Dovetail cutter?

[WestKentucky]

I need a dovetail cutter for a couple projects that need repairs. Dovetail cutters are far from being what I would call cheap, so I’m hoping that you all can give recommendation for a cutter or two that I could buy reasonably that would cover a variety of tasks, mainly with sights, and similar repairs. I do know that there are different sizes, pitches, depths, etc for various sight channels but still, I want basic to get the job done.

Also, this is basic and I could look it up... are dovetails measured according to the top slot, bottom width across the base of the cut, or some other measurement like shaft size?

 

[Fyrstyk]

Track of the Wolf, The Gun Works catalog, and dixie Gun Works sell jigs for cutting std. dovetails (3/8") in round and/or octagon barrels. they usually run around 30-35 dollars.

 

[SC45-70]

I need a dovetail cutter for a couple projects that need repairs. Dovetail cutters are far from being what I would call cheap, so I’m hoping that you all can give recommendation for a cutter or two that I could buy reasonably that would cover a variety of tasks, mainly with sights, and similar repairs. I do know that there are different sizes, pitches, depths, etc for various sight channels but still, I want basic to get the job done.

Also, this is basic and I could look it up... are dovetails measured according to the top slot, bottom width across the base of the cut, or some other measurement like shaft size?

Dovetails are measured at the bottom (widest) side of the cut.
I've been using F.K.D. or Interstate 60 degree dovetail cutters for years (made in Japan).
I always cut the dovetail to depth and narrow width with a standard end mill and only use the dovetail cutter to cut the angled ends of the dovetail slot. Start with a cutter smaller than the desired dovetail width and slowly and carefully widen it to accept the sight
Use plenty of cutting oil when using the dovetail cutter.

SC45-70

 

[beag_nut]

Dovetails are measured at the bottom (widest) side of the cut.
I've been using F.K.D. or Interstate 60 degree dovetail cutters for years (made in Japan).
I always cut the dovetail to depth and narrow width with a standard end mill and only use the dovetail cutter to cut the angled ends of the dovetail slot. Start with a cutter smaller than the desired dovetail width and slowly and carefully widen it to accept the sight
Use plenty of cutting oil when using the dovetail cutter.

SC45-70

Without commenting on the brand of cutter used, this is the exact proper way to cut a dovetail. And, some type of milling machine is necessary; don't even think about a drill press.

 

[Fyrstyk]

The jig I mentioned in my earlier post is for cutting a dovetail by hand, not with a milling machine.

 

[BBBBill]

some type of milling machine is necessary; don't even think about a drill press.

^^^^^^^ That right there. Either get the jig to do it by hand or beg/borrow a vertical mill.