Adjusting point of impact

[5-Shot]

I’ve adjusted the elevation on S&W model 10’s for years by varying bullet weights (I have a bunch of different molds) by applying the old rule of thumb that “heavier bullets land higher”. Recently I bought a used Ruger Vaquero that the previous owner had “adjusted” the front sight with a file. He was overly enthusiastic and now 230 grain bullets land real high and 200 grainers are still a little high. (45 acp.) My question is “Is there a rule of thumb for powder weights?” Does increasing the powder charge raise or lower the point of impact? Anybody know?

Ed

 

[rockquarry]

Increasing the charge will lower the point of impact generally, but if the impact is very high, you may not be able to safely increase your charge to bring the point of impact down to where you want it.

Also... are you shooting from a benchrest, using two hands, or bullseye style with one hand? The point of impact will almost always be different among the three methods. Zero for the way you will usually shoot.

 

[5-Shot]

Thanks rockquarry. I'm presently using 3.5 grains of Bullseye. Lots of upside potential.

Bet I can guess where your forum name came from. As a youngster I spent many happy hour shooting in an abandoned quarry.

 

[rockquarry]

Thanks rockquarry. I'm presently using 3.5 grains of Bullseye. Lots of upside potential.

Bet I can guess where your forum name came from. As a youngster I spent many happy hour shooting in an abandoned quarry.

If you have a variety of moulds, try one that throws a lighter bullet and play with the powder charge. I never cared for light cast bullets in the .38 or .357 as heavier bullets are usually more accurate, but there are exceptions.

My wife and I bought a 195-acre place in north Texas and lived on it for a number of years. On one corner of it was an abandoned limestone quarry. A gun range was about all it was good for and I made use of it.

 

[jimmyj]

lighter bullet with heavier powder charge. .45acp= 185 grain bullet

 

[Nevada Ed]

More time in the barrel, usually means a higher impact on target.

Faster, lighter bullets, usually shoot lower than the heavier bullets.

However, muscle strength and type of grip and hand position on the gun can throw all this out the window.

Have fun.

 

[steelslaver]

A tig welder can add as much height to the front sight as you want with no effect on the barrel if he lets it cool off between passes or clamps the barrel between 2 brass, copper or aluminum plates to bleed of the heat.

Or you have a small flat on top of sight you could silver solder on a piece of brass round stock for the gold bead effect

My 45-70 trapdoor has a brass front blade, It shows up well. But, I tend to shoot higher or lower depending on how bright the light is.

 

[Jaco1234]

I built the front sight up on a 22riflebwith JB weld steel putty.

 

[glenwolde]

Try a 185gr bullet... But you're on the right path with increasing the powder charge for the other bullets.

Or, it should be easy enough to get the front sight replaced.

 

[5-Shot]

"I built the front sight up on a 22 rifle with JB weld steel putty."

I confess I never thought of that. I'm going to keep that in mind if nothing else works. Thanks!

Ed

 

[Jaco1234]

I filed it to size and added a red bar fiber optic to the top with glue. A little black paint and who knew.

 

[243winxb]

Maximum velocity to lower bullet impact.

I like adjustable sights, if & when a available.

 

[5-Shot]

Thanks for the help guys. Using 3.5 grains of Bullseye, my Ruger was shooting a Lee 200 grain powder coated RNF about 6 inches high at 25 yards. After several trials I ended up with 5 grains of powder to center my groups in the X ring. Couldn't be happier.

Ed