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October 29, 2011
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My initial groupings with my new Dan Wesson were OK, but not as good as another pistol (On average I hit a 3" target circle at 50 feet, 7 out of 10 shots). I decided the problem was the design of the front sight combined with the way my range is oriented (facing south). Too much light was reflecting from that ramp on the front sight. What I really wanted was something with a vertical back.
After looking around a bit, It seemed like I probably had to just make my own front sight. Anyway, I enjoy making things. Plus this seemed like a fun project. I just finished it today and gave it a try. I got 5 out of 10 into that 3" circle, so things are getting better. The main thing is that front sight is as crisp as can be now. Here's how it turned out.
I hope this project provides some useful ideas for others.
-3Dogs
May 3, 2011
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Welcome to DWF! Good job on the front sight. DW made a silhouette sight that works great. You may need a hood for your front sight if you have a glare problem. You know your point of impact changes as the sun rises with open metallic sights. I have made front sights for my black powder pistols using a nickel or other coins. They are pretty easy to shape with a dremel tool. I need to try that with my DW.
Oh you saw EWK's sights for sale didn't you?
October 29, 2011
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Thanks for the info, I'll have to look into the silhouette sight from DW.
Don't think I need a hooded sight, the glare is gone now.
Yes, I saw the EWK sights, but I like solid black sights for slow fire target shooting. But thanks for pointing them out, they look very well made.
Range Officer
Range Officers
Dans Club
March 27, 2009
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Just for trial you should pick up some FO sights! I think you will be pleased!
Nice looking home made one you have there! how much time did you put in it!
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Moderators
January 24, 2009
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Nice work on your front sight, it turned out great!
October 29, 2011
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Yes, I considered the fiber optic sight. Buying one of those was the path of least resistance. However, the way I set up my sight picture is with the target appearing as a half circle above the front post. The bullseye is just barely visible. Because of that I want a very sharp straight edge on top of the front sight. For me, that's how I get the best groups. The fiber optic sight looks a little more rounded on top.
The fiber optic sight (I'm guessing) would make for faster sight alignment. For example, if you use your DW for hunting or some sort of timed event. With the fiber optic sight you could just place that glowing dot over top the target.
As for how long this project took - too long! I started with a steel "biscuit" from the hardware store. I think it was intended for woodworking. The problem was it was too thick. But I just gradually filed it down while watching TV (drove my wife crazy though 
).
If anyone's interested in a sight like this it could be made pretty quickly by someone with the right equipment.
May 17, 2010
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There was another guy on here making and selling sites for our DW. They were just like the stanard DW sight but no insert. He sold them for like $10 each.
Soap Box, Ballot Box, Ammo Box
in that order.
4 Monson Model 15's
1 Palmer FB 15
1 Rossi 357 Model 92 (lever)
1 CZ 75B
December 26, 2010
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Nice job, 3Dogs. I always admire somebody who makes things.
October 13, 2009
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That is very cool! Especially when you take in account the way you made it!
February 11, 2010
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3dogs said:
But I just gradually filed it down while watching TV (drove my wife crazy though
Been there 
try breaking out the Dremel while one of their shows
are on....not a pretty picture I tell ya ! 
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Range Officer
Range Officers
May 2, 2009
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DWF member Geminiman makes the front sights.
SHOOT
October 29, 2011
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Shootist 357,
Thanks for the info about the member called "Geminiman".
I'll be looking to BUY a sight like this if I get another DW.
One was fun, but not again, unless I can find stock the right thickness.
Thanks,
3dogs
P.S. I'm not usually a fan of short barrel revolvers, but that's one fine looking gun in your signature.! The flat black, stainless, plus walnut is really attarctive.
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