How fixed are "fixed" sights?

[middlechainringguy]

Really basic question:

Are fixed sights truly "fixed" (i.e., impossible to adjust)? Or can I adjust them with effort (and if so, how)?

The reason I ask is that I was shooting a friend's 9mm last weekend, and the point of impact was WAY off point of aim (even adjusting for my low skill level) almost to the point of being dangerous if the gun had to be used in anger. He was complaining that the gun just came from the factory that way, and there was nothing he could do about it ...

Thanks in advance,

--middlechainringguy

 

[Hauptmann]

Fixed sights on a handgun usually have a dove tail to attach them to the pistol on the rear, and sometimes on the front. With fixed sights you cannot adjust for elevation, however you can adjust for windage by tapping/sliding the rear sight left or right. So, fixed sights are limited to only windage adjustments.

 

[middlechainringguy]

Thanks, Hauptman. Left-right yes; up-down no.

 

[jwr_747]

some fixed sights are a groove milled in the top of the receiver,can't be adjusted. jwr

 

[GRIZ22]

Thanks, Hauptman. Left-right yes; up-down no.

If the gun shoots low you can file down the front sight to bring the point of impact up. Some guns, like Glocks, have different height front sights available to correct for elevation.

 

[Brass Hawg]

AS Griz mentioned, depending on the handgun, several manufactures make different height front sights to adjust for elevation.

 

[BlkHawk73]

First a gun isn't to be used in anger but rather in defence of one's protection of one's life or for sporting/competitve purposes. It's not a anger managemnt tool. :banghead:

ok, that said, are you sure it's the gun and not the shooter(s). Not being a wise guy just wondering. All too often ppl blame the gun while it's actually not the gun at all. I've seen this first hand. usually it's a matter of trigger control and grip adjustment.