What is sight alignment?

• A. The correct spatial relationship between the front and rear sights.
• B. The distance to the target.
• C. The alignment of the sights as they appear aligned with the target.
• D. The bullet's point of impact.

Answer: (A)

Sight alignment is the proper spatial relationship between the front and rear sights when they are in the same plane. This means the front sight should be centered in the rear sight notch and the tops of the sights should be level, creating a consistent aiming plane. When the front sight is properly aligned with the rear sight, the shooter’s aim translates reliably to the target. If the front sight isn’t centered or the tops aren’t level, shots will drift because the firearm isn’t being aimed at the intended point. This concept is different from sight picture, which describes how the aligned sights appear relative to the target; sight alignment focuses on the relationship between the two sights themselves. The bullet’s point of impact is influenced by many factors beyond sight alignment, so it’s not the definition of sight alignment.