S&W Rear Leaf Sight (old style)

Candyman · #1 12-13-2011, 02:02 AM

I have recently acquired a blued M586 (no dash) 6", with full under lug, but it had a scope on it. I don't like scoped revolvers (personal preference) and I removed the scope and scope mount.

My problem now is that I can't locate a set of the old sights anywhere. I've called Smith, Numrich, and looked at every possible web sight I can find, all to no avail.

I ordered a set from Midway, but the CS didn't think I knew what I was talking about and she ordered me a set with the rounded front (the type for the M686). Midway has offered to refund my money, but I am just going to keep the set as a backup.

I have taken a pair from one of my M15 4" K frame revolvers and it fits perfect, but this still leaves one of my revolvers naked.

I will buy 1, 2, or 3 rear sight leafs (not the blade.. every cs or person I speak with calls the rear sight blade the rear sight leaf) or full assembly if any good soul has one to part with. Plus I will forever be grateful and may be able to return the favor at some point.

This is my M15 sight without windage screws, etc... This is the old style and the style I desperately need. Any help out there?

Hondo44 · #2 12-13-2011, 05:01 AM

I have a 586 with that sight so I'll check my treasure chest for one to match. I can also send you a long list of parts suppliers. Mine measures 2 7/16” from front edge to front of blade holder. Is that right?

AveragEd · #3 12-13-2011, 08:25 AM

I've advertised for rear sight assemblies in this site's classifieds as well as another site and was able to purchase three. Also look on GunBroker and eBay - they're out there.

Ed

As an FYI, don't forget that there were two mounting hole placements on square-tang sights. The more rearward one was changed to the more forward one in the 1980s, I believe.

Candyman · #4 12-14-2011, 12:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hondo44

I have a 586 with that sight so I'll check my treasure chest for one to match. I can also send you a long list of parts suppliers. Mine measures 2 7/16” from front edge to front of blade holder. Is that right?

Yes, 2 7/16" is exactly what mine is from front edge to front of the blade holder as you said. I would really like to find anyone that will sell me a set or multiple sets. If you have a list of suppliers or a set, I would be very grateful.

Many Thanks,
Dave

Candyman · #5 12-14-2011, 12:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AveragEd

I've advertised for rear sight assemblies in this site's classifieds as well as another site and was able to purchase three. Also look on GunBroker and eBay - they're out there.

Ed

As an FYI, don't forget that there were two mounting hole placements on square-tang sights. The more rearward one was changed to the more forward one in the 1980s, I believe.

I am not sure about the placement of the hole, but I tested every K frame I have and they all fit my M586 (no dash). Models that were checked to see if they fit and did fit are; 14-3, 2 15-3 & 1 15-2, 17-4, 19-4, & a 66-2. All of these sights fit my 586.

I have been on GunBroker for a long time looking but mostly see N frames and outrageous prices for a rear sight, $135.00 ?? Something wrong there or is it me?

Again I appreciate all the help and really want to get this 586 to the range without a scope so I can shoot it beside its stainless brother the 686

Dave

AveragEd · #6 12-14-2011, 08:25 AM

The most I paid for the three I bought was $55 and that was just a few months ago.

I bought that sight with the rearward hole on GB at about that same time and later learned by accident when researching a Model 15 for someone that the FBI ordered a batch of guns and while testing a pre-production specimen, found that the hole location led to flame-cutting of the top strap, so S&W relocated the hole on all its adjustable-sight models. Read through the Model 15 section of the SCoSW and you'll find the reference.

Ed

oeg · #7 12-14-2011, 10:00 AM

I have one taken from a 67-1 for a PPC build. It is the same as one the on my 14-2. If interested e mail me.

Candyman · #8 12-14-2011, 10:50 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AveragEd

The most I paid for the three I bought was $55 and that was just a few months ago.

...Read through the Model 15 section of the SCoSW and you'll find the reference.

Ed

Thanks Ed, I thought they were excessively high. I'll check that section out.

Quote:

Originally Posted by oeg

I have one taken from a 67-1 for a PPC build. It is the same as one the on my 14-2. If interested e mail me.

Email has been sent ...

linde · #9 12-14-2011, 10:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AveragEd

As an FYI, don't forget that there were two mounting hole placements on square-tang sights. The more rearward one was changed to the more forward one in the 1980s, I believe.

The change in K-frame targets was made in 1967 . . . generally designated the dash 3 change.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Candyman

I am not sure about the placement of the hole, but I tested every K frame I have and they all fit my M586 (no dash). Models that were checked to see if they fit and did fit are; 14-3, 2 15-3 & 1 15-2, 17-4, 19-4, & a 66-2. All of these sights fit my 586.

I have some of the early sight leafs . . . and would like to help . . . but am confused. The NOS ones I have will fit (for example) a 15-2 or earlier . . . but not a 15-3 which moved the mounting screw forward. I don't understand how both a 15-2 and a 15-3 sight would fit.

I don't own an L-frame but, since the 586 was introduced in 1981, I would assume it has the sight leaf mounting screw over the forcing cone rather than over the barrel-cylinder gap.

Le me know if I can help,

Russ