it’s essential to compare the designs offered by different manufacturers. Features can vary, including the color and size of the fiber optic elements, as well as the materials used in the construction of the sight itself.
*Alternative Aiming Solutions:* While adjustable and fiber optic sights represent popular choices, other options exist. Some shooters opt for ghost ring sights, which offer a larger, more open aperture than the standard aperture sight. This can improve the speed of target acquisition. Other shooters might prefer to replace the rear sight completely with a red dot sight or a scope, though that would entail adding a rail to the receiver.
Making the Right Choice
When choosing a replacement for your *KelTec Sub 2000 rear sight*, several factors need careful consideration.
*Target Use:* The primary use of your Sub 2000 should dictate your sight selection. For recreational plinking, a more basic, adjustable sight might suffice. For competitive shooting, an adjustable sight with precise click adjustments is usually the best choice. For self-defense, the balance of accuracy and the enhanced visibility of fiber optic sights will be very important.
*Individual Preferences:* Sight picture preference plays a huge role in your choice. Some shooters find the sight picture with a traditional aperture sight to be most intuitive, while others prefer the enhanced visibility of fiber optics. The style you feel most comfortable with will increase your aiming efficiency.
*Cost:* Sights range significantly in price, depending on the type, manufacturer, and features. Setting a realistic budget before starting your search can help narrow down your choices. The price of the sight will have an impact on the overall value of your rifle.
*Installation Ease:* Evaluate the installation process. Check for available installation videos or detailed instructions. Consider whether you are comfortable with the process or if you prefer professional assistance. A properly installed sight will ensure your firearm operates at its best.
*Long-Term Reliability:* Prioritize sights made from durable materials and by reputable manufacturers. Read reviews and consider feedback from other users. This will aid in selecting a sight that will provide dependable service over time.
*Compatibility:* Always ensure the aftermarket *KelTec Sub 2000 rear sight* is compatible with your Sub 2000 model, and any other existing accessories.
Installation and Fine-Tuning
Once you’ve chosen your replacement *KelTec Sub 2000 rear sight*, the installation process follows. While each sight varies slightly, the general procedure is usually straightforward.
Installation Guide (General):
1. *Safety First:* Ensure your firearm is unloaded and the magazine is removed. Always follow safe gun handling practices throughout the process.
2. *Prepare the Rifle:* Place the Sub 2000 on a stable work surface. Gather your tools.
3. *Remove the Old Sight:* The precise method will vary depending on the original sight’s design. Usually, the factory sight is secured using screws or pins. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific sight.
4. *Install the New Sight:* Align the new sight and secure it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Ensure all screws and pins are properly tightened.
Adjusting for Precision
After installation, the sight needs to be properly adjusted, or zeroed. This is essential for achieving accuracy.
1. *Find a Safe Range:* Choose a safe range to test your rifle. This could be your backyard or a designated firing range.
2. *Shoot a Group:* Start by firing a three-to-five-shot group at a target at a reasonable distance (25 yards is a common starting point).
3. *Assess the Results:* Examine the shot group. Determine the direction and degree of adjustment needed to move the point of impact to your desired point of aim.
4. *Adjust as Needed:* Using the elevation and windage adjustments on your new sight, make small adjustments.
5. *Repeat the Process:* Fire more shot groups and make further adjustments until your shots consistently hit the desired point of aim.
Care and Maintenance
Maintaining your *KelTec Sub 2000 rear sight* contributes to its longevity and consistent performance.
Cleaning:
Regularly clean the rear sight, wiping it with a clean cloth to remove dust, dirt, and debris. Use a light lubricant if necessary, but avoid harsh chemicals.
Regular Checks
Inspect the rear sight frequently for any signs of damage or wear. Tighten loose screws if necessary, and replace any worn or damaged parts.
Upgrading the *KelTec Sub 2000 rear sight* is one of the most impactful modifications you can make to your carbine. It can substantially improve your accuracy, enhance your shooting experience, and ultimately increase your satisfaction with your Sub 2000. Take the time to understand your needs, consider the various aftermarket options, and follow proper installation and adjustment procedures.
With careful planning and the proper *KelTec Sub 2000 rear sight*, you can transform your Sub 2000 into a more accurate, reliable, and enjoyable firearm. From enhanced precision to improved low-light performance, the right sight can unlock the full potential of your pistol-caliber carbine.
