Making a taller rear sight for the SMR

[TDM]

I ordered a couple of taller rear sights from TOW, but they didn’t arrive before I headed back to the camp. I thought why not make one. I have plenty of 1/2” x 1/2” square bar so I’m giving it a try. It’s roughed out now but still a ways to go. As it sits it will certainly be too tall, but easily remedied with a file. Here’s what I’ve done so far, I’ll post more photos when it’s finished.

 

[BillyC]

Looks good. You would be a handy man to have around.

 

[barracudadave67]

TDM
I did the same on a PA long rifle, only I used L shaped stock. Not as much hack sawing.

Dave

 

[TDM]

TDM
I did the same on a PA long rifle, only I used L shaped stock. Not as much hack sawing.

Dave

I have a metal band saw, makes it pretty simple.

 

[TDM]

Was able to finish quicker than I thought. The final hand fitting took some time but best to move slow on that. Once I get the right height dialed in I’ll do a little more shaping and try to get something that looks more SMR’ish.

 

[wiscoaster]

Thanks. Info I needed. Got the sights I ordered for ToW and don't think the rear sight will work. Might have to try DIY.

 

[Sandro_Ventania]

How is the aim adjusted? They are fixed!

 

[TDM]

How is the aim adjusted? They are fixed!

With a mill file.

 

[wiscoaster]

How is the aim adjusted? They are fixed!

Both front and rear sights may be "drifted" sideways in their dovetail slots to correct for windage. The rear sight's v-notch may be filed deeper to compensate for shooting too high, and the front sight may be filed down to compensate for shooting too low. That being said, mine was shooting way too low to be compensated for simply filing down the front sight, so basically I need to replace the rear sight with one that either sits higher or is adjustable for elevation.

 

[Eric Krewson]

I have made several from angle iron, time consuming but they always end up as just what you need.

 

[scratcherky]

TDM, nice work!

 

[wiscoaster]

...Once I get the right height dialed in....

Is there a way to get the right height ballparked without repetitive trial by shooting? EG if I know mine is shooting 12 inches low at 100 yds with the Kibler sight, what's the best height above the barrel to start with on a replacement sight?

 

[painter]

Is there a way to get the right height ballparked without repetitive trial by shooting? EG if I know mine is shooting 12 inches low at 100 yds with the Kibler sight, what's the best height above the barrel to start with on a replacement sight?

You can get very close, if your numbers are accurate...

Weigand Formula For Determining Front Sight Height

How to determine Front Sight Height

www.jackweigand.com

There are others out there. Search for "rifle sight height formula for adjusting sight height"

 

[TDM]

I’m draw filing the barrel today, and spent a little time trimming up and shaping the sight.

 

[BillyC]

Are you going to flame blue that sight or install it on the barrel and blue the whole works at once.

 

[TDM]

Didn’t take a photo, but I used Jax Black on it separately from the barrel. Once it’s filed down after sighting in I’ll touch it up with the same.