Rear Sight Question

[mrcabinet2122]

A few months back I picked up a pawn shop orphan mdl. 15-6, 4". I was told that it was an ex-Alabama prison system firearm and, based on the well used condition, I don't doubt it. The rear sight blade is chewed up on one side so I'd like to replace it.

I understand that the screw and nut will need to be replaced as well. My question is in regards to blade size. Numrich shows a .126 and .146 size. Is this the notch size width or height? Or is my assumption completely wrong and it's some other measurement.

Thanks in advance for your assistance!

[armorer951]

Measurement shown is the height of the blade. The S&W parts book shows the model 15 4" as needing a .126" blade.

Brownells and Midway also have blade/screw/nut replacement kits.

Smith & Wesson Rear Sight Blade Kit K L N-Frame .126 White Outline

SMITH & WESSON SIGHT BLADE KIT, REAR, .146", WHITE OUTLINE | Brownells

[k22fan]

You can move the undamaged end of your rear sight off to the side so far that it sticks out then measure it.

Before I bought a replacement I'd fire the gun as is then get a higher or shorter blade to get point of impact where I want it. For example, if you have to elevate the existing sight way up then switching to a higher blade would give you the option of sighting in for long range.

[bigggbbruce]

When replacing sight slides, before staking the nut on the screw, I take it out and shoot it just in case a different height slide is needed..

Saves wasted parts..

[mrcabinet2122]

Thank you all for the information. I just measured the height and it is .126. It shoots perfect on a 6 o'clock hold, so that's what I'll order.

[mrcabinet2122]

And thank you armorer951 for the link. I had no idea that there were kits available. That's about half the cost compared to the individual parts from Numrich.

[minconrevo]

Over time there have been about six different height rear sight blades to accommodate the full range of 2 1/2" to 8 3/8" guns. Helpful hint: take the rear sight apart INSIDE a gallon plastic bag. Several small parts in there to go flying and get lost. Re-assemble likewise with the new sight blade INSIDE a gallon plastic bag. The "pickle fork" tool for working on these sights is delicate; use a judicious amount of force with it.

[RGNewell]

Originally Posted by minconrevo

Over time there have been about six different height rear sight blades to accommodate the full range of 2 1/2" to 8 3/8" guns. Helpful hint: take the rear sight apart INSIDE a gallon plastic bag. Several small parts in there to go flying and get lost. Re-assemble likewise with the new sight blade INSIDE a gallon plastic bag. The "pickle fork" tool for working on these sights is delicate; use a judicious amount of force with it.

thanks for the bag tip. I always keep spare detents and springs.