Etutähdäin

Etutähdäin, also known as a front sight, is a component of a firearm's aiming system. Its primary function is to provide a visual reference point for the shooter to align with the rear sight and the target. Typically located at the muzzle end of the barrel, the front sight is designed to be adjustable in many firearms to allow for windage (horizontal) and elevation (vertical) corrections. This adjustability ensures that the firearm can be zeroed, meaning the sights are aligned so that the bullet strikes where the sights are aimed.

Front sights come in various forms, including post sights, bead sights, and aperture sights. Post sights are the most common, featuring a vertical post or blade that the shooter aligns with the rear sight notch. Bead sights, often found on shotguns, consist of a small bead or sphere. Aperture sights, while less common as a front sight in themselves, can be part of a more complex aiming system. The material used for front sights is usually robust metal, often steel or aluminum, to withstand the rigors of use and the heat generated by firing. The color and material of the front sight can also be designed to enhance visibility in different lighting conditions, with some featuring fiber optics or luminescent paint.