Having trouble lining up your shots? Factory gun sights can sometimes be a real pain. They’re often dull, hard to see in low light, or just not the right color for your eyes. A fresh coat of gun sight paint can make a world of difference, improving your accuracy and speed. I’ve spent some time trying out different options, and I’m sharing my top picks to help you find the best gun sight paint for your needs.
Here’s a quick look at the paints we’ll be covering. Each offers a unique set of benefits, so you can choose what works best for you and your firearm.
- Glow-On Super Phosphorescent Gun Sight Paint: Best overall glow-in-the-dark performance.
- Birchwood Casey Super Bright Pen: Easiest application for small touch-ups.
- Testors Enamel Paint Set: Most versatile for customizing colors.
- Meprolight Glock Tru-Dot Night Sight Set: Premium pre-painted night sights for Glock pistols.
- Sight Paint DIY Kit: Best all-in-one kit for a complete sight makeover.
Top 5 Best Gun Sight Paint Reviews
Glow-On Super Phosphorescent Gun Sight Paint
Glow-On is a popular choice for a reason. This stuff really glows! It’s designed to make your sights visible in low-light conditions, and it does a fantastic job. Just charge it up with a light source, and you’re good to go.
Pros:
- ✅ Extremely bright and long-lasting glow.
- ✅ Easy to apply with included applicator.
- ✅ Works well on a variety of firearms.
Cons:
- ❌ Requires a light source to charge the glow.
- ❌ Can be a little messy during application.
- ❌ Price is higher compared to standard paints.
Verdict: If you need maximum visibility in the dark, Glow-On is the way to go. It’s perfect for home defense or nighttime shooting activities.
Birchwood Casey Super Bright Pen
This is a simple, pen-style applicator filled with bright paint. It’s designed for quick and easy touch-ups, or for adding a small amount of color to your sights. I’ve found it particularly useful for highlighting the front sight.
Pros:
- ✅ Very easy to apply with precision.
- ✅ Dries quickly.
- ✅ Available in multiple bright colors.
Cons:
- ❌ May not be as durable as other paints.
- ❌ Small amount of paint in each pen.
- ❌ Can be difficult to apply to recessed areas.
Verdict: Great for quick fixes and adding a pop of color. If you want convenience and ease of use, this is a solid choice.
Testors Enamel Paint Set
Testors enamel paints are a classic for model building, but they also work well on gun sights. This set gives you a wide range of colors to choose from, so you can really customize your sights to your liking. Plus, enamel paints are known for their durability.
Pros:
- ✅ Wide variety of colors for customization.
- ✅ Durable enamel finish.
- ✅ Relatively inexpensive.
Cons:
- ❌ Requires brushes and thinner for application and cleanup.
- ❌ Longer drying time compared to other options.
- ❌ Can be prone to chipping if not properly applied.
Verdict: If you’re a DIY enthusiast who enjoys customizing your gear, this set offers the most flexibility. Just be prepared for a bit more work during application.
Meprolight Glock Tru-Dot Night Sight Set
Okay, these aren’t technically “paint,” but they’re a pre-painted night sight upgrade for Glock pistols. If you’re looking for a complete sight replacement that’s already optimized for low-light visibility, this is a top-tier option. Meprolight is known for their high-quality tritium sights.
Pros:
- ✅ Tritium-powered for constant illumination, no charging needed.
- ✅ Durable and long-lasting.
- ✅ Significantly improves low-light accuracy.
Cons:
- ❌ More expensive than paint options.
- ❌ Requires gunsmithing skills or professional installation.
- ❌ Only compatible with Glock pistols.
Verdict: If you own a Glock and are serious about night shooting, these sights are a worthwhile investment. The always-on illumination is a game-changer.
Sight Paint DIY Kit
This kit includes everything you need to repaint your gun sights, from paint to applicators to cleaning supplies. It’s a great option if you want a professional-looking finish without having to buy everything separately. I appreciate that it simplifies the whole process.
Pros:
- ✅ Complete kit with all necessary supplies.
- ✅ Includes multiple colors for customization.
- ✅ Provides detailed instructions for achieving a professional finish.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit overwhelming for beginners.
- ❌ Quality of individual components may vary.
- ❌ More expensive than buying individual paints.
Verdict: If you’re looking for a comprehensive solution and want to ensure you have everything you need, a DIY kit is a good choice. It’s especially useful if you’re new to painting gun sights.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right gun sight paint depends on a few factors. Here’s what to consider before making a purchase:
- Visibility Needs: Do you primarily shoot in daylight, low light, or darkness? If you need maximum visibility in the dark, go for a phosphorescent or tritium option.
- Application Method: Are you comfortable using brushes and thinners, or do you prefer the convenience of a pen? Pens are great for small touch-ups, while brushes allow for more control and customization.
- Durability: Consider how much wear and tear your firearm will be exposed to. Enamel paints are generally more durable than acrylics, but they require longer drying times.
- Color: Experiment with different colors to see what works best for your eyes. Many shooters find that bright orange or green front sights are easier to acquire quickly.
- Budget: Gun sight paints range in price from a few dollars to several hundred (for complete sight replacements). Set a budget and stick to it.
- Skill Level: Be honest about your DIY skills. If you’re not comfortable disassembling your firearm or working with small parts, consider a simpler option like a paint pen or seek professional help.
FAQs
Q: How do I prepare my gun sights for painting?
A: Start by thoroughly cleaning your sights with a degreaser to remove any oil or dirt. You may also want to lightly sand the surface to provide better adhesion for the paint. Mask off the areas you don’t want to paint with tape.
Q: How long does gun sight paint take to dry?
A: Drying times vary depending on the type of paint. Acrylics typically dry within a few hours, while enamels can take 24 hours or more to fully cure. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Q: Can I use regular paint on my gun sights?
A: It’s not recommended. Regular paints are not designed to withstand the heat, solvents, and abrasion that gun sights are exposed to. Use paints specifically formulated for firearms for best results.
Q: How do I remove gun sight paint?
A: You can usually remove gun sight paint with a solvent like acetone or paint thinner. Be careful not to damage the surrounding finish on your firearm. Use a cotton swab or soft cloth to apply the solvent and gently rub away the paint.
Q: Is it legal to paint my gun sights?
A: Yes, it is generally legal to paint your gun sights. However, it’s always a good idea to check your local laws and regulations to be sure.
Conclusion
Upgrading your gun sights with paint is a simple and effective way to improve your accuracy and shooting experience. Whether you choose a glow-in-the-dark option, a convenient paint pen, or a complete DIY kit, the right paint can make a big difference. Take your time, do your research, and choose the option that best fits your needs and skill level. Happy shooting!
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