Integrating Iron Sights with Glock 19 Red Dot: A Dueck Defense RBU Review

When it comes to enhancing your Glock 19 with a red dot sight, the challenge has always been to maintain the reliability and quick target acquisition of traditional iron sights while reaping the benefits of a modern optic. Enter the Dueck Defense Red Dot Back Up Sight (RBU), a no gunsmithing mounting platform that promises to bridge this gap seamlessly.

The Design Philosophy

The RBU is the brainchild of Barry Dueck, a Marine Corps veteran, nationally ranked 3-Gun Shooter, and IPSC Grand Master. His design ethos is simple: to create a sight base that eliminates the "lost dot" phenomenon that plagues many red dot users. The RBU allows the shooter to align fixed iron sights, making the red dot immediately visible. This design is not only innovative but practical, especially under stress or when the shooter is on the move.

Construction and Installation

Crafted from high-quality US Mill-certified bar stock and finished with a nitride coating, the RBU is built for durability. Its CNC Machined construction ensures a precise fit and finish. Installation is a breeze, requiring no modifications to your Glock 19. It uses the factory sight dovetail slot for mounting and is designed to be the perfect height to clear suppressors. The RBU also integrates seamlessly with most open-top and red dot tactical holsters, making it a versatile choice for various applications.

Real-World Performance

The RBU's performance in the field is as impressive as its specs on paper. Users report that after thousands of rounds and multiple drills, the RBU maintains zero with unerring consistency. The integrated iron sights, with a serrated front and plain back, provide a clear sight picture and are particularly effective at close range, up to 20 yards. For longer distances, the red dot takes precedence, allowing for precise shots as far as the eye can see.

Training and Adaptability

Training with the RBU-equipped Glock 19 reveals its true potential. The short sight radius of the RBU's iron sights may require a slight adjustment in shooting technique, but it can be advantageous in rapid target engagement scenarios. The RBU encourages the shooter to default to the iron sights when necessary, a valuable skill in situations where the red dot may not be immediately visible.

Compatibility and Options

The RBU isn't just for the Glock 19; it's designed to accommodate multiple red dot sights, including popular models like the Trijicon RMR, Leupold DeltaPoint, and Vortex Viper, among others. Dueck Defense also offers a version of the RBU with built-in tritium dots for enhanced low-light performance, catering to the needs of concealed carriers and everyday carry enthusiasts.

Conclusion

The Dueck Defense RBU stands out as a robust, reliable, and innovative solution for integrating a red dot sight with iron sights on a Glock 19. Its no-compromise design, ease of installation, and stellar performance make it a top contender for shooters looking to upgrade their Glock without the need for permanent modifications. Whether for competitive shooting, law enforcement, or personal defense, the RBU by Dueck Defense offers an unmatched combination of speed, accuracy, and reliability.