Is a 686 rear sight the same as a 617 rear sight?

[Sub sailor]

I have a used 617-1 on lay-a-way and it has a scope mounted on it. The gun does not come with the original rear sight. I would like to know what other S&W revolvers have the same rear sight, whether it is a 686, or a 64, or a 66, or whatever. I am hoping that it is not unique to that handgun so I can acquire one in case I decide to return it to the iron sight configuration. Thanks!

 

[murphydog]

During their production runs the 617 and 686 used two different rear sights. An earlier one like yours had a squared off front edge of the sight leaf, and the later (current) style has a rounded front.

Also, the rear sight blade (the factory calls this a "slide") height may differ between the two models. I believe the K and L frames used the same assembly. Good luck in your search.

 

[Sub sailor]

Hmmmm.....I guess my best bet is to wait until I get the gun off lay-a-way and get it in my hands so I can see exactly what I need. Thanks murphydog!

 

[jcelect]

Front sight

My 617-1 has the new rounded front end and is the same as my 686-5. The blade size is different which will make it harder to sight the gun it!
I like your screen name! jcelect SS399/SSBN602

 

[Sub sailor]

Thanks jcelect, that is good to know.

SSBN608 but I did do some repair work on the 602 when I was on the Proteus AS19 in the mid 70's.