FOGHORN MARCH 2025
Twobirds Flying Publications
HK’s VP9 Elevated: A Review of the XS Minimalist Suppressor Height Sights
Copyright 2025, Twobirds Flying Publications. All Rights Reserved.
HK’s VP9 Elevated: A Review of the XS Minimalist Suppressor Height Sights 2025
HK’s VP9 Elevated: A Review of the XS lower part of the optic window) or "absolute"
Minimalist Suppressor Height Sights (sights align directly with the red dot).
By: Sal Palma The Minimalist is a lower 1/3 co-witness for a
Trijicon RMR or Holosun 507C red dot sight.
But, even without a suppressor or red dot, some
shooters prefer the increased visibility of taller
sights. They can be easier to acquire quickly,
especially in high-stress situations.
The XS Sights Minimalist is an excellent choice
for the VP9 for several reasons:
1. Design Philosophy: XS Sights
emphasizes a "less is more" approach
with their Minimalist line. The design
focuses on a clear, uncluttered sight
picture, prioritizing the front sight. The
blacked-out and serrated rear sight
reduces distractions, allowing the
shooter to concentrate on the front
Suppressor height sights on a pistol serve a
sight.
couple of primary purposes, and their utility has
2. Visibility and Low-Light Performance:
increased significantly with the popularity of
They feature a high-visibility front sight
pistol-mounted red dot optics.
with tritium and a photoluminescent
The most straightforward reason is to provide a dot, providing excellent performance in
sight picture that isn't obstructed by a various lighting conditions. The use of
suppressor. Because suppressors are cylindrical their Ember Glow Dot Technology helps
and attach to the barrel, they often block to increase the brightness of the front
standard-height sights. Suppressor height sights sight under low light situations.
are taller, allowing the shooter to aim over the
suppressor.
Many modern pistols are designed to accept red
dot optics. When a red dot sight fails, backup
iron sights become crucial. Suppressor height
sights are often used to "co-witness" with the
red dot, meaning they are tall enough to be
visible in the optic's window. This provides a 3. Durability: XS Sights are known for their
reliable backup aiming solution. "Co-witnessing" robust construction, using CNC-
can be either "lower 1/3" (sights are visible in the machined steel. This ensures the sights
Copyright 2025, Twobirds Flying Publications. All Rights Reserved.
HK’s VP9 Elevated: A Review of the XS Minimalist Suppressor Height Sights
2025
can withstand the rigors of regular use Manufacturer Specifications
and harsh conditions.
4. Red Dot Compatibility: The Minimalist • Tritium Powered Front Sight - Glows in low
suppressor height sights are designed to light to aid in sight alignment.
co-witness with popular red dot optics, • High-Contrast Color Front Sight - Available in
bright orange
providing a reliable backup.
• Ember Glow Dot - Photoluminescent dot
5. Sight picture: The wide rear notch,
absorbs ambient light and glows in low light.
combined with the front sight design,
• Rear Sight Overhang - Reduces rear sight
allows for quick target acquisition.
glare in bright light for greater sight
definition.
On the VP9, the XS Minimalist Suppressor Height
• Anti-Reflective Rear Serrations - Reduces
Sights does not cover the rear ambidextrous
glare in bright light and increases contrast
charging support tabs. The tabs can be readily
against the front sight.
removed but if you choose to keep them, simply • Rear Sight Ledge - Aids in one-handed slide
apply a bit of adhesive to ensure they remain in manipulations
place. • CNC Steel - Extremely durable for duty use
• 12 Year Warranty on Tritium
• Easy Installation - Easily installed by hand or
sight pusher tool.
• Fits standard holster options.
• Item Number: HK-M017P-4N
• Fits: HK VP9 Optic Ready - Suppressor Height
• Regulated to lower 1/3 co-witness on the
Trijicon RMR 7 SRO, the Holosun 507c series,
and the Vortex Viper.
• Kit Includes: front sight, rear sight, red
threadlocker, insert with instructions.
XS Sights has built a strong reputation for
producing high-quality, durable, and highly
visible sights, particularly their suppressor height
models.
Summarizing, XS Sights Minimalist suppressor
height sights are excellent combat oriented
sights, they offer a combination of durability,
visibility, and compatibility, making them an
excellent choice for shooters who prioritize
reliability and performance.
-SP
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