Smith & Wesson S&W Model 10-5 -- M&P .38 Special Double Action Revolver

[smithguy47]

Will likely buy a S&W Model 10-5...niece piece.

Primary use will be home defense and occasional target range fun. There is no adjustable rear sight...just a ramp cut into the top strap.
Questions:
Do I really need an adjustable rear sight?
Can this modification be done and if so, how feasible is it to do so?
Will it lower/raise the value of the revolver?

Your opinions are valued...

Thanks,

SG47

 

[Old cop]

The Model 10 was the best all around revolver S&W ever made, I carried one for years. As to the adjustable sights they're nice to have for target shooting, but the M10 is more than accurate enough for self defense. My home defense gun is a M10 two inch.

As to your Q about adding adjustable sights to a M10 my humble opinion is too expensive & not worth it. If you want that get a M15 or M19.

 

[shawn mccarver]

The FBI used Model 10s and other fixed sight revolvers for over well over 50 years without issue. No you don't need an adjustable sight. No, the modification to adjustable sight is not feasible. If you try to do it or have it done, the value will be destroyed, even if done by a competent artisan with appropriate skills and proper parts.

 

[Maximumbob54]

Do I really need an adjustable rear sight?

Not really. It's pretty rare the sight setup is off by much. Just be aware that it should come regulated for standard pressure 158gr bullet ammo. Other bullet weights will impact a bit higher or lower but not by any drastic amount.

Can this modification be done and if so, how feasible is it to do so?

The original five screw guns had a screw just below the rear sight groove that could be removed and a third party company came up with a rear sight that could be screwed to the gun. It's pretty old and are more collector that user now at this point. The 10-5 will not have this screw hole though. I'm sure it could be done where milling is concerned but will cost and not do you much good.

Will it lower/raise the value of the revolver?

It's pretty rare that any modification to most guns increases the value and collectors usually only go for factory original guns.

 

[DWalt]

I think you have your answer. Fixed sight guns are fully adequate for the needs of most shooters, except for competitive shooters and handgun hunters. The zero of a fixed sight revolver cannot be easily adjusted for different distances and different loads, but that's not particularly important if the principal use intended is for personal protection or recreational shooting at relatively short distances, say, 25 yards or less. Fixed sights are very beneficial in one way - they cannot get out of alignment because of someone's fiddling with the sights. If you believe you cannot tolerate a gun with fixed sights, buy a gun with adjustable sights. Modification of a fixed-sight handgun is a non-starter.

 

[cgspapa]

I also own a 2" Model 10, one of my favorite pieces.

 

[fyimo]

If you want an adjustable revolver you should but it from the factory that way. The Model 10 is a very capable revolver as already mentioned and would serve you fine.

 

[murphydog]

if you are interested, the models 15 (usually a 4") and the 14 (6") are the adjustable sight equivalents of the model 10. If you like the model 10 you don't need to worry though.

 

[smithguy47]

Smith & Wesson Model 10-5

Wow...the opinions are unanimous...many thanks to one and all.


SG47