Revolver sights

[Soundtrackzz]

Hey guys ive never owned a revolver before but Im thinking about getting one because i like the ability to use more powerful rounds. However one thing i have noticed about revolvers are that most of their sights are fixed and generally look to just be notches cut in frame. Im wondering if revolver sights are any accurate? Im specifically looking at the Ruger SP101 and the S&W model 60 686SSR.

Thanks
Z

 

[P5 Guy]

Personally I have trouble using the fixed sites on stainless steel guns and I end up trying to paint them black.

 

[.38 Special]

I've generally had pretty good success with fixed sights. On a short range defensive revolver like the SP101, they are fine, as far as I am concerned. I am no more accurate with adjustable sights on that kind of gun.

On an "outdoors" revolver I prefer adjustable sights, simply because I can adjust them for different loads and ranges.

 

[Oro]

The 686SSR I am familiar with has adjustable sights. I have two 686's - (not an SSR, though), and the 686 model by definition has adjustable sights. Else it's a 681 model...

Almost any S&W is available with adjustable sights. If you don't like the fixed sights (and I don't, either), just get the adjustable sight version. They are generally easier to find, also (except the model 10 - which was more plentiful with fixed sights rather than adjustable (model 15), or most J frames).

here's a guide to S&W models that might help you decode some of the differences:

http://www.handloads.com/misc/Smith.Model.Changes.asp

 

[Elvishead]

However one thing i have noticed about revolvers are that most of their sights are fixed and generally look to just be notches cut in frame.

In small frames, yes, mostly. Not true of most revolver models.

 

[Virginian]

Well, sights are a matter of preference, but the most accurate centerfire revolver I ever owned was a Smith 65, and it certainly had fixed sights.

 

[Soundtrackzz]

ok ive got another question for you. do people carry adjustable sights on a ccw revoler or is there to much risk that the sights will snag on something?

 

[researchdoc]

You can get a Smith 386 Night Guard Revolver that has Cylinder And Slide Extrememe Duty Fixed Sights on it. Or you can get a 686 and purchase the sights from C&S and put them on yourself. They are no snag sights like the fixed sights you find on semi auto, they are raised and no sharp edges.
I carry regular adjustables on my 686 every day.

 

[dwf6666]

You really didn't specify what is your intended use for the revolver. For me, this dictates what sights I want. If I'm target shooting like bullseye, I like adjustable sights with a patridge front like this.



If I'm shooting combat pistol like IDPA I prefer this revolver. I like the gold bead over HiViz or night sights. It shows up much better in various lighting conditions.



If I want a big boomer for CCW, I like fixed sights on something like this.



One of the great things about this line of thinking is that it gives me justification to buy more guns.

Don