Optional Sights for 686 and 617

[PMRet]

I need some suggestions on new sights for my two favorite shooters, a 4" 686 no dash and a 4" 617 no dash. The 686 has the red ramp/white outline setup, while the 617 has the pinned black patridge/plain black rear combination. I wear single vision glasses, and my eyes have gotten to the point where I'm having problems sighting. I have a 4.5" 2206 auto with the 3 white dots, and I seem to do very well with it. Anybody know if this type of setup is available for revolvers? Any advice or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Maxw]

Sights

I use a HiViz red fiber front sight (you will need to have a dovetail cut in your 686) and Weigand replacement rear blades.

 

[Double-O-Dave]

I like the fiber optic front sights as well, but the neon green works better for me. For your Model 617, you can buy a replacement blade and switch it out to see if you'll like it. Another option for your Model 686 is the Meprolight night sights for revolvers. I believe they retail for around $90.00 and are of the 3-dot style. You will have to remove the red ramp of your front sight and install the new front sight containing the tritium vial. You also get a replacement rear sight blade with 2 dots to complete the set. I recently added a set of CT laser grips to my Model 66 and the Meprolight sights are next on my list of things to buy so I can start carrying this pistol on a regular basis.

Best of luck,

Dave

 

[SW357Addict]

I have been looking for either higher visibility replacement sights for my 617 or sight modification. I just read this on Shooting Times about a sight paint kit by TruGlo and I will try it. Very interesting. Here is the link:

The Easy Way To Make Iron Sights Easier To See

 

[PMRet]

I have been looking for either higher visibility replacement sights for my 617 or sight modification. I just read this on Shooting Times about a sight paint kit by TruGlo and I will try it. Very interesting. Here is the link:

The Easy Way To Make Iron Sights Easier To See

Thanks, I will take a look at the paint kit. I also need to do something with the front sight on my 640, and it may work for that as well.

 

[PMRet]

I emailed S&W and asked about 3 dot sights. They replied that they "don't think that you could find a white dot front that would sight correctly". I emailed back asking for other suggestions, and they replied that "the patridge height is unique to that gun", and that I might try painting it.

 

[raincitywheel]

I tried the TruGlo and the paint came off the 3rd time I cleaned my gun.

I got some bright orange nail polish that has been on my 686 for 2-1/2 years of heavy shooting.