rautatähtäimillä

Rautatähtäimet, often translated as iron sights or metallic sights, are a type of mechanical aiming device used on firearms. They consist of two main components: the front sight and the rear sight. The front sight is typically a post or bead located at the muzzle end of the barrel. The rear sight is usually positioned closer to the shooter's eye and can take various forms, such as a notch, aperture (a small hole), or a U-shaped blade.

To aim with iron sights, the shooter aligns the front sight within the rear sight, ensuring that the top of the front sight is level with the top of the rear sight. The target is then placed in relation to this aligned sight picture. This method requires the shooter to focus on the front sight, the rear sight, and the target simultaneously, a skill that improves with practice.

Iron sights are known for their simplicity, durability, and reliability. They do not require batteries or electronic components, making them less susceptible to failure in harsh conditions. While generally less precise than optical sights like telescopic or red dot sights, iron sights are effective for most practical shooting distances and are standard on many firearms, especially for hunting, law enforcement, and military applications. Many firearms also feature adjustable iron sights, allowing the shooter to compensate for windage and elevation.