by jshuberg on Thu Jul 19, 2012 9:06 pm
Green is at the center of the visible light spectrum, and the human eye perceives green light at the same luminosity to be brighter than any other color, and is the easiest color to "see". This is why night vision systems convert all amplified wavelengths to green. However, there are a lot of green objects in nature, and very few that are bright red.
The purpose of a fiber optic front sight is to draw the brains attention to it, and shift the focal point of the eye to it quickly. The brighter it is and/or the more its color differs from the other objects in your field of view, the more effective it will be at doing this. Which color will work better for you will be a matter of whether your brain is attracted more to a difference in color or a difference in brightness. The whole idea with modern iron sights is the brains preference for symmetrical geometry and pattern recognition. A similar thing presents itself with rear sights as well - some people prefer 3 dots, straight-8 or goalpost patterns, etc. as the brain will correct sight alignment subconsciously to produce a symmetrical visual pattern. Some prefer a solid black rear as it eliminates visual clutter and prevents the focal point of the eye from drifting away from the front to a point where front and rear are equally in focus.
I'd recommend trying out both colors. Make a point to compare them in low light, and with and without other green objects in your field of view - grass, vegetation at the top of a berm, etc. You may find one to be significantly better, or you may find them to be pretty much the same. It's all about how your brain processes visual patterns.
NRA Certified Basic Pistol Instructor
NRA Certified Personal Protection In The Home Instructor
NRA Life Member
MCPPA Certified Instructor
Gulf War Veteran