One of the most popular rifle questions is co-witness configuration. Absolute or the lower 1/3rd co-witness?
In this guide, we explain it all.
What Is Co-Witness
Co-Witness refers to the line of sight the shooter sees in between iron sights and the optic reticle.
Referenced LaRue Tactical
Absolute Co-Witness - It aligns the iron sights perfectly with the middle part of the optic view window.
1/3rd Co-Witness - It sets the front iron sight post at the lower 1/3 portion of the optic FOV. It's biggest advantage is to unclutter the field of view, and this is the most popular co witness height on most rifles.
Night Vision Height - NV height doesn't co-witness with iron sight, and it's main purpose is to raise the optic height for night vision goggle users
Co-Witness Pros & Cons
ABSOLUTE CO-WITNESS
Pros
- Verify Zero Immediately
- Sight Sits Low
- Perfect For Low Cheek
- Perfect For AK Style Setup
- Perfect For Shotguns
Cons
- Front sight gets in the way
- Bulky hearing protection gets in the way
For shooters with a short neck, or using low cheekweld rifles should, and go with the 1/3 co witness and night vision height.
No matter which co-witness configurations you pick, make sure it's comfortable for you first.
Don't forget! the shooter can also have the option to flip down the iron sight after zeroing if it's a foldable sight.
Read more: Clear A2 Front Sight Optic Interference
LOWER 1/3 CO-WITNESS
Pros
- Clears Iron Sight Obstruction
- Much better neck positioning
- Clears bulky hearing protection
- Clears Rail Attachment Obstruction
- Comfort
Cons
- None
As the content creator of badassoptic.com, My background in the firearms industry and shooting sports gives me the experience to recommend tried and true products and keep away subpar ones.