I'm far away from being any kind of expert, but I do have a few S&W revolvers with the machined front sights, as well as 55 yr. old eyes that have problems picking up said front sights on occassion. For me, the most effective solution is to use Crimson Trace Laser grips. I know some don't care for them for a variety of reasons. But for me, they get the job done. I do have a Model 625 that had a pinned front sight that I replaced it with a fiber optic, and I am amazed at the difference the fiber optic front sight makes.

Best of luck,

Dave