new sights on 17-6
- Thread starter robvasi
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Super Dave
Member
Hi. You only need to turn the elevation screw. If you change out your front sight then be sure to keep the original. Dawson Precision makes excellent fiber optic front sights.
The reason I asked about the front screw is that I read an old Smith and Wesson guidebook on revolver shooting that described the sight adjustment process and required the adjustment of two screws. The depiction of the sights in that booklet is different than the one on my revolver. However, this raised the question
That depiction had to be for a very early K Frame, 2nd version of the K22 Outdoorsman had 2 screws as this was before micro click adjustable sights. The early ones (1931) only had one screw and the elevation would jar loose and change. A 2nd screw was added. This was eliminated in the 40's when a better sight was introduced, and there hasn't been a 2nd screw since then
Well, I'm always going to be of the opinion that these are simply objects, not beings and also that we are free men. Even still... what you bought here is a somewhat valuable and collectible, out-of-production revolver that is sought after. There isn't any way to change the front sight without altering the revolver and literally attacking it's collectible status.
This is fine, if it's what you wish to do, but know that going in.
Also, later S&W revolvers were already drilled and tapped under the rear sight for the addition of an optic rail, this one is not. You can still DRILL that top strap, but I surely would not. Hasn't stopped others from doing it.
This is fine, if it's what you wish to do, but know that going in.
Also, later S&W revolvers were already drilled and tapped under the rear sight for the addition of an optic rail, this one is not. You can still DRILL that top strap, but I surely would not. Hasn't stopped others from doing it.
Well stated. My 17 even has the original box, paperwork, and the original cleaning kit.
The sights will remain as they are. Maybe some new grips. I will keep the ones that came with the gun. The gun is in perfect condition. Now, I am not sure if I wan to use it or not. I am not a collector, even so, I should have more sensitive the value it this revolver.
Thank you.
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If the revolver has been shot and used, you can ALSO enjoy it without hurting it's collectible status or value assuming you treat it kindly, especially when you clean it. It's the cutting, drilling and tapping that will harm the collectibility. It is a beautiful rig and probably shoots extremely well, and should bring a lot of joy on a range day!
lscocoa
Member
The front sight is pinned and can be changed but by saving the original sight you can change it back at anytime. If you do a search in our gunsmithing section you'll find all the information you need to do the job . 17-4,3&2's are so finely machined and polish that the pin can only be seen in very good lighting. This was also recently pointed out in our forum smithing section to me with pics. Whatever you decide do enjoy that fine looking gun !
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I want to have a red dot sight on a revolver. I am open to suggestions as to a pre-lock model that I could buy that is drilled and tapped. I agree with you, to drill and tap my 17-6 would not be wise.
lscocoa
Member
The newer ones that are drilled and tapped you have to remove the rear sight so you could still use the 17-6 with the older b-square no gunsmith mount . I use this mount for a couple of my older 17's . I do not use the clamps on my 22's as the the screw and the t-shape bracket that goes in the rear sight slot and the small screw that fits the front hole is more than adequate. It's just another option to think about.
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