Lower 1/3 cowitness is a term used to describe the relationship between the iron sights on a firearm and the red dot sight on an optic. This term is used because the red dot should be in the lower 1/3 of the optic when looking through the optic. This is important because it allows for a faster and more accurate acquisition of the target.
Lower 1/3 Cowitness and Why is it Important?
Lower 1/3 cowitness is a term used to describe the relationship between the iron sights on a firearm and the red dot sight on an optic. It is important because it allows the user to have a clear and unobstructed view of the target while still being able to use the iron sights if the red dot fails.
There are two main types of cowitness: upper 1/3 and lower 1/3. Upper 1/3 cowitness means that the red dot sight is mounted on top of the iron sights, while lower 1/3 cowitness means that the red dot sight is mounted below the iron sights. Lower 1/3 cowitness is generally considered to be the more desirable option, as it provides a better view of the target and is less likely to be obscured by the iron sights in the event of a red dot failure.
Properly Lower 1/3 Cowitness your Red Dot Sight
Before cowitnessing your red dot sight, you will need to first make sure that the sight is properly mounted on the firearm. Once the sight is mounted, you will need to align the dot in the sight with the iron sights on the firearm. To do this, you will need to look through the red dot sight and align the dot with the front and rear sights on the firearm. Once the dot is aligned with the iron sights, you will need to adjust the elevation and windage on the red dot sight until the dot is in the center of the sight.
Benefits of Lower 1/3 Cowitnessing your Red Dot Sight
There are a few benefits to lower 1/3 cowitnessing your red dot sight. One is that it helps to keep your dot sight in focus while you are looking through your optic. This can be helpful when trying to acquire targets quickly.
Another benefit is that it allows you to use your iron sights without having to take your red dot sight off of the target. This can be helpful if your red dot sight fails or if you need to use your iron sights for a more precise shot. Lower 1/3 cowitnessing can also help to improve your situational awareness because you are able to see more of your surroundings.

Downside of not Lower 1/3 Cowitnessing your Red Dot Sight
The main downside of not lower 1/3 cowitnessing your red dot sight is that you may have to re-zero your sight each time you mount it on your firearm. This can be time consuming and frustrating, especially if you are in the middle of a competition or a hunting trip. Additionally, if your red dot sight is not properly mounted, it could become misaligned and cause you to miss your target.
Troubleshoot if your Red Dot Sight is not Lower 1/3 Cowitnessing
There are a few things that you can do in order to troubleshoot if your red dot sight is not lower 1/3 cowitnessing. The first thing that you can do is to make sure that the red dot sight is properly mounted on the firearm. If the red dot sight is not properly mounted, then it will not be able to cowitness correctly. The next thing that you can do is to make sure that the red dot sight is properly aligned with the firearm.
If the red dot sight is not properly aligned, then it will not be able to cowitness correctly. The last thing that you can do is to make sure that the red dot sight is properly calibrated. If the red dot sight is not properly calibrated, then it will not be able to cowitness correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]
What is lower 1/3 cowitness?
Lower 1/3 cowitness is when the iron sights are aligned with the bottom third of the optic. This is considered the preferred method of cowitnessing as it provides the most options for target acquisition.
Why is lower 1/3 cowitness the preferred method?
Lower 1/3 cowitness is the preferred method as it provides the most options for target acquisition. When the sights are aligned in this manner, the user has the option of using the iron sights, the optic, or both simultaneously. This gives the user the most flexibility in terms of target acquisition.
How do I achieve lower 1/3 cowitness?
There are a few different ways to achieve lower 1/3 cowitness. One method is to use an optic that has a built-in rail. Another method is to use a spacer that is placed between the optic and the iron sights. This will raise the optic up to the proper height.
Are there any drawbacks to lower 1/3 cowitness?
There are a few drawbacks to lower 1/3 cowitness. One drawback is that it can make the optic more difficult to see. Another drawback is that it can make the iron sights more difficult to see. This can be a problem in low light conditions.
How do I know if my optic is at the proper height for lower 1/3 cowitness?
There are a few ways to tell if your optic is at the proper height for lower 1/3 cowitness. One way is to look through the optic and see if the iron sights are visible. Another way is to measure the distance between the top of the optic and the top of the iron sights.
What are some other methods of cowitnessing?
There are a few other methods of cowitnessing. One method is upper 1/3 cowitness. This is when the iron sights are aligned with the top third of the optic. Another method is center cowitness. This is when the iron sights are aligned with the center of the optic.
What is the difference between lower 1/3 cowitness and other methods of cowitnessing?
The main difference between lower 1/3 cowitness and other methods of cowitnessing is the height at which the sights are aligned. With lower 1/3 cowitness, the sights are aligned with the bottom third of the optic. With other methods, the sights are aligned with the top or center of the optic.
Conclusion
Based on the article, it seems that lower 1/3 cowitness is the preferred height for many shooters. This is because it allows for a quick and easy sight picture while still providing a good amount of precision. There are some drawbacks to this height, however, such as the fact that it can be more difficult to acquire a target at long range. Overall, lower 1/3 cowitness is a good option for many shooters.