I'm starting to have trouble now with irons sights. I'm looking for suggestions to help out to recapture a good sight picture again. I'm not interested in going to a dot, etc. So, looking for what others may have done in this re-guard. Install a new front sight (Dawson type), did it help at all? Maybe front sight paint, again what type, did it help and/or hold up? Or, maybe opening up the rear blade width?
It would be helpful if you posted what year and barrel length you have. Pictures would really help. There were several different types of sights used over the years....some better than others.
The rear sight used on the original 5.5" heavy barrel was and is one of the best sights S&W ever made.
Changing the front sight won't be easy since generally they are not pinned in place. Paint is cheap and easy to change. Some folks have used model paint from the hobby store with good results.
For my early '80's Mod 41 w/ 7", count me among those who went to the model store for a small bottle of bright orange paint. It improved my ability to see the sight greatly. I've done the same on my S&W K22 and High Standard Olympic & Trophy, improved my ability to see in every case.
All that said, the Mod 41 is currently at the gunsmith for a drill and tap to mount a rail. I'm going to red dot as I have on my Buckmark and Mark III. The red dot is simply a superior sighting system, inherently more accurate, especially more accurate with my older eyes.
From your two responses I'll try the paint first. I have a mid 80's 5.5" heavy barrel, with the big rear blade. I was aware that machining would be required if I went the new front sight route.
Go to bullseyegear.com and look at the Merit Optical Device. By looking through the aperature that attaches to your shooting glasses, it helps your eyes focus on the sights. I have older eyes and I bought one of these. It works better than paint for me.
Model 41 Sights
Linear Mode
