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

Icarry Diamondback Sdr Galco 1
Icarry Diamondback Sdr Galco 1

I Carry: Diamondback SDR in a Galco Hornet Holster

For our latest "I Carry" episode above, we paired the six-round Diamondback SDR DA/SA snubnose revolver with a simple leather holster from Galco, along with one of the latest EDC flashlights from Streamlight.

The Armed Citizen® May 8, 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.

Creating the Ideal First-Time Shooting Experience

That first time behind a trigger can shape a newcomer’s attitude towards firearms. Here are five ways to make the experience a success.

Henry Repeating Arms Founder & CEO Honored as Law Enforcement Supporter of the Year

Henry Repeating Arms founder and CEO Anthony Imperato has been named Law Enforcement Supporter of the Year by New York State Fraternal Order of Police Memorial Lodge 100.

New For 2026: TriStar Arms APOC Pro

The new APOC Pro takes the original TriStar Arms APOC pistol design introduced in 2025 and makes it optics- and suppressor-ready.

7 New Over-Under Shotguns for 2026

Ever since the development of the iconic Browning Superposed shotgun in the early 1930s, the concept of an over-under shotgun has remained popular not just with American shooters but shotgunners the world over.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.