How to tell if factory drilled and tapped

[fishcreekrim]

Is the presence of a rear sight with a rounded front end a true indicator that the revolver is factory drilled and tapped for scope mounts. Also is the presence of the old style sight a true indicator that the revolver has not been factory d/t.

 

[murphydog]

The new (current) style rear sight became standard with the drilled/tapped frame in several models, like the 66, 586 and 686-4. Didn't check all models.

Never say never with the factory, but personally I have never seen an older gun than this with this feature where it was stated that S & W did it.

 

[358156hp]

Look at the underside of the top strap. If you see two holes...

 

[scooter123]

Actually there are 3 holes for the factory mounting pattern and all three will be visible on the underside of the top strap. As I understand it the rear sight base DID change to a rounded front when the new mounting pattern was added to the frame. I have a 1992 vintage 617 that has the flat front sight and wasn't drilled and tapped for the new pattern. In 1993 that changed with the 617-1 and those all feature the new style sight base.

BTW, the older frames can have these holes added without the new mounting holes interfering with the old mounting hole for the rear sight. However the front hole is close enough to the rear of the barrel that you do have to be careful when tapping it to NOT run the tap far enough through the top strap so that it hits the rear face of the barrel.

 

[358156hp]

Okay, you got me. I didn't count the one covered by the barrel.

 

[C Broad Arrow]

Can you get replacement top straps? And if so from whom?

 

[murphydog]

Can you get replacement top straps? And if so from whom?

If you are referring to the rear sight assembly, yes. The older ones with a squared-off front edge have several different mounting screw hole locations (and sight blade heights), so you have to find the right one for your gun. I think the rounded front ones are all of one type of leaf (the blade heights will vary) but am not sure. Try Numrich, Jack First or Poppert's Gun Parts for older ones, and the factory for the new type.

If you are referring to the top metal of the frame, under the rear sight, that is a whole different story . Hope this is helpful.

 

[C Broad Arrow]

Thanks Alan...and if I were referring to the top metal of the frams? ...I am guessing that the answer is no way?

 

[snubbiefan]

Reference post #4. I had a neighbor that RUINED a 686 trying to drill-n-tap his own holes. After some shooting....it flame-cut up through his front screw hole. I think he swapped it for a Taurus Model 1911 at a gun show. They think they stuck him....I feel sorry for the shooter that eventually wound-up with that 686. Heed Scooter's advice.....leave this up to somebody that knows what they are doing if you want to try it.

 

[murphydog]

Thanks Alan...and if I were referring to the top metal of the frams? ...I am guessing that the answer is no way?

Yes, the top strap is one piece with the frame, so not replaceable under normal circumstances - not like replacing the hood of your sedan, more like the roof!

 

[C Broad Arrow]

Thanks again Alan. The reason I was asking is that I came across a Model 28 with a reddot scope attached to the gun. There are tap and drill holes and I was trying to think of ways to restore the gun to its former look without having to look at the bubba'd result after the scope was removed.
I just don't understand some people's kids!

 

[H Richard]

A gun is a working tool, and if the owner is shooting competition or is beginning to have age related vision problems the red dot is a outstanding sighting tool. A do agree this one does look a little "overburdened", as there are currently many smaller red dots available. If you have never shot with a red dot yo don't know what you are missing. For many shooters it is the only thing allowing them to continue shooting.

 

[C Broad Arrow]

A gun is a working tool, and if the owner is shooting competition or is beginning to have age related vision problems the red dot is a outstanding sighting tool. A do agree this one does look a little "overburdened", as there are currently many smaller red dots available. If you have never shot with a red dot yo don't know what you are missing. For many shooters it is the only thing allowing them to continue shooting.

I do not disagree with the purpose of a red dot, and concur with your view about it allowing those with declining sight to continue to shoot.

My comment was more to do with how it was done rather than why it was done.

Adding a red dot and having the work done by a gunsmith is one thing, breaking out the dremel and doing it yourself is another. I cringe when I see fine firearms bubba'd.

Hope you this claifies what I meant.