How to Calculate and Make Open Sight Corrections

Published on January 27, 2020
Duration: 11:35

This guide explains how to make open sight corrections by detailing the cardinal rules for adjusting rear and front sights. It emphasizes the importance of sight radius and provides a method for calculating necessary adjustments based on desired impact changes and sight dimensions. The video also covers sight height correction for rifles and handguns when standard adjustments are insufficient.

Quick Summary

Learn to make open sight corrections by following cardinal rules: move rear sights in the direction of desired impact and front sights in the opposite. Shorter sight radii are more sensitive. Calculate corrections using sight radius, distance, and notch height differences.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Sight Correction Issues
  2. 00:22Cardinal Rule: Rear Sight Adjustment
  3. 00:40Cardinal Rule: Front Sight Adjustment
  4. 01:02Front Sight Adjustments on Rifles
  5. 01:24Understanding Sight Movement Mechanics
  6. 02:22The Criticality of Sight Radius
  7. 03:56Calculating Sight Corrections: The Method
  8. 04:33Example: 16.5-inch Sight Radius Calculation
  9. 05:46Measuring Notch Height Differences
  10. 07:47Determining Notches Needed for Correction
  11. 09:15Sight Height Correction Explained
  12. 10:38Handgun Sight Height Adjustments
  13. 11:05Conclusion and Outro

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main rule for adjusting open sights on a firearm?

The cardinal rule for rear sight adjustments is to move the rear sight in the same direction you want the bullet impact to move. For front sights, move it in the opposite direction of the desired impact.

How does sight radius affect sight adjustments?

A shorter sight radius makes sight adjustments more critical and sensitive. This means that on firearms with shorter sight radii, like most handguns, adjustments will have a more pronounced effect on bullet impact.

How do you calculate the number of sight notches needed for a correction?

Calculate the ratio of shooting distance (in inches) to sight radius (in inches). Then, divide the desired bullet impact correction (in inches) by this ratio, and finally by the average height difference between sight notches.

What is sight height correction and when is it used?

Sight height correction is used when standard rear sight adjustments are insufficient. It involves replacing the front sight with one of a different height. A lower front sight raises the point of impact, and a higher one lowers it.

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