SHOT Show 2019: Nighthawk Interchangeable Optic System

by
posted on January 22, 2019
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
nh_ios_lead.jpg

Previously, shooters who wanted an RMR mounted on a pistol was required to make a permanent modification to the slide, and mount an adapter plate for a specific RMR. This would limit the user to that one RMR and would completely remove the rear sight cut—fine if the shooter has selected his or her “forever” RMR optic.

However, environments change, and the rear optic also should be able to change. Nighthawk Custom is now providing the option between several RMR optics without taking away the fixed rear sight option with its Interchangeable Optics System (IOS) optic mounting system, which doesn't limit the user to one fixed sight. The user is able to change from iron sights to red dot optics in less than 30 seconds by simply loosening the set screw, pushing a pin out and sliding off the plate.


The slide has a tapered cut that returns the mount to the same spot each time a shooter remounts, maintaining zero. Three plate options accommodate the Trijicon RMR, the Viper Vortex and the RMSc Shield.

The IOS ensures perfect alignment between the fixed sights, delivering a lower one-third co-witness with the red dots. Additionally, this system allows for the user the ability to maintain a standard height front sight while running a red-dot optic.

“The IOS is an incredible opportunity to seamlessly enhance the Nighthawk 1911’s. With minimal investment, you can add the IOS to any existing pistol, even if you have not yet made your red dot selection,” said Nighthawk COO Nelson Davis. “The ease and adaptability of this system allows users to alternate between the standard look and function of fixed front and rear sights or modern red dot optics.”

MSRP is $350.00 and includes the standard iron sight plate (IOS slide cut and standard round top plate); additional optic plates are $150.00 each. For more, visit nighthawkcustom.com.
 
IOS Option Features:
     -Plate returns to zero
     -Rear sight alignment between plates
     -Fully machined from prehard material
     -Standard Novak sight cut
     -Low profile
     -Quick and easy plate removal
     -Standard Hight front sight for either iron sight or red dot use


 

 

Latest

Low
Low

U.S. Military Unveils "Drone Killer" Rifle Cartridges

The U.S. military's new Drone Killer Cartridge is designed as a cost-effective family of ammunition designed to increase a warfighter's probability of a hit against drone threats.

I Have This Old Gun: Röhm RG 14

RG Industries was established in Miami, Fla., to manufacture—using many German-made parts—the smallest Röhm-pattern handguns for domestic sale, including the RG 14 revolver chambered in .22 LR.

Review: Primary Weapons System UXR

What if you wanted to have more than one caliber in a single rifle? The Primary Weapons System UXR rifle is the answer, and it takes caliber-interchangeability to the next level.

Holosun Rolls Out New 407, 507 Handgun Optics

New for 2026, Holosun is releasing new versions of two of its most popular handgun optics with the 407 Comp, 407C-X3, 507C-X3 and 507-Promax.

The Armed Citizen® March 2, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Nation's Oldest Gun Club Turns 150

The oldest continuously operating rifle club in the United States, the Newport Rifle Club (NRC) near Middletown, R.I., is celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2026.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.