Filing sights even with flats

[BillyC]

So is filling the excess of the sights even with the flats expected? I’m guessing it’s not necessary but would look better, maybe reduce the chance a sight could get knocked loose, or indicate if the sight had moved for some reason. If you guys go file them do you file both or just the front? I’m guessing it gets done after you are positive the rifle is sighted dead on to your needs.

 

[Scota@4570]

Once I am definitively sighted in I clip front sight base even with the diagonal flat. It is purely aesthetic. I use a milling machine, same idea though. I leave the base a couple of thousands proud of the flat to avoid marring the barrel. I do not think it matters for security if the sight is properly fitted. I never stake sights or tenons. There is no reason if they are properly fitted. Staking looks terrible to me.

 

[necchi]

Are you talking about the base of the sight in the dovetail?

 

[SOLANCO]

When you are sighted in that is for a specific range, or distance. Filing down the sight blade will change the range to poi.

 

[French Colonial]

The OP is asking about filing down the excess dovetail sticking out both sides of the sight past the barrel flats.

 

[HSmithTX]

To my eye, the dovetail HAS to be matched to the flats of the barrel if it is proud of the flats when installed, anything less is unfinished. If the dovetail is by chance smaller than the width of the flats it needs to be centered, anything less is unfinished. I also agree that staking can look awful, and that when fitted well isn't really needed, but a tiny roll pin through the sight base into the barrel disappears. It ensures nothing moves and is how I have installed sights on everything I have installed sights on for 30 years. Self loading unhandgunmentionables taught me that it is a better way if the firearm is to be depended upon. Stuff happens and sights get smacked on guns that get used. Knowing that if it is still there and vertical it is good is insurance I won't be without. If it isn't vertical it can usually be smacked back vertical and carry on until it is convenient to replace it, Do not use cast sights as they will break off with relatively minor impacts, if you do at least make sure they are soft.