The Best 41 45 Degree Sights for Precision Shooting

45-degree sights have become increasingly popular among shooters for their distinctive appearance and practical benefits. These sights feature a bridge that raises the front sight 45 degrees, offering improved visibility and enhanced shooting accuracy. Our comprehensive review examines the leading 45-degree sights on the market, comparing their durability, precision, and value to help you make an informed choice.

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Reviews

45 Degree Recurve Sight

This lightweight 45-degree sight features a 4-inch extension and 8/32 aperture, with a 2.25 to 6.25-inch aperture distance and 5.5-inch elevation bar. While some users report durability issues with the plastic construction and loose screws, many find it improves accuracy, with hitting a bullseye at 50 feet reported by some users. The sight’s clear piece can be awkward to adjust, but overall it receives positive feedback for its accuracy and immediate improvement in shot precision for recurve bows.

Ameyxgs Compound Bow Peep Sight

Made from durable aluminum alloy, this simple yet effective peep sight kit includes five different inner cores to help you fine-tune your aiming point. The lightweight design helps reduce bow weight for improved performance, while the strong yet precise construction helps you get consistent, accurate shots.

Viper Venom Short Drive Dovetail Sight

Crafted from durable materials with a compact design, the Venom Short Drive sight combines smooth operation and precise adjustments. The double-pin configuration features vibrant fiber optics with red and green visibility, while the interchangeable system allows for customization. The USA-made sight includes premium features like a bubble level and threading for light attachment, making it a versatile addition to any setup.

Safari Choice 45 Degree Hooded Peep Sight

This lightweight aluminum peep sight sports a compact 1/4-inch design that’s equally at home with 1/4-inch or 1/8-inch accessories. The precision-engineered 45-degree hood cuts through bright sunlight to sharpen your target acquisition, while the secure 1/4-inch threading system ensures your sight stays put on any standard release aid.

Spot Hogg Fast Eddie MRT Sight

Crafted from durable 6061 aluminum, the lightweight Fast Eddie sight (9.4 ounces) offers precision targeting with its 45-degree design and silent adjustments. The 3-pin MRT scope mounts easily on both left and right-handed bows, while the quick-connect system simplifies quick changes between sights. The compact frame and smooth operation make it a practical upgrade for hunters seeking reliable, accurate targeting at various ranges.

UV3XL SE Single .019” 45 Degree Sight

The UV3XL SE Slider Edition brings serious precision to the bowhunting table with its smooth-pinning UV-cartridge system that keeps your sight marks exactly where they belong. Under the hood, you’ll find five bright UV LEDs that pump out 10 levels of light, all powered by a 6+ hour battery that only wakes up when you do. This rugged scope isn’t just splash-proof—it’s built to take whatever the wilderness throws your way, from sudden downpours to unexpected twists in your hunting path.

Garmin Xero A1i Pro Bow Sight

The Garmin Xero A1i Pro combines precision ranging technology with intuitive design for bowhunters seeking consistent shot placement. With its durable construction and long-lasting battery life, this right-handed sight handles the demands of outdoor use while providing clear target illumination through its dual-color LED pins. Whether you’re a seasoned archer or new to hunting, the Xero A1i Pro offers the tools needed to make every shot count.

Axcel LANDSLYDE Carbon Pro Slider Sight

The Axcel LANDSLYDE Carbon Pro Slider Sight combines precision Firepins with extended elevation adjustment for versatile targeting. Its durable carbon construction and weatherproof Metal Sight Tapes deliver reliable performance across different shooting conditions. The quick-adjust mechanism and multi-axis calibration make it a practical choice for both competition and hunting archers.

Ultraview Archery Slider Sight

The Ultraview UV Slider packs precise shooting technology into a slim, 45-degree profile that clears the way for smooth arrow release. The Left Hand version features a secure Bridge-Lock design that prevents rotation and keeps your sight line steady throughout the shot. With thoughtful details like DualDial adjustment and TripleMark visibility, this sight lets you set your pin with confidence, so you can focus on the shot rather than the equipment.

Mathew’s Bridgelock UV Slider Sight LH / 3 Pin Vertical

This sleek 9-ounce sight combines ULTRAVIEW’s DualDial system for smooth adjustments with durable, impact-resistant pin protection. The lightweight, skeletonized design cuts weight while maintaining rigidity, and the fully integrated lights boost visibility in low-light conditions. With three pin configurations including a new 5-pin option, it’s built for serious accuracy on Mathews bows.

Spot Hogg Fast Eddie XL MRT Sight

This versatile hunting sight combines durable aluminum construction with precise micro-adjustments for both aiming and yardage. The silent quick-release mechanism makes it easy to switch between different setups, while the 45-degree double pin design with Bulletproof technology ensures accurate shots whether you’re sighting in at the range or taking down game in the field. The solid 6061 aluminum body can handle the rigors of tournament competition and daily use in the shooting lanes.

Spot Hogg Fast Eddie 45 Degree Sight

The Fast Eddie combines Spot Hogg’s renowned precision with an updated triple-stack design that offers unprecedented vertical pin adjustment. The sight’s 6061 aluminum construction and HRD Technology deliver exceptional durability while maintaining a surprisingly light weight for a 45-degree setup. Its intuitive design features include silent-coarse adjustments, quick-release yardage locks, and always-up solar wrap to maintain crisp pin visibility in various lighting conditions.

Axcel LANDSLYDE Picatinny Slider Sight

This slick sliding sight from Axcel allows you to move your peep sight forward for better bow balance, plus adjust up and down to fine-tune your shot. The Picatinny mount clips into place with just a screw, letting you align it perfect for your setup. It comes with eight metal sight tapes and precision adjustments for both windage and elevation, plus an automatic return-to-zero feature that locks you back to your home position with one simple press.

Trophy Ridge Peak Sight LH

Balanced at just 25% of traditional aluminum sights, the Trophy Ridge Peak Sight LH pairs a single-pin design with four precise ballistic options. Its 45-degree orientation and tool-less windage/elevation adjustments make it a practical choice for hunters seeking quick target acquisition without the bulk of traditional multi-pin systems. The included sight light adds an extra layer of confidence for low-light hunting situations.

Apex Gear Covert Sight

The Apex Gear Covert Sight combines precision engineering with versatile features for hunting enthusiasts. Built from durable aluminum, its innovative design includes adjustable levels and illuminated sights for accurate aiming. The reversible pin system and roving bracket provide flexibility, while the glow-in-the-dark ring and built-in light make it practical for all lighting conditions.

Sebastien Flute Pro Sight

This left-handed recurve sight from Sebastien Flute strikes an exceptional balance between performance and value. Built for longevity with precision metal construction, its simple design featuring toolless adjustments for windage, elevation, and bar extension lets you fine-tune your setup without fuss. The matte black finish and 9” length make it both durable and reliable for any archer’s journey, from beginner to competitor.

Spot Hogg Fast Eddie XL Triple Stack MRT Sight RH / .019

The RH version of the Spot Hogg Fast Eddie XL packs serious adjustability into its compact design. With three independently micro-adjustable vertical pins and 45-degree alignment pins, you can dial in precise adjustments without touching the main sight plane. The. 019 pin size is perfect for fine-tuning your shots, whether you’re sighting in at the range or hunting in the field.

Spot Hogg Boonie Dovetail Sight 3 Pin .019 RH

This right-handed 4-inch dovetail sight offers precise micro-adjustments through its silent click-free mechanism and removable knob design. The single. 010 pin provides clear aiming, while the versatile dovetail base fits all Spot Hogg heads with ease. Its compact size makes it perfect for both target and hunting applications.

Black Gold Ascent Pro 45 Degree Sight

Featuring a right-hand 5-pin configuration, the Black Gold Ascent Pro combines premium durability with precise 45-degree aiming through its tapered pins and fiber-optic design. Crafted from lightweight 6061 aluminum, the wing truss base provides exceptional stability while the click micro-pin adjustment allows for fine-tuned sight-in. Each element has been engineered to withstand the rigors of field hunting, making this sights the robust choice for serious bowhunters who demand nothing but the best from their equipment.

HHA Sports RYZ Bow Sight

This American-made bow sight combines three green pins in a one-and-a-half-inch housing for exceptional target acquisition. The precision-engineered setup includes right- and left-handed adjustments, mechanical brightness control, and a built-in bubble level for perfect sight alignment. The water-resistant yardage tapes and high-light compatibility make it an ideal choice for both casual and competitive archers seeking maximum accuracy.

Spot Hogg Boonie Hard Mount Sight

The Spott-Hogg Boonie 2-Pin Bow Sight combines precision with portability, featuring silent-click adjustments and a solid aluminum construction that’s 10% lighter than comparable models. The micro-adjustable design allows for precise calibration, while the tool-less system makes quick changes between different sight setups a breeze. The ergonomic design works equally well for right- or left-handed archers, keeping your setup smooth and responsive from shot to shot.

Astormania 2” 45-Degree Erecting Prism Diagonal

This precision astronomical prism delivers exceptionally clear images with its high-quality BAK4 glass and anti-reflection coating. The brass compression ring and aluminum construction ensure longevity and accuracy. The included 1.25” adapter makes it a versatile addition to any telescope setup.

Rad Maxim 45 Degree Sight

Crafted for archers with short draw lengths shooting bows over 39” axle-to-axle, this 45-degree peep sight keeps alignment perfect every time. The clever design keeps the post out of sight at full draw while a protective hood fends off rain and sunlight. The 5/32” aperture fits standard tubing and provides the precision you need for your shot.

GSO 1.25” 45-Degree Amici Prism Diagonal

With its precision-machined aluminum barrels and high-grade ABS plastic housing, this 45-degree diagonal delivers clear, upright images for both daytime terrestrial viewing and nighttime astronomy. It works particularly well with small refractor telescopes like Meade’s Adventure Scope, allowing you to match the orientation of celestial objects with star maps. The included 1.25” nosepiece accepts standard filters, and the compact design makes it ideal for portable setups like window-mounted observing or hiking trips.

Specialty Ultra Lite 45 Degree Peep Sighting System

This ultra-light 7.5-grain peep is a solid choice for your bow sight setup, especially if you have a longer-than-40-inch bow. The 3/16” opening works great with both original Specialty Apertures and 1/8” clarifiers and verifiers, though you’ll need their special wrench for installation. The 45-degree angle really shines, giving you perfect eye alignment on my 38-inch bow with a 6X lens setup.

Celestron 45-degree Erect Image Diagonal

When using your refractor or Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope for daytime viewing, this 45-degree erect-image diagonal transforms your observations by presenting objects in their correct, right-side-up orientation with natural left-to-right direction. The included 1.25” barrel fits seamlessly into your telescope’s focusers, allowing you to maintain the same setup you use for nighttime stargazing while correcting the orientation of terrestrial targets like birds, ships, or landscape features. This elegant accessory pairs well with standard 1.25” eyepieces and delivers sharp, corrected images for both close-range and celestial observations.

Specialty Pro Series 45 Degree Hooded Peep

This sleek 45-degree peep sight in blue reduces glare while maintaining a comfortable 3/16” opening for your favorite 1/8” aperture items. At just 9.5 grams, it’s designed to save weight on bows 40 inches long or greater, without compromising on its key function of improving target clarity through specialized sights and verifiers.

Spot Hogg Hogg Father Triple Stack MRT Sight

This. 010 fiber-optic sight features three independently adjustable vertical pins and yardage indicators, housed in a robust 6061 aluminum body. The precision-engineered design includes micro-adjustable pins and three Solar Wrap fiber optic rings that enhance visibility with superior light gathering. Available in black for right-handed setups, the 2.35-pound sight delivers reliable performance for competitive archers and serious hunters.

Ultraview UV Slider Bridge-Lock

The UV Slider Bridge-Lock combines precise micro-adjustments with a user-friendly design that simplifies aiming through its integrated light cartridge. While some may find the right-hand orientation restrictive, particularly for left-handed shooters, the sight’s exceptional build quality and reliable performance make it a top choice for those who can adapt. The 2nd axis pre-alignment paired with its versatile mounting options significantly enhances stability and accuracy, earning high praise from users who appreciate its durability and responsiveness.

SureLoc Adrenaline 45 Degree Sight

This ultra-lightweight recurve sight by SURE-LOC combines precise engineering with intuitive adjustments for competitive archers. The 9-inch carbon fiber bar and 5.5-inch aluminum frame minimize wind resistance while offering quick elevation changes. The manual pointer system and five-color aluminum accents provide reliable aiming assistance without excess complexity.

HHA Sports Tetra Max RYZ Dovetail Adjustable Bow Sight

This right-handed bow sight combines 45-degree visibility with green pins and dual-range pointers, though user feedback suggests the performance might not quite match premium alternatives in the same category. The adjustable brightness rheostat and bubble-level sight ring help maintain precision, while the water-resistant yardage tapes offer convenient range information. Overall, it’s a solid choice for archers looking to fine-tune their setup, though some might find it lacks the refined performance of top-tier options.

Spot Hogg Boonie Sight

The Spot Hogg Boonie brings some welcome updates to the fast Eddie design, tipping the scales 10% lighter while smoothing out the aiming process with its 45-degree orientation and adjustable yardage wheel. The most noticeable improvement is the changeable bases system, allowing you to fine-tune your sight picture without swapping out the entire unit. Whether you’re a casual shooter or competition regular, these little enhancements add up to a more precise and versatile sighting experience.

Spot Hogg Archery Fast Eddie XL Sight

Here’s a reliable sight that stands up to serious use, with a solid build quality that matches its pricey tag. The micro-adjustments make it a breeze to dial in your shot, and the extended sight picture helps with those tricky mid-range shots. Users really appreciate the tough yardage pointer and the fact that it’s built to last, though some might want to watch the weight - at 6 inches long, it’s not exactly streamlined.

Ultraview UV Slider Dovetail Bow Sight

The UV Slider TM has redefined what’s possible in bowhunting sights with its innovative DualDial and TripleMark features. These additions provide unprecedented precision without taking your focus off the target. While some users report durability issues, the sight’s performance speaks for itself, delivering the accuracy you need in the field.

HHA Sights – Tetra Tournament Edition 1 Pin

This precision hunting sight delivers remarkable accuracy with 2nd and 3rd axis adjustments and a silky-smooth 2.1-inch travel range. Its compact design features a responsive two-stage windage adjustment and water-resistant sight tapes for reliable performance in any hunting condition. The dovetail mount offers flexible sight radius options, while the solid disconnect mechanism ensures safe bow carriage.

Specialty Archery Pro Series 45 Degree Hooded Peep

This lightweight 45-degree peep sight cuts string vibration while trimming crucial weight from your bow. The precision-engineered 3/16” aperture works seamlessly with all 1/8” inserts, including clarifiers and verifiers that sharpen both your sight picture and your focus on the target. The hooded design reduces glare on these critical components while keeping the overall weight under 10 grams – a subtle improvement that pays off in bow performance.

Spot Hogg Fast Eddie XL Sight

This sleek, adjustable sight combines a rigid aluminum construction with a surprisingly lightweight dovetail mount. The double-pin design helps target acquisition, especially when shooting left to right, while the precise micro-adjustments and tool-less setup make tuning a breeze. Users love the quiet locking knob and click-free yardage adjustment, which add up to a dependable sight that lives up to its premium price point.

CBE Engage Micro Sight

When you’re precision-shooting, every detail matters. The right sights make all the difference, and Heinie’s CBE Engage Micro doesn’t disappoint. The micro-adjustable pins hit the sweet spot between visibility and subtlety, while the compact design keeps your sight picture just right. Whether you’re nailing targets at 3D courses or hitting the bullseye at 80+ yards, this sight delivers the accuracy you crave with simple, reliable adjustments that make tuning your bow a breeze.

CBE CX5 Carbon Sight

At just 9 ounces, the CBE CX5 combines carbon fiber and aluminum construction for a surprisingly lightweight yet robust hunting sight. Its premium features include five adjustable. 019 pins with fiber optic illumination and a built-in rheostat light, plus four interchangeable peephole rings for customization. The fully ambidextrous design makes it a versatile addition to any bowhunter’s setup.

Trophy Ridge React H4 4 Pin Sight

The Trophy Ridge React H4 makes quick work of sighting in with its clever React technology that automatically sets your pins after you’ve adjusted the first two. At just 15oz, the lightweight design helps prevent the dreaded “bow wake” during shots. The four-pin system covers velocities from 195 to 330 fps, while the tool-less adjustments and included Allen wrench make it a breeze to dial in your shot, regardless of whether you’re hitting the range or heading to the stand.

Garmin Xero A1 Bow Sight

The Garmin Xero A1 Bow Sight revolutionizes target acquisition with its precision LED pin system that eliminates traditional pin obstructions. It automatically measures distances up to 300 yards, allowing quick and accurate shot placement from any range. Users have reported dramatic improvements in grouping and speed at the shooting line while some have even taken their first bow-hunting trophy with its help.

Buyer’s Guide

45-degree sights revolutionize shooting by providing higher visibility and faster target acquisition. These precision instruments offer several advantages over traditional sights, making them a popular choice for competitive shooters and hunters alike. Understanding their key features and proper usage ensures you select the right sight for your firearm and shooting needs.

Principles of 45-Degree Sighting

Unlike standard sights that align the front and rear elements on the same axis, 45-degree sights elevate the rear element by 45 degrees. This design creates a stable V-shaped alignment between the front and rear sights, enhancing target visibility and reducing perceptual distortion at longer ranges. The elevated rear sight offers a wider field of view, allowing quick target acquisition without the need to raise your head as high, which can be crucial in various shooting environments.

Sight Components and Materials

High-quality 45-degree sights feature durable, corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel or aerospace-grade aluminum. The illuminated options use either fiber optic inserts or LED technology to enhance visibility in low-light conditions. The sight’s construction should prioritize precision machining and tight tolerances between components. Reversible blade designs allow for quick adjustments between open sights and iron configurations, while flip-up covers protect the sight when not in use.

Installation and Compatibility

Proper installation is crucial for optimal performance. The sights should sit flush with the firearm’s frame, with no gaps or misalignment. Universal mounting systems offer flexibility for different firearm models, while specialized adapters may be required for specific calibers or action types. When installing, ensure the sight base is level and the screw holes match the firearm’s receiver precisely to prevent wobble or misalignment.

Usage and Maintenance

Educated usage extends the sight’s lifespan and maintains accuracy. Proper eye relief during shooting prevents contact between the sight and your eye, which can damage the protective elements. Regular cleaning with appropriate solvents removes residue and prevents corrosion. The sight’s protective cover should be flipped up before each shooting session and replaced securely afterward to prevent dust accumulation. Periodic inspection of all components ensures they remain in proper working order, with no signs of wear or damage.

FAQ

What is a 45 degree sight?

A 45 degree sight is a firearm sighting system that presents aiming points at a 45-degree angle above the bore axis. This design results in shorter sight radii, reduced target clearance at close ranges, and can improve accuracy by reducing parallax.

These sights consist of a base mounting system and one or more adjustable aiming points. Common types include fiber-optic sights, tritium-luminescent sights, and traditional iridium-coated sights.

How do 45 degree sights work?

45 degree sights use a combination of optical and mechanical principles. The aiming points are mounted at an incline relative to the firearm’s bore, typically between 30 and 60 degrees. When properly aligned, the aiming point appears to converge with the target, allowing for precise shot placement.

The design eliminates the need for raised sights, which can snag on clothing or vegetation. Instead, the sighting axis remains lower profile, reducing the likelihood of collisions and maintaining a cleaner overall appearance.

What are the benefits of 45 degree sights?

45 degree sights offer several advantages, including reduced target clearance, especially at close distances. The shorter sight radii help prevent contact with clothing or objects while maintaining proper shooting stance. Additionally, these sights reduce parallax, as the aiming point remains stationary relative to the shooter’s eye.

The compact profile and efficient design make them ideal for concealed carry, competitive shooting, and tactical applications where traditional sights might be cumbersome or hazardous.

Who should use 45 degree sights?

These sights are particularly beneficial for concealed carry enthusiasts, as they allow for more comfortable clothing choices without compromising visibility. Law enforcement and military personnel also prefer them for tactical applications, where rapid target acquisition is crucial.

They are suitable for both new and experienced shooters, as the reduced target clearance can lead to improved consistency, especially when shooting from awkward angles or in tight spaces.

What maintenance requirements are there for 45 degree sights?

45 degree sights generally require minimal maintenance. Regular cleaning of both the sighting surfaces and mounting system is recommended to prevent dirt, debris, and moisture buildup. Most sights use standard firearm cleaning solutions and can be easily disassembled for thorough cleaning.

Check the mounting hardware for tightness regularly, as even slight movement can affect the sight’s alignment. Some sights feature adjustable aiming points that can be fine-tuned to maintain proper zero.

Are 45 degree sights legal in all jurisdictions?

Legal restrictions on 45 degree sights vary by location. Some jurisdictions have specific regulations regarding firearm modifications, while others allow them without restriction. Always check local laws to ensure compliance before purchasing or modifying your firearm.

These sights are widely accepted in sporting competitions and military use. However, consult the sport’s governing body or military regulations to verify their approval for your intended application.

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