Factory or aftermarket?

[chet_long]

Well, I have finally made a decision on the handguns I am going to purchase. Now I am in need of some assistance in making a sight decision. If my terminology is off, feel free to correct me (based on what I have seen here at MNGT, that would have happened either way ). I am going to be purchasing a pair of XDMs and want them both to have night sights on them. Would I be wise to order them with the night sights already on them, or is there a better/more cost effective aftermarket sight available?

[macphisto]

Order them with night sights. You'll pay more otherwise, and for no good reason.

[EJSG19]

Order them with night sights. You'll pay more otherwise, and for no good reason.

Yup.

Almost always cheaper to buy them from the factory the way you want them. Springfield Armory (the factory) can usually sell you one of 100,000 cheaper than you can buy a plain jane and make it yourself. Plus, if they ding it up its on their dime not yours.

[xd ED]

It may be an issue of time vs. money. I suspect it will take more time to get a gun with factory night sights. Check with ThunderJohn.

ETA: After looking at SA's price for factory Trijicon sights($105), vs Aftermarket on Amazon for $86+ shipping + $20 for installation. The price is going to be close. So the key issue might be: How the the wait for factory sights.

[Shipyard]

Factory. Rate the hassle and runnin. Plus i've never had sights installed and got the gun back as I gave it.

[JJ]

If you are buying new the get it right the first time with the options you want. Sacrifice a bit of wait time, do your shopping.

[Cuda66]

Just an FYI--the Springfield OEM night sights do not have a good track record (at least on the XD boards).

While they use Trijicon tubes, they omit the rubber cushioning that actual Trijicon manufactured sights have, and tend to not stand up to abuse nearly as well.

[solidgun]

I do remember reading on the XD forum about the quality being sub par, but I do not remember all the details.

Personally, I don't think you will notice too much difference between the night sights factory or aftermarket.

[Thunderjohn]

I wasn't aware of any difference in quality, but I know Cuda66 does more reasearch than I do.
The dealer cost difference is only $88-90 and that's the difference we charge.
There are times that factory night sights are more difficult to get.
I recommend getting the factory night sights if possible

[chet_long]

Thanks for all of the responses. I had a hunch that the factory would be the way to go, but I figured it would be best to ask.

Cuda, could you please clarify what you mean when it is suggested they omit rubber? Secondly do the folks on the xd boards have any recommendations as to what they go with instead?

[Cuda66]

The difference I've seen in pics (not firsthand) is that the trijicon sights have a white ring around them, while the SA sights have a silver ring. The white ring is silicon, and works as a shock absorber around the tube.

XS 24/7's and Truglo TFO's are rather popular choices.

[chet_long]

Thanks cuda.