Installing Precision Sights on a Winchester 1885 | MidwayUSA Gunsmithing

Published on December 11, 2013
Duration: 4:55

This video demonstrates the process of installing precision sights on a Winchester 1885 Low Wall rifle, converted to .357 Magnum. It covers removing original sights, fitting a new Beach-style front sight using shim stock, creating a decorative filler for the barrel dovetail, and mounting a Vernier tang sight. The expert gunsmith highlights techniques for achieving a precise and clean installation, improving the rifle's accuracy potential.

Quick Summary

Precision sights, like a Beach-style front sight and Vernier tang sight, significantly improve accuracy on rifles like the Winchester 1885. Proper installation involves careful fitting using shim stock for loose sights and ensuring tang sight screws don't impede hammer function.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Rifle Overview
  2. 00:34Precision Sight Comparison
  3. 01:22Removing Original Sights
  4. 01:38Installing the Front Sight
  5. 02:51Filling the Barrel Dovetail
  6. 03:52Tang Sight Installation & Fitting

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of sights are recommended for improving accuracy on a Winchester 1885?

Precision sights, such as a folding Beach-style front sight and a Vernier tang-mounted rear sight, are recommended. These offer a much clearer and more precise sight picture than standard sights, significantly enhancing accuracy potential.

How can a slightly loose front sight be properly fitted into a dovetail?

If a new front sight is loose in the dovetail, use thin shim stock (e.g., .001" and .010") along with grease. Carefully drift the sight into place, using the shims to create a tight, centered, and secure fit.

What is the purpose of filling the barrel dovetail after removing sights?

Filling the barrel dovetail after removing the original rear sight maintains a clean, finished aesthetic for the rifle. A decorative blank can be fabricated from scrap material, filed to shape, and cold-blued to match the firearm.

What common issue might arise when installing a tang sight?

A common issue is that the provided tang sight screws might be too long and interfere with the rifle's hammer movement. It's often necessary to shorten these screws using a fixture to ensure proper function.

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